By Abdullahi Lukman
Climate experts, policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders gathered in Abuja from May 22 to 23 for a national workshop aimed at boosting climate resilience and promoting nature-based solutions across Nigerian communities.
Organised by the Nigerian Environmental Study/Action Team (NEST) and supported by the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) and African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access (ACSEA), the workshop featured high-level deliberations on policy, advocacy, and implementation strategies.
The event also marked the opening of NEST’s two-day national conference on environmental sustainability.
In his welcome address, NEST Board Chairman Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba stressed the need for action over rhetoric. “We must not be seen to be talking too much but doing too little,” he said, reflecting on NEST’s 38-year history of environmental advocacy.
Representing the Minister of Environment, Dr Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Director of the Department of Climate Change, delivered a policy keynote on Nigeria’s climate frameworks.
She highlighted the importance of proactive adaptation, referencing the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action (NASPA-CCN), the Climate Change Act of 2021, and the newly drafted National Adaptation Plan (NAP). “We must build adaptive capacity now, especially for the most vulnerable,” she said.
Vice-Chancellor of Bingham University, Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba, in his keynote, traced Nigeria’s climate progress from NASPA-CCN to the Climate Change Act, praising NEST’s role in shaping national policies.
“Legislation is only the beginning,” he said. “The real work lies in implementation and stakeholder engagement.”
Speakers emphasized integrating climate action into agriculture, energy, and health sectors. Representing the agriculture ministry, Dr Wasiu Adedokun praised NEST for promoting climate-smart farming, while also honouring Emeritus Professor David Okali for his leadership in environmental governance.
Sam Onuigbo, sponsor of the Climate Change Act 2021, urged for climate education at all school levels, while former climate department director Dr Peter Tarfa warned that without effective governance, Nigeria risks developmental setbacks. “We have the frameworks, but our Achilles’ heel is implementation,” he said.
A significant focus was also placed on climate financing. Dr E. D. Oruonye of Taraba State University called for greater private sector involvement, noting Nigeria’s $177 billion climate finance need by 2030.
He proposed Public-Private Partnerships and a national climate finance platform to mobilize investment.
Agricultural economist T. A. Manga presented research on livelihood diversification and climate-proof agriculture in Kebbi and Taraba states, stressing the need for drought-tolerant crops, better infrastructure, and rural credit access.
The workshop concluded with discussions on nature-based solutions and local climate initiatives.
NEST’s Project Coordinator, Professor Emma Nzegbule, called on states and NGOs to replicate successful models in wetland restoration, afforestation, and sustainable farming.
Summing up the conference, Professor Nwajiuba urged all actors to shift from short-term engagements to long-term impact.
“Every action counts,” he said. “Let us build a climate-resilient Nigeria together.”
