Nigeria’s Resolve: Navigating Climate Change, Infrastructure, Security Challenges

2024-04-17
Abuja

 In the heart of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, distinguished delegates gathered for the Global International Symposium on Infrastructure, Climate Change, and Investment in Africa.

The symposium, held under the theme “Leveraging On Green Financing,” served as a platform for key stakeholders to address pressing issues facing the continent, ranging from climate change mitigation to infrastructure development and security enhancement.

Addressing the audience, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation of Nigeria, Sen. George Akume, emphasized the federal government’s commitment to addressing these multifaceted challenges.

Represented by Mr. Etoabasi Okokon, Akume highlighted the array of policies and initiatives aimed at tackling climate change and bolstering infrastructure development across the nation.

“In the area of infrastructure, climate change can affect infrastructural developments,” remarked Akume, underscoring the interconnectedness of these issues.

He noted the significant impact of climate change on infrastructure projects and reiterated the government’s proactive stance in implementing policies to mitigate these challenges.

Furthermore, Akume highlighted the government’s response to past crises, such as flooding, which ravaged communities and infrastructure.

He emphasized that the federal government had not been idle in the face of such adversities, implementing measures to mitigate the impact on citizens and infrastructure alike.

Echoing these sentiments, Prof. Steve Azaki, representing the House of Representatives for Yelga/Kolga Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change.

He stressed the need for proactive measures, including tree planting initiatives, flood preparedness, and halting gas flaring, which contributes significantly to environmental degradation.

“The federal government must take a decision on when to stop gas flaring,” asserted Azaki, highlighting the importance of decisive action in combating climate change.

Turning attention to Niger State, Hon. Yakubu Mohammed Kolo, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, shared insights into the state’s efforts to address climate-related challenges.

He highlighted Governor Bago’s proactive approach, including the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Homeland Security to enhance security and address climate-related issues.

Kolo emphasized the importance of collaboration and collective action, stressing that Niger State was ready to contribute to national and international efforts to combat climate change.

In his address of welcome, Hon. Moses Owharo, Chairman of the Planning and Organizing Committee for the Africa Infrastructure Climate Change and Investment Summit (AICIS), outlined the objectives of the symposium.

He emphasized the need for partnerships between the public and private sectors to mobilize resources and address the challenges of climate change and infrastructure development in Africa.

“We want to contribute as a private sector-led program to partner with the government on that PPP partnership,” stated Owharo, underscoring the importance of public-private collaboration in driving sustainable development.

Looking ahead, Owharo outlined plans for future summits and initiatives aimed at mobilizing Africa to tackle climate change and infrastructure challenges effectively.

He emphasized the need for capacity building and skill development to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to meet global standards and contribute to economic growth.

In conclusion, the symposium served as a testament to Nigeria’s resolve to confront the complex challenges of climate change, infrastructure development, and security enhancement.

Through collaboration, innovation, and decisive action, stakeholders affirmed their commitment to building a resilient and sustainable future for all.