President Bola Tinubu has expressed Nigeria’s dedication to supporting global initiatives that focus on reducing the effects of Climate Change and fostering the growth of sustainable practices in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Tinubu made the statement while speaking at the current Fourth Nations International Conference on SIDS in Antigua and Barbuda, with the theme Charting the course toward resilient prosperity.’ Small island developing states consist of 39 States and 18 Associate Members of United Nations regional commissions, each grappling with their various social, economic, and environmental challenges.
In his statement, Tinubu said that Small Island Developing States are bearing the brunt of the worldwide environmental crisis caused by climate change, pollution, and the decline in biodiversity. Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, spoke on behalf of the President at the conference, highlighting how certain countries contribute less than one percent of global Greenhouse gas Emissions yet bear the brunt of climate change effects like Rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and the decline of marine ecosystems.
Transitioning to a sustainable economy is feasible for SIDS.
The people in these regions face serious risks to their ways of life and traditions. To protect and strengthen these vulnerable islands, it is crucial to come up with creative ways to adapt, as well as receive strong support and form partnerships on an international level. Nigeria supports and stands with SIDS, pledging to help reduce the effects of climate change and foster sustainable growth on a global scale. Small island developing states may be faced with challenges, but they also have the chance to transition to a sustainable economy.
Moreover, they have untapped abundant terrestrial and oceanic resources, including fish, minerals, and Renewable Energy sources like wind, solar, ocean, wave, hydro, and geothermal. With proper utilization, they could become pioneers in creating sustainable models for human well-being and transitioning to a sustainable economy. Small populations, isolation from global markets, expensive transportation, susceptibility to external economic crises, and delicate ecosystems all contribute to the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States to biodiversity loss and climate change due to limited economic options. Despite having a combined population of 65 million, which is less than 1% of the world’s population, they encounter distinctive social, economic, and environmental obstacles.
Heavy dependence on tourism opens SIDS to economic risks.
He emphasized that the difficulties encountered by SIDS mirror larger worldwide concerns that necessitate unified efforts. Assisting SIDS not only promotes Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection on a larger scale but also demands cooperation in investing in climate-resistant infrastructure. This encompasses constructing sea barriers, establishing timely cautionary measures, and adopting sustainable practices for managing land and water resources. It is crucial to engage with global financial organizations and businesses in order to secure the required funds.
Due to their heavy dependence on tourism and external markets, small island developing states face increased economic risks. By encouraging the growth of sustainable industries like renewable energy, fisheries, and agriculture, they can build stronger economic foundations. Securing access to favourable financing is essential for them to tackle their developmental obstacles. Customized financial tools must be supported to acknowledge the specific situations of Small Island Developing States and grant them the financial flexibility necessary to prioritize sustainable growth and enhance their ability to withstand climate challenges.
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Tinubu advocated for SIDS collaborating more closely and forming alliances with bigger economies to drive creativity and exchange successful methods. He said Nigeria’s dedication to supporting SIDS and other countries in sharing knowledge and enhancing capabilities. Ultimately, the government reiterates its dedication to fairness, righteousness, and collective success. Among the SIDS states are Antigua and Barbuda, Haiti, Bahamas, Jamaica, Barbados, Kiribati, Belize, Maldives, Seychelles, Cabo Verde, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Comoros among others.