Customs: FOU Zone B, Red Cross Identifies MEAs As means of Addressing Climate Change In Nigeria
By: Bisi Akingbade
The Customs Area Controller, Federal Operations Unit, Zone B of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu has identified Multilateral Environmental Agreement MEAs, as a means of addressing the pressing issue of climate change in Nigeria.
The retreat with a theme "youth involvement in tackling climate change in our community" was jointly organized by the Red Cross Kaduna North Division in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Federal Operations Unit B Kaduna as part of the Unit's Corporate Social Responsibility initiative (CSR).
Comptroller Shuaibu's presentation highlighted the critical role the NCS being a signatory to several Multilateral Environmental Agreement (MEAs), can play in addressing climate change, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders, support of renewable energy initiatives, promotion of sustainable trade practices and combating wildlife trafficking as a also a means of combating the prevailing global climate challenge.
Shuaibu's address underscored the Nigeria Customs Service's commitment to environmental sustainability and its dedication to contributing to the nation's climate change mitigation strategies.
The event drew attention to the devastating impacts of climate change on Nigeria's ecosystem, economy, and society, as evidenced by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and increased frequency in extreme weather events. It also provided a platform for discussing innovative approaches to climate change adaptation and mitigation, including sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy solutions, and eco-friendly policies.
According to the press release issued by the Customs Public Relations Officer
Federal Operations Unit , Zone B Kaduna Isah Sulaiman, highlighted that the challenges in mitigating the effect of climate change in Nigeria which includes but not limited to lack of effective climate change policy and legislation, inadequate institutional framework and coordination, dependence on fossil fuels and oil exports, high level of poverty, deforestation and land degradation, limited public awareness and education on climate change, among others.
The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit B Kaduna, and the Red Cross Kaduna North Division demonstrated their shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
The 3-day retreat, was concluded with planting of trees by the organisers and participants.