The Kano Coalition for Climate Action and Inclusive Governance (KACIG) recently urged the Kano State House of Assembly to make climate resilience a priority in the 2026 budget. KACIG’s head, Mr. Safiyanu Bichi, shared this message during a public hearing on December 15, 2025, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate issues in a state with over 20 million residents, particularly given its vulnerability in the Sahel region.
Bichi highlighted that inadequate funding for climate initiatives poses a serious risk to the local economy and the environment. He pointed out a troubling trend: while the state budget nominally increased from ₦241 billion in 2022 to ₦696 billion in 2025, its real value dropped by about 20% in dollar terms. This indicates that the increased budget doesn’t translate to more effective spending power.
The coalition’s analysis revealed alarming budget execution rates. Between 2022 and 2025, the average capital budget execution was only 23%, falling to 19.9% in 2025. Notably, allocations for climate-related initiatives have also decreased, going from 13.9% in 2023 to just 6.5% in 2025. According to recently published reports, Nigeria has lost approximately $5 billion annually due to climate-related challenges, highlighting the need for better budgeting.
Bichi expressed concern that funding for essential climate projects was dwindling while resources were diverted to non-essential items, like ceremonial expenses and office upgrades. For instance, funding for the Baban Gwari drainage system saw a significant cut from ₦2.6 billion to ₦514 million, putting communities at greater risk of flooding. The situation reflects a broader trend of neglecting critical environmental programs.
He emphasized that every naira spent on climate resilience can save between four to seven naira in future losses. This isn’t just a financial argument; it’s a matter of sustainability. These funding cuts could exacerbate issues like erosion, flooding, and food insecurity, which may lead to increased migration and unemployment.
Bichi called for the assembly to boost capital support for key ministries focused on climate issues, including the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. He urged that the 2026 budget align with the Kano State Climate Change Policy, which aims for a more resilient future.
In conclusion, focusing on climate resilience is crucial not just for the environment but also for the economy and community well-being in Kano State. If local leaders don’t prioritize it now, the costs in the future could be significant, both financially and socially.
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2026 Budget,climate change funding,Kano Coalition for Climate Action and Inclusive Governance (KACIG),Kano State Government,Kano State House of Assembly,Safiyanu Bichi
