NEDC Hosts Groundbreaking Climate Summit in Gombe, Urges Urgent Action Against Environmental Challenges
NEDC Hosts Groundbreaking Climate Summit in Gombe, Urges Urgent Action Against Environmental Challenges
By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
In a landmark event for Nigeria, the Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) hosted a two-day climate change conference in Gombe. This gathering brought together eminent scholars and researchers who presented various papers aimed at reducing climate change challenges and raising awareness about its dangers in Nigeria.
The conference was graced by the Vice President, Senator Kassim Shettima, who was represented by Dr. Aliyu Moddibo, a former Minister and current Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, and a notable indigene of Gombe State.
Dr. Moddibo highlighted the severe global challenges posed by climate change, including extreme weather conditions that threaten lives and livelihoods. He emphasized the necessity for governments and nations to tackle these issues head-on through pragmatic approaches and global awareness initiatives.
“Despite careful planning and proactive measures, the looming threat of floods underscores the urgent need for comprehensive climate solutions,” Dr. Moddibo stated. He added that the climate crisis, marked by erratic weather and environmental instability, affects all regions and populations.
Dr. Moddibo reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the global fight against climate change, noting the country’s pledge at the 2021 Dubai Climate Summit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. He underscored Nigeria’s dedication to global environmental goals and highlighted initiatives such as the Great Green Wall project, which aims to combat desertification and restore ecological balance.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, an accountant by profession, outlined the measures his administration has implemented to combat climate change. His administration’s “Tripple G” program, which aims to plant one million trees annually, and the creation of woodlots across the state’s Local Government Areas, are central to these efforts. Governor Yahaya, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, stressed the importance of these measures in combating desertification and deforestation.
Governor Yahaya noted that Gombe State’s efforts have earned it the second position in climate governance, just behind Lagos, according to a Performance Rating and Ranking of Nigeria’s states on July 25, 2024. This assessment covered climate institutions, governance, policy, budget implementation, and online visibility.
In his remarks, Governor Yahaya emphasized the importance of the summit’s plenary sessions and discussions, urging participants to engage deeply with the topics presented by knowledgeable resource persons. He encouraged scholars and concerned individuals to follow the summit’s discussions closely.
Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa (rtd), Chairman of the NEDC Board, emphasized the summit’s goal of facilitating the effective implementation of the North-East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan (NESDMP) through collaboration and innovation. He acknowledged the region’s challenges, including the impacts of Boko Haram insurgency and climate change, and called for innovative and collaborative solutions.
Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, Managing Director/CEO of NEDC, discussed the summit’s theme, “Setting the Course for Sustained Climate Action in the North-East.” He highlighted the evolving climate crisis, which exacerbates desertification, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss, and emphasized the summit’s role in forging a path toward resilience and sustainability.
Dr. Abubakar Garba Iliya, Executive Director of Administration and Finance and Chairman of the Summit Organising Committee, noted the summit’s pivotal role in addressing climate challenges in the North-East. He expressed solidarity with those affected by recent floods in Borno State and commended the Vice President, Governors, ministers, and other stakeholders for their support and contributions.
Alhaji Musa Umar Yashi, Executive Director of Humanitarian Affairs, extended his gratitude to all attendees, emphasizing the summit’s impact on shaping a resilient, climate-conscious future for the North-East region.
This conference marked a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address climate change, bringing together key stakeholders to collaborate on effective solutions for a more sustainable future.
