Yusuf Olatunji Kelani, the Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Climate Change, has emphasized that education and stringent enforcement of environmental laws are pivotal to addressing Nigeria’s climate challenges.

In a discussion at a recent event organized by the Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADeV Nigeria), Kelani highlighted the importance of integrating climate change education into the national curriculum. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education, the government aims to incorporate climate education into primary and secondary schools to foster early awareness and understanding of climate issues among young Nigerians.

Kelani also unveiled a grassroots initiative to appoint at least two climate change ambassadors in each of Nigeria’s local government areas by the end of the year. This program is designed to promote community-level engagement and ensure that climate change discussions are prevalent across the country.

Addressing the issue of emissions, Kelani pointed out that Nigeria’s rapid urbanization contributes to environmental challenges such as desertification in the north and flooding in the south. He called for proactive measures, including improved waste management, better urban planning, and enhanced drainage systems, especially in flood-prone regions like the Niger Delta.

Furthermore, Kelani stressed the importance of youth empowerment through initiatives like waste-to-energy projects and recycling programs. These efforts aim to create employment opportunities while mitigating environmental degradation.

In summary, Kelani advocates for a dual approach of education and enforcement to effectively combat climate change in Nigeria. He believes that raising public awareness and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations are essential steps toward building a resilient and sustainable future for the nation.

Source: Nature news