The Lagos State University, School of Communication (LASUSOC) held its 6th annual lecture on February 9, 2022, at Aderemi Makanjuola hall, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo.
The event, which was tagged: ‘Climate Change: Urban Renewal and Environment Challenges Of Megacity. What Is the Role of the Media?’ was anchored by Jeariogbe Olaniyi.
In his remarks, the dean of LASUSOC, Professor Yinka Alawode, welcomed all dignitaries and students, he also explained the need for synergy and awareness of climate change for the citizens at large.
The guest speaker, Commissioner of Environment Lagos State, Mr Tunji Bello, who was represented by the Assistant Director of Lagos State Civil Service, Mr. Bamidele Micheal explained how it is imperative for all to incorporate infrastructure systems.
He said: “The State Government has pursued the greenery programme by converting all open spaces, verges, and median into a green corridor, parks, and gardens, thereby bringing back the old Lagos culture of relaxation.
“The State went further by institutionalizing July 14 of each year as a Statewide Tree Planting Day. This initiative has been incorporated into the approval request permit for building in Lagos which states that 25% of the landmass must be green for developmental purposes and many more,”
Mr Bamidele further ended his speech by urging the media to hold people in power accountable, fact-check, and press public officials to answer what they are doing to combat the climate crisis and sharpen public understanding of climate change.
“I urge us all to begin to take individual actions in our respective fields which will impact positively on the environment. Tell your neighbors to plant trees,” he said.
The events witnessed an entourage of high dignitaries ranging from different faculties across the University, Professor Adenike Omotunde Moyo; representative of the LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Ibiyemi Bello of Lasu and Chief Ganu Olalekan Bakri, representative of Royal Father of the day, Hon Oba Saheed Adewale.
The king enjoined the audience to learn about recycling, make good use of social media by writing and posting about urgent issues affecting the nation like climate change, explaining that there is an advantage in recycling bottles.
The event ended with the presentation of awards to guest speakers and other dignitaries, while Dr. Gbenga Owolabi gave the closing remarks
