The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) has called for the enactment of a law to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in Nasarawa State.
Dr. Michael David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, made this appeal on Wednesday during an advocacy visit to Hon. Muhammed Omadefu, Chairman of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly Committee on Environment.
Leading a delegation from the Nasarawa State Network on Climate Justice (NASNECJ), Dr. David emphasized the urgent need for legislative action on climate change.
He highlighted that GIFSEP, in collaboration with the State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, had developed a comprehensive climate change policy aimed at facilitating the creation of such a law.
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“The African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, supported by Oxfam in Nigeria, has been dedicated to resilience-building activities over the past three years to tackle environmental and climate-related issues,” said Dr. David.
“International NGOs and partners frequently inquire about existing policies when considering state-level initiatives. Recognizing this gap in Nasarawa State, we developed a policy two years ago. However, despite presenting this document to the Commissioner in the Ministry of Environment, no significant progress has been made. We believe the Assembly is the appropriate body to transform this policy into law.”
Dr. David commended Hon. Omadefu for his commitment to climate change policy and his willingness to engage in the legislative process.
In response, Hon. Omadefu assured GIFSEP and NASNECJ of his support for enacting climate change legislation. “We are committed to partnering with you to achieve the mandate on climate issues.
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This House, under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Speaker Danladi Jatau, is dedicated to passing bills and resolutions that will benefit our citizens,” he stated. “Your documents will reach the Speaker, and we will ensure justice is done.”
Hon. Omadefu praised the contributions of GIFSEP in promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience. He acknowledged the importance of their efforts and expressed his gratitude for their dedication.
Mr. Emmanuel Envoh-Okolo, State Coordinator of NASNECJ, also emphasized the need for robust collaboration to ensure the climate policy document is passed into law. He noted that the network comprises NGOs, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), and the media, all working together to advance climate justice in the state.
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The visit concluded with the presentation of the climate change policy document and a Champion Award to Hon. Omadefu, recognizing his commitment to environmental issues.
This development highlights the ongoing efforts and collaboration between GIFSEP, NASNECJ, and the Nasarawa State House of Assembly to address climate change through legislative action.