Nigeria’s Climate Policies: Foundation Empowers Local Community

The Executive Director of BBFORPEACE, Mr Rafiu Lawal, said the dialogue was part of the Climate Action for Stronger Naija project, aimed at advancing the implementation of Nigeria’s climate policies.

These policies are outlined in the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) on Climate Change and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Both documents provide strategies to combat the impacts of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the country.

Grassroot engagement

BBFORPEACE has previously trained ten youth civil society organisations in Nasarawa State on the importance of the NAP and NDCs.

The recent community dialogue also serves as a foundation to the creation of a Local Adaptation Plan of Action for Nasarawa State.

Supported by the Nigeria Youth SDGs Network and the German Missions in Nigeria, the dialogue brought together over seventy stakeholders, including traditional leaders, government officials, business owners, women, youths, persons with disabilities, and civil society organizations. Participants discussed the impacts of climate change on their communities, identified  mitigation and adaptation strategies, and expressed their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s climate policies.

Community support

The Emir of Lafia, Alhaji Sidi Bage Muhammad I, expressed his support for BBFORPEACE’s efforts and emphasised the importance of environmental preservation.

“Our communities are already experiencing the effects of climate change, including erosion, droughts, floods, among others,” said the Emir. We owe it to ourselves and our children to act now.”

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Yakubu Kwanta, acknowledged Nasarawa State’s vulnerability to climate change and noted the ministry’s commitment to supporting the implementation of Nigeria’s climate policies.

He stated: “Our focus areas include sustainable land management, renewable energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Collaborating with organizations like BBFORPEACE will enhance protection of our natural resources, and promote environmental sustainability and economic growth of Nasarawa State.”

Inclusive policies

Nasarawa State’s Commissioner for Women and Social Development, Aisha Rufa’i Ibrahim,  highlighted the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and children, advocating for inclusive policies that empower them.

She said: “as caregivers and managers of natural resources, women play a critical role in climate adaptation and mitigation. However, they often lack access to decision-making platforms and resources.”

BBFORPEACE plans to follow up on the dialogue with several initiatives aimed at mobilizing citizens’ support for climate action.

The foundation’s efforts contribute to Nigeria’s preparations for the COP29 climate conference, coming up in November 2024.

Oyenike Oyeniyi