The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has identified climate change as a major cause of insecurity in Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution Implementation Framework (NDC-IF) (2023-2030) on Thursday in Abuja, Akume emphasized the ecological nature of the country’s insecurity issues.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant (Technical), Prof. Bolaji Babatunde, Akume stated, “I must emphasize that one of the reasons for insecurity in the country is largely ecological. The issue of climate change should not be taken lightly, especially for Nigeria.”
He stated that the NDC-IF document plays a crucial role in addressing climate change issues in Nigeria.
Akume highlighted that the framework, a national tool designed to ensure coordination, transparency, and resource mobilization, would raise awareness on how to mitigate climate change in the country.
He remarked, “Mobilizing finance for the effective implementation of the NDC is imperative. The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change indicates that the window to limit global warming to 1.5° centigrade is rapidly closing.”
According to him, climate change knows no borders and thus threatens not only the environment but also the socio-economic fabric of communities worldwide.
The SGF added, “The NDC-IF is not just a document but a roadmap for transformative action. It lays out strategies, policies, and measures to guide our efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience, and fostering sustainable development.”
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, emphasized the urgent need to address climate change and mitigation in the country, as revealed by the NDC-IF.
Represented by the Director of Erosion, Flood, and Coastal Zone Management in the Ministry, the minister said the NDC-IF provides a robust and comprehensive framework for a sustainable future.
Lawal noted that unwavering dedication and partnership among stakeholders would promote green growth and create resilience to tackle other national challenges.
Former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change, Mr. Samuel Onuigbo, praised the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) for launching the NDC implementation framework and urged that every deliberation on the project be implemented.
The Director General of the NCCC, Salisu Dahiru, explained that numerous meetings were held to enhance the quality of the NDC-IF and improve overall climate change governance in the country by raising awareness, building the capacity of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and promoting stakeholder engagement.
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