Experts have charged the Lagos State Government to create a Ministry of Innovation tasked with the responsibilities to drive and foster youths’ involvement in solving problems.
The Lagos State Government was also charged to address major challenges especially in Mobility, Housing, Wetland Protection and Climate Change.
The experts gave their recommendations at the Resilient Lagos Week which was heralded with the inauguration of the Lagos State Resilience Office, LASRO.
While Speaking at the LRW, Program Manager of Heinrich Boll, Monica Ummuna explained that a bikeable Lagos is key to address the challenges of Mobility and climate change in Lagos. Ummuna, who butressed on the ripple effects of the current transportation system on residents and the climate, explained that the use of bicycles would be of great importance.
Umunna mentioned that a research has been carried out by HBS, and it would help generate more income for informal workers. She stated that some routes and lanes for bicycles have been identified across Lagos State and wants the Lagos State government to put in place measures to achieve a #bikeableLagos.
The German International NGO’s program officer added that access to housing, focus on the informal econony, wetland protection, are key in addressing Lagos as a resilient city.
Vassily Oye Barberopolous who spoke on the digital future of Lagos lies in its youth noted that the world is advancing due to technology and there is need for Lagos to build the capacity of its youth to ensure they are relevant in the digital age.
“We need to avoid the creation of jobs that involve experience based pattern and move to skills that help us deal with real people”, Vassily added.
He gave 4Cs; Critical thinking, Communication, Collaboration and Creativity as those which could help Lagos survive in the digital age.
After various but similar ideas by different international development partners, the Lagos State Governor, Akinwumi Ambode inaugurated the Lagos Sate Resilient Office.