The Kaduna State has issued a clarion call for the Northern region of Nigeria to confront the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
Speaking at the regional conference on climate change-induced conflicts, he emphasized that climate change is not merely an environmental issue but a significant threat that could destabilize nations, exacerbate inequalities, and incite violence. With rising temperatures and extreme weather events increasingly affecting livelihoods, Sani underscored the pressing need for immediate action to address these pressing concerns.
During the conference, Governor Sani highlighted alarming indicators of climate change, including severe flooding in Kaduna, encroaching desertification, and shrinking water resources. He pointed out that these environmental crises are leading to fierce competition for dwindling resources such as water and arable land. “The reality before us is that natural resources will become more limited, and tensions will mount,” he warned, citing the ongoing farmer-herder conflicts in the region as a stark reminder of how environmental stress can escalate into violence.
Sani acknowledged the adverse impact of climate change on the predominantly agrarian communities in Northern Nigeria, where farmers and pastoralists are facing severe losses due to unfavorable weather conditions and diseases. He stated that conflicts arising from these challenges have led to population displacement, food insecurity, and increased poverty levels. Despite these dire circumstances, the governor called for a collective response, urging stakeholders to collaborate and develop resilient strategies to combat the effects of climate change.
To build resilience, Governor Sani proposed grassroots participatory consultations aimed at identifying past and potential hazards and mobilizing communities for future action. He stressed the importance of community-level action plans that include training on governance, project management, and improving infrastructure to better prepare for climate-related challenges. “We must invest in climate resilience,” he stated, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices and improved water management as essential components of this investment.
Moreover, the governor revealed that his administration has developed a comprehensive Climate Change Policy aimed at safeguarding the environment and the well-being of the people. This policy outlines strategies for sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, waste management, and biodiversity preservation, with the overarching goal of promoting a climate-resilient and sustainable Kaduna State. “We must foster dialogue among communities affected by climate change and ensure the voices of the vulnerable are prioritized,” he concluded, reiterating the need for collaboration over competition to build a more resilient future.
