Editor
By Fatima Saka
The federal government of Nigeria has vowed to apply stringent punishments on environmental degradation, and culprits of illegal wildlife trafficking.
Added that the recent heat waves is as a result of climate change from the outcomes of environmental degradation, burning of greenhouse gas emissions which is causing environmental depletions.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal made this statement while delivering his keynote address and in declaration of the opening of the 17th Meeting of the National Council on Environment on Wednesday in Abuja.
Balarabe further stressed that the government will fine ways and means to protect the forest from all forms of illegal practices, adding that the ministry is also partnering with the federal ministry of mineral resources in the areas of illegal mining and forest terrorism.
Speaking on the theme: “Environment Financing: Need to mobilize more financial inflows for generating adequate resources in support of environmental sustainability efforts”.
The minister said the theme focused on the importance of mobilizing financial resources for environmental sustainability through innovative mechanisms like Green Bonds and Public-Private Partnerships.
According to Balarabe that this funding is crucial for supporting projects aimed at protecting and preserving the environment in the midst of global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss, the responsibility of environmental stewardship is emphasized.
“Urgent actions are needed to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy solutions, and conserve biodiversity. Safeguarding ecosystems, forests, wetlands, and marine habitats is essential to preserve the diversity of life on Earth.
“Environmental justice is highlighted as a key aspect to ensure that investments in environmental protection benefit all segments of society equitably. Inclusive policies that empower individuals to participate in decision-making processes are crucial. Collaboration, innovation, and technology are identified as essential tools to address environmental challenges and create a more sustainable future.”
The Minister calls for commitments to environmental conservation, guided by principles of integrity, empathy, and foresight. “The importance of laying the groundwork for a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature is emphasized.
“Gratitude is expressed to all individuals, financial partners, and stakeholders dedicated to environmental protection, with a shared goal of leaving a healthier, more prosperous, and equitable world for future generations.”
In his welcome address, the Honourable Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako welcomed attendees to the 17th National Council on Environment.
He stressed that the environment plays a crucial role in human existence, impacting livelihoods and sustainability.
The minister of State emphasized that despite the historical negligent attention to the environment increased in the 1960s, leading to the concept of sustainable development.
Dr. Salako said that the current climate emergency demands bold actions to address global warming, environmental degradation, and related crises.
“Funding environmental initiatives is essential but challenging due to competition with other sectors for limited resources.
“Innovative financing mechanisms, such as the Nigeria Sovereign Green Bond, are being implemented to attract private sector funding. Strategic partnerships between public and private sectors are encouraged to mobilize funding and combat environmental challenges. Nigeria emphasizes nature-based solutions over controversial technologies to address environmental issues.
“The Federal Ministry of Environment launched the Ministerial Alliance for Ambition on Nature Finance to promote biodiversity finance in developing countries like Nigeria. Collaboration with development partners and philanthropists is crucial to strengthen the collective response to environmental challenges.”
The Minister urged attendees to remain dedicated to environmental sustainability for a healthier planet. “The meeting aims is to explore innovative funding approaches and partnerships to address environmental issues effectively.”
Also, the World Bank Country Representative, said that through the ACeSAL projects the World Bank has been making impacts in numerous ways to protect the environment, and added they will continue to do more.
Speaking on, Mr. Koffy Kouacou, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, (FAO) Representative in Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Represented by Mr. Tofiq Braimoh, Northeast Emergency Office said that FAO is dedicated to assisting the government in managing natural resources, accessing climate finance, and implementing projects for sustainable agriculture and land use.
“The meeting emphasized the need for collaborative action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development in Nigeria. FAO highlighted the impact of climate change on agriculture and land use,
“Stressing the importance of securing funding from various sources to support conservation and climate change mitigation efforts.
“The FAO strategic framework aims to create resilient and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, and environmental outcomes.
“The National Council on Environment was commended for its efforts in developing policies to protect Nigeria’s natural heritage and address environmental issues. Stakeholders were urged to work together to find innovative solutions and partnerships that will drive positive change in the country’s environmental landscape.
“The meeting served as a platform for knowledge exchange, best practice sharing, and collaboration to achieve a greener and healthier future for all Nigerians.”
