Mayowa ADENIRAN |
Abuja, Nigeria – Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, has stressed the crucial role of climate governance at the sub-national level in addressing the impacts of climate change. Speaking at the Sub-National Climate Governance Performance Ranking and report launch in Abuja on Thursday, July 25, 2024, Lawal highlighted the need for concerted efforts from government at all levels to tackle the climate crisis.
A Collective Effort
Lawal noted that the ranking report, a collaborative effort between the Society for Planet and Prosperity, the Department of Climate Change, and the Nigeria Governor’s Forum, serves as a benchmark for sub-national entities to drive sustainable environmental practices. “This event marks a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to address the impacts of climate change, which has become a challenge that transcends borders and requires concerted effort of government at all levels,” he said.
Understanding Climate Challenges
The report provides an understanding of the status of climate challenges and opportunities at the sub-national level, as well as insights into the impacts of climate change, policies enacted to mitigate these impacts, and actions taken across various sectors. Lawal emphasized the importance of sub-national entities in driving sustainable environmental practices, stating, “We will highlight the pivotal role that sub-national entities play in driving sustainable environmental practices.”
Climate Governance is Key
Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, Chairman, Board of Trustee, Society for Planet and Prosperity, echoed Lawal’s sentiments, stressing that climate governance is essential to tackle climate change. “Climate change is not only an environmental problem but also an economic problem, and we must tackle it at the state and sub-national levels,” Okereke said.
Recognising Excellence
The event also featured the presentation of prizes to top-performing states, with Lagos, Gombe, and Ebonyi taking the first, second, and third positions, respectively. Borno and Ekiti tied for fourth place. The recognition aims to encourage other states to emulate the achievements of the top-performing states.
Share this
