- Nigeria climate change policies
- Senate tackles environmental issues
- Sustainable solutions for Niger Delta
The Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission has urged the implementation of proactive and sustainable policies to combat climate change in West Africa.
Speaking in Abuja during a visit from the C7 West Africa Project Consortium, Committee Chairman Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong emphasized the urgent need for action. He highlighted that decades of oil exploration have caused severe environmental damage, leading to rising sea levels, flooding, and erratic weather patterns that threaten communities and livelihoods.
Ekpenyong stressed that climate change has worsened health challenges and contributed to social unrest in the Niger Delta. He called for reliable data-driven solutions to ensure effective interventions.
Air Commodore (Rtd) Darlington Abdullahi, leader of the delegation, described climate change as an existential threat. He pointed to its impact on desertification in Northern Nigeria and flooding in the South-South region, which have led to violent conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Need for Research and Adaptation
Abdullahi urged increased research, mitigation, and adaptation efforts to enhance resilience against climate change. He emphasized that West Africa is experiencing climate change at rates faster than the global average, making sustainable policies crucial for long-term stability.
The Senate Committee reaffirmed its commitment to developing data-driven, proactive solutions to safeguard the environment, economy, and communities in the Niger Delta and beyond.
