Lagos Collaborates with Denmark and Allies to Address Environmental Challenges
On Tuesday, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts, shared expertise, and the exchange of ideas between Nigeria and Nordic countries to effectively harness the power of innovation in addressing imminent environmental challenges.
Represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, during the opening of the Nordic-Nigeria Connect Conference 2023, themed ‘Innovation for a Greener Future,’ in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the need for both regions to embrace the spirit of innovation as they open doors to knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration.
The Nordic-Nigeria Connect conference involves Denmark, Sweden, and Finland. Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed that this platform provides an opportunity for Nigeria to glean insights from the Nordic countries’ experiences, intending to adopt best practices and innovative ideas. This collaborative effort aims to propel Nigeria towards a greener and more sustainable economy.
He said, “Nordic countries have long been pioneers in sustainable development and innovation, setting benchmarks for the rest of the world and the collaboration between the Nordic countries and Nigeria is a testament to our shared commitment to creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly world.”
The governor underscored that his administration has established a solid foundation for building collaborations and alliances with the private sector. These partnerships are designed to facilitate businesses in similar sectors operating in Lagos to align with the emerging economic trends.
“As we engage in discussion and forge new connections, let us keep in mind, the shared responsibility we bear towards our planet. Our actions today will shape the world that future generations will inherit. By fostering innovation and sustainable practice we can ensure that the legacy we leave behind is one of environmental stewardship and resilience,” he further stated.
In his remarks, the Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy of Denmark, Dan Jorgensen, stated it is important for the Danish and Nigerian governments to collaborate in finding solutions to environmental challenges, adding that climate change is no longer a far-off threat in the distant future, “it is already here.”
“I have been following closely how Nigeria is already affected by climate change; unpredictable rainfall patterns, drought, water scarcity, floods and coastal erosion, crop failing because of either lack of water or excessive rainfall,” he added.
The Deputy Minister for International Trade in Finland, H.E. Mr. Jarno Syrjälä, highlighted that achieving innovation requires networking, partnership, and collaboration.
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He emphasized that innovation does not occur in isolation but necessitates the right policy decisions, a conducive culture, and effective problem-solving. Syrjälä also noted that investments in science, education, and research play a crucial role in fostering innovation.
Meanwhile, the Director-General for Trade in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, H.E. Mr. Per-Arne Hjelmborn, expressed Sweden’s desire to be a strategic partner for Nigeria and the broader African continent. Sweden aims to contribute to boosting the value chain and becoming a knowledge partner, focusing on research, innovation, competence development, and skill transfer for the nation.
