Minister of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh, has emphasised the need for strategic partnerships to drive regional development and address the impact of climate change, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking in Abuja yesterday, while hosting a consortium of key stakeholders on climate change led by Academic Associates PeaceWorks (AAPW), Momoh acknowledged the growing threat of climate change on coastal communities.
He noted its far-reaching effects on the region’s social, economic, and environmental stability, contributing to communal conflicts and rising youth criminality.
Highlighting the government’s response, Momoh stated that his ministry, in collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), had undertaken infrastructure projects such as high embankments to mitigate flooding and the opening of water channels to enhance inter-communal connectivity and economic activities.
The minister urged organisations such as AAPW to collaborate with development commissions to address climate and environmental concerns, as these agencies hold the resources for regional development.
He also encouraged the exploration of opportunities within the carbon market, climate finance, and the green economy, citing the shrimp industry as a potential avenue for economic empowerment and youth engagement.
Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi (Rtd), who led the delegation, presented a policy brief on climate change interventions in West Africa.
He highlighted research findings from the “Coping with Climate Change as a Cause of Conflict in Coastal Communities of West Africa” (C7-WA) project, conducted in collaboration with the European Union and several international partners.
The study examined the links between climate change and conflict, noting how desertification in the Sahel and seasonal flooding in the South-South region have exacerbated violent clashes.
Abdullahi called for immediate interventions to protect lives and property, promote peace, and create a sustainable development framework in vulnerable areas like the Niger Delta.
He stressed the need for climate adaptation strategies that address environmental crimes and strengthen mechanisms for monitoring climate change-related conflicts.
AAPW, a Nigerian non-governmental organisation established in 1992, has played a significant role in peacebuilding and governance efforts in Nigeria and Ghana. With over 26 years of direct engagement in the Niger Delta, the organisation has developed deep insights into the region’s challenges and opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of AAPW’s founder, Chief Dr Judith Burdin Asuni, the organisation’s Senior Communications Officer, Success Nwanedo, expressed gratitude to the minister for his support.
He reaffirmed AAPW’s commitment to fostering peace and sustainable development in the region through initiatives like C7-WA, which seeks to empower coastal communities with climate resilience strategies.
