In a major stride toward sustainable development, the Lagos State Government has officially joined the Under2 Coalition, the world’s largest network of states and regions dedicated to achieving net-zero emissions. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu formalized the entry by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Climate Group on Monday during the prestigious London Climate Action Week 2026.
This strategic partnership underscores the state’s growing influence in global climate governance. By joining forces with more than 180 subnational governments that collectively represent over half of the global economy, Lagos aims to accelerate its transition toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy while unlocking new avenues for green investment.
Aligning Ambitions Without Legal Hurdles
The signed MoU serves as a non-binding framework designed to amplify Lagos State’s existing environmental priorities, rather than imposing rigid legal constraints. It establishes a collaborative bridge for sharing best practices and pioneering innovative funding mechanisms. The milestone coincided with Lagos showcasing its investment-ready green projects and its trailblazing State-Determined Contributions (SDCs) framework to global policymakers and clean energy investors in London.
“Cities and regions are increasingly at the forefront of climate action. Joining the Under2 Coalition strengthens Lagos State’s commitment to building a resilient, low-carbon future while deepening collaboration with leading governments around the world,” Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated. “As Africa’s economic and commercial hub, Lagos is determined to demonstrate that climate action and economic growth can go hand in hand, delivering tangible benefits for people, communities and future generations.”
Moving From Ambition to Implementation
The entry of Lagos into the coalition has been hailed as a pivotal moment for subnational climate leadership in Africa. State officials emphasized that the platform will provide the global visibility and technical partnerships necessary to scale up local environmental initiatives.
“Through our State-Determined Contributions framework and broader climate agenda, Lagos State is moving from ambition to implementation,” said Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy. “Membership of the Under2 Coalition provides an important platform to strengthen partnerships, exchange knowledge, and showcase the remarkable work being undertaken in Lagos.”
Global Recognition and Next Steps
The Under2 Coalition secretariat enthusiastically welcomed the megacity, noting that Lagos possesses a powerful story of resilience that can inspire other subnational entities across the continent.
The high-powered Lagos delegation in London features key cabinet members, including the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunboh Wahab, and the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ope George. They are joined by the Special Adviser on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, and the Special Adviser on Public-Private Partnerships, Mrs. Bukola Odoe, ensuring a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to executing the state’s newly expanded climate mandate.
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