Niger state to launch green economy, promote environmental sustainability

Umar Bago, governor of Niger, is set to launch a green economy blueprint to promote environmental sustainability in the state.

Bago spoke on Tuesday in Minna at a two-day green economy summit themed ‘Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity’.

The governor said his administration has produced its “first green economy blueprint — a strategic document outlining a visionary roadmap that will shape our development choices and steer our actions, in alignment with the precepts of sustainability”.

He said the initiative will span various sectors including renewable energy, transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, inclusivity, and tourism.

“We are using this summit to present a draft to stakeholders for their review and input, after which it shall be formally launched and applied in the preparation of our appropriation proposals for 2024 and beyond,” he said.

“This blueprint is a comprehensive guide that details our vision, objectives, strategies, and actions, designed to transform our state into a beacon of green prosperity that is environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically robust.

“It lays out a detailed plan for sourcing financial support, technology transfer, capacity building, and fostering strategic partnerships in the realisation of our mission.

“This blueprint, in its entirety, is not just a document; it is a clarion call to collective action.

“It beckons the active engagement and cooperation of all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, civil society, academia, media, and our local communities.

“Innovative solutions, tailored to our unique context and needs, must be unearthed and harnessed. 

“We aspire to create a state where citizens enjoy access to fundamental social amenities and infrastructure that enhance the quality of life.

“These include top-tier healthcare, access to high-quality and inclusive education, safeguarded lives and property, assured food security, clean drinking water, affordable housing, recreational venues, and opportunities for sports and leisure. 

“We envision a state with a sustainable economy, underpinned by substantial agricultural growth, investments in tourism, the utilization of renewable energy, the responsible extraction of solid minerals, fostering innovation, embracing cutting-edge technology, promoting diverse services, establishing free trade zones, cultivating industrial parks, and establishing economic cities as vital hubs for development and employment.”

Speaking at the event, Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno state, said fossil fuels and carbon emissions are of “great concern to Nigeria”.

Zulum said investments in renewable energy are crucial to tackling desertification in the country.

The governor called for investments in irrigation technology, sprinkling irrigation, among others, with a view to reducing cost.

“It is my belief that the speakers at this summit will do justice to the matter and come up with key recommendations that will ensure utilisation and investment in green economy with a view to promoting growth and development of our own economy,” he said.