A member of the North East Development Commission, NEDC, and Chairman committee on Security, Climate change and special interventions, Hon Sam Onuigbo, has called for the establishment of state-level climate governance frameworks to address the realities of climate change on society.
Addressing the inaugural edition of the North – East Climate Change Summit held recently in Gombe State and sponsored by the NEDC, with the theme: ” leveraging Climate Action for the Sustainable Development of North – East Nigeria “, Hon Onuigbo urged governments to adopt robust climate action plans with clear, measurable goals.
While emphasizing the importance of raising awareness on climate issues, particularly among vulnerable groups like women, youth, and the elderly, who are often the most affected, Hon Onuigbo who represented Ikwuano/ Umuahia North/ Umuahia South federal constituency in the House of Representatives, advocated for the adoption of climate – smart agricultural practices and renewable energy solutions to boost productivity, revenue and create sustainable livelihoods.
He made it clear that the agricultural potential of the North East could be unlocked with the right technology and climate – smart practices and challenged State governments to invest in renewable energy projects.
The former National Assembly member who is popularly known as the Father of climate change in Nigeria having sponsored and ensured the passage of the bill, noted with concern that the North East Zone is facing devastating effects from desertification to the drying up of Lake Chad, leading to a rising wave of food insecurity in the area and Nigeria.
According to him, the North-East’s topography is perfect for renewable energy projects, citing the decreasing costs of solar and wind power as a promising development.
“The North-East has the resources, human capital, and global momentum to overcome these challenges. By embracing renewable energy, investing in climate-smart agriculture, and building resilient infrastructure, the region can position itself as a key player in the global economy, ” Onuigbo stated.
Onuigbo also referenced alarming global health statistics, including those shared by Dr. Tedros A. Ghebreyesos, Director General of the World Health Organization, on the deadly effects of household pollution from dirty cooking fuels. “Clean energy is not just about economics—it’s about saving lives,” Onuigbo said, highlighting the importance of renewable energy in reducing household air pollution, which claims millions of lives globally each year.
He further highlighted the dangers faced by vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women, due to extreme heat and poor working conditions.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is already impacting lives, livelihoods, and security,” he said.
The former National Assembly member however commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making food security a priority in his administration’s agenda and for spearheading efforts towards energy transition and climate change mitigation and the North-East governors for establishing the North-East Governors’ Forum, which serves as a vital platform for addressing regional climate challenges.
Hon. Onuigbo also lauded the leadership of the North-East Development Commission for organizing the summit at such a critical time, stating that “this collective action is what is needed to transform the region’s future.”
He expressed confidence that the decisions made at the conference will shape not only the region’s future but also its role in addressing global climate challenges.
