By Tobias Lengnan Dapam
Save the Children International (SCI), Nigeria, said flooding is ruining schools and
learning opportunities, and hurting children’s health through waterborne diseases.
Mrs. Oluwayemisi Erhunmwunse,
Deputy Director Program Development and Quality at SCI stated this on Wednesday in Abuja, during its Generation Hope Campaign Conference of Parties (COP29) Simulation to evaluate the progress of addressing climate change in Nigeria.
At the program which was also a platforms for children in the country to speak about their challenges, the director said
there is also uncertainties about their future. “It is the younger generations, who contribute the least to climate change, yet they suffer the most.
This is why investing in children is not just a moral obligation-it is a social investment. Children
are not only the most affected by the climate crisis, but they are also the ones who will lead the
charge in finding sustainable solutions. They are the future advocates, scientists, and leaders.
“To secure their future, we must listen to their voices and equip them with the tools they need
to make real change.
“Today’s Conference of Parties Simulation also known as COP 29 Simulation is a testament to
that commitment. It is a platform where children can engage in the same complex discussions
that take place at international climate negotiations. This simulation gives them a voice in the climate action process, ensuring that their insights, ideas, and solutions reach the ears of
decision-makers. Also if given the chance to engage with the Nigerian delegation for COP 29,
they will be directly influencing real-world policies and actions that will affect their lives.
“As we move toward the actual 2024 UN Climate Change Conference COP 29 event which is taking place in a few weeks this November in Azerbaijan, it is vital that we push for tangible
commitments from world leaders. Our expectations are clear: we want to see decisive actions
to limit global temperature rises, reduce emissions, and increase investments in climate
adaptation measures, particularly those aimed at protecting the most vulnerable-our children.
Let us use today as a launchpad, not just for conversation but for real action. Let us ensure that
the voices of Nigerian children are heard loud and clear at COP 29 and beyond. Together, we
can make sure that the future they inherit is a safe, healthy, and sustainable one.”
Also, speaking,
Dr. Iniobong Abiola-Awe,
Director, Department of Climate Change in the Federal Ministryof Health, said the simulation is not just an
event, but a powerful platform for expressing thoughts, advocating for your communities, and designing innovative and creative solutions to create a low-carbon
world for you and generations yet unborn.
The Director who was represented by Mrs. Victoria Gyang Pwol, added that the Federal Ministry of Environment through the Department of Climate
Change deeply values the perspectives of children and youth, as they represent the
leaders of tomorrow. It is your passion and commitment that can inspire action,
influence policies, and lead to transformative changes in how we approach environmental stewardship enhancing mentorship and volunteerism.
“The Ministry through the Department in the time past implemented initiatives
specifically for school children and youth empowerment to harness climate
technologies and solutions and curate these innovations into tangible project proposals to attract investors with support from development partners and non-governmental organizations.
“The Department in collaboration with an NGO with support from an
international organization is currently implementing the Green Schools Project which
aims to promote sustainable actions that enhance natural resources management and
environmental sustainability, activities include inaugurating Green Champions amongst the students, planting economic and food trees of various species in an
orchard, and establishment of tree nurseries for project continuity.
“Furthermore, the Department is currently implementing climate change education and awareness focusing on the school children training Peer Educators to
mentor their peers using the developed handbook by the Department. The Eco-
Schools Initiative aims to empower you by integrating environmental education into
your schools, providing you with the knowledge and skills to understand the impact
of climate change and foster a culture of sustainability, is designed to inspire you to
take action not just within the walls of your classrooms but throughout your
communities and beyond.
“We encourage each of you to share your visions boldly, collaborate, and learn
from these discussions. Remember, every action you take, no matter how small,
contributes to the larger goal of a sustainable planet.
“Together, let us champion the cause of climate justice, ensuring that our future
is sustainable and equitable for all. We believe in your potential to create impactful change and are excited to support you on this journey.”
On her part, Merit Olumba, the Co-founder, Teens Connect Africa, said “Today at the Child-led COP29 Simulation, we’re advocating for the inclusion of children’s voices in climate policy decisions. It’s crucial that our concerns are heard and addressed, as children are the ones who will inherit the consequences of climate inaction.
These children here today penned letters to the president, urging immediate action to mitigate the devastating floods affecting Maiduguri and other regions of the country.
“Teens Connect Africa with the support of Save the Children and other members of the Generation Hope Coalition is committed to empowering children to be active participants in the fight against climate change. By amplifying our voices, we hope to inspire global leaders to take action and create a more sustainable future for all.”
