Religious Leaders Called to Advocate for Stronger Climate Policies in Nigeria
The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit in Abuja addressed the escalating climate crisis in Nigeria, urging religious leaders to advocate for stronger environmental policies. Key figures emphasized their moral and influential roles in driving climate action and demanded justice in climate financing. The summit concluded with the launch of a report detailing strategies for faith-led environmental initiatives.
Climate change in Nigeria is deteriorating, marked by escalating pollution, ineffective waste management, and widespread environmental degradation, which poses a severe threat to local communities. During the recent Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit held by Connected Development (CODE) in Abuja, stakeholders, including religious leaders and climate advocates, underscored the critical need for immediate action to combat Nigeria’s climate crisis. They urged policymakers to implement substantial environmental policies for the nation’s preservation.
Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, highlighted the necessity for religious organizations and citizens to advocate for stronger climate policies. He cautioned that future generations would bear the consequences of current inaction, stating, “Religious organisations, civil society groups, and concerned citizens must mount pressure on our policymakers and legislators to take climate change seriously. We cannot continue to pay lip service while our environment is deteriorating at an alarming rate.”
Sheikh Nurudeen Lemu, Executive Director of The Da’awah Institute, emphasized the ethical obligation of faith leaders to champion sustainability. He remarked on the urgent nature of the crisis and the collective responsibility of religious leaders to the planet, stating, “We are facing an urgent crisis and have a shared responsibility as religious leaders to this planet. It is what we pass on to the next generation.”
Rev. Fr. Attah Barkindo, Executive Director of the KUKA Center, pointed out that religious leaders wield considerable influence and can mobilize their followers for climate action. He stated, “Religious leaders have millions of followers listening to them weekly. If they understand climate change, they can shape public opinion and drive action. This is why we must mainstream climate education in faith-based discussions.”
Hamzat Lawal, Chief Executive of CODE, expressed concerns regarding Nigeria’s inadequate access to climate finance, noting that only 20% of available funds have been accessed, largely through loans. He called for faith-based advocacy for climate justice, asserting, “Faith-based advocacy is critical. We must demand justice and ensure Nigeria is central to global climate discussions.”
The summit concluded with the release of the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, which offers strategies for faith-led environmental initiatives.
The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit highlighted the urgent need for stronger climate policies in Nigeria, as religious leaders and advocates call for greater accountability and action from policymakers. Emphasizing their moral responsibility, the leaders advocated for sustainability and climate education within their communities. The summit’s report outlines key strategies for faith-led environmental action, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in addressing the ongoing climate crisis effectively.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
