“If you educate a man, you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman, you educate a family.” This saying from Dr. James Kwegyir-Aggrey still resonates today. Women play vital roles in tackling climate issues. They’re leaders, farmers, workers, and activists, making their voices essential in climate discussions.
At the recent COP30 conference in Belem, Brazil, a major outcome was the Belem Gender Action Plan. This plan focuses on integrating women’s participation in climate actions over the next nine years. It emphasizes the importance of gender equality in effective climate governance. To address climate change properly, we need everyone’s input, especially women.
A shining example of this was the presentation by the Customs Officers’ Wives Association at COP30. Led by Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, these women showcased their COWA Green Borders Sustainability Initiative. They shared how they made strides in sustainability right from Nigeria’s border communities. Their initiative aims to connect local efforts with global sustainability goals.
They launched the first Green Border Day at the Seme Border and plan to plant 5,000 trees while training over 1,000 women and youth in eco-friendly practices. They want to transform customs communities into clean environments over the next year. The initiative highlights the women’s commitment to sustainability despite the challenges Nigeria faces.
The COWA Sustainability and Innovation Centre in Abuja is another exciting development. It will serve as a hub for training women and youth in renewable energy and recycling. This centre will not just focus on education; it will also provide a space for innovation, linking local efforts with international sustainability practices.
Nigeria holds a unique position as the chair of the World Customs Organisation, making it crucial for the country to model sustainable practices in border management. Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, pointed out that developing “green customs” is vital for Nigeria’s leadership role in sustainability.
Border towns can turn from hotspots of crime to beacons of sustainability. Healthy ecosystems are essential for everyone. The work of Nigerian customs officers’ wives is worthy of global admiration.
Border communities face unique challenges, like deforestation and pollution. Historical incidents, such as the toxic waste dumping in Koko in 1988, highlight these vulnerabilities. This past continues to guide today’s sustainability efforts, especially in creating opportunities for eco-innovation and better livelihoods.
By focusing on local initiatives like the CGBSI, we align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while creating a unique ecosystem for climate finance. As Nigeria moves towards established carbon markets, projects like CGBSI can attract investment and help communities thrive.
Moreover, these initiatives can encourage cross-border collaborations. Countries can work together on conservation, benefiting from shared resources.
The impact of the Customs Officers’ Wives’ initiative can lead to a better understanding of biodiversity and resources. Promoting local knowledge is key to creating sustainable practices in border regions. Despite the challenges, these women demonstrate resilience, showing that change is possible.
For more on the intersection of gender and climate action, you can visit the UN Women website here.
