The brewing company joined policymakers, environmental experts, regulators, sustainability advocates, corporate executives, public relations professionals, waste management specialists, and media stakeholders at a World Environment Day 2026 dialogue organised by Addefort Nigeria under the Nigeria Conservation Race (NCR 2026) platform.
The virtual forum, themed “Climate Action in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities,” served as a meeting point for stakeholders to examine pressing environmental issues confronting Nigeria while exploring practical and innovative solutions capable of accelerating sustainable development across the country.
Discussions focused on key areas including climate adaptation, environmental governance, waste management, corporate sustainability, renewable energy, and opportunities for innovation within the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Mr. Bankole Michael, Director and Head of Department, Climate Change and Environmental Planning at the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, underscored the need for urgent climate action.
According to him, climate action should be viewed not only as an environmental responsibility but also as an economic imperative capable of driving growth, innovation, and resilience.
He highlighted several initiatives being implemented by the Lagos State Government, including sustainable transportation projects, improved waste management systems, flood resilience programmes, clean air initiatives, renewable energy adoption, and youth-focused environmental engagement efforts. He also stressed the importance of stronger collaboration among public and private sector stakeholders to accelerate progress toward sustainability goals.
Speaking during the dialogue, Lead Consultant at Addefort Limited and Convener of the Conservation Walk and Conference, Olabamiji Adeleye, noted that climate concerns are becoming increasingly significant in Nigeria's development agenda.
He said the forum was designed to bring together diverse stakeholders to move beyond conversations and toward practical solutions capable of delivering measurable environmental impact.
Adeleye emphasised that achieving meaningful climate outcomes would require coordinated efforts from government institutions, businesses, civil society organisations, development partners, and citizens working together toward common sustainability objectives.
Also contributing to the discussion, Olukemi Ogunsakin, Head of Corporate Communications, Sustainability and CSR at Guinness Nigeria Plc, highlighted the crucial role of partnerships in addressing climate challenges and creating opportunities for long-term development.
She argued that climate action cannot succeed through isolated efforts and called for greater cooperation among all sectors of society.
“Climate change is too complex for any single stakeholder to address alone. The most impactful partnerships are those that create the enabling conditions for large-scale action and long-term change,” she said.
Ogunsakin further stressed that environmental sustainability should be integrated into core business operations rather than treated as a standalone corporate responsibility initiative.
“Climate action should not be viewed solely through an economic lens; it must be embedded into business strategy and decision-making. At Guinness Nigeria, we believe real progress happens when stakeholders come together to exchange ideas, inspire action, and commit to practical solutions that protect our environment and create lasting value for future generations.”
She also pointed to the potential of green jobs in supporting both environmental protection and economic inclusion, noting that climate-related investments can generate employment opportunities while helping communities adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Reaffirming the company's commitment to sustainability, Ogunsakin said Guinness Nigeria would continue supporting initiatives that encourage responsible environmental practices and strengthen community resilience.
“As a business deeply connected to the communities where we operate, sustainability is a necessity, not an option. We will continue to support initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, responsible resource management, and collective action towards a greener, more resilient Nigeria.”
Participants at the dialogue agreed that although climate-related challenges remain significant, they also present opportunities for innovation, collaboration, investment, and sustainable economic growth.
The event concluded with a shared consensus that achieving meaningful climate progress in Nigeria will require sustained commitment, stronger partnerships, and coordinated action across government, private sector, and civil society institutions.
Stakeholders maintained that by working together, Nigeria can build a cleaner environment, create new economic opportunities, and strengthen resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.