Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening consumer rights and fostering a greener economy.
He stressed that “consumer protection remains a cornerstone of our administration’s agenda under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus framework.”
Speaking at the 2025 World Consumer Rights Day celebration organised by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) at Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, on Tuesday, the governor emphasised the need to balance economic growth with consumer rights, stating that “by prioritising economic sustainability, we aim to create a 21st-century economy where businesses thrive while upholding the rights of consumers.”
This year’s theme, “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles,” aligns with Lagos’ ambitious drive towards environmental responsibility.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, (SSG), Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, highlighted his administration’s key initiatives, including the Lagos Climate Action Plan, which provides a “comprehensive roadmap for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”
He also cited the newly established Lagos State Carbon Registry as a strategic tool to track and reduce carbon emissions across various sectors.
Underscoring the need for inclusivity, the governor insisted that “a just transition means ensuring that as we adopt sustainable practices, no one is left behind.”
Sanwo-Olu called on businesses to embrace ethical practices and consumers to make informed choices that support sustainability, saying, “Let us make informed choices, hold businesses accountable, and work together to build a Lagos where prosperity and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.”
To further enhance consumer protection, Sanwo-Olu revealed that “we are strengthening our consumer protection frameworks, including enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance, as detailed in the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law.”
He encouraged stakeholders, including community leaders and organisations, to collaborate with the government on sustainability projects and consumer awareness campaigns.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the governor concluded: “We will continue to foster mutual understanding and partnerships that drive innovation while addressing market challenges. I urge all stakeholders to seize this opportunity to inspire change, promote eco-friendly practices, and uphold consumer rights as we collectively build a more sustainable future.”
Speaking at the event, the General Manager of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening consumer rights and promoting sustainable lifestyles in line with global best practices.
Solebo highlighted the need for collective action in fostering an inclusive and fair marketplace, noting that the theme, “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles,” underscored the urgency of integrating environmental responsibility into consumer habits.
“As the world grapples with environmental, economic, and social challenges, it is imperative that we, as consumers and stakeholders, actively participate in shaping a sustainable future—one that upholds fairness, accessibility, and inclusivity,” Solebo stated.
According to him, LASCOPA remains at the forefront of ensuring consumer empowerment, equitable access to resources, and responsible consumption that benefits both people and the planet.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Ambrose, urged businesses, policymakers, and civil society to prioritise ethical trade practices and consumer empowerment as part of a just transition to sustainable lifestyles.
Ambrose, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Olugbemiga Aina, emphasised that sustainability must be both accessible and affordable, particularly for vulnerable and low-income consumers.
“A just transition means that consumers’ rights to essential goods and services are protected. Every citizen must have access to clean energy, safe food, affordable healthcare, and sustainable housing,” she said.
The Commissioner highlighted Lagos State’s efforts in fostering sustainable consumerism, including strengthening consumer protection laws, promoting ethical business practices, and supporting small businesses through green financing and digital transformation initiatives.
She further challenged businesses to integrate sustainability into their supply chains, reduce waste, and offer eco-friendly products at fair prices.
Ambrose also called on civil society organisations to “advocate for consumer rights and responsible consumption, ensuring that no one is left behind in this transition.”
