‘It has devastating effect’ — Niger state asks media to amplify climate change issues

Umar Bago, governor of Niger state, has asked the media to accord top priority to climate-related issues in their reporting.

Bago spoke on Friday at a retreat organised for journalists in Minna, the capital of Niger state.

Represented by Yakubu Garba, his deputy, the governor who spoke on the theme: ‘The Role of the Media in Mainstreaming Climate Change Policies’, emphasised the crucial role of the media in communicating climate-related concerns and increasing awareness for environmental protection.

The governor said Niger state is concerned with the effect of climate change, which explains why the state is hosting the first green economy summit in Nigeria scheduled for October 24.

“Climate change is one of the biggest problems confronting nations today. In Nigeria, it is a matter of concern to governments and experts because it is happening at a very frightening level,” he said.

“We have problems of flood, desertification, environmental pollution, etc and despite efforts being made, the devastating effects of climate change are recorded yearly.

“Even part of the insecurity we face today is attributed to climate change, which deserves priority attention.

“Unfortunately, it seems some of these disasters are even under-reported. Perhaps, the media is not adequately equipped to handle this.

“I believe that as journalists who report from the parliament where laws are enacted, it is essential that you acquire the necessary skills and tools to mainstream climate change. This can enable you to set an agenda for the legislature and indeed the executive.

“The government of Niger state under my leadership is prioritising climate change to mitigate natural and man-made disasters.”

Bago said since his assumption of office, his administration has intensified awareness on measures to save lives and reduce damage to property and infrastructure.

He expressed readiness to collaborate with the media to drive climate advocacy as well as work out strategies to put climate change issues on the front burner.

In her remarks, Grace Ike, chairperson of the house of representatives press corps, said journalists will continue to uphold their educative role for the development of society.

She expressed gratitude to the organisers for the retreat, saying it will equip journalists to better do their work.