Mitigating Climate Change in Nigeria: A Path Forward

Harnessing Collective Action for a Sustainable Future…

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Abuja-Nigeria

BTvNEWS: Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, from droughts and desertification to floods and sea-level rise. These climate-related disasters pose significant threats to the nation’s economic growth, food security, and human well-being.

To combat these challenges, Nigeria has launched its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Implementation Framework, a comprehensive plan aimed at driving national climate action and achieving substantial emission reductions.

Key Strategies for Mitigating Climate Change:

• Locally Led Adaptation:

Empowering local communities to take charge of their climate adaptation efforts is crucial. This approach ensures that adaptation strategies are tailored to specific community needs, promoting inclusivity, efficiency, and transparency.

• Climate-Resilient Infrastructure:

Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure can significantly reduce the economic impacts of climate-related disasters. For every dollar invested in climate-resilient infrastructure, up to six dollars can be saved in the long run.

• Sustainable Agriculture:

Promoting sustainable agricultural practices can enhance food security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Initiatives like climate-smart agriculture can help farmers adapt to climate change while improving their livelihoods.

• Renewable Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can reduce Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions. This shift can also create new economic opportunities and jobs.
• International Cooperation:

Nigeria’s climate efforts require international support, including financial assistance and technology transfer. The NDC Partnership, supported by the United Kingdom and other global partners, plays a vital role in helping Nigeria achieve its climate goals.

Government Initiatives and Policies:

The Nigerian government has introduced several initiatives to address climate change, including:

• National Climate Change Act: This act establishes a framework for effective climate action and provides pathways for climate change advocacy and potential legal redress.
• National Adaptation Plan (NAP) Framework: The NAP framework guides the country’s adaptation efforts, outlining goals and strategies to build resilience to climate change impacts.
• Great Green Wall Initiative: This initiative aims to combat desertification and improve livelihoods in the Sahel region by growing a wall of trees across Africa.

The Way Forward:

Mitigating the negative effects of climate change in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government, private sector, civil society, and individual efforts. By working together and leveraging international support, Nigeria can build a climate-resilient future and achieve its development goals.

About the Author:

Comrade AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku is a distinguished science, environmental, and investigative journalist with BTV (Online TV, Radio and Publication) – Climate & Peacebuilding Reporters, and African Climate Reporters. He is also a member of the African Institute of Waste Management and Environmental Studies (AIWMES), a practicing farmer, and entrepreneur.

With expertise in reporting on science, environmental, peacebuilding and safety issues, he has established himself as a leading voice in Nigerian journalism, earning numerous commendations and awards for his impactful reporting.

About BTV (Online TV, Radio and Publication) – Climate & Peacebuilding Reporters:

BTV (Online TV, Radio and Publication) – Climate & Peacebuilding Reporters is a premier science, environmental, and investigative journalism platform in Nigeria, dedicated to advancing climate action, sustainability, environmental stewardship, and Peacebuilding.

Through in-depth reporting, analysis, and storytelling, the platform provides critical perspectives on pressing science, environmental, and safety issues, promoting informed decision-making, accountability, peacebuilding initiatives, and transparency. BTV (Online TV, Radio and Publication) – Climate & Peacebuilding Reporters has become a trusted source of information and a catalyst for positive change.

Contact Information:

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Emails: btvnews.com@gmail.com; abdulhakeem.ajeseku002@gmail.com