Impact Of Climate Change A Global Threat

By Oduyemi Odumade

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; as its impact is being felt across the globe, and Nigeria is no exception.

Former Member of the House of Representatives and Board Member of the North East Development Commission, Mr. Sam Onuigbo, revealed that Nigeria suffered a staggering loss of $6 billion in 2022 due to climate change-related issues.

According to him, these losses are attributed to events such as floods, destruction of farmlands, and clashes between farmers and herders, all of which have severely impacted food and national security.

During a retreat in Minna, the Niger State Capital for members of the House of Representatives, and Press Corps, Mr. Onuigbo emphasized the importance of media engagement in highlighting climate change issues and advocating for appropriate actions.

He urged journalists to seek funding from donor agencies to empower them in their climate change reporting efforts.

“By securing financial resources, journalists can delve deeper into the complexities of climate change and its implications for Nigeria, thereby enabling the public to make informed decisions, he said.

Speaking on the theme” The role of the media in Mainstreaming Climate Change Policies” the Director-General of the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Sulaiman stressed the significance of media involvement in mainstreaming climate policies.

He highlighted that journalists, including parliamentary correspondents, can play a pivotal role in preventing the disastrous consequences of climate change, through accurate and comprehensive reporting.

“The media can push for the implementation of climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.

“To drive the climate change agenda forward, the National Council for Climate Change, NCCC, has been established.

“This regulatory body is expected to oversee climate change issues and policies.

In his paper presentation, Effective Reporting of the Green Economy: The Prospect and Challenges, the Assistant Editor-in-Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also highlighted the obstacles to implementing a green transition in Nigeria, including a lack of political will, policies, data, information, and funding.

He underscored the need for journalists to hold policymakers accountable for their green economy legislation and budgetary commitments.

Edited By Grace Namiji