In a speech delivered at the 17th meeting of the Council of Environment in Abuja, Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal emphasized the need for swift and decisive actions to address the impacts of climate change.
Lawal highlighted the threats posed by climate change to ecosystems, livelihoods, and biodiversity, noting the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, worsening inequalities, and social injustices.
He underscored the importance of intensifying efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adopt renewable energy solutions, and promote sustainable practices across all sectors. Lawal also emphasized the necessity of mobilizing financial resources for environmental sustainability to fund projects aimed at protecting and preserving the environment.
The Minister urged the Council members to explore and implement innovative financing mechanisms such as Green Bonds, Carbon Pricing, and Public-Private Partnerships to generate the necessary resources for effective environmental protection.
Minister Lawal called for collective action in the face of global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss, stressing the critical role of environmental custodians in safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity from degradation.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Environment, Iziaq Salako, highlighted the imperative of mobilizing funding for climate and environmental actions to build a sustainable future. He emphasized the significance of utilizing nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges and reduce capital flight.
Salako mentioned Nigeria’s leadership role in championing biodiversity finance at COP 28 in Dubai, aiming to highlight the value of the nation’s rich biodiversity in global conservation efforts.
Furthermore, Mr. Koffy Kouacou Dominque, representing the FAO in Nigeria and ECOWAS, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting sustainable natural resources management at all government levels. He emphasized FAO’s support in implementing climate commitments and integrating agrifood systems into biodiversity strategies.
The urgent need for collaborative action to address climate change, deforestation, pollution, and other environmental threats was underscored, reflecting the collective responsibility to ensure a healthier and cleaner planet.