By Obiabin Onukwugha
Climate Africa Media Initiative Center (CAMIC), an environmental advocacy body, is calling for a halt to over-reliance on fossil fuels in Nigeria.
According to CAMIC, fossil has continued to exercabate climate change with dire consequences.
The body said the continued dependence on coal, oil, and gas as primary energy sources in the country, is driving environmental degradation, threatening ecosystems, and exacerbating socio-economic inequalities.
The body noted that fossil fuels, which are responsible for more than 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, are contributing to rising global temperatures, unprecedented extreme weather events, and sea-level rise.
“In Africa, this translates into prolonged droughts, severe floods, and the displacement of millions of people,” it stated.
CAMIC further emphasised that air pollution from the burning of fossil fuels also poses a significant health risk, causing respiratory illnesses and premature deaths, particularly in urban areas where energy demand is growing rapidly.
“The reliance on fossil fuels not only undermines environmental sustainability but also deepens socio-economic inequalities. Rural and marginalized communities are often the hardest hit by the adverse effects of climate change, losing livelihoods tied to agriculture and natural resources. Meanwhile, fossil fuel extraction frequently leads to land degradation and displacement, further exacerbating the vulnerability of local populations.
“CAMIC advocates for a just transition to clean, renewable energy sources as a solution to mitigate climate change and create sustainable economic opportunities. Solar, wind, and hydropower are abundant across Africa and can provide affordable, reliable energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Investments in renewable energy infrastructure also have the potential to create millions of green jobs, contributing to long-term economic growth.
“We are at a pivotal moment where our actions today will determine the future of our planet and our people. Over-reliance on fossil fuels is a dangerous path, but we can change course. By accelerating the transition to renewable energy, we can protect the environment, create jobs, and build climate-resilient communities,” the body stated in a statement signed by its hChief Growth Officer, Pius Alabi on Thursday.
CAMIC, therefore, urged governments, businesses, and civil society to take immediate action to phase out fossil fuel use, increase investments in renewable energy, and implement policies that promote sustainable development.
“Together, we can reduce the devastating effects of climate change and ensure a healthier, more equitable future for all,” the body stated.