……..As U.S discloses $7 billion spend combating HIV-AIDS / Healthcare in Africa over last 25 years
The Lagos State Government, the United States Consulate, and the University of Lagos reaffirmed their commitment to clean air at a closing reception for the Clean Air Forum held in Lagos on Thursday.
The well-attended reception underscored the growing concern about air quality in Africa. It brought together national and international stakeholders, providing a platform for collaboration, information sharing, and exploring the latest data and solutions to ensure clean air in African cities.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab, reiterated the government’s resolve to implement policies that address air pollution and other climate challenges impacting public health.
“As stakeholders, I urge you to develop a suitable policy framework to tackle the persistent air pollution issue in Africa,” Commissioner Wahab said, highlighting air pollution as a major environmental threat to the continent.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Lagos government’s commitment to combating all environmental threats. He welcomed recommendations from forum experts on improving air quality and pointed to the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda, which prioritizes environmental sustainability alongside health and the environment.
Giving his remarks at the reception, United States Consular General for Nigeria, Will Stevens, re-affirmed the dedication of the US and his enthusiasm over the large turnout from across Africa for the forum, which highlighted the importance of collaboration.
“Ensuring clean air is a massive challenge,” Consul General Stevens said. “It’s uplifting to see participants from across Africa coming together to forge and share innovative solutions. This kind of collaboration is key to tackling this global issue.”
He emphasized the U.S. government’s strong support for the forum. “We’re proud to be involved,” he stated. “The Assistant Secretary for Oceans, Environments, and Science while speaking reaffirmed our deep commitment to fighting climate change, pollution, and setting global standards. This will help us find solutions and support each other.”
Consul General Stevens went on to illustrate the U.S.’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s health. “Over the past 25 years, the U.S. government has invested nearly $7 billion in combating HIV/AIDS and other health issues across the continent,” he said. “Here in Nigeria alone, we help keep 1.9 million people alive with life-saving ARVs each year. This not only supports individuals, but also strengthens Nigeria’s healthcare system.”
He concluded by reiterating the U.S.’s search for great partners. “We are constantly looking for partners around the world,” he said. “Together, we can find solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria, Africa, and the entire globe.”
Such solutions are quite critical as this is a topical area for us here in Nigeria, says Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Professor Ogunsola stressed that Nigeria’s booming population, coupled with the widespread use of generators causing significant pollution, makes it abundantly clear that tackling air pollution must be a top priority.
The Vice Chancellor reiterated UNILAG’s support as co-host of the forum and affirmed the institution’s commitment towards contributions to the advancement of clean air solutions across Africa.
