The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, has voiced his concerns about the role of climate change in the escalating insecurity within Nigeria.
According to The PUNCH, this statement was made during a climate change retreat organized by the Niger State Government for the House of Representatives Press Corps in Minna, the state capital.
Represented by the Niger State Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, Governor Bago highlighted climate change as one of the most significant challenges facing the nation.
He emphasized that Nigeria is experiencing alarming levels of climate-related issues, including floods, desertification, and environmental pollution.
Furthermore, he attributed part of the country’s current security challenges to climate change.
Governor Bago expressed his concern that some of these climate-related disasters remain underreported by the media.
He also urged journalists covering the parliament to equip themselves with the necessary skills and tools to effectively report on climate change issues.
He said, “In Nigeria, it (climate change) is a matter of concern to governments and experts because it is happening at a very frightening level. We have problems of flood, desertification, environmental pollution, etc, and despite efforts being made, the devastating effects of climate change are recorded yearly. Even part of the insecurity we face today is attributed to climate change, which deserves priority attention.
“Unfortunately, it seems some of these disasters are even underreported. Perhaps, the media is not adequately equipped to handle this. I believe that as journalists who report from the parliament, where laws are enacted, it is essential that you acquire the necessary skills and tools to mainstream climate change. This can enable you to set an agenda for the legislature and indeed the executive.”
Governor Bago also elaborated on the rationale behind the Niger State Government’s decision to convene a Green Economy Summit scheduled for the upcoming week.
“The Government of Niger State under my leadership is prioritising climate change to mitigate natural and manmade disasters. This informs the decision to convoke a Green Economy Summit.
“Since my assumption of office, we have raised the ante of informing the public about preventive measures to save lives and reduce damage to property and infrastructure. We are willing to collaborate with the media to drive this advocacy as well as work out strategies to put climate change issues on the front burner,” he added.
