For the second consecutive year, Lagos State has emerged as the leader in the annual Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking. This announcement took place on October 14, 2025, during the report’s launch in Abuja.
Lagos topped the chart with 315 points, closely followed by Katsina at 310 points and Kaduna at 305 points. The initiative, led by the Department of Climate Change and the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), aims to assess states’ climate actions across five key areas. These include climate policy framework, budget allocation for climate projects, implementation and monitoring of these projects, and public awareness on climate issues.
Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, the president of SPP, emphasized that these five areas are essential for effective climate action. They guide states on necessary steps to take in tackling climate challenges.
Barrister Tenioye Majekodunmi, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, called the ranking a significant milestone for grassroots climate actions in Nigeria. She underscored the importance of state governments’ commitment to addressing climate issues effectively.
Samantha Harrison, from the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, also highlighted the vital role of subnational actors in making climate policies work. She noted that without strong local governance, climate strategies often remain theoretical.
This year saw Kano and Enugu states improving significantly, breaking into the top five. Since its launch in 2024, the ranking initiative has inspired competition and collaboration among states. Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim from Kano praised the program for fostering shared ideas and urgency in tackling climate change at the local level.
In Lagos, Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab stated that the ranking motivates them to reinforce their climate initiatives and supports sustainable development for their residents.
The initiative is not just helpful for states; it also serves donor agencies by pinpointing areas needing intervention. Professor Anthony Nyong from the African Development Bank views this rating as a pivotal tool for enhancing climate governance, accountability, and green growth across Africa.
The engagement and commitment from various states highlight a crucial trend: local governments are becoming the frontline defenders against climate change in Nigeria. This dynamic is essential for creating tangible impacts and driving meaningful change in the face of global climate challenges.
By fostering this spirit of collaboration and competition, Nigeria may be better positioned to tackle its climate crisis—one local initiative at a time.
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Lagos State Government,Subnational Climate Governance Ranking
