In a powerful message delivered during the Presidential Youth Retreat in Abeokuta, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerian youths to take the lead in the fight against climate change. The retreat, organized by the Youth Development Centre, an arm of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), aimed to empower young Nigerians to contribute to the growth of a green economy and create a sustainable future.
Obasanjo emphasized the need for Nigerian youths to actively engage in practices that combat climate change, such as the adoption of renewable energy sources, tree planting initiatives, the use of electric cars, and the utilization of organic manure for agriculture. By embracing these initiatives, Nigerian youths can significantly reduce the impact of climate change, which is responsible for devastating consequences like flooding, extreme droughts, pollution, and deforestation.
During his speech, Obasanjo acknowledged that while some may still believe that climate change is a myth, the evidence is clear in the form of increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters. He highlighted the role of human activities in disrupting the delicate balance of the environment, and stressed that we are now experiencing the consequences of our actions.
Among the consequences mentioned by Obasanjo are rising sea levels, flooding, droughts, and food insecurity. He attributed a significant portion of carbon dioxide emissions and consequent climate change to the use of fossil fuels. To address this issue, he encouraged the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, as well as electric cars, which emit fewer fumes.
Furthermore, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of planting trees, which act as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide. He urged Nigerian youth to take leadership in these areas, actively participating in tree planting initiatives and advocating for proper waste management and recycling practices.
“These are the areas where you, as youth, can make your contribution to the green economy and help significantly reduce the challenges of climate change,” Obasanjo urged.
With this call to action, former President Obasanjo has highlighted the critical role Nigerian youths can play in combatting climate change and creating a sustainable future. It is time for the youth to rise to the occasion and lead the way towards a greener, more environmentally conscientious Nigeria.
