Environmentalists, scientists, and various community leaders have called for urgent and collective action to protect the ecosystem, highlighting the pressing need to tackle climate change and environmental degradation.
This call was made during the latest “Climate Hangout” discussion, a monthly forum that brings together experts, civil society groups, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) religious leaders and traditional titled holders to address critical environmental challenges affecting human being and other living things .
The event was organized by the Desk for Climate Change and Environmental Issues at the Interfaith Mediation Center (IMC) in Kaduna, in collaboration with African Climate Reporters (ACR).
It served as a platform for experts and local leaders to explore solutions to environmental issues such as natural disasters, pollution, and unsustainable resource use.
Revren Michael Ijah Ikpa, Head of Early Warning and Early Response at IMC, opened the discussion, underscoring the importance of cooperation among all stakeholders.
He emphasized that such forums are essential for finding practical solutions to climate change and ecological degradation, both of which are having a severe impact on public health.
Key Topics Raised During the Discussion:
Harmattan Hazards: The spread of harmful particles during the Harmattan season, which pose significant health risks, particularly in the form of respiratory issues.
Threats to Wildlife: The extinction of endangered species in Northern Nigeria due to the contamination of waterways with toxic chemicals and pollutants.
Deforestation: The increasing demand for charcoal, firewood, and timber, which is leading to the destruction of forests and threatening biodiversity.
"Pollinator Decline: The adverse effects of extreme weather patterns on pollinators, which are essential for food security and the availability of herbal medicines.
Risks to Indigenous Communities: Environmental degradation and unsustainable resource extraction are putting indigenous communities in Northern Nigeria at risk of losing their way of life"
Comrade Yahaya Muhammed, Controller General of the Safety Awareness and Support Initiative, also spoke at the event.
He stressed the need for a unified approach to combating man-made environmental disasters.
He called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to safeguard the environment.
He also warned of the dangers to aquatic life, pointing out the widespread pollution of rivers and oceans due to improper waste disposal.
Mallam Abdullahi Argungun, representing the National Orientation Agency, thanked the organizers and expressed his belief that such discussions are crucial in addressing the growing environmental challenges.
He highlighted the efforts of his agency in raising public awareness on environmental issues.
Mallam Rabi'u Abubakar, founder and CEO of the Ozone Layer NGO, also spoke at the forum, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the role of civil society organizations in environmental protection.
He called on both state governments and other stakeholders to increase their efforts in combating environmental degradation, addressing climate change, and protecting indigenous communities in Northern Nigeria's forests.
Mallam Shehu Muhammad , a member of the Kaduna State Fishermen Association, also applauded the initiative and urged citizens to stop polluting marine environments.
He noted that many aquatic species are facing extinction due to human activities such as overfishing and pollution, stressing the need for collective action to protect marine life.
The discussion concluded with a renewed call for ongoing dialogue and joint efforts to tackle the interconnected challenges of climate change, environmental conservation, and public health.
