By Nneka Nwogwugwu
Nigeria has ranked 2nd among 163 countries in the Children’s Climate Risk Index, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The report on Friday explained that climate change poses risks to Nigerian children; adding that together with Chad, it came just after Central African Republic (1st).
It found that Nigerian children are highly exposed to air pollution and coastal floods.
Speaking while unveiling the report in Abuja, UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Nigeria Representative, Peter Hawkins, said: “The climate crisis is a child’s rights crisis. Nigeria is not immune to the effects of climate change, but we can act now to prevent it from becoming worse.”
The study, however, revealed a disconnect between where greenhouse gas emissions are generated, and where children are enduring the most significant climate-driven impacts.
According to the report, the 33 extremely high-risk countries which include Nigeria collectively emit just 9 per cent of global CO2 emissions.
Conversely, the 10 highest emitting countries collectively account for nearly 70 per cent of global emissions.
“Children and young people will face the full devastating consequences of the climate crisis and water insecurity, yet they are the least responsible. We have a duty to all young people and future generations.
“Investments in social services, particularly child health, nutrition and education can make a significant difference in our ability to safeguard their futures from the impacts of climate change,” the report said.
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