Nigeria Customs Leads Climate Change Mitigation Efforts, Establishes Strategic Partnerships

Nigeria Customs Leads Climate Change Mitigation Efforts, Establishes Strategic Partnerships

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a bold step in addressing the pressing issue of climate change, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.

According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘B’, Isah Sulaiman, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, in charge of FOU ‘B’ Kaduna, presented a pivotal paper at a 3-day retreat held at the National Teachers Institute (NTI) Kaduna, between 6-9 October 2024, highlighting the critical role NCS can play in mitigating climate change.

Shuaibu emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders, supporting renewable energy initiatives, promoting sustainable trade practices, and combating wildlife trafficking.

He noted that “NCS, as a signatory to several Multilateral Environmental Agreements, is dedicated to contributing to Nigeria’s climate change mitigation strategies”.

The presentation highlighted the challenges in mitigating the effect of climate change in Nigeria, including lack of effective climate change policy and legislation, inadequate institutional framework and coordination, dependence on fossil fuels and oil exports, high level of poverty, deforestation and land degradation, limited public awareness and education on climate change, among others.

The retreat, themed “Youth Involvement in Tackling Climate Change in Our Community,” drew attention to climate change’s devastating impacts on Nigeria’s ecosystem, economy, and society, as evidenced by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency in extreme weather events.

Participants discussed innovative approaches to climate change adaptation and mitigation, including sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy solutions, and eco-friendly policies.

The 3-day retreat concluded with organisers and participants planting trees, underscoring their commitment to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.

It was jointly organised by the Red Cross Kaduna North Division in collaboration with the FOU, Zone B, Kaduna, as part of the Unit’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.