Lagos State Government Calls for Collaboration to Protect Wetlands on World Wetlands Day

The Lagos State Government has appealed to all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners, to join hands in safeguarding wetlands across the state. This call comes as the world marked World Wetlands Day on February 2, 2026, with the global theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage.“

The event, held at Yafin Jetty in Yafin, Badagry, was addressed by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Tajudeen Gaji, who was represented by the Director of Conservation and Ecology, Mrs. Tolu Adeyo. Dr. Gaji emphasized that such collaboration would not only conserve vital ecosystems but also preserve the cultural heritage and communities that have protected them for generations.

“The commemoration aims to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands and the best approaches to protect this most productive ecosystem on the planet,” Dr. Gaji stated. He noted that World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on February 2, marking the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.

Highlighting the theme, Dr. Gaji explained that it underscores the deep connection between wetlands, cultural practices, and traditional knowledge systems worldwide. “These time-honoured knowledge systems play a vital role in sustaining wetland ecosystems and preserving cultural identity,” he added.

In Lagos, communities have long managed wetlands using traditional methods, such as customary rules, seasonal use practices, respect for natural boundaries, and regulated resource extraction. These systems served as early forms of environmental governance, ensuring sustainability before modern policies were introduced.

However, Dr. Gaji warned that increasing pressures from urban expansion, infrastructure development, and climate change are threatening these ecosystems. In some cases, degradation stems from a lack of synergy between modern policymaking and traditional knowledge.

“This year’s theme presents an opportunity for the Lagos State Government to bridge traditional knowledge with modern policy frameworks,” he said. “Effective wetland management must embrace inclusive, community-based governance models.”

As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the Lagos State Government has made significant contributions to wetland protection through various programmes and projects aimed at addressing wetland decline.

Dr. Gaji further noted that the theme recognizes local communities not just as beneficiaries but as partners and leaders in conservation efforts, ensuring they are realistic, culturally appropriate, and sustainable.

From a policy perspective, he stressed the need to integrate traditional knowledge into management plans, recognize customary institutions, and support co-management frameworks between government and communities. “It is crucial to support host communities in protecting wetlands as both ecological assets and cultural heritage sites,” he concluded.

In his remarks, His Royal Majesty Oba Abiodun Patinvoh, Yafin I, Aholu of Yafin Kingdom, expressed gratitude to the state government for its continuous support to the community and Badagry. He pledged that the Yafin community would continue to protect the wetlands, making them the most productive on the planet and habitable for all.

The highlight of the event was a visit by participants to the Lagos State Wetlands Conservation Site, preserved by the local community. Additionally, the Lagos State Government presented awards to Oba Abiodun Patinvoh and the Chairman of Olorunda LCDA for their outstanding contributions to promoting sustainable wetland ecosystems in the state.