Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has pledged the readiness of his administration to support the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in its ongoing efforts to tackle climate change and ensure the sustainable future of the North East subregion.
In a keynote address at the opening ceremony of the maiden climate change summit organised by the NEDC at the International Conference Centre, Gombe, the Bauchi governor extended his heartfelt congratulations to the North East Development Commission for spearheading the crucial initiative.
Mohammed noted that the commission’s efforts towards fostering a protected environment through the implementation of its North East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan is commendable and indeed vital for the region’s future.
Represented by his deputy, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, the governor said the North East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan is a testament to the NEDC’s commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change—such as erratic weather patterns, desertification, and diminishing water resources head-on.
According to him, the comprehensive plan is not just a strategic document, but a blueprint for action that integrates environmental protection with sustainable development, adding that the Master Plan will help in safeguarding the environment and ensuring that the economic development does not come at the expense of the natural heritage.
He pointed out that Bauchi State along with neighboring states in the North East, stands to benefit immensely from the implementation of the NEDC’s Master Plan as it offers a framework for enhancing agricultural practices, and improving the overall quality of life for the people.
According to a statement by Jatau’s media aide Muslim Lawal, he said, “As we are aware, climate change is one of the most significant challenges of our time. Its impacts are being felt across the globe, however, here in the North East sub region, we face unique vulnerabilities that demand targeted and innovative solutions. The harsh realities of climate change—such as erratic weather patterns, desertification, and diminishing water resources—require a concerted and proactive response.
“As we gather here today, let us also acknowledge the role of each one of us in this collective effort. The challenges we face are significant, but with collaborative action and innovation, we can turn these challenges into opportunities for positive change.”
Governor Bala Mohammed reassured the Bauchi State government’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the North East Development Commission and other partners in the region to ensure the successful implementation of the Master Plan and foster a resilient and sustainable environment that supports both current and future needs.
The managing director and CEO of the North East Development Commission, Mohammed Goni Alkali had earlier said the climate change summit was organised to among other things, coordinate action for an integrated response to climate challenges and bridge policy and governance gaps in the sector.
