Join the Conversation: Share Your Community’s Climate Change Experiences – Insights from Stakeholders – EnviroNews

Stakeholders gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 30, 2025, for the Climate Equity Project meeting organized by the Youth Agroecological for Restoration Network (YARN) in partnership with Ushahidi and NETHOPE. The event focused on "Amplifying Community Voices of Climate Change in Nigeria."

Opeyemi Elujulo, the Executive Director of YARN, emphasized the need to include community perspectives in climate data collection. He stated, “Our goal is to amplify the voices of those most affected.” This initiative aims to ensure that local experiences shape climate solutions.

Joseph Kirai from Ushahidi shared that the gathering was a valuable exchange. He pointed out, “We often rely on satellite data but lack insights from people’s daily lives.” This project will survey 5,000 community members across Oyo, Osun, and Ondo states to understand their climate challenges better.

Aminat Adebayo from NETHOPE highlighted that this data will help develop tools for communities to adapt to changing climates. The goal is to create actionable climate plans tailored to local needs.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, noted ongoing efforts to educate farmers on climate adaptation. Recently, the government conducted training with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) to prepare farmers for upcoming challenges, such as a forecasted 40-day drought from mid-July to August. Farmers were encouraged to stagger their planting to minimize losses and consider insurance plans with the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC) for added security.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ṣeun Ashamu, reiterated the government’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to combat climate change. His department is actively engaged in raising awareness and developing solutions.

As climate change impacts intensify, using community voices will be crucial for crafting effective responses. This project aims not only to gather data but also to empower local populations, enabling them to be resilient in the face of climate challenges.

For more on climate change initiatives, you can visit the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

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climate change,Community experiences,stakeholders