Jutha Gupah, Maiduguri
May 22, 2023.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); has said that the issues of climate change; are beyond highlighting the potential threats to people’s lives and property in Borno State.
The State’s Ministry of Environment responsible for climate change, however, places importance on an effective coordination of activities and actions related to addressing the challenges.
Borno State programme Coordinator, Okechukwu Ugwu, disclosed, yesterday (Monday), in Maiduguri that; “There should be a strong political leadership that supports a comprehensive approach to climate change response and action.”
He added that encouraging private sector investors to explore entrepreneurship opportunities in the climate change sector; could foster sustainable economic growth and development.
UNDP, represented by Dr. Moncef Kartas, suggested that climate change should also be perceived as an opportunity for sustained economic growth.
He said that the proposed climate change response plan for the State must incorporate a holistic approach.
The approach, he explained before the four-member panel; should align with the national climate change response strategy.
“The plan should seek to leverage the economic opportunities that climate change presents for the state,” he noted.
He listed the opportunities to include adopting sustainable land use practices, promoting renewable energy sources, and the establishment of climate-smart industries.
According to him, the industries could also provide jobs with improved livelihoods in the various affected communities.
End.
