By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A strategic partnership designed to address the pressing challenge of climate change in Nigeria has been signed by the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and the Climate Action Africa (CAA).
This collaboration precedes the highly anticipated Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24), scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from June 17 to 19, 2024.
CAAF24 is a global event that will bring together stakeholders from across the world to encourage collaboration, catalyse actionable solutions, and urge governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in climate-smart initiatives.
Both organisations aim to unify efforts in addressing Nigeria’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, setting a precedent for proactive and impactful measures in the face of global climate challenges.
According to the 2021 Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index, Nigeria is ranked as the 53rd most vulnerable and 179th most ready country to adapt to climate change.
The country faces significant challenges from extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, erosion, and rising sea levels. These risks particularly threaten sectors like agriculture, water resources, public health, and settlements.
At the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at the NCCC office in Abuja over the weekend, the Director General of NCCC, Mr Salisu Dahiru, said, “Our collaboration with Climate Action Africa is a pivotal step towards building a climate-resilient Nigeria.
“Through joint efforts, we aim to promptly address vulnerabilities and work towards sustainable solutions for our nation.”
On her part, the, co-founder and executive director of CAA, Ms Grace Oluchi Mbah, stated that, “Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change necessitates immediate and collective action.
“Through this partnership, we aspire to harness the power of innovation, sustainable practices, policy dialogue, and community engagement to reshape Nigeria’s future and set a global example.”