Experts Unites To Combat Climate Crisis, Insecurity, Banditry In Northern Nigeria.

The monthly Climate Hangout, organized by the Climate Change and Environment Desk at the Interfaith Mediation Center (IMC), in collaboration with the African Climate Reporters (ACR) and the Kaduna State Government’s Office on Climate Change, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to address the pressing issues of climate change and insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

 

The event gathered scientists, geologists, environmental journalists, civil society organizations (CSOs), NGOs, traditional leaders, and religious figures to explore solutions to the growing challenges facing the region.

 

During the event,  Abel John Bassa, a criminologist and security expert, emphasized the detrimental impact of climate change and escalating insecurity on key sectors such as agriculture, education, tourism, and healthcare.

 

He pointed out that flooding has had a disproportionate effect on displaced communities, particularly affecting children and youth, who are vulnerable to both environmental disasters and marginalization.

 

Bassa also stressed that,  environmental degradation, exacerbated by climate change, is deepening economic inequalities and driving insecurity.

 

He cited the destruction of farmland, the extinction of forests, and the forced displacement of indigenous communities as examples of how the environment is contributing to social unrest.

 

He called for strategies that prioritize the rights of displaced children and youth, and amplify their voices in efforts to create a more secure and sustainable future.

To mitigate these challenges, Bassa proposed a number of actions, which includes:

• Halting construction in flood-prone areas and along waterways.
• Stopping deforestation and promoting reforestation efforts.
• Transitioning to electric vehicles, solar energy, and wind power as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.
• Enforcing environmental laws more strictly.
• Providing both short- and long-term assistance to affected communities.
• Encouraging residents in vulnerable areas to heed early warning signs and evacuate when necessary.

 

Samson Auta, National Director of the IMC, highlighted the role of the Climate Hangout in fostering collaboration among stakeholders to raise awareness about critical environmental issues such as desertification, deforestation, global warming, and pollution.

 

He reflected on past efforts to educate the public about the dangers of improper waste disposal and the need to address marine pollution.

 

Hayatu Ashafa, Co-national Director of the IMC with a focus on Islamic matters, emphasized the importance of the media in spreading religious messages on environmental stewardship.

 

He noted that the Climate Hangouts have facilitated greater dialogue between state governments, CSOs, and local communities, working together to protect forests and address environmental degradation.

 

On his part, the Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor on Climate Change,Yusuf  Amoke has called for stronger partnerships between CSOs and NGOs to raise awareness about the dangers of toxic waste and improper waste disposal, particularly in rivers.

 

He also highlighted the threats to Nigerian forests from industries such as charcoal, firewood, and timber, urging increased efforts to plant trees so as to combat desertification and global warming.

 

Agada Simon, National President of the Lifeanchor International Development Foundation (LIDF), reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to educating communities about the importance of tree planting.

 

He stressed that deforestation has led to the migration of both plants and animals, underscoring the need for collective efforts to support government initiatives aimed at improving environmental conditions.

 

The event underscored the necessity of a unified, collaborative approach to addressing the environmental and security challenges in Northern Nigeria, while ensuring a sustainable and secure future for the region.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi