The Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, has unveiled the Inception Report on Mainstreaming Peacebuilding into Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Climate Change—a landmark step aimed at embedding peace and security into the nation’s climate adaptation framework.
Speaking at the launch, the Honourable Minister of Environment, Hon. Balarabe Abass Lawal, described the process as “a sequential journey, not a one-off event,” stressing that climate governance must prioritize peacebuilding as a long-term strategy. He commended NAP Global, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), the Federal Government, ministry staff, and consultants for supporting what he called a transformative project.
Joining virtually from Geneva, IISD Policy Advisor on Climate Change Adaptation, Katharina Schmidt, hailed the initiative as a “timely and strategic response” to the global challenge of climate-induced conflicts. She applauded Nigeria’s courage in “taking the bull by the horns” by recognizing the link between climate vulnerability and violent conflict.
The project team, led by Dr. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Director of Climate Change, alongside Deputy Director Johna D. Barde, National Coordinator Kayode Aboyeji, and Chief Scientific Officer Adebayo Adekoje, presented updates on Nigeria’s steady progress in advancing climate adaptation through strategic collaborations.
Lead consultant, Professor Elias Nankap Lamle of the University of Jos, with co-consultant Dr. Salamatu Abraham of Nasarawa State University, emphasized Nigeria’s “dual crisis of climate change and violent conflict.” Professor Lamle called for inclusive, conflict-sensitive policies that integrate women, youth, and community perspectives, aligning Nigeria’s approach with the Sustainable Development Goals while attracting international support.
The launch also highlighted findings from the National Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment under the theme “Integrating Conflict Sensitivity and Peace Building into Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan Process.” The assessment detailed how desertification, flooding, resource scarcity, and migration continue to fuel conflicts, underscoring the need to link adaptation with peacebuilding.
Stakeholders from across the climate and development community described the report as visionary, applauding the Ministry of Environment, NAP Global, and IISD for pioneering a model that could reshape how nations address the nexus of climate change and conflict. By embedding peacebuilding into climate action, Nigeria is charting a path toward a more resilient, peaceful, and inclusive future.
News3 days ago
