Lafia: The Nasarawa State Government has developed a comprehensive strategic framework to combat climate change. Dr. Margaret Elayo, the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, made this known at a Stakeholders Dialogue on the Development of Nasarawa State Waste Management Policy on Tuesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the state government has introduced the Nasarawa State Policy on Climate Change (NASPOCC) to address climate-related challenges. This policy aims to mainstream climate action, create a Climate Change Agency, and establish an advisory committee chaired by Governor Abdullahi Sule. Dr. Elayo emphasized that without decisive intervention, climate change could undermine the state’s aspirations for sustainable development and improved quality of life.
The policy, developed through a collaborative process involving key stakeholders and partners, including the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), outlines measures for mitigation and adaptation across different time horizons. The goal is to strengthen resilience, reduce vulnerability, and integrate climate considerations into development planning. Dr. Elayo assured that implementing this policy is expected to drive progress in critical areas such as energy efficiency and food security.
Nasarawa faces growing climate change challenges, posing risks to its environment, economy, and public health. Addressing these threats requires a comprehensive approach that combines mitigation and adaptation strategies. The impacts, ranging from irregular rainfall patterns to increased flooding and environmental degradation, demand urgent and coordinated action at all levels of governance.
Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Justice highlighted that effective waste management is crucial for disease prevention, urban resilience, and sustainable development. Preparing for increased rainfall requires intensified efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment across the state. Abubakar noted that environmental hygiene is foundational to overall wellbeing.
In line with this objective, the establishment of the Nasarawa State Waste Management and Sanitation Authority (NASWAMSA) under Legal Notice No. 18 of 2021 marks a significant step forward. The authority is empowered to perform critical functions such as waste collection and disposal, regulation of sanitation practices, and removal of environmental hazards. Collaboration with public and private stakeholders is emphasized to transform waste management into a model of efficiency and sustainability.
Ms. Dorcas Nicanor, representing GIFSEP, stressed the importance of stakeholders’ expertise to ensure the policy is inclusive, actionable, and impactful. The policy should address waste reduction, recycling, sustainable financing, and biowaste management. Organic waste, a significant portion of the waste stream, can be converted into valuable resources such as compost and biogas, reducing environmental and health risks.
Mr. Envoh Okolo, State Coordinator of the Nasarawa State Network on Environment and Climate Justice, assured that proper waste management would bring wealth to the state.