As part of the Impact Tour, we started with Lagos as we landed. We were able to dig deep into some issues that plagues the state by having a deep conversation with some involved people of the state which is explained as you further read.
The Tour in Lagos began with a conversation with the Lekki Conservation Center (LCC), a 78-hectare natural resource conservation in Lekki, Lagos State, Nigeria. The central theme of the discussion with Mr. Triumph, a distinguished representative of the LCC, revolved around the importance of environmental conservation in Nigeria. With his deep understanding of the subject, Triumph highlighted public education and personal responsibility as critical drivers of conservation efforts. He emphasized the importance of integrating ecological consciousness into daily routines, suggesting tree planting and reduced carbon emissions as examples.
The discussion then delved into effective teaching methods for conservation, particularly for young audiences. Triumph acknowledged the formidable challenges of promoting conservation in Nigeria, given cultural attitudes that often prioritize monetary gain over environmental concerns. Furthermore, we discussed strategies for educating the younger ones about ecological sustainability, including campaigns and demonstrations.
The conversation also covered Lagos's struggles with overpopulation and deforestation, exploring potential solutions. Triumph highlighted the overpopulated nature of Lagos and the government's deforestation practices to make way for housing. Triumph's proposed solutions to deforestation were particularly valued, as he emphasized the loss of natural habitats. Mr. Triumph presented government intervention as a crucial step toward addressing this issue, and we introduced carbon credits as a potential environmental solution that will provide monetary gains for conserving the environment. We explained how carbon credits work, emphasizing their value on carbon markets based on tree carbon absorption and further discussed the possible application of this concept in Nigeria.
The conversation concluded with a focus on the next steps. We outlined plans to promote the adoption of carbon credits in Nigeria. Triumph mentioned the crucial role of collaborating with NGOs to educate communities about this concept, emphasizing the importance of their involvement.
The Lagos tour continued with a series of informal interviews with local business owners in different areas of the state who held nothing back in pouring out their frustration due to the hardship they were going through because of how business was going. The crippling state of the economy dominated conversations, with business owners describing how it stifled growth and threatened their livelihoods.
One particularly concerning issue that emerged was the volatility of foreign exchange rates. This instability made it incredibly difficult for businesses to price their goods and services competitively. In turn, consumers grew suspicious of price increases, often viewing business owners as profiteering rather than simply trying to stay afloat in a turbulent economic climate.
Despite the overwhelming negativity, a flicker of hope remained. While acknowledging the immense challenges they faced, the business owners also shared a belief in Nigeria's potential for a brighter future. This sentiment suggested a deep resilience and a continued love for their country, even amidst hardship.