Liberia is looking to Nigeria for guidance and collaboration, in a bid to combat the devastating effects of climate change.
A delegation of parliamentarians and environmentalists, led by Mr. Ernest Manseah Snr., met with the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Ecology and Climate Change at Nigeria’s National Assembly to discuss how the two countries can work together to address environmental challenges.
Speaking during a session with the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, chaired by Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, Mr. Manseah emphasized that Nigeria’s leadership in climate change mitigation serves as an example for other nations, particularly those in Africa.
He expressed the delegation’s desire to learn from Nigeria’s experience in tackling climate issues.
“We have come to learn from you, distinguished members of this committee, on how Nigeria has been mitigating the effects of climate change. We are here to engage with you and take home remarkable measures that can help Liberia confront its own environmental challenges,” Manseah said.
He disclosed Liberia’s interest in establishing a Climate Fund adding that, beyond funding, the country wants to adopt Nigeria’s strategies for addressing the natural challenges posed by climate change.
Senator Dickson welcomed the delegation, stressing that climate change is a major challenge for Africa and requires collective action.
He said that Nigeria has already taken significant steps, having passed Africa’s first law dedicated to climate change mitigation.
However, he acknowledged the need for continued collaboration with other countries to find more effective solutions.
“We have an Act in Nigeria that provides the necessary legal framework for tackling climate change. Nigeria is among the global leaders in addressing climate issues, but we still need collaboration with other nations to find the best ways forward,” said Dickson.
He also extended an invitation to the Liberian delegation for a reciprocal visit to further strengthen the partnership.
Other members of the Senate Committee, including Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West), Senator Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), and Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), commended the Liberian delegation for their initiative and called for an expanded collaboration that includes other African countries.
After the Senate session, the delegation proceeded to the House of Representatives, where they held a similar discussion with the House Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, further solidifying the commitment to regional cooperation on climate action.
