Stakeholders call for unified action against climate challenges

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

In a passionate plea for global environmental stewardship, stakeholders have urged for strong collaboration to tackle the pressing issues posed by climate change.
This call was echoed during a one-day national workshop reviewing the outcomes of the 28th Session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, organized by the National Council on Climate Change with support from the European Union (EU) in Abuja.
Addressing the gathering, Director-General of the National Council On Climate Change, Dr Salisu Dahiru emphasized the forum’s objective to discuss Africa’s need for sustainable development plans and climate-smart investments.
“Our actions must include an unprecedented transition away from all fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, alongside targets to triple renewables and double energy efficiency by 2030.
“Additionally, the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund and scaling up adaptation finance are imperative,” Dr. Dahiru stated.
He highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role as an oil-producing nation, stressing the importance of strategic reviews of national actions and climate goals in light of COP28 agreements.
“We aim to foster an inclusive participatory process to drive ambitious goals for transitioning to a low-carbon economy and to provide a platform for government, businesses, states, and other stakeholders to strengthen climate action processes in Nigeria,” he added.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Federal Government (SGF), George Akume, emphasized the urgency of bold and decisive action to address Nigeria’s myriad challenges, underscoring the workshop’s timeliness.
“The outcomes of COP28 offer a roadmap grounded in equity, justice, and solidarity to enhance global climate ambition, strengthen adaptation efforts, and mobilize finance for climate action in developing countries,” SGF Akume remarked.
He emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach, mainstreaming climate considerations across all sectors and policies, and mobilizing internal financial resources to fund essential services and development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal highlighted Nigeria’s firsthand experience of climate change impacts and stressed the nation’s responsibility to take decisive action for a sustainable and resilient future.
“The time for passive observation is over; bold action is needed. Success depends on forging robust partnerships, mobilizing stakeholder engagement, and fulfilling commitments to safeguard our environment and ensure prosperity,” Minister Lawal affirmed.
He reassured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to advancing the energy transition and low-carbon agenda, citing the Nigerian Climate Change Act and ongoing efforts to promote green growth and sustainable economic development.