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.

By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

The Hon. Shehu ABG Foundation has officially flagged off its 2025 JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) training for 5,000 students across the 23 Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.

The training program commenced on Friday, with students from Zaria, Sabon Gari, and Giwa Local Government Areas participating in the opening session held at Kaduna Hall, Federal University of Education (formerly FCE Zaria).

Speaking during the event, the Programme Coordinator and Consultant, Hon. Solomon Nuhu Katuka, disclosed that the training is scheduled to take place on April 4th, 7th, 11th, and 12th, 2025.

He added that students from Kudan, Makarfi, and Ikara LGAs will have their session on April 5th at the Theatre Hall, School of Health Sciences, Makarfi.

He further explained that students from Kaduna south,Chikun and Kajuru received their training from monday 7th of April at Richgate Computer Test Centre Sabon Tasha Kaduna. While Kadun North and Igabi at SMC/Sultan Bello E- library Hall Kaduna.He further states that Zangon Kataf, Kaura, Jema’a, and Sanga LGAs will receive training on April 11th, to be held at centers in Kafanchan and the National Open University, Kagoro.
Meanwhile, candidates from Jaba, Kachia, and Kagarko LGAs will be hosted at training centers in Kachia and Kagarko respectively, while other local government areas will hold their sessions concurrently across designated venues.

Hon. Katuka emphasized that the initiative was aimed at equipping students with the technical know-how and confidence to navigate the JAMB CBT system effectively. He noted that many students in rural areas are often disadvantaged due to limited access to computers and internet resources.

“This training is part of the foundation’s commitment to bridging the educational gap and empowering young people with the tools they need to succeed in their academic pursuits,” Katuka said.

He commended Hon. Shehu ABG for his unwavering support toward educational development in Kaduna State, describing the foundation’s intervention as timely and impactful.

Some of the students who spoke at the event expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating that the training would boost their readiness and reduce anxiety ahead of the national exam.

Elanzanews reports that the ABG Foundation has continued to champion educational initiatives, especially for underserved communities, positioning education as a vehicle for social change and sustainable development.