In a compelling presentation at the Maiden Summit on Climate Change in the North East and a Retreat organized by the North East Development Commission, Representative Sam Onuigbo FCIS, FNIM, KJW, outlined a strategic vision for leveraging climate action to propel the sustainable development of North East Nigeria. The event, held at the International Conference Center in Gombe from September 16 to 19, drew stakeholders from government, private sectors, and civil society to address the pressing climate challenges facing the region.
**Strategic Framework for Climate Resilience**
Rep. Onuigbo emphasized the critical role of the North East, which encompasses approximately one-third of Nigeria’s arable land, in the nation’s overall agricultural productivity. “If the North East sneezes, Nigeria catches cold,” he remarked, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to climate-induced adversities such as land degradation, desertification, heatwaves, and drought. These factors significantly impede agricultural activities, which are the backbone of the region’s economy.
**Linking Climate Change to Security**
Drawing attention to international perspectives, Rep. Onuigbo referenced the UN General Assembly Resolution 63/281 and UN Security Council Resolution 2349, underscoring the nexus between climate change and insecurity. “Climate change exacerbates resource scarcity, leading to conflicts over water, land, and grazing areas,” he stated, illustrating how environmental stressors fuel instability and insecurity in the region.
**Government Initiatives and Policy Frameworks**
The presentation delved into various national and subnational efforts aimed at mitigating climate impacts. Key among these is the Climate Change Act of 2021, which establishes a comprehensive legal framework for low greenhouse gas emissions and sustainable economic growth. Additionally, the Electricity Act of 2023 marks a significant milestone by promoting renewable energy sources, thereby aligning with global commitments to increase renewable capacity by 2030 as agreed upon at COP28.
Rep. Onuigbo also highlighted initiatives such as the Great Green Wall (GGW) and the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, both of which are pivotal in combating desertification and enhancing land restoration. “These projects not only mitigate climate change but also create alternative livelihood opportunities, fostering resilience among local communities,” he explained.
**Opportunities for Sustainable Growth**
Highlighting the region’s potential, Rep. Onuigbo proposed a roadmap centered on climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy. He emphasized the importance of integrating modern irrigation systems, improved seed varieties, and agroforestry to boost agricultural productivity and ensure food security. “Climate-smart practices can transform our agricultural value chain, making it more resilient and economically viable,” he asserted.
Furthermore, the transition to renewable energy presents an opportunity to develop industrial hubs powered by sustainable sources, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating green jobs. “Renewable energy is not just cleaner; it is now the most cost-effective form of energy, offering a sustainable path forward for our region,” Rep. Onuigbo noted.
**Empowering Vulnerable Populations**
Addressing the social dimensions of climate change, Rep. Onuigbo underscored the disproportionate impact on women, children, and persons with disabilities. He advocated for gender-inclusive climate policies and the establishment of climate change focal points at local government levels to ensure comprehensive and equitable climate action.
**Call to Action and Future Directions**
Concluding his presentation, Rep. Onuigbo called for a unified effort to implement the proposed climate governance framework, emphasizing the need for political will, institutional coordination, and continuous capacity building.
“With visionary planning and concerted action, we can transform the North East into a model of sustainable development, harnessing our natural resources responsibly and ensuring a prosperous future for all residents,” he proclaimed.
The summit concluded with a consensus on the urgency of integrating climate action into the region’s development agenda, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to global climate goals while addressing local challenges.
As the North East positions itself as a key player in Nigeria’s sustainable future, the insights and strategies presented by Rep. Sam Onuigbo offer a roadmap for resilient and inclusive growth in the face of climate change.
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