Climate Change Policies and Environmental Protection in Nigeria: A Call to Action
The world is grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change, and Nigeria is no exception. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of natural disasters threaten the country's economic growth, food security, and human well-being. As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria's stance on climate change and environmental preservation is crucial. This article reviews Nigeria's climate change policies, environmental preservation efforts, and political commitments to sustainability.
Climate Change in Nigeria: The Alarming Reality
Nigeria is already experiencing the consequences of climate change. According to NiMet's 2023 State of Climate Report, Nigeria has experienced consistently warmer-than-normal temperatures since 2015. The report reveals that the past nine years (2015-2023) rank among the country's 10 warmest years on record. Notably, 2023 was the southern region's warmest year since 1981. The 2020 Nigeria Climate Change Vulnerability Index revealed that 63% of the population is vulnerable to climate-related hazards.
Policy Frameworks and Commitments
In response to these challenges, several policies frameworks and commitments have been developed:
1. National Policy on Climate Change (2021-2030): Assists the country in achieving its goal of meaningfully contributing of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and reduce the socio-economic impacts of adverse effects of climatic change.
2. Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) (2015): are commitments that countries make to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions as part of climate change mitigation. These commitments include the necessary policies and measures for achieving the global targets set out in the Paris Agreement. Pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030.
3. Paris Agreement (2015): Nigeria ratified the agreement, committing to limit global warming to 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
4. Climate Change Act (2021): The Climate Change bill was signed into law by the President Buhari in November 2021 in order to provide Nigeria with a legal framework for the country to achieve its climate goals, achieve long-term social and economic sustainability, and resilience.
Environmental Preservation Efforts
Nigeria has initiated various environmental preservation programs:
1. Great Green Wall Initiative: Aims to restore million hectares of degraded land and promote sustainable land management.
2. National Forest Policy (2018): Seeks to conserve and manage Nigeria's forest resources.
3. Clean Energy Initiatives: Promotes renewable energy development, particularly solar and wind power.
Adapting to Climate Change
To effectively address climate change, we must prioritize adaptation measures:
1. Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Implement climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance food security.
2. Disaster Risk Management: Strengthen emergency preparedness and response systems.
3. Ecosystem-Based Adaptation: Protect and restore natural ecosystems, such as mangroves and wetlands.
Climate change poses significant threats to Nigeria's development. While progress has been made, more needs to be done. The Nigerian government must:
1. Strengthen institutional frameworks for climate governance.
2. Increase funding for climate change initiatives.
3. Promote public awareness and education.
4. Foster international cooperation and partnerships.
As the climate continues to change, Nigeria must adapt and prioritize environmental protection. By doing so, the country can ensure sustainable development, economic growth, and a resilient future for its citizens.