The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit in Abuja highlighted Nigeria’s worsening climate crisis, prompting religious leaders and advocates to urge stronger policy action. Key speakers emphasized the moral duty of faith communities to advocate for environmental sustainability and climate justice, while also addressing concerns about limited access to climate finance. The event concluded with a report outlining strategies for faith-led environmental action.
Climate change remains a critical issue in Nigeria, with pollution, ineffective waste management, and environmental degradation posing significant threats to communities. The recent Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit, organized by Connected Development (CODE) at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, brought together religious leaders, civil society groups, and climate proponents, who collectively emphasized the urgent need for concrete environmental policies to address Nigeria’s climate crisis.
During the summit, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, the Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, urged religious entities and the public to advocate for more robust policies. He cautioned that ignoring climate change would jeopardize future generations’ well-being. He stated, “Religious organisations, 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, highlighted the moral obligation of 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, pointed out the influential role of religious leaders in mobilizing their communities for climate action. He emphasized that with millions of followers, religious leaders can help shape public opinion on climate issues. He asserted, “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 concern regarding Nigeria’s limited access to climate finance, indicating that only 20% of available funds had been acquired, primarily through loans. He stressed the need for faith-based advocacy to ensure climate justice. He declared, “Faith-based advocacy is critical. We must demand justice and ensure Nigeria is central to global climate discussions.”
The summit concluded with the presentation of the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, which outlines actionable strategies for faith-led environmental initiatives.
In summary, the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit underscored the urgent need for stronger climate policies in Nigeria, as emphasized by various religious leaders and advocates. Their collective call for action reflects a moral responsibility towards future generations and the planet, highlighting the influential role of faith in driving climate education and advocacy.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
