The Lagos State government has called for stronger partnerships between vulnerable cities and international institutions to address the growing impacts of climate change.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the call at the second Berlin Climate Mobility Forum 2026 in Germany.

The ministry’s director of public affairs, Kunle Adeshina, disclosed this in a statement in Lagos on Friday.

Speaking during a panel session titled “Protecting Rights in the Face of Sea Level Rise,” Mr Wahab urged developed nations to demonstrate a stronger commitment to climate financing, particularly for coastal cities and countries in the global south.

“The West must show more rhetoric and demonstrate a strong commitment to climate funding,” he said.

Mr Wahab said access to climate finance remained critical to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and global warming.

According to him, vulnerable cities require localised climate financing, technology transfer and direct partnerships with international institutions.

He also called for broader coalitions to support communities already facing the effects of rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

The commissioner urged the international community to facilitate technology transfer in areas such as flood modelling and coastal engineering.

He said knowledge sharing among vulnerable cities would strengthen global adaptation and resilience efforts.

Mr Wahab noted that the climate crisis transcended national boundaries and posed a common threat to coastal communities.

He stressed the need for urgent investment in resilient infrastructure to protect lives, livelihoods and economic activities.

“Lagos is ready to lead, but cannot do it alone,” he said.

Mr Wahab urged the international community to support vulnerable cities with the resources and expertise needed to confront climate challenges.

The panel featured leaders from Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Maldives, Ghana, Cabo Verde and Italy. 

(NAN)