The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit in Nigeria highlighted the worsening climate crisis, urging religious leaders to advocate for stronger environmental policies. Key figures emphasized the responsibility to promote sustainability and mobilize followers for climate action. The summit also discussed Nigeria’s limited access to climate finance and launched a report outlining faith-led strategies for environmental initiatives.
The climate situation in Nigeria is deteriorating significantly, characterized by increased pollution, inefficient waste management, and ongoing environmental degradation that endangers local communities. During the recent Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit hosted by Connected Development (CODE) at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, leading figures from religious organizations, civil society, and climate advocacy groups underscored the urgent need for actionable environmental policies to address the escalating crisis.
Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, Executive Director of the Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, called upon religious entities and the general populace to advocate for stronger climate policies. He expressed grave concerns that neglecting this issue will result in dire consequences for future generations, declaring, “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 ethical obligation of faith leaders to support sustainability, emphasizing intergenerational justice. He stated, “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 religious leaders play in mobilizing followers for climate action. He remarked, “Religious leaders have millions of followers listening to them weekly. 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 worries regarding Nigeria’s limited access to climate finance, indicating that only 20% of available funds have been obtained, predominantly through loans. He insisted on the necessity of faith-based advocacy in pursuing climate justice, stating, “Faith-based advocacy is critical. We must demand justice and ensure Nigeria is central to global climate discussions.”
Additionally, the summit featured the release of the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, which presents strategies for environmental action led by faith organizations.
The Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit underscores the critical role of religious leaders in addressing Nigeria’s escalating climate crisis. By urging both policymakers and citizens to advocate for effective climate policies, these leaders emphasize the ethical responsibility toward future generations. The call for education and awareness within faith communities, coupled with concerted advocacy for climate justice, is essential in fostering actionable solutions for environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
