A delegation of Lawmakers and environmentalists from Liberia have sought collaboration with Nigeria on tackling climate change. Led by Hon. Ernest Manseah Snr, the Liberian delegation met with Nigeria’s Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Ecology and Climate Change in Abuja where they discussed climate-related matters. During the meeting, Manseah Snr commended Nigeria’s leadership in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. He emphasized the need for regional cooperation, stating that Liberia aims to learn from Nigeria’s policies and strategies in addressing climate change related impacts.
The delegation acknowledged that climate change is a shared concern that calls for a coordinated response, particularly for West African countries that are particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and environmental degradation. Nigeria has been at the forefront of Africa’s climate response with efforts to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions, encourage renewable energy, and aid Afforestation initiatives. The nation has also been actively participating in international climate debates and participating in Conference of the Parties (COP) conferences and its commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Cross-border and global cooperation are seen as essential.
With Nigeria’s experience in climate governance, the Liberian delegation expressed keen interest in leveraging these insights to strengthen its environmental policies. In response, Nigerian parliamentarians expressed the country’s willingness, emphasizing the importance of cross-border partnerships in tackling the climate catastrophe. The Senate Committee Chair, Senator Seriake Dickson, underlined the necessity of collaboration among all African countries in addressing climate issues. He noted that Nigeria has the first climate change law in Africa, positioning it as a global leader in addressing environmental issues.
Nonetheless, he emphasized that global cooperation is essential to creating more potent climate solutions. Both countries recognized the necessity of joint advocacy on climate financing to guarantee that African countries receive sufficient assistance from international donors to carry out their Climate Action plans successfully. Nigeria and Liberia’s relationship is an important step toward regional resilience as climate change continues to pose major dangers to West African ecosystems and livelihoods. The Abuja discussion marks the start of what could become a long-term partnership aimed at preserving the environment, bolstering adaptation plans, and guaranteeing sustainable growth for coming generations.
Rising sea level threatens Liberia’s coastal populations.
Like many other West African countries, Liberia is suffering greatly from the consequences of climate change. The nation’s agriculture, infrastructure, and biodiversity are suffering heavily as a result of rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, coastline erosion, and deforestation. Rural communities that rely on farming and fishing for their subsistence are under tremendous strain due to the recent increase in the frequency of catastrophic weather events like floods and droughts. Monrovia and other coastal cities are especially at risk from sea level rise, with some residents already being displaced as a result of land loss.
Moreover, the country is recognized as extremely vulnerable to climate change, especially in the areas of public health, agriculture, water, fisheries, and coastal regions. Approximately 70% of Liberia’s population lives in the coastline zone, which is one of the country’s largest natural and economic resources. Coastal Erosion has already resulted in the loss of 0.8 km² of land in recent decades, affecting local population centers and infrastructure. The country’s sea level is expected to rise by 0.13-0.56 meters by the 2090s. This has put the entire community along the Liberian coast at risk of being submerged.
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Given the escalating threat of the crisis and concerning forecasts, the visit to Nigeria was an essential step in fortifying the nation’s reaction. By leveraging Nigeria’s experience and expertise, Liberia aims to create more effective plans to reduce environmental damage and increase resilience to future climate shocks. The two countries’ cooperation is a reminder that no nation can defeat climate change alone; regional cooperation and common solutions are necessary for a sustainable future.