The Nation Newspaper

Tag: climate change

  • Osun Govt seeks NOA partnership for grassroots climate change advocacy

    Osun Govt seeks NOA partnership for grassroots climate change advocacy

    The Osun State Government has expressed readiness to collaborate with the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to enhance climate change awareness and advocacy at the grassroots level.

    This was disclosed by the Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Renewable Energy, Funmiso Babarinde, during a Climate Equity programme held in Ede.

    The event was organised by the Youth in Agroecology and Restoration Network (YARN), NET HOPE, and Ushahidi, Kenya, in collaboration with community-based organisations, government ministries, farmers, and local leaders.

    Addressing participants, Babarinde stressed the need to integrate community voices into local climate policies and strengthen grassroots capacity for climate action.

    “I want to use this opportunity to call on NOA to work with the Federal Ministry of Information and the State Ministry of Information to design a framework for grassroots advocacy,” he said. “Climate change is no longer just a scientific concern—it is a reality affecting us all.”

    Read Also: Osun govt laments deterioration of mega schools

    He advocated for climate change messaging in local languages, training for media practitioners in climate reporting, and the inclusion of Nollywood and music industry figures in public campaigns for greater impact and sustainability.

    Babarinde also revealed that the Osun State Government has developed a policy framework and programmes aimed at engaging young people in climate advocacy and training across the state.

    “We hosted a stakeholders engagement workshop for the Africa Multilateral infrastructure and Climate Change summit, South West stakeholders roundtable summit on Renewable Energy, among other initiatives like distribution of Solar lanterns to School children especially in rural communities, to aid their education among so many interventions by the state government in the emerging sector.”

  • European heat wave triggers plans to reduce emissions

    European heat wave triggers plans to reduce emissions

    Europe’s continuing heat wave yesterday helped fuel a deadly wildfire in Spain while the European Union presented plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under scorching temperatures.

    The blaze that broke out late on Tuesday created an enormous thick plume of ash and smoke that rose 14,000 meters (45,000 feet) into the sky, making it the largest registered by firefighters in Catalonia, a northeastern region of Spain.

    Two farmers were killed while apparently trying to flee in a vehicle, local authorities said Wednesday.

    Firefighters said that the fire spread at 28 kph (17 mph) at one point as it consumed 6,500 hectares (16,000 acres) mostly of grain fields.

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    “Wildfires today are not like they were before,” Salvador Illa, the regional president of Catalonia, said. “These are extremely dangerous. From the very first moment, it was considered to be beyond the capacity of extinction. I mean that not even with two or three times the number of firefighters, they have told me, it would have been possible to put out.”

    Firefighters credited a rainstorm later on Tuesday for having “quickly changed the situation and helped speed up getting the fire stabilized.”

    Two of the 500 firefighters who deployed needed treatment at a local hospital for their injuries. Some 14,000 residents were ordered to stay indoors for several hours on Tuesday night.

    More hot weather is expected on Wednesday with temperatures in the Lleida region forecast to reach a high of 39 C (102 F).

    The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts said that it was closely monitoring the abnormally hot temperatures.

    Weather experts link the heat wave to climate change.

    After Spain set a record for June air temperatures, its port authorities recorded the hottest ever water temperature readings for the month in the Mediterranean and the part of the Atlantic nearest to France.

    Experts say higher surface temperatures are bad for sea life and make for warmer nights on shore.

    “A much warmer sea around us contributes to the nights not cooling down, which is detrimental to people’s rest,” Manuel Vargas, researcher at the Oceanographic Center of Malaga, told The Associated Press.

  • Nigerians and the increasing heatwaves

    Nigerians and the increasing heatwaves

    By Abiodun Salako

    Nigeria is increasingly grappling with severe heat waves due to climate change, urbanization, and environmental degradation. In 2025, NiMet had forecast ongoing heatwaves nationwide, with certain areas reaching temperatures up to 42 degrees Celsius.

    Extreme heat increases health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as older adults and those living in substandard housing. To safeguard Nigeria’s healthcare system, the government should adopt a Heat Action Plan (HAP), upgrade facilities, and integrate climate change considerations into the medical curriculum.

    One key measure is for the government to develop a national heat action plan (HAP). Despite being one of the countries most disproportionately affected by climate change, Nigeria does not have such a plan. Incorporating HAP into the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action on Climate Change for Nigeria (NASPA-CCN) would greatly reduce the rising health and infrastructure risks posed by heat waves.

    The HAP should include awareness campaigns, sector coordination, and training for healthcare workers. The plan should also support urban planning, cooling centres, and heat risk reduction. Together, these measures will reduce heat exposure, illness and deaths. The HAP should be implemented locally by the state ministries of health, particularly in states vulnerable to heat-related health issues, such as central and northern regions.

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    Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure requires a structural shift. Only about twenty percent of the approximately 34,000 primary healthcare centres (PHCs) are functional. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare needs to upgrade the existing PHCs urgently.

    The upgrade should involve incorporating heat-mitigating designs and renewable energy sources to ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery during extreme heat events. PHCs, as frontline responders, are essential in addressing climate-induced health challenges. Adequate and well-trained healthcare professionals are also key to increasing capacity and handling emergencies effectively.

    Moreover, integrating climate change into medical education is crucial. The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and the National Universities Commission should collaborate to include climate change in the medical education curriculum.

    Nigeria’s medical education curriculum does not adequately address climate change issues for resilience in preventing and responding to climate-related health risks. Ensuring healthcare workers are better equipped to recognize, prevent, and manage climate-related health issues enhances overall system resilience.

    Around the world, top medical institutions now have courses on climate change in their curricula. A growing number of institutions are following suit because they recognize climate change’s increasing impact on public health. Common methods include stand-alone modules, electives, workshops, and modifying existing core curricula to include climate change and health components.

    Nigeria must uphold health rights by developing a HAP, enhancing healthcare infrastructure, and integrating climate change into medical education. These measures are indispensable towards building a healthcare system resilient to climate-induced stresses.

    • Abiodun Salako, asalako@studentsforliberty.org

  • Climate Change: The ongoing global initiatives that will shape our lives in years to come

    Climate Change: The ongoing global initiatives that will shape our lives in years to come

    Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for our planet and its inhabitants. Rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events are just a few of the devastating impacts of climate change. However, there is hope. Governments, organizations, and individuals around the world are coming together to combat climate change through various initiatives. In this article, we will explore some of the ongoing global initiatives that will shape our lives in years to come.

    The Paris Agreement: The Paris Agreement is an international accord that aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. The agreement, which was adopted in 2015, has been ratified by over 180 countries and is considered a landmark achievement in the fight against climate change.

    Renewable Energy Initiatives: Renewable energy is a crucial component in the fight against climate change. Governments and organizations around the world are investing heavily in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. For example, the European Union has set a target of generating at least 32% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.

    Electric Vehicle Initiatives: Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as governments and organizations encourage their adoption. Many countries have set targets for EV adoption, with Norway aiming to have all new cars sold be electric by 2025. Additionally, companies like Tesla, Volkswagen, and General Motors are investing heavily in EV technology.

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    Carbon Pricing Initiatives: Carbon pricing is a mechanism that puts a cost on carbon emissions, providing a financial incentive for companies and individuals to reduce their emissions. Many countries have implemented or are planning to implement carbon pricing mechanisms, including carbon taxes and cap-and-trade systems.

    Sustainable Land Use Initiatives: Sustainable land use is critical for mitigating climate change. Initiatives such as reforestation, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture practices are being implemented around the world. For example, the Trillion Tree Campaign aims to plant, restore, and conserve 1 trillion trees by 2050.

    Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Initiatives: Climate-resilient infrastructure is critical for protecting communities from the impacts of climate change. Initiatives such as sea walls, levees, and green roofs are being implemented around the world. For example, the Netherlands is investing heavily in flood protection measures, including the construction of sea walls and levees.

    Climate Change Education and Awareness Initiatives: Climate change education and awareness are critical for inspiring individual and collective action. Initiatives such as climate change education programs, awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs are being implemented around the world. For example, the Climate Reality Project, founded by Al Gore, provides climate change education and training programs for individuals around the world.

    Conclusion Climate change is a pressing global issue that requires immediate attention and action. The ongoing global initiatives discussed in this article demonstrate the commitment of governments, organizations, and individuals to combating climate change. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to support and expand these initiatives, inspiring individual and collective action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable future for all.

    Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan)

    Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control

    badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450

  • Climate change threatens Africa’s malaria-free goal by 2030

    Climate change threatens Africa’s malaria-free goal by 2030

    The ambition to eliminate malaria across Africa by 2030 faces serious setbacks, with experts warning that climate change, population growth, and declining funding are reversing progress made over the past decade.

    A new analysis has projected that an additional 554,000 people could die from malaria between 2030 and 2049, with Nigeria expected to be among the most severely affected.

    This warning was issued by health researchers and scientists under the Target Malaria consortium, citing a joint climate impact model by the Boston Consulting Group and the Malaria Atlas Project.

    The model projects future malaria burdens based on anticipated climate-related events, especially changes in rainfall, temperature, and population exposure.

    At the heart of the growing crisis is climate change, which is shifting malaria transmission zones. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are creating favourable conditions for mosquitoes to breed and spread the disease in areas previously considered low-risk.

    A leading entomologist at the Health Sciences Research Institute (IRSS) and Field Entomology Coordinator at Target Malaria Burkina Faso, Dr. Patric Epopa said that,  “Shifting temperature and rainfall patterns are expanding and altering malaria risk zones, which will continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, especially children under five.”

    The climate model predicts that from 2030 to 2049, if current global temperatures continue to rise, malaria deaths in Africa will increase by 554,000, with 92% of those deaths linked directly to extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.

    Despite progress in some regions where transmission may decline, the net effect of climate change will be a significant increase in malaria risk for most parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

    The burden of this projected malaria surge is expected to fall most heavily on young children. According to the 2024 Africa Malaria Progress Report by the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa accounted for 95% of global malaria cases and 97% of deaths in 2023, with nearly 580,000 lives lost, the majority of them being children under the age of five.

    In countries like Burkina Faso, malaria remains the leading cause of death in young children, despite the widespread use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying, and artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs).

    “Extreme weather is one of the biggest drivers of malaria spikes,” Epopa explained. “Displaced communities are often left unprotected, without mosquito nets, indoor spraying, or access to early diagnosis and treatment.”

    Although current tools such as ITNs and ACTs have helped to reduce malaria cases and deaths over the years, the report notes that climate change is weakening their impact by up to 17%. Flooding, droughts, and rising temperatures often disrupt supply chains, healthcare services, and mosquito control efforts, making traditional tools less effective during emergencies.

    In 2023, Nigeria accounted for about 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of global malaria deaths, with over 24 million reported infections and more than 170,000 lives lost, mostly children under five, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

    There is also a growing problem of insecticide resistance, especially among Anopheles mosquitoes, the primary malaria vector in Africa. In many areas, mosquitoes have evolved resistance to commonly used insecticides, rendering nets and sprays less effective.

    Faced with these challenges, scientists and public health experts are increasingly looking toward new technologies to help fill the gaps. One of the most promising innovations is gene drive technology, a form of genetic engineering aimed at reducing the population of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes.

    Target Malaria, a non-profit research group supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Open Philanthropy, is spearheading efforts to develop gene drive solutions. The approach involves modifying the genes of Anopheles mosquitoes so that they produce fewer females, the mosquitoes responsible for biting and spreading malaria.

    Read Also: Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    “Gene drive isn’t a silver bullet, but we hope that it could dramatically cut transmission by reducing the number of female mosquitoes,” said Epopa.

    Mathematical modelling studies suggest that gene drive, when combined with existing tools, could lead to a sharp reduction in mosquito populations, especially in West Africa, and significantly slow down malaria transmission.

    Experts say that to succeed in the malaria fight, African governments must act boldly and swiftly. They are being urged to integrate malaria control into broader health and development strategies, including primary healthcare delivery, gender equality, environmental planning, and climate resilience programs.

    “Now more than ever, we need bold tools and local innovation to stay ahead of this disease,” Epopa added. “African governments must also embed malaria control into broader systems if we want a lasting impact.”

    Failure to act decisively, he warned, will result in the loss of thousands of lives and the derailment of the vision for a malaria-free Africa by 2030.

    Target Malaria is a non-profit research consortium that aims to develop and share innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable genetic technologies to combat malaria. Its core work focuses on the responsible development of gene drive technologies, and it operates in partnership with institutions across Africa, Europe, and North America. Its main institutional hub is located at Imperial College London.

  • 45 Lagos schools push for action on climate change

    45 Lagos schools push for action on climate change

    • From Janefrances Chibuzor

    No fewer than 2000 children from over 45 schools across Lagos State converged on Lekki Urban Forest and Animal Sanctuary Initiative (LUFASI) Park in Lagos, to celebrate both International Children’s Day and the International Day for Biodiversity.  With the theme Harmony with Nature, Sustainable Development, the double celebration, deemed the largest ever held at the park, brought together young learners, environmental advocates, educators, and development partners in a unified call for action on climate change and sustainable living.

    The park reverberated with joy as children took centre stage, delivering captivating dramatic performances, cultural dances and spoken word pieces. Their presentations not only celebrated the innocence and creativity of childhood but also reflected a deepening awareness of environmental issues among Nigeria’s young generation. The atmosphere of the day was charged with excitement, but also emphasised by a shared concern for the future of the planet.

    In a gesture that captured the symbolic and practical significance of the event, 100 solar lamps were distributed to deserving students as tokens of hope and empowerment. The lamps, provided by the Women in Renewable Energy Association (WIRE-A) in collaboration with the Smiling Simon Greenbuild Foundation, served as reminders of the importance of access to clean energy and education.

    President of WIRE-A, Dr. Anita Nana Okuribido ably represented by Lady Isioma Fidel-Ewerem, Member of the Board of Trustees tasked the audience to look beyond celebration to action. Fidel-Ewerem stressed the urgent need to embibed environmental awareness in youth development strategies and to empower children as active participants in climate solutions. “Let this day not just be a celebration, but a call to action. We must raise a generation that doesn’t just read about climate change but actively works to reverse it,” she declared, drawing loud applause from the gathering.

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    WIRE-A, alongside EvaCheck, a technology-driven platform focused on environmental compliance and sustainability, partnered LUFASI Park to deliver technical support, advocacy, and community outreach aligned with the theme of the event. Their presence underscored the rising importance of innovation, collaboration, and youth-centered environmental programs in tackling the global biodiversity crisis.

    The host and environmental custodian of LUFASI Park, Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi, called for deeper environmental consciousness. He drew attention to the real and present threats facing ecosystems across Africa, highlighting the disappearance of Lake Chad as a sobering example of unsustainable human activity. “Sustainability means continuing what gives us life. You can’t eat if you destroy your land. Places like Lake Chad, once abundant, are now barren. Through every child, every event, we sow seeds of environmental consciousness,” he said.

    He emphasised that the experience of being immersed in nature, touching the soil, seeing the trees, learning about animals, was a vital step in nurturing future custodians of the Earth. “They came here to celebrate their day, but they leave here as ambassadors for our environment,” he added, calling for more support for eco-parks and educational green spaces across the country.

    Another powerful voice at the event was Lady Isioma Fidel- Ewerem, WIRE-A’s Intergovernmental and International Team Lead, who spoke with deep emotion about the importance of the day’s activities. She explained that the donated lamps symbolised more than just light, they represented hope, dignity, and the limitless potential of Nigerian children. “These lamps we’ve donated are more than light, they are a symbol of renewed hope, confidence, and belief in the dreams of these children,” she said.

    Lady Fidel-Ewerem used the occasion to call for more inclusive and sustainable policies that prioritise youth education, green infrastructure, and renewable energy. She urged the government and private sector to recognise the power of grassroots advocacy and invest in platforms like LUFASI Park that combine conservation with community impact. “The government must invest in supporting initiatives like LUFASI. We need advocacy in every language, on every platform. Let us act as if there is no tomorrow, because without sustainability, there won’t be one,” she warned.

    The day’s celebrations were also used to announce that many of the participating schools would be inducted into WIRE-A “Green Young Stars Club,” a pioneering initiative aimed at grooming a new generation of climate, conscious leaders. The club will serve as a platform for environmental education, clean-up projects, school gardens, climate literacy programs, and peer advocacy campaigns. “Transformation starts in the mind. After today, these children will not be the same. They are the future governors, astronauts, engineers, and above all, caretakers of the Earth,” she said.

  • Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    Climate Change: Unlocking the economic benefits of climate action

    • By Adebayo Adeleye

    As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, a growing body of evidence suggests that taking bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can have significant economic benefits. In fact, a report by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate finds that climate action could deliver at least $26 trillion in economic benefits through 2030.

    So, what are the key economic benefits of climate action. For starters, reduction in energy costs is a major advantage. Investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy can help businesses and households save money on their energy bills. Additionally, creating new job opportunities is another significant benefit. The clean energy sector is already supporting millions of jobs worldwide, and this number is expected to grow as the demand for renewable energy increases. Improvement of public health is another important economic benefit of climate action. By reducing air pollution from fossil fuels, we can prevent millions of premature deaths and reduce the economic burden of healthcare costs. In fact, a study by the World Health Organization finds that the economic benefits of reducing air pollution can be as high as $1 trillion per year. Furthermore, stimulating innovation and growth is a critical economic benefit of climate action. Investing in clean energy and green technologies can drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The report by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate finds that climate action can generate over 65 million new low-carbon jobs in 2030, equivalent to the entire workforce of the UK and Egypt combined. The economic benefits of climate action are clear. By taking bold action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we can unlock significant economic benefits, from reducing energy costs to creating new job opportunities, improving public health, and stimulating innovation and growth. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it’s time to recognize the economic benefits of climate action and work towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.

    For the purpose of clarity and emphasis, listed below are five major economic benefits of climate action:

    Job Creation and Employment Opportunities: Climate action can create new job opportunities in various sectors, including the following;

    Renewable energy: The renewable energy sector is creating new job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.

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    Energy efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in buildings and industries can create jobs in retrofitting, insulation, and other related services.

    Sustainable infrastructure: Investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as green buildings, can create jobs in construction, architecture, and engineering.

    Climate resilience and adaptation: Climate resilience and adaptation measures, such as sea walls, levees, and green roofs, can create jobs in construction, engineering, and environmental management.

    According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the renewable energy sector employed 11 million people worldwide in 2020, and this number is expected to triple by 2050.

    Increased Economic Productivity: Climate action can increase economic productivity by:

    Improving energy efficiency: Energy-efficient technologies and practices can reduce energy consumption, lower energy bills, and increase productivity.

    Promoting sustainable agriculture: Climate action can promote sustainable agriculture practices, which can increase crop yields, improve food security, and enhance economic productivity.

    According to a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA), energy efficiency measures can increase economic productivity by up to 2% annually.

    Reduced Healthcare Costs: Climate action can reduce healthcare costs by:

    Improving air quality: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can improve air quality, which can reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases and other health problems.

    Reducing water-borne diseases: Climate action can reduce the risk of water-borne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever.

    Promoting physical activity: Climate action can promote physical activity, such as walking and cycling, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

    According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), the economic benefits of reducing air pollution can be up to 10 times higher than the costs of implementing pollution control measures.

    Increased Property Values and Reduced Infrastructure Costs: Climate action can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs by:

    Reducing flood risk: Climate action can reduce the risk of flooding, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Improving urban planning: Climate action can promote sustainable urban planning, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Reducing heat island effect: Climate action can reduce the heat island effect, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    Promoting green infrastructure: Climate action can promote the use of green infrastructure, such as green roofs and green walls, which can increase property values and reduce infrastructure costs.

    According to a study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), every dollar invested in flood resilience measures can save up to $4 in economic losses.

    Reduced Climate-Related Risks and Uncertainty

    Climate action can reduce climate-related risks and uncertainty by:

    Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Climate action can reduce the risk of catastrophic climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    Promoting climate resilience: Climate action can promote climate resilience by supporting the development of climate-resilient infrastructure and ecosystems.

    Supporting climate risk management: Climate action can support climate risk management by promoting the use of climate risk assessments and climate risk management frameworks.

    • Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan)
    • Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450
  • Climate change: The disproportionate impact on developing nations  

    Climate change: The disproportionate impact on developing nations  

    • By Adebayo Adeleye

    Climate change is a global issue, but its impacts are felt disproportionately by developing nations. The struggle and disappointment between wealthy nations and developing nations are rooted in the unequal distribution of climate change’s burdens and benefits.

    The Disproportionate Impact of Climate Change

    Developing nations are more vulnerable to climate change due to their limited resources, infrastructure, and economic resilience. They are already experiencing the devastating effects of climate change, from more frequent natural disasters to droughts, heat-waves, and rising sea levels. The World Bank reports that the lowest-income countries, which produce only one-tenth of global emissions, will bear the brunt of climate change’s impacts, including increased poverty, hunger, and displacement.

    The Role of Wealthy Nations

    Wealthy nations, on the other hand, have contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, yet they are not taking adequate responsibility for their actions. The recent COP29 deal on climate finance, which offered a paltry $300 billion from rich nations, has been met with disappointment and frustration from developing nations. This lack of commitment to climate finance is exacerbating the struggle between wealthy and developing nations.

    The Need for Climate Justice

    Climate justice is essential to addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on developing nations. This requires wealthy nations to take responsibility for their emissions, provide adequate climate finance, and support developing nations in their efforts to adapt to climate change. Climate justice also involves recognizing the rights and dignity of vulnerable communities and ensuring that their voices are heard in global climate negotiations.

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    The Way Forward

    To address this disproportionate impact of climate change and the struggle between wealthy nations and developing nations, we need to prioritize climate justice and equity. This requires:

    Increased climate finance: Wealthy nations must provide adequate funding to support developing nations in their climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

    Technology transfer: Wealthy nations must share their technology and expertise with developing nations to help them transition to low-carbon economies.

    Capacity building: Wealthy nations must support developing nations in building their capacity to adapt to climate change and develop sustainable economies.

    Global co-operation: We need enhanced global co-operation and coordination to address the global nature of climate change.

    Ultimately, addressing climate change requires a collective effort that prioritizes justice, equity, and human rights. We must work together to ensure that the burdens and benefits of climate change are shared fairly and that we create a sustainable and equitable future for all.

    Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan)

    Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control

    badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450

  • Climate Change: The rising tide of climate migration

    Climate Change: The rising tide of climate migration

    By Adebayo Adeleye

    Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching consequences for our planet and its inhabitants. One of the most devastating effects of climate change is climate migration – the forced displacement of people due to rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events.

    The Alarming Reality: The World Bank estimates that climate change could displace up to 143 million people by 2050, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. This is not just a humanitarian crisis, but also a threat to global stability and security.

    Causes of Climate Migration

    Rising Sea Levels: Coastal communities are being displaced due to rising sea levels, erosion, and increased flooding.

    Drought and Water Scarcity: Changes in precipitation patterns and increased evaporation due to warmer temperatures are leading to droughts and water scarcity, forcing people to migrate.

    Extreme Weather Events: Increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, are displacing communities and destroying livelihoods.

    Loss of Livelihoods: Climate change is impacting agriculture, fisheries, and other industries, leading to loss of livelihoods and forced migration.

    Consequences of Climate Migration:

    Social and Cultural Disruption: Climate migration can lead to the loss of cultural heritage, social networks, and community cohesion.

    Economic Burden: Climate migration can place a significant economic burden on host countries and communities, straining resources and infrastructure.

    Human Rights Concerns: Climate migrants often face human rights challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and employment.

    Global Security Risks: Climate migration can contribute to global security risks, including social unrest, conflict, and terrorism.

    Solutions and Strategies:

    Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as sea walls, levees, and green roofs, can help protect communities from climate-related disasters.

    Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable agriculture practices, such as agroforestry and permaculture, can help communities adapt to changing climate conditions.

    Climate Education and Awareness: Educating communities about climate change and its impacts can help them prepare and adapt to climate-related challenges.

    International Cooperation: Strengthening international cooperation and agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, can help address the global challenges of climate migration.

    Conclusion: Climate migration is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, it is essential that we prioritize the needs and rights of climate migrants. By working together, we can reduce the impacts of climate migration and create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

    Dr. Adebayo Matthew, Adeleye (Ph.D., Ibadan) – Researcher on Environmental Pollution and Control badeleye@gmail.com  +234 803 525 6450

  • Climate change now a living crisis in Nigeria, says Kalu

    Climate change now a living crisis in Nigeria, says Kalu

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has declared that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present and pressing crisis in Nigeria, urging immediate and collective action to mitigate its growing impact on communities.

    Kalu made the statement during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), led by the Director General, Nkiruka Madueke, in Abuja.

    Welcoming the proposed collaboration between the House and the climate-focused agencies, Kalu expressed deep concern over the worsening ecological conditions in the country.

    He cited data indicating that over 4.4 million people have been affected by flooding in Nigeria since 2022.

    “I’m happy that you are here today, which means the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. If the first step is well taken—and starting from here, considering you as major stakeholders in this conversation—it is indeed a step in the right direction,” Kalu stated.

    “We’ll talk about climate change, national security, economic and humanitarian crises. And I would like you to have the view of the parliament as you go back, what we think about the subject matter, and the issues around it as a nation and as a parliament.

    “So, in Nigeria today, climate change is not a looming threat; it is a living crisis. So, that is one of the things you take home; we see it as a living crisis. Its fingerprints are visible across our economy, across our environment and in our most vulnerable communities.

    “According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBC) that we work with, the data bank of our country, flood has affected over 4.4 million Nigerians in year 2022, alone, with more than 2.5 million people displaced as a result of this and an estimated $6.8 million in economic losses.

    “These floods wiped out livelihood. This flood destroyed the harvest. This flood displaced countless people. So, desertification continues to encroach on about 63% of our land, particularly in the north, turning fertile fields into dust and deepening food insecurity, because the north has always been the food basket of the nation.

    “So, if it affected the nation, food security is affected. We are witnessing longer, harsher drought in the north, devastating flash floods across the middle belt and rising sea levels in the Niger Delta. In the southeast, where I come from, gully erosion is swallowing entire communities.

    “The Southeast remains the headquarters of ecological problems in the world, the headquarters of erosion in the world. In the South West, they are not left out. Coastal erosion and saltwater intrusions are threatening livelihoods and freshwater ecosystems.

    “Even the North Central region now faces erratic weather patterns that disrupt farming circles and food production. So, it is a paradox of climate change unfolding simultaneously across a single nation.

    “That is why I believe it when the director said, it’s about time we began to look at our problems as a single nation before organisations like yours, because our problem is unique, and it’s like they are racing against each other. So, I’m taking my time to catalogue all these so that you know the situation of Nigeria from the perspective of the legislature.

    “That’s also to let you know that we are taking the issue of climate change seriously as legislators. We are sharing with you our understanding of what is happening so that when we formulate laws, policies, and when we engage funding partners like you, you know the direction that we are coming from.

    “The cost of these issues is not only environmental but also economic and social. It is also existential, because if will keeps quiet, it will wipe out a community, and more.”

    While speaking on the efforts of the legislature in bringing solutions, Kalu said “now, we can’t talk about this topic without referring to Climate Change Act, our legislative compass for the green transition.

    “Like it has been mentioned here and appreciated by this agency, in 2021, the National Assembly, in demonstration of its foresight and proactive leadership, passed the Climate Change Act, which remains one of the most transformative legislative frameworks on climate change on the African continent.

    “Many thought it was not going to happen, but we pushed for it, especially from the House of Representatives. So, this act created the National Council on Climate Change, which is chaired by the President of the Federal Republic. I think that is where you are coming from, and mandated the development of carbon budgets and long-term emission strategies.

    “Section 15 called for the establishment of the climate change fund, a dedicated vehicle to support the financing of Nigeria’s climate obligations and accelerate green development. So, we don’t just want to talk the talk.

    “As a nation, the legislature decided that we should walk the talk by making sure we put in mechanisms and structures that will be able to help us in the needs analysis we carry out and how to begin to shape the sector, before intervention from organizations like yours will come in, so that we are doing something on our own, enabled and energized by our acts the Climate Change Act, while waiting for help to come from outside.

    “However, while the council was inaugurated in 2022, the climate change fund remains non-operational as envisioned by the legislature. The fund was envisioned by the legislature as a strategic mechanism for mobilising both domestic and international climate finance.

    “The structure is there just for us to stimulate and activate it. It represents Nigeria’s resolve to take ownership of its climate future, but it is a bridge we have yet to cross. Are we going to cross this? Yes, that is why your visit today is more than welcome, because I’m sure holding your hands so that we will be able to cross that bridge. Your visit was needed, and I’m happy that you’re here.

    “We believe that your organisation in GCF can play a vital role in helping Nigeria, not only to activate this fund, but position it to attract, deploy and monitor climate finance. This strategic partnership is what we are looking for, and the structure is there”, he said.

    Kalu emphasised the importance of finances in achieving the needed goals, stressing that the partnership with the Green Climate Fund was necessary.

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    “Climate Finance is the oxygen of climate action. I repeat that. Climate Finance is the oxygen of climate action. You have all the proposals for climate action, and you don’t have the finance, there’s no oxygen. And where there is no oxygen, there is no life. And so, we need you as a critical partner to be able to make life what we have in our mind, so that they don’t become illusions to our visions and poetry, as our policies.

    “But let it be a decision that we should act together, and let it be decisively done, and let it be boldly done. Let today be remembered as the day when Nigeria and climate, a Green Climate Fund, deepened the partnership that generations will thank us for.

    “I want to thank you for coming, and I want to assure you that the parliament will always be with you the whole nine yards, making sure that your intended impact in our economy, our environment, and our society will be achieved. Make sure that at all times you are confident that you are working with the right set of people in making this achieve level in our country”.