House of Reps Harps on Awareness, Capacity Building, Lawmaking Support for Climate Action
Members of the House of Representatives (HoR) have underscored the urgent need to bridge existing knowledge gaps on climate change and energy transition, calling for sustained awareness, training and education of Nigerians at both national and sub-national levels.
The lawmakers made the call during a one-day Policy Dialogue with Legislators on Tax for Fossil Fuel Phase-Out organised by Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) in conjunction with the Tax Justice Network Africa in Lagos on Monday.
The session focused on climate change mitigation, energy solutions and environmental sustainability, where they acknowledged that limited understanding of climate issues remains a major setback to effective policy formulation and implementation in the country.
According to them, deliberate investment in public education and capacity building is critical, particularly for lawmakers, policymakers and relevant institutions tasked with enacting and enforcing climate-related laws.
They stressed the need for adequate budgetary allocations to strengthen the capacity of members of the legislature to effectively exercise their constitutional responsibilities in addressing climate and environmental challenges.
The members expressed serious concern over the alarming rate of deforestation across the country, warning that continued environmental degradation poses a grave threat to human survival. Members noted that climate change, if left unaddressed, would have far-reaching consequences on food security, health, livelihoods and national development.
They challenged Nigerians to rise to the occasion by embracing creativity and innovation in solving the nation’s energy challenges, urging the adoption of locally driven and sustainable solutions that can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the impact of climate change.
The lawmakers also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting civil society organisations (CSOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), describing them as critical partners in driving climate advocacy, public enlightenment and community-based actions. They pledged to continue creating a conducive legislative environment that would enable such organisations to effectively champion environmental protection and climate action across the country.
Reiterating the role of the legislature in tackling climate change, members of the House assured Nigerians that they would continue to enact laws and policies aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change, promoting environmental sustainability and safeguarding the well-being of present and future generations.
Some of the HoR members that spoke at the event include: Hon. Paul Kalejaiye PhD, Representing Ajeromi/Ifelodun Federal Constituency, (Lagos); Hon. Dekeri Anamero, Etsako Federal Constituency (Edo); Hon. Oluwole Oke, Obokon/Oriade Federal Constituency (Osun); Hon. Fatoba Olusola, Ado Ekiti/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency; Hon. Akin Rotimi, Ekiti North (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency amongst others.
