Mr. Wahab emphasized that land degradation, driven by unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, and climate change, affects about 1.9 billion hectares of land globally, while desertification affects over 168 countries. He noted that Nigeria, particularly the northern regions, faces significant threats from land degradation and desertification, affecting agricultural productivity, water resources, and the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
To tackle these pressing issues, the Lagos State Government has initiated several key strategies, including sustainable land management, community engagement and education, policy and legislation, and partnerships and collaboration. Mr. Wahab urged everyone to take responsibility and act with urgency, committing to sustainable practices, supporting restoration initiatives, and advocating for policies that protect the environment.
The event aimed to raise awareness and promote collective action towards addressing environmental challenges, emphasizing that our efforts to restore our land, combat desertification, and enhance our resilience to drought will yield lasting benefits for our environment, economy, and future generations.
