By George George Idowu
Lagos State has been ranked first among Nigeria’s 36 states in climate governance performance, while Gombe and Ebonyi States secured second and third positions, respectively.
The rankings were revealed in Abuja recently during an event organized by the Department of Climate Change in the Federal Ministry of Environment, in partnership with the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP).
Speaking at the event, President of SPP, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change despite its minimal contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions.
He stressed the country’s susceptibility due to its diverse agroecological zones, growing populations, extensive coastlines, and weak climate governance.
In the same vein, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, emphasized the importance of subnational climate governance, noting that local governments are crucial in implementing climate policies that directly impact grassroots communities
He described the ranking as a motivational tool that promotes best practices and identifies areas for improvement.
Similarly, Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako acknowledged the significant climate challenges faced by Nigeria and praised the subnational efforts in combating climate change.
He, however, called for a collaborative approach to enhance resilience and ensure a sustainable future.
For the rest of the rankings, Borno and Ekiti States jointly held the fourth position. While Oyo, Kano, and Zamfara states were ranked 34th, 35th, and 36th, respectively.
