Religious leaders in Nigeria have been called upon to advocate for stronger climate policies in response to increasing pollution and environmental degradation. During the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit, key speakers emphasized the moral responsibility of faith leaders and the necessity for climate education among their followers. Concerns regarding climate finance access were raised, highlighting the urgent need for faith-based advocacy in supporting climate justice initiatives.
The climate crisis in Nigeria is intensifying due to increasing pollution, inadequate waste management, and environmental degradation. At the recent Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit held by Connected Development (CODE) in Abuja, various stakeholders, including religious leaders and civil society groups, highlighted the urgent need for effective climate policies and called on policymakers to take decisive action against the worsening environmental conditions.
Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, emphasized the responsibility of religious organizations and citizens to advocate for more robust climate policies, warning of dire consequences for future generations if action is not taken. He stated, “Religious organizations, civil society groups, and concerned citizens must mount pressure on our policymakers and legislators to take climate change seriously. We cannot continue to pay lip service while our environment is deteriorating at an alarming rate.”
Sheikh Nurudeen Lemu, Executive Director of The Da’awah Institute, reminded attendees of the moral obligation for faith leaders to advocate for sustainability and intergenerational justice. He remarked, “We are facing an urgent crisis and have a shared responsibility as religious leaders to this planet. It is what we pass on to the next generation.”
Rev. Fr. Attah Barkindo, Executive Director of the KUKA Center, underscored the influential role of religious leaders in mobilizing their followers towards climate action. He noted that with millions of adherents, these leaders can significantly affect public opinion regarding climate change. He said, “If they understand climate change, they can shape public opinion and drive action. This is why we must mainstream climate education in faith-based discussions.”
Hamzat Lawal, Chief Executive of CODE, expressed concerns about Nigeria’s limited access to climate finance, revealing that only 20% of available funds had been secured, mainly through loans. He urged faith-based advocacy for climate justice, declaring, “Faith-based advocacy is critical. We must demand justice and ensure Nigeria is central to global climate discussions.” The summit concluded with the launch of the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, which delineates strategies for faith-led environmental action.
In summary, the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit underscored the urgent need for stronger climate policies in Nigeria, as evidenced by the deteriorating environmental conditions. Key figures in the religious community emphasized their moral duty to advocate for sustainability and mobilize public opinion. The summit also highlighted the significant challenges facing Nigeria in accessing climate finance and the necessity for faith-driven advocacy to ensure effective participation in global climate discussions. The call for action is clear: immediate and collective efforts are required to mitigate the climate crisis.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
