Rep: Nigeria must prioritise tree planting to protect biodiversity

Terseer Ugbor, a member of the house of representatives, says Nigeria needs to protect its biodiversity through reforestation and climate-smart agriculture.

Ugbor, who represents Kwande/Ushongo federal constituency of Benue, spoke on Wednesday at the climate change forum in Abuja.

The lawmaker said smart agriculture would tackle the challenges of climate change and food shortages in Nigeria.

“As long as we don’t prioritise tree planting and reforestation, we will continue to lose habitat and biodiversity and we will continue to suffer the effects of climate change,” he said.

“This is why we are having massive desertification, droughts, and irregular rainfall, which is contributing to the challenges we’re facing in Nigeria.”

He said parliament’s priority is to advance policies and legislation that would address environmental challenges.

“For example, we are trying to improve the Environmental Impact Assessment Act to include the social components to become an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment,” he said.

“This will enable us to evaluate the effects of our activities not only on the environment but also on the welfare and livelihoods of our people and communities.”

Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, minister of women affairs, said the federal government is committed to a gender-responsive approach to climate change where women, children and vulnerable groups can be empowered as active change agents.

“It is my duty to ensure that the voices of women and children are heard and their unique needs addressed in climate action and policy development in achieving a more inclusive, sustainable and just transition,” she said.

“Climate change increases existing gender inequalities, particularly in developing countries like ours, where women are the primary stakeholders in agriculture, water management, and household energy.

“It may interest you to note that women represent 70% of small-holder farmers in Nigeria and are making giant strides in the blue economy, digital economy, creative and emerging economy and other sectors.

“Nigeria has committed to a comprehensive climate action framework and establishment of a green economy as part of the renewed hope agenda.

“Accordingly, my ministry is focused on integrating a gender lens into Nigeria’s climate change response and energy transition, ensuring that women and children are at the centre of our climate resilience efforts.”

Akinola Solanke, representative of the Great Minds Group who organised the event, urged stakeholders and participants to build on the outcomes of the discussion by promoting environment-friendly practices.