NCCCS Engages with Bayelsa State Governor on Mangrove Conservation
In a recent meeting, the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) engaged with Senator Douye Diri, the Governor of Bayelsa State, to address pressing climate change issues and look into opportunities for collaboration. The gathering led by Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director General, NCCCS, presented key activities aimed at increasing climate action in Nigeria.
Dr. Maduekwe briefed Governor Diri on the Secretariat’s ongoing check of mangrove forests in the Niger Delta region. This work set to evaluate current conservation efforts, points out gaps, and explore potential collaborations with local and national stakeholders. As part of this initiative, the NCCCS is working to point out the role mangroves play in mitigating climate change, promoting biodiversity, and protecting coastal communities.
In line with the development, the NCCCS boss informed the Governor about an upcoming stakeholder town hall meeting set for February 4th, 2025, in Calabar, Cross River State. The event, set to focus on the review and development of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0, will highlight “whole-of-society” and “whole-of-government” approach to tackling climate change. The NCCCS sent out invitations for key officials from Bayelsa State to join the event and contribute to the national climate action dialogue.
Governor Diri reaffirmed his strong commitment to addressing climate challenges facing Bayelsa State, such as flooding, erosion, and limited access to global climate funds. He recognized the significant potential of the state’s mangrove resources for carbon credit initiatives and their role in supporting sustainable development. The Governor also emphasized the importance of localized climate action to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.
In a positive step forward, Governor Diri expressed his support for the domestication of the Climate Change Act 2021 within Bayelsa State. He directed the State Attorney General to collaborate with relevant commissioners to draft a version of the Act tailored to the state’s specific needs. This adapted Act will be presented for the Governor’s assent and subsequently forwarded to the Bayelsa State Assembly for approval.
Both the NCCCS and the Bayelsa State Government expressed a shared interest for continued collaboration, particularly in the areas of mangrove conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. The meeting showcases the importance of working together to address climate change and build a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
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This is awesome what Dr. Maduekwe is doing and Governor Diri interest in climate change action is much needed.