By Austine Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, has reiterated its dedication to addressing the adverse effects of climate change in Kaduna state.
Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, made this commitment during his paper presentation at a three-day retreat held at the National Teachers Institute (NTI) in Kaduna. The theme of the event was “Youth Involvement in Tackling Climate Change in Our Community.”
The retreat, organised jointly by the Red Cross Kaduna North Division and the NCS FoU Zone B, aimed to engage young people in understanding the devastating impacts of climate change on Nigeria’s ecosystem, economy, and society.
Shuaibu pointed out that these impacts are reflected in rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events.
“The event drew attention to the devastating impacts of climate change on Nigeria’s ecosystem, economy, and society, as evidenced by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency in extreme weather events,” he stated.
He emphasised that the retreat served as a crucial platform for exploring innovative strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation, including sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy solutions, and eco-friendly policies aimed at fostering a healthier environment.
Shuaibu elaborated on the challenges Nigeria faces in mitigating climate change, highlighting issues such as the absence of effective climate change policies, inadequate institutional frameworks, reliance on fossil fuels, high poverty levels, deforestation, land degradation, and a lack of public awareness and education about climate change.
In a proactive step, participants at the retreat also engaged in tree planting activities, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
“The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit B Kaduna, and the Red Cross Kaduna North Division demonstrated their shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. This initiative marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s quest to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change,” Shuaibu added.