In a significant move to confront the challenges of climate change within its development framework, the Federal Government of Nigeria has launched the report of the pioneering project on mapping climate change impact, policy and action across Nigeria’s 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The project’s primary objective was to meticulously map the impact of climate change across the 36 states, analyse existing climate policies and actions, and identify support requirements for effective implementation at the state level. The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako emphasised the project’s alignment with the Federal Ministry of Environment’s key objectives under the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Salako underscored the centrality of climate action to achieving the eight presidential priorities of the administration, emphasising that addressing climate change necessitates the active involvement of sub-national governments and every Nigerian. He highlighted the diverse climate challenges faced by different regions in Nigeria, ranging from aridity, drought, and desertification in the north to flooding and erosion in the south.
The minister pointed out that vulnerability to climate change correlates with the dominance of climate-sensitive agricultural activities. The northern regions, with a higher degree of rurality, are more vulnerable, while the north-central region demonstrates lower sensitivity due to relatively stable seasonal rains and abundant lakes for irrigation.
During his remarks, the governor of Niger State, Umar Bago reiterated Niger State’s frontline efforts in combating climate change. He highlighted the state’s commitment and dedication to climate action, citing the organisation of a recent Green Economy Summit with a focus on sustainable policies.
Bago emphasised the significance of the summit, themed “Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity”, as the first of its kind by a sub-national government in Nigeria. He proudly noted the formulation of a policy document to guide the implementation of the green economy in Niger State, positioning it as a leader among subnational governments fighting against the negative impacts of climate change.
The senior special assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on community engagement (north-central region), Mrs. Abiodun Essiet stressed the importance of active participation in advancing climate action at the national level. She called for meaningful dialogue, sharing of best practices and the forging of partnerships to collectively address the challenges posed by climate change.
The launch event marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s commitment to tackling climate change, emphasising the need for collaborative efforts between the Federal Government, state governments and other stakeholders to implement effective climate policies and actions nationwide.
