Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to support the “Arts for Climate Change” initiative through the development of climate solutions towards the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).
Renowned for its dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility, the state government, Solution 17 and Premium Trust Bank said they are thrilled to contribute to the dialogue in a partnership, on climate change through the powerful medium of art.
Launching the “Art for Climate Change” project recently, the Permanent Secretary in state Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Gaji Omobolaji said that artists from Lagos would collaborate with tech innovators, experts in relevant fields, students from New York University, Abu Dhabi and the Universities Climate Network United Arab Emirates to co-create innovative solutions to problems around key thematic areas relevant to COP28, which will be depicted in art.
This co-creation with climate artists, technologists, innovators, communicators and poets will be held from today at the Art Novation hub hosted by Premium Trust Bank to promote COP28 UAE.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Premium Trust Bank, Mr. Emmanuel Efe Emefienim expressed his belief that supporting the effort in various strategic approach targeting young creative minds would go a long way in providing answers to climate challenges
According to him, “we believe that addressing climate change requires a multi-dimensional approach, and art is a compelling tool to engage hearts and minds on this critical issue by supporting the ‘Arts for Climate Change’ at COP28.
“It aims to underline our commitment to a sustainable future and stimulate a meaningful conversation around climate change”.
He underscored the role of the bank as a responsible corporate citizen and a leader in promoting environmental sustainability, youth, and entrepreneurship development by supporting COP28’s “Arts for Climate Change” initiative.
He noted that “the project’s dialogue series will be held at the New York University, Abu Dhabi in November and the global exhibition during COP28. Attendees and the global community to visit the exhibition, engage with the Art, and join the collective effort to combat climate change as encouraged by the bank”.
The “Art for Climate Change” project is an offshoot of the Vision of the Child (VoTC) in partnership with the Lagos State Government, and led by renowned Noble Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, who mentored thousands of young artists, and poets between the ages eight and 12 from 2012 to 2019.
Four of the award-winning VoTC artists will depict tech-driven climate action solutions that communicate the urgency of climate action on 17 canvases in Lagos and New York University, Abu Dhabi.
COP28 is slated to be one of the most pivotal events in the global climate agenda. It provides an exceptional platform for leaders, innovators, and advocates to come together as the bank recognises that art can transcend language and culture, making it an influential vehicle for raising awareness and inspiring action on climate change.
COP28 UAE will begin at the Expo City Dubai on 30th November 2023. The conference is expected to convene over 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors.
