By Khalid Idris Doya
The United Nations Children’s Fund, (UNICEF) said that Nigeria as the second most vulnerable country worldwide in terms of children’s exposure to climate change, faces several challenges.
According the United Nations agency, over 110 million Nigerian children are at risk, having confronted the harsh realities of rising temperatures, flooding, drought, and severe storms.
The agency said in a statement commemorating this year’s World Children’s Day, that the critical issues discussed have direct health impacts of climate change on children, such as increased physical dangers, waterborne diseases, and malnutrition.
"The event also shed light on the alarming rate of child displacement due to environmental disasters, with 650,000 children displaced from 2016 to 2021 due to floods", UNICEF said.
The agency's statement issued by it's communication officer, Safiya Akau, said Monday, “Nigeria celebrated World Children’s Day, focusing on child rights amidst the escalating climate crisis".
"Events across the country saw children from various regions, including Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Enugu, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, leading discussions on the significant impact of climate change on their lives and futures.”
Dr. Salisu Dahiru, Director General - National Council on Climate Change in commemorating the day said, “As one of the countries that suffers the greatest exposure to adverse climate impacts, Nigeria’s response to climate change must be swift and holistic".
The Director-General stressed the needs for vulnerable people, including children and women, at the decision-making level, for the implementation of the "National Climate Change Action Plan.”
“This celebration is a crucial platform for our children, the most affected by climate change, to voice their concerns and experiences. Their input is essential in shaping our collective path towards a sustainable and resilient future.” Said Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria.
The celebration also highlighted collaboration efforts between the Government, Development Partners, Civil Society Organizations, and the Private sector, focusing on advocacy, partnerships, and climate education.
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