By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the global climate crisis, emphasizing that integrating climate change strategies into national development planning is not just crucial but cost-effective for sustainable growth.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mal. Mahmoud Adam Kambari, made this known on Friday during a two-day workshop themed “Mainstreaming Climate Change into National Development Planning,” held in Suleja, Niger State.
Kambari stated that climate action must be embedded in the nation’s policy framework, stressing three key elements: mitigation, adaptation, and disaster risk reduction. He explained that reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preparing for current and future environmental challenges, and taking proactive steps to minimize climate-related disasters are essential components of this effort.
“Contrary to common misconceptions, addressing climate change does not hinder development,” Kambari said. “With the right mix of policies, strategies, skills, and incentives, governments at all levels can drive investments in climate-friendly initiatives. This will not only boost economic opportunities but also ensure long-term sustainability.”
He said the primary goal of the workshop was to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools required to integrate climate change into national and sub-national planning processes.
Key objectives of the workshop include:
Building capacity among budget and planning officers at the federal, state, and local levels.
” Strengthening understanding of climate change impacts on sectors such as agriculture, health, water resources, and biodiversity.
“Promoting alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by ensuring climate resilience across government policies and programs;
” Developing governance strategies that prioritize climate considerations at all levels.
Kambari cited projections from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), warning that by 2050, global temperatures are expected to rise by at least 2°C, with the Arctic facing increases between 3 to 5°C. In West Africa and the Sahel, the rise could reach between 4 to 6°C by the end of the century. These changes, he noted, pose serious risks to food security, water supply, and public health.
“We cannot afford to ignore the threat of climate change,” he warned. “It endangers not just our environment but the future well-being of generations to come.”
He reiterated the Federal Ministry of Environment’s commitment to providing leadership, partnerships, and support to ensure effective climate mainstreaming across Nigeria’s development agenda.
“With these remarks, I hereby declare this workshop open. I look forward to engaging and impactful discussions,” Kambari concluded.
