By Faridat Salifu
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at tackling the biodiversity crisis in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is actively strategizing its regional contribution to the Global 30 by 30 Initiative.
The disclosure was disclosed by Dr. Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, during his address at the ECOWAS Coordination Meeting on 30 by 30 convened on the 19th of February, 2024, at Johnwood Hotel in Abuja, Nigeria.
Dr. Salako underscored the urgent necessity to safeguard our planet’s shared yet dwindling resources through the bolstering and expansion of the ECOWAS protected areas network.
Acknowledging the ECOWAS region’s distinction as one of the most biodiverse regions worldwide, the Minister lauded its proactive stance in championing the commitment to increase protected areas to a minimum of 30% of the planet by 2030.
He praised the region’s pivotal role in securing the adoption of this commitment within the Global Biodiversity Framework.
Highlighting the paramount importance of translating aspirations into tangible actions, Dr. Salako referenced the region’s past endeavors, including hosting crucial meetings on expeditiously ratifying the BBNJ Treaty and adopting guidelines on implementing 30 by 30.
Stressing the significance of successful implementation of the initiative, he emphasized its criticality for ECOWAS countries and Africa, whose vulnerability to climate change is unparalleled.
Drawing attention to the disparities in the impact of biodiversity and climate crises on countries, the Minister emphasized the imperative of conserving ecosystems to safeguard rural populations and food security.
He urged participants to develop a regional 30 by 30 implementation plan to curb human-induced extinctions and secure the environment for forthcoming generations.
Dr. Salako called upon ECOWAS to assume a pioneering role in biodiversity conservation, signaling the region’s unwavering commitment despite resource limitations.
He urged the international community to throw its weight behind ECOWAS in actualizing the 30 by 30 vision and stressed the economic benefits of investing in biodiversity conservation.
Wrapping up his address with expressions of gratitude towards partners and stakeholders for their invaluable support, the Minister emphasized the necessity for sustained collaboration to preserve the region’s biodiversity.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainability, pointing out President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s firm resolve in prioritizing climate and environmental issues.
A call to action underlined the pressing need for international cooperation in tackling the challenges of climate change and biodiversity at the end of the ECOWAS Coordination Meeting on 30 by 30.