By Zahra Muhammad
ASHENEWS reports that environmental enthusiasts on Tuesday gathered at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre for the first-ever Niger State Green Economy Summit.
The event which seeks to pave the way for a sustainable future through the adoption of a green economy was convened with the theme “Sustainable future: Harnessing green assets and innovation for prosperity.”
Niger state governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago in his remarks said that the state was ready to harness the potentials of a green economy as it relates to the abundant resources in the state.
“These resources are not just green assets; they are the very essence of our heritage and the source of our livelihoods. these invaluable assets are under threat, vulnerable to the relentless onslaught of climate change – manifested through droughts, floods, desertification, erosion, and pollution.
“These catastrophic events, exacerbated by uncontrolled human action, cast a menacing shadow on our food security, public health, economic stability, and social harmony.
“Inaction is a luxury we cannot afford. We must stand resolutely and act now to safeguard our environment, securing a prosperous future for ourselves and the generations to come.
“It is with this unwavering determination that we assemble here today for this Summit to galvanize actions, sub-national and national, and define ways in which we could collectively harness our green assets and innovation to usher in prosperity”
Bago announced that the state government has produced its first Green Economy Blueprint, a strategic document outlining a visionary roadmap that will shape the state’s development choices and steer its actions, in alignment with the precepts of sustainability.
“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.
“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.”
He added that the implementation of the blueprint covers vital sectors, encompassing renewable energy, transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, inclusivity, and tourism.
“It lays out a detailed plan for sourcing financial support, technology transfer, capacity building, and fostering strategic partnerships in the realization of our mission,” he noted.
Bago stressed that the state government remains committed in its quest for sustainability, by using the green assets at its disposal.
“In equal measure, this summit marks an extraordinary milestone on our journey toward a sustainable future. It is a declaration of our steadfast resolve to combat climate change and environmental degradation while enhancing the lives of our people and invigorating our economy.
“It is a testament to our ambition – to stand as a paragon of green growth and responsible environmental stewardship, not only within Nigeria but across borders,” he said.
He assured that the government will create a state where its 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.”
The special guest of honor at the event and Nigeria’s president, Bola Tinubu was represented by the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi.
The president who lauded the state government’s initiative said that it aligns with the position of the Niger state government in promoting a green economy.
On his part, the Borno state governor, Babagana Umara Zulum raised concerns over the devastating effect of desertification especially in the northern region.
He stressed that governments at both National and regional levels must invest in renewable energy as an important step to addressing the scourge.
Also speaking, the Niger state commissioner for environment and climate change, Yakubu Kolo disclosed that the Niger state government is partnering with climate change experts and carbon finance consultants to develop policies, and legal and regulatory frameworks to attract related investment into the state.
Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Niger state government, Abubakar Usman said that the event was a testament to the commitment of the state government to harness green assets in its bid to drive sustainable development.
“We acknowledge the challenge posed by climate change as well as the end of energy transition in a bid to drive sustainable development.”
He assured that the state government is committed to working with stakeholders in the private sector, academia, as well as civil society organizations (CSOs), to make the state a model of a green economy in the country.
This online platform reports that the event featured workshops and panel discussions, with the highlight of the event being a keynote address from the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed.
