Northern Nigeria’s Climate Crisis: Experts Unite to Combat Insecurity and Environmental Degradation

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Kaduna

BosenloTvNEWS: The Interfaith Mediation Center (IMC) recently hosted a Climate Hangout, in collaboration with the African Climate Reporters (ACR) and the Kaduna State Government’s Office on Climate Change, to address the pressing issues of climate change and insecurity in northern Nigeria.

The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including scientists, geologists, environmental journalists, civil society organizations, NGOs, traditional leaders, and religious figures.

Mr. Abel John Bassa, a criminologist and security expert, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the severe impact of climate change and insecurity in northern Nigeria. He noted that these challenges are damaging key sectors such as agriculture, education, tourism, and healthcare, with flooding disproportionately affecting displaced communities and those with limited mobility.

Bassa highlighted that environmental degradation and climate change are exacerbating economic inequalities, a key driver of growing insecurity, Bosenlo TV News reports.

To address these crises, Bassa called for strategies that prioritize the social, economic, and political needs of displaced children and youth. He advocated for measures such as stopping construction on flood-prone areas, halting deforestation, transitioning to renewable energy sources, enforcing environmental laws, and providing assistance to affected communities.

The National-Director of the IMC, Mr. Samson Auta, noted that the Climate Hangout provides a platform for stakeholders to collaborate and develop strategies to raise awareness about environmental challenges.

Mallam Hayatu Ashafa, Co-National Director at the IMC, emphasized the role of media in spreading religious messages on environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of dialogue between state governments, civil society organizations, and local communities to protect forests and address environmental degradation.

Mallam Yusuf Idris Amoke, Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor on Climate Change, called for stronger collaboration between civil society organizations and NGOs to raise awareness about the dangers of toxic waste and improper waste disposal.

He also addressed the threats to Nigerian forests posed by the charcoal, firewood, and timber industries, urging increased efforts to plant trees to combat desertification and global warming.

The National President of the Lifeanchor International Development Foundation (LIDF), Mr. Agada Simon, reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to educating rural and urban communities about the importance of tree planting. He emphasized that deforestation has led to the migration of both plants and animals, underscoring the need for a unified effort to support government initiatives aimed at improving environmental conditions.

The event highlighted the need for a collaborative, unified approach to tackling environmental challenges and ensuring a sustainable and secure future for Nigeria. By bringing together stakeholders from a range of backgrounds and expertise, the Climate Hangout provided a valuable platform for discussion, education, and action on the critical issues of climate change and insecurity in northern Nigeria.