Why a Holistic Approach to Climate Change is Essential for Government Action — Insights from Ugah

Professor Theophilus Aku Ugah is a leading figure in Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability. With over 20 years of experience, he recently received a professorial chair from Highstone Global University in Texas, U.S. Ugah emphasizes the importance of integrating climate change studies into education at all levels in Nigeria. In a recent interview, he discussed several pressing issues, including the creation of a State Police to tackle security challenges.

Ugah hails from Guma in Benue State, Nigeria. His journey through academia has been rich with teaching and research that influences global climate policies. He believes that local actions, backed by scientific knowledge, can lead to sustainable futures, especially for vulnerable communities.

Winning the professorial chair is a highlight of his career. He sees it as recognition of his dedication to translating research into community actions. Ugah’s work echoes the mission of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which has significantly influenced global climate policy.

He notes that Nigeria faces similar climate challenges as Bangladesh, particularly its vulnerability to disasters like flooding and rising sea levels. However, Bangladesh has turned its challenges into opportunities through community-based adaptations and climate-smart agriculture. Nigeria can learn from these strategies by developing a National Adaptation Plan that incorporates local practices and technologies to tackle climate risks.

On government efforts, Ugah applauds initiatives like the Borno State Governor’s Executive Order to combat deforestation. He urges the government to establish mandatory climate education from primary to tertiary levels, helping individuals change their lifestyle towards environmental responsibility.

Speaking on the current “Renewed Hope Agenda” by the Tinubu administration, Ugah emphasizes that hope must translate into real, measurable changes. He suggests looking at examples from other countries like Rwanda, which successfully transitioned through targeted reforms and digital innovation, to revive Nigeria’s economic narrative.

Regarding the National Assembly’s role, Ugah suggests that it adopt best practices from other democracies that ensure legislative independence while supporting essential reforms. A balanced relationship between the executive and legislative branches is crucial for effective governance.

Ugah shares his views on the debate over State Police, advocating for a model similar to the U.S., where local policing exists but is overseen at federal levels. He warns that successful implementation must consider issues like funding and training to avoid misuse of power.

In discussing insecurity, he points to successful strategies deployed in countries like Colombia that combined military reform with community involvement. He believes Nigeria should invest in technology, intelligence, and collaborative efforts with local groups to strengthen security frameworks.

Nigeria recently celebrated 65 years of independence, yet many still feel the country is struggling. Ugah believes the core issue lies not in potential but in governance discipline. By strengthening institutions like the judiciary and civil service, Nigeria can achieve its goals.

Inspiration for Ugah comes from figures like Elinor Ostrom, whose research on community-driven resource management has influenced his own work. Another major influence is Nelson Mandela, representing visionary leadership and forgiveness in the face of adversity.

Addressing the issue of youth engaging in cybercrimes, Ugah calls for a national youth empowerment framework that combines skill development with moral education. He highlights the need for society to engage constructively with youth, steering them away from negative paths.

Ugah’s happiest moments come from international recognition of his work. In contrast, his saddest moments are watching preventable climate disasters, such as the floods in Anambra in 2022, reminding him of the dire need for effective policy and action.

His guiding principle is that research should transform lives, echoing the sentiments of scholars like Wangari Maathai. By merging knowledge with community activism, Ugah aims to foster a sustainable future for both the people and the planet.

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