By George George Idowu
The Plateau State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom, has reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to adopting climate change policies aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts within the state.
He disclosed this at the 2024 World Climate Change Day event held recently, where he highlighted the theme “At the Frontline of Climate Action,” focusing on Plateau State’s initiatives.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Centre of Gospel Health and Development (CeGHaD), Christian Blind Mission (CBM), and the European Union (EU), emphasized the urgent need for citizen support in combating climate change.
Gwom addressed the alarming rise in temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns, urging collective action to address these challenges.
He outlined the state’s strategies, including policy domestication, partnerships with NGOs, the introduction of improved farming methods, eco-friendly cooking stoves, afforestation efforts, and waste management programs.
Despite these initiatives, Gwom acknowledged ongoing challenges such as limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and the need for greater awareness and education.
He called for collaborative efforts to tackle the climate crisis.
Yakubu Dasu, Coordinator of the Enabling Resilience to Climate-Related Risks through Local CSOs Strengthening (ER2CC) project, emphasized Plateau State’s potential to lead climate action in Nigeria and the importance of community engagement and support for climate initiatives.
He highlighted CeGHaD’s efforts in promoting tree planting and other measures to mitigate climate change effects.