1 month ago
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The Federal Government has urged state and local governments to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and enhance their capacity to tackle the impacts of climate change across the country.
This appeal was made on Wednesday at the 2024 Future of Health Youth Pre-Conference organised by Nigeria Health Watch in Abuja, with the theme “Amplifying Youth Voices for Climate-Health Action.”
Speaking at the event, the Director General, Office for Strategic Preparedness and Resilience, Chris Ngwodo, emphasised the need for improved capabilities at state and local levels to respond effectively to flooding.
He said, “What we are going to focus on is building the capacity of states and local governments to respond effectively to floods. They need to be able to act both proactively and reactively. Proactively, by evacuating people from flood-prone areas, and reactively, by dealing with the aftermath of the floods.
“They also need to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure to prevent rainfall from immediately causing flooding in vulnerable communities.”
Ngwodo pointed out that one of the most visible effects of climate change in Nigeria is rising sea levels in the south, which contributes to flooding, while the north experiences drought and desertification.
“We know that in many states, this capacity is inadequate, so we are advocating for more investment by state governments to strengthen their ability to respond swiftly to these challenges,” he added.
He also encouraged young people to familiarise themselves with national policies and legislation related to climate change.
The Managing Director of the Society for Family Health, Dr Omokhudu Idogho, noted that youth leadership is pivotal in the fight against climate change, as they possess the energy, creativity, and determination to drive grassroots advocacy efforts.
Represented by the Deputy Managing Director of SFH, Dr Jennifer Anyanti, Idogho stressed that youth involvement in climate change governance, particularly in amplifying youth voices, is essential to ensure that policies are effective, equitable, and sustainable.
He said, “Youth involvement in climate action is crucial for creating a sustainable future. By leading advocacy efforts, integrating climate education, leveraging technology, driving community projects, and building partnerships, young people can significantly influence the fight against climate change.
“Their leadership and innovation are key to ensuring a healthy planet for future generations. As the challenges of climate change and its impact on health intensify, it is imperative to amplify the voices of youths and support them in taking meaningful action.”
The Executive Director of the International Climate Change Development Initiative, Olumide Idowu, highlighted that local actions are vital for youth engagement on climate change.
“We all live in different local communities, and when you tackle problems within your community, you become well-known and can create the change you wish to see.
“So, young people need to understand that local action is one of the best ways to engage themselves. They must also commit to learning and development, because without understanding what they are talking about, they may lead others in the wrong direction.
“Additionally, we must realise that every problem presents a solution, and every resource offers an opportunity.”
On her part, the Managing Director of Nigeria Health Watch, Vivianne Ihekweazu, stressed that youth are disproportionately affected by the health crises resulting from climate change. She called for more discussions on the intersection of climate change and health, urging young people to become change-makers in addressing these challenges.
“Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a health crisis that is already threatening the well-being of communities across our country and the wider African continent.
“Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and increasing natural disasters are exacerbating health vulnerabilities—whether through the spread of infectious diseases, food and water insecurity, or the strain on our already fragile health systems.
“In Nigeria and across Africa, these challenges hit our youth and other vulnerable populations the hardest. While Africa makes up about 17 per cent of the world’s population, we contribute only four per cent of global carbon emissions, with three per cent coming from Egypt and South Africa.
“However, while our youth bear the brunt of these crises, they also hold the solutions. Today, more than ever, young Africans are stepping up as leaders, advocates, and innovators, taking bold actions to secure a healthier, more resilient future,” she concluded.
