Faith-Based Advocacy Essential for Climate Action in Nigeria
The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit in Abuja calls for effective climate policies and collaboration among faith communities to address climate change in Nigeria. Experts emphasize the urgent need for advocacy and policy reforms to combat environmental degradation and its impacts on livelihoods.
Experts and religious leaders from Christian and Islamic communities are advocating for stronger climate policies and sustainable environmental practices in Nigeria. This call comes during the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit, hosted by Connected Development (CODE) in Abuja. The dialogue emphasized the necessity for collaborative action to protect the environment for future generations.
The summit featured the introduction of the inaugural Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, which presents strategic messaging and actionable policy recommendations for climate action rooted in faith. The organizers aim to empower community leaders to advocate for climate justice, highlighting essential strategies to effectively communicate these messages through faith-based networks.
Nigeria has faced severe climate change impacts, including extreme weather events that disrupt agricultural productivity and threaten livelihoods. Flooding over the past three years has particularly affected farmers, with over 303 fatalities and significant damage reported in 2024 alone. The adverse effects of flooding have severely impacted food availability and afforability across the nation, underscoring the dire need for improved infrastructure management.
Hamzat Lawal, CEO of CODE, noted that faith-based advocacy is pivotal in addressing the country’s climate woes, urging Nigerians to demand their rightful place in global climate discussions. He highlighted Nigeria’s struggle with climate change while lacking essential resources for adaptation.
Reverend George Ehusani from Lux Terra Leadership Foundation stressed the importance of radical policy changes to combat pollution and waste management issues. He urged religious and civic leaders to pressure policymakers seriously to address climate challenges, emphasizing the urgent need for action to mitigate ongoing environmental degradation.
Muhammad Nurudeen, Executive Director of Da’awah Institute, echoed the critical nature of the crisis. He reminded leaders of their shared responsibility and outlined how faith teaches environmental stewardship. Nurudeen condemned the exploitation of religious divides in addressing climate issues and called for faith leaders to promote sustainable policies and educational initiatives.
In conclusion, the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit underscores the vital role of faith-based advocacy in addressing Nigeria’s climate challenges. Experts emphasize the importance of collective action, effective communication of climate justice, and the necessity for drastic policy reforms to combat environmental degradation. As flood-related crises continue to threaten livelihoods, leaders from various faiths urge immediate action to secure a sustainable future for Nigeria’s environment and society.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
