On World Environment Day, Rep. Sir Sam Onuigbo, member of the South-East Governing Board and Chairman of the Committee on Security, Climate Change, and Special Interventions at the North-East Development Commission, delivered a keynote address at the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI).
Addressing the pressing theme of “land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience,” Onuigbo underscored the critical need for concerted efforts in combating environmental degradation.
In his speech, Onuigbo highlighted the severe impacts of desertification and drought across Nigeria’s northern states, leading to the drying up of Lake Chad and subsequent socio-economic challenges, including forced migration and insecurity.
He called for robust policy implementation to address these issues, aligning with international frameworks like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
Onuigbo detailed Nigeria’s legal and policy frameworks, including the Climate Change Act 2021, which he sponsored.
The Act mandates the integration of climate action into national development plans, emphasizing the establishment of a National Council on Climate Change to oversee climate policies and promote nature-based solutions.
Highlighting the importance of education in climate action, Onuigbo referenced Section 26 of the Climate Change Act, which mandates integrating climate change into educational curricula.
He stressed that public engagement and community involvement are crucial for achieving sustainable environmental practices.
Onuigbo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its proactive climate initiatives, including the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan and the enactment of the Electricity Act 2023.
He noted the significant efforts to mobilize youth for tree planting under the Great Green Wall project and the recent launch of the Nigeria Carbon Market Activation Plan at COP28.
The keynote address also touched on the importance of Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) for informed decision-making in environmental management.
Onuigbo emphasized that sustainable management of natural resources not only fosters economic growth but also ensures environmental conservation and community well-being.
Reflecting on global climate challenges, Onuigbo pointed to recent extreme weather events as stark reminders of the urgency for collective action.
He called for collaborative efforts across all sectors to mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change, highlighting Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa through its comprehensive climate policies.
Concluding his address, Onuigbo urged all stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations, to actively participate in eco-friendly practices.
He emphasized that these collective efforts are essential for securing a sustainable future for current and future generations.
The event, attended by various dignitaries, scholars, and community leaders, served as a platform to reaffirm commitments to environmental protection and sustainable development, echoing the global call to action on World Environment Day.
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