The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, has emphasized the significance of addressing climate change, deeming it one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria. His comments were made during a retreat on climate change, organized by the Niger State Government for the House of Representatives Press Corps, held in Minna on Friday.
Speaking through his deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, Governor Bago also attributed a portion of the security challenges plaguing the country to climate change. He expressed concern that climate change is occurring at an alarming rate within Nigeria and highlighted the devastating impacts it has had on the nation’s environment. Challenges such as floods, desertification, and environmental pollution persist despite ongoing efforts to combat them. The governor also emphasized that climate change is a contributing factor to the country’s current security crisis and should therefore be given top priority.
In addition, Governor Bago lamented that the media tends to underreport the true extent of the disasters caused by climate change in Nigeria. He urged journalists to equip themselves with the necessary skills and tools to effectively highlight and mainstream climate change issues. With their reportage being instrumental in shaping legislative and executive agendas, he expressed confidence in the Press Corps’ ability to raise awareness and influence policies that address climate change. To further demonstrate his commitment, Governor Bago announced the convening of a Green Economy Summit, affirming his administration’s dedication to prioritizing climate change and mitigating natural and man-made disasters in Niger State.
The retreat also featured a keynote address by the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Abubakar Suleiman. Suleiman urged the media to play an active role in educating the public about the importance of climate change policies and their role in preserving the environment.
