The Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA), a group of civil organizations, community leaders, youth activists, and researchers, is dedicated to promoting climate justice in Nigeria. They recently gathered in Abuja for a two-day workshop to review their strategic action plan for 2026 to 2030.
The workshop produced a clear goal: to elevate community voices, protect ecosystems, and ensure fair policies regarding climate action. Participants included notable figures such as Dr. Joseph Onoja from the Nigeria Conservation Foundation and Dr. Michael David from the Global Initiative for Food Security. They collectively acknowledged the pressing issues climate change poses, especially for vulnerable communities.
In Nigeria, climate change worsens existing social and economic inequalities. Many frontline communities face direct impacts, struggling financially and socially. Often, women and youth find themselves relying on harmful practices, like deforestation, to make a living. This behavior inadvertently deepens the climate crisis, creating a cycle of hardship.
One key finding from the workshop was that many civil society organizations operate in isolation. This fragmentation weakens their influence on climate policy and limits access to necessary funding. To combat this, the NCJA plans to enhance cooperation among its members and focus on collective action.
The group’s action plan stresses the importance of community-led, justice-based solutions to climate issues, calling out the need for inclusivity—especially for women and individuals with disabilities. According to experts in climate policy, integrating gender and disability perspectives can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions.
Statistics show that as of 2022, nearly 90% of Nigeria’s population is vulnerable to climate impacts, emphasizing the need for urgent action. Environmental groups have reported an increase in deforestation rates due to climate change, driving home the coalition’s message for integrated climate solutions.
The NCJA aims to strengthen its governance and coordination mechanisms. By creating specialized committees focused on advocacy, resource mobilization, and knowledge sharing, they plan to amplify their efforts significantly. They also intend to create a joint action roadmap with specific priorities and deadlines to enhance their advocacy work and influence climate policies.
In summary, the NCJA’s recent workshop highlighted the urgent need for united and inclusive action against climate change. As they move forward, their commitment to community engagement and equity will be crucial in addressing Nigeria’s complex climate challenges more effectively.
For more information on climate justice initiatives, check out resources from The World Resources Institute.
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Climate Justice,Coalition,Nigeria,Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA)
