Environmental activist Desmond Majekodunmi has warned that rising sea levels and worsening climate change could put parts of Lagos at risk by 2050. He urged Nigerians to adopt sustainable practices and reduce activities that damage the environment.
Majekodunmi, chairman of the Lekki State Urban Forest and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI), gave the warning on Tuesday at an international environmental conference hosted by the University of Lagos.
He spoke at the three-day conference organised by the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Mitigation (SETPOM). The event focused on environmental security, innovation and resilience through artificial intelligence, research, industry and regulation.
The environmentalist said greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, pollution and biodiversity loss were worsening the climate crisis and threatening communities.
Lagos Sea Levels Raise Concerns Over Coastal Communities
Majekodunmi identified rising sea levels and coastal erosion as major concerns for Lagos because of its coastal location.
He warned that continued global warming could increase the risks facing homes, public infrastructure and institutions. He also cautioned that the University of Lagos could face environmental challenges if the situation worsened.
According to him, human activities are placing growing pressure on the natural systems that make the Earth habitable.
He listed industrial operations, fossil fuel use, mining, deforestation, farming practices, waste disposal and transportation among the major sources of environmental degradation.
Majekodunmi explained that rising temperatures intensify the water cycle, contributing to heavier rainfall, flooding and other extreme weather events.
He urged individuals, businesses, institutions and governments to take responsibility for protecting the environment.
The activist also warned against placing financial gains above public welfare and environmental protection, saying such choices could leave future generations facing serious consequences.
Renewable Energy and Recycling Could Help
Despite the risks, Majekodunmi said practical solutions could help limit environmental damage.
He called for greater investment in renewable energy, improved waste management, recycling, scientific research and technological innovation. He also stressed the importance of effective environmental regulations.
The environmentalist identified solar, wind and water-based energy as alternatives that could reduce reliance on polluting energy sources.
He said stronger commitment from government, industry and the public would be necessary to make sustainable development a reality.
SETPOM President Urges Nigerians to Change Habits
SETPOM President Dr. Idowu Aneyo also called for behavioural change and wider use of artificial intelligence to support environmental protection.
Aneyo, a lecturer in the University of Lagos Department of Zoology, said environmental regulations already existed, particularly in Lagos State. However, she argued that successful enforcement also depended on public cooperation.
She commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts to enforce environmental rules but said many people still needed to embrace more responsible habits.
Aneyo stressed that individuals must take personal responsibility for protecting the ecosystem rather than leaving the task to government agencies alone.
She also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning to predict environmental risks, control damage and improve ecosystem management.
According to her, researchers and environmental authorities could use these technologies to identify threats earlier and support more effective responses.
Students Debate AI Solutions for Environmental Protection
The three-day conference also featured a debate competition for secondary school students.
The contest focused on the theme, “Harnessing Innovation and Artificial Intelligence for Environmental Sustainability Investments.”
Organisers rewarded winners in the junior and senior categories with cash prizes and certificates.
The discussions highlighted the role of public awareness, scientific research, responsible behaviour and technological innovation in tackling environmental challenges.
Majekodunmi’s warning places renewed attention on the risks climate change may pose to Lagos. However, the extent of future impacts will depend on factors including sea-level rise, emissions, coastal conditions and the effectiveness of adaptation measures.