The federal government has pledged to ensure social justice and uphold the importance of technology in all necessary transitions to address climate change and its consequences.
This commitment was expressed by the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Ishak Adakole Salako, during a meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.
Dr. Salako received a communique on the symposium report of energy transition in Nigeria from Mr. Paddy Ezeala, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Development Agenda Magazine.
Dr. Salako emphasised the government’s efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of environmental abuse, noting that ignorance has led many to harm the ecosystem.
He stated, “There is an urgent need to address climate change, but the sector is plagued by ignorance and lack of awareness. Many people unknowingly engage in activities that damage the environment.”
He continued, “In our region, environmental issues must be scrutinized closely. Fossil fuels are like a life support system. Removing them without providing alternatives will cause suffocation. We must ensure that the transition is just and equitable. Justice is crucial not only for the energy transition but also for the technology we introduce. We need solutions that resonate with our environment and our people.”
Dr. Salako also highlighted the importance of professionalism and expertise in environmental stewardship, stating that mass action is necessary for successful implementation at all levels.
Mr. Ezeala, in his remarks, stressed the urgency of energy transition and the need for Nigeria to keep pace with global developments, particularly in terms of social justice. He highlighted the economic impact of climate change, noting the importance of finding alternatives to petrol and considering the potential for job creation or loss.
He said, “The environment is severely damaged, and we are spending significant resources on remediation. We must ensure that our actions do not cause further problems. Addressing the challenges of the northern hemisphere requires a holistic approach.”
