The Building Blocks for Peace Foundation (BBFORPEACE), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting peace, preventing conflict, and addressing climate issues, recently organised a community discussion in Nasarawa State to enhance understanding of Nigeria’s climate policies. The workshop is part of the foundation’s broader “Climate Action for Stronger Naija” project, underscoring the urgency of implementing Sustainable Solutions to address the nation’s growing environmental challenges. The one-day event in Lafia on October 5, 2024, brought together several stakeholders from various industries. The Nigeria Youth SDGs Network, in collaboration with the German Missions, supported this dialogue.
Mr. Rafiu Lawal, the organisation’s executive director, was represented by the program officer, Mr. Samson Shabu emphasised how the workshop contributes to the progress of essential environmental strategies, including the National Adaptation Plan for Climate Change and Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Before the event, the NGO initiatives in Nasarawa State were already underway. These initiatives focused on capacity building for ten youth-led Civil Society groups regarding the importance of the National Adaptation Plan for Climate Change and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Nasarawa State government expressed strong support for the initiative.
This training aimed to empower local stakeholders with the necessary knowledge to implement these community-based strategies. The community discussions supplemented this skill enhancement initiative, establishing the foundation for developing a Local Adaptation Plan of Action to meet Nasarawa State’s specific requirements. On behalf of the Emir of Lafia, Mr. Aliyu Isa Shuaibu conveyed his appreciation to the organisation for leading this essential dialogue on environmental action. He stressed the necessity of protecting the environment for future generations, pointing out that local communities are currently facing the effects of environmental change, such as soil degradation, extended periods of drought, and flooding.
His remarks underscored the importance of traditional leaders in promoting environmental responsibility, stressing that united efforts are crucial to protect what lies ahead. On the other hand, the Government of Nasarawa State, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, voiced its support for the initiative. Hon. Yakubu Kwanta, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, sent a delegate to emphasise the administration’s dedication to tackling environmental-related challenges in the region. The state actively engages in sustainable land management practices, enhances Renewable Energy sources, and constructs Infrastructure capable of withstanding environmental impacts.
Women’s empowerment was also addressed during the workshop.
Kwanta emphasised that partnering with civil society organisations is crucial for securing enduring environmental and economic viability for the state. The dialogue equally highlighted the significance of women’s involvement in environmental action. Mrs. Patience Ogeriya, speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Women and Social Development, addressed the unequal strain that environmental shift imposes on women and children. As primary caregivers and resource managers, women are on the frontline, facing the harsh impacts of environmental-related disruptions. However, their lack of participation in decision-making limits their capacity to play a meaningful role in developing effective environmental solutions.
Ogeriya emphasised the need for inclusive platforms incorporating women’s perspectives in environmental adaptation and mitigation strategies. Therefore, the initiative launched in Nasarawa represents a preliminary effort to transform the nation’s environmental policies from theories into practical actions locally. The discussions noted the importance of collaboration between the government and community members, emphasising a collective duty to address the effects of environmental shifts. Examining the importance of Environmental Protection reveals critical reasons for immediate and strong measures against climate change. To begin with, the increasing occurrence of natural disasters, like droughts and floods, is already impacting food production and the livelihoods of vulnerable populations.
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Additionally, unregulated environmental harm worsens Poverty and threatens food availability. Lastly, climate change entails considerable Public Health hazards, as shifting weather conditions facilitate the transmission of various diseases. Ultimately, the enduring effects of weather may result in widespread migration and disputes over limited resources, increasing the instability of already vulnerable regions. With climate change threatening society’s foundations, initiatives like those led by non-governmental organisations demonstrate the importance of awareness, collaboration, and swift policy implementation to secure a sustainable future for all.