In an effort to tackle the twin challenges of flooding and waterborne diseases worsened by the rainy season, a coalition of climate experts, civil society groups and government officials convened in Kaduna to chart a clear response plan.
The urgent recommendations were presented at the Kaduna state Monthly Climate Hangout Forum, organised by the Climate Change and Environment Desk of the Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC), in partnership with African Climate Reporters (ACR) and the Office of the Kaduna State Special Adviser on Climate Change.
Held under the theme “Addressing Climate Impacts on Water: Flooding, Pollution, and Disease Prevention,” the forum brought together disaster management experts, medical professionals, environmental journalists and community leaders to analyse the rising threats.
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Expert Analysis, Outlines Actionable Measures
Delivering the keynote address, disaster and risk management expert, Shehu Umar of Global Eco-Vigilance, drew clear links between the warming climate and intensifying risks.
“The disruption is here,” Umar stated. “We are seeing the impacts on health, livelihoods and our environment through more severe storms, droughts and pollution,” Umar outlined a two-part strategy:
To Combat Flooding:
– Improve drainage systems
– Enforce stricter urban planning laws
– Invest in flood control infrastructure
– Establish community-based early warning systems
To Reduce Pollution and Disease:
– Strengthen waste management protocols
– Promote sanitation
– Enforce environmental regulations
– Launch sustained public awareness campaigns
The central role of individual behaviour was highlighted by Comrade Sunusi Mai Kudi, former Managing Director of the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC). He issued a stern warning over indiscriminate waste disposal.
“It is a recipe for disaster. It causes blockages that worsen flooding, poisons our drinking water, and kills aquatic life. Change must begin with each one of us,” Mai Kudi said.
Unified Call for Shared Responsibility
The forum echoed strong appeals for collective accountability. Nasir Abbas of the Water Rights Initiative Nigeria described access to safe water as a fundamental right and called for a systemic shift towards sustainable waste practices including reduction, reuse and recycling.
Similarly, Mallam Umar Abubakar urged all sectors to intensify efforts to prevent contamination that threatens public health and ecosystems, stressing the importance of continuous public enlightenment.
Collaborative Climate Action
The Kaduna Monthly Climate Hangout was hailed as a vital platform for dialogue and partnership. Representing the Interfaith Mediation Centre, Samson Auta praised its impact.
“This forum has bridged the gap between scientists, journalists, government and communities. This model of collaboration is now being recognised and replicated in other states,” Auta noted.
He expressed appreciation to the Office of the Special Adviser to the Kaduna State Governor on Climate Change, led by Yusuf Amoke, for its consistent support, and commended all stakeholders for their dedication.
The session ended with a firm commitment from participants to turn the discussed strategies into practical, community-driven actions aimed at strengthening resilience ahead of the rainy season and safeguarding public health and environmental wellbeing.