Plateau State has rolled out a five-year climate change policy and action plan aimed at addressing environmental challenges starting from 2026. This initiative launched recently in Jos, is backed by the Centre for Gospel Health and Development in partnership with the Christian Blind Mission, and funded by the European Union.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Chief of Staff, Jeremiah Satmak, emphasized that this plan is a “bold roadmap” for protecting livelihoods, restoring degraded landscapes, and establishing Plateau as a leader in climate resilience. He highlighted that climate change impacts every sector, stressing the dangers faced by local miners and the need to address these threats.
The policy prioritizes areas like agriculture, water management, and disaster risk reduction. It also aims to create green jobs and invest in renewable energy. Satmak encouraged civil society groups to ensure the government’s commitment to the plan, adding that accountability is crucial.
Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Peter Kanang Gwom, pointed out that the policy responds to worsening environmental conditions. He noted global concerns such as rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns. Plateau State is already facing heat waves, droughts, and flooding, which burden both livelihoods and ecosystems.
The Climate Change Policy and Action Plan (2026–2030) is designed to offer a framework for mitigation and adaptation strategies. It lays the groundwork for stronger institutional responses, clear regulations, and standards that will foster climate-resilient infrastructure.
The development of this plan involved extensive consultations across all 17 local government areas, ensuring a participatory approach that included women, youth, and people with disabilities. Gwom reiterated the ministry’s commitment to implementing the policy through partnerships and ongoing stakeholder engagement.
The Executive Director of CeGHaD, Nansik Onu, called the document a “clear roadmap” for a more resilient future and urged citizens to support its rollout. The occasion featured many voices, including legislative representatives and climate experts, who underscored the importance of collaboration between civil society, government, and the private sector for the plan’s success.
Experts like Professor Raymond Daspan and Engr. David Wuyep also emphasized that sustained funding, strong partnerships, and active implementation are key to making a real impact.
This unveiling marks a significant step in Plateau State’s climate action journey, with stakeholders hopeful that it leads to meaningful change in the years ahead. The call to action is clear: the community must rally together to tackle climate change and secure a sustainable future for all.
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Action Plan,Caleb Mutfwang,climate change,climate resilience,environmental policy,European Union,Green Jobs,Jos,Plateau State,Sustainable development
