The Surveyor General of the Federation, Mr. Adebomeyin Abdulganiyu, has called for increased funding to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
Speaking at the launch and induction of Ambassadors of SDGs and Ecosystem Preservation Initiative, a Climate Change Education and Awareness held in Abuja on Thursday, Abdulganiyu stressed that climate change is a harsh reality affecting millions of Nigerians daily, from coastal erosion in Lagos to desertification in the North.
“The impacts of climate change are real, and it’s our responsibility to provide communities with the data they need to adapt and thrive,” he said.
Abdulganiyu highlighted the crucial role of surveying, understanding and mitigating climate change impacts, citing the importance of accurate land measurements and geospatial data for effective urban planning, disaster management and environmental conservation.
“We need to know where we stand to make informed decisions about where we’re going, there is a need for government prioritization of surveying initiatives.” Abdulganiyu urged.
He further advocated for a dedicated Climate Resilience Fund to allocate resources for research and community-based projects aimed at mitigating climate impacts.
“This fund should empower local communities to take ownership of their futures,” he emphasized.
Also speaking, Comrade Dominic Ogakwu, founder of the Initiative and President of a foremost civil right group, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, CSGGG, reiterated the importance of educating the public on climate change mitigation, global best practices, and associated risks.
Ogakwu noted that improved education and awareness could prevent disasters like the recent floods in Borno state.
The initiative plans to launch a seven-month campaign covering all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, employing a comprehensive education strategy.
Reports has it that Nigeria ranks 160th out of 180 countries vulnerable to climate change, with climate change threatening key sectors like agriculture, health, and hydropower.
Meanwhile the Surveyor General’s call for urgent funding and action, comes as Nigeria faces a critical moment in its climate change response and the need to protect the Nigerian people and planet.
