Yobe Takes Climate Preparedness Campaign to Traditional Rulers

Yobe Takes Climate Preparedness Campaign to Traditional Rulers

By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu

The Yobe State Ministry of Home Affairs, Information and Culture has intensified efforts to strengthen community resilience against flooding, cholera and other climate-related hazards through a statewide advocacy campaign targeting traditional institutions.

Leading the delegation on behalf of the Commissioner, Hon. Abdullahi Bego, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Salamatu Yahaya Nangere, paid an advocacy visit to the Emir of Fika and Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, at his palace in Potiskum.

Speaking during the visit, Nangere said the campaign aligns with Governor Mai Mala Buni’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods through public enlightenment on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and the expected impacts of the rainy season.

She said forecasts indicate that 12 local government areas in the state are at risk of flooding, with Geidam, Gulani and Yunusari among the most vulnerable.

She therefore urged residents to adopt preventive measures against flooding, cholera, malaria and other climate-related health challenges by maintaining environmental sanitation, disposing of waste properly, observing personal hygiene and adhering to early warning advisories.

The Permanent Secretary explained that traditional rulers were being engaged because of their strategic role in mobilising communities and promoting behavioural change at the grassroots. She urged them to champion public awareness on disaster preparedness, environmental sanitation and climate resilience.

Responding on behalf of the Emir, the Maiyasa of Fika, Alhaji Muhammadu Idriss, conveyed the monarch’s appreciation to Governor Buni for prioritising climate resilience and environmental sustainability through sustained public awareness and environmental initiatives.

The Emir described the advocacy campaign as timely, commended the government’s recognition of the role of traditional institutions in community mobilisation, and called for intensified tree-planting across the state, describing afforestation as one of the most effective ways to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of climate change.

The advocacy team included experts from the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health, and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who delivered presentations on climate change, flood preparedness, disease prevention, climate-smart agriculture and community participation in reducing climate-related risks.