Governor Fashola who was speaking at the sixth anniversary of Climate Change Clubs in Lagos said establishment of the clubs in primary and secondary schools was part of the strategic efforts by the government to combat the negative effects of climate change, stressing that as future leaders, the children must be prepared to take up the challenges ahead.
“For us in Lagos State, we are vulnerable to the effects of global warming. The establishment of climate change clubs in our schools is part of our strategic and complementary efforts to correct the mistakes of the past.
“I believe I do not need to emphasis that our children are the future of this nation and they will be the next parent and leaders who will take over the running of our families and most especially, the affairs of this country when we are no more. If we do not teach them what is right, they will not escape doing what is wrong.”
The governor said young people have shown that they cannot wait to inherit a world damaged by climate change; rather they want to be part of creating solutions.
“Young people have shown their potentials at various fora across the world through their creative thinking and inventions. Today, they have brought positive thoughts and creativity to global intergovernmental process, demanding concrete action from their governments,” Fashola said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Tunji Bello lauded the efforts of members of the Climate Change Clubs in Lagos State Schools, saying they acted as agents of positive change and vehicles of transformation.
“It is gratifying to note that the 6 years ago, when the club was formed, little did we know that the little mustard seed sowed then could now transform to a big oak tree that not only influences the lives of the people but has also become a principal vehicle of transformation which is positively influencing people’s behavior and habits. Over the years, emerging facts on issues concerning climate change have shown that children and the aged are the most vulnerable to climate change effects.”
The commissioner said climate change is a global challenge that transcends borders as a result of which it has become collective responsibility among global players.
