Climate change threatens food, national security — FG

The Federal Government has issued a stark warning that climate change represents the "defining challenge of our generation," significantly threatening Nigeria's food security, livelihoods, and overall national security. Officials emphasized that rising global temperatures, extreme weather, and environmental degradation impact every facet of human existence.

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Climate change is the defining challenge of our generation. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation threaten every aspect of human life, from food security and water availability to health, livelihoods and national security.

Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, Nigeria remains disproportionately vulnerable to these climate impacts. However, the government views this challenge as an opportunity to "reimagine our economies, reshape our industries and reorient our societies toward sustainability." This sentiment was shared during a dialogue for secondary school students organized by the C-Circle Foundation to mark World Environment Day.

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Nigeria, like many developing nations, is disproportionately vulnerable to these climate impacts despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions.

Nigeria has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 29% unconditionally by 2030, with a further target of 52% with international support. The nation also aims for net-zero emissions by 2060. Key government interventions to build resilience and promote low-carbon development include the Climate Change Act 2021, the Energy Transition Plan, the Great Green Wall Initiative, and the National Adaptation Plan.

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Yet, in this challenge lies an unprecedented opportunity, the opportunity to reimagine our economies, reshape our industries and reorient our societies toward sustainability.

Officials urged young Nigerians to become active "agents of change today," emphasizing that their voices, ideas, creativity, and energy are crucial for driving the needed transformation. The C-Circle Foundation's event aims to raise environmental awareness among youth through annual competitions.

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To our students and participants in today’s debate and dialogue: you are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are the agents of change today.