During a conference in Abuja, stakeholders emphasized the importance of gender-sensitive laws, climate policies, and women’s empowerment to enhance climate adaptation and resilience in Nigeria. The discussions, held under the theme “Climate adaptation and resilience in Nigeria,” highlighted the necessity for increased research on environmental issues to support government actions.
Speakers at the event, including Vivian Njemanze, Deputy Clerk at the Federal House of Representatives, stressed the significant role of women in natural resource management and their potential to contribute to adapting to environmental changes. They recommended integrating gender perspectives into climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, emphasizing the need for women’s involvement in decision-making processes.
Dr. Stanley Ukpai, Director of Projects at dRPC, pointed out the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly citing recent flooding and the shrinking Lake Chad basin affecting food security. The discussions aimed to explore ways to integrate gender considerations into climate resilience strategies for more effective policymaking.
Dr. Saadatu Baba, Director of the Centre Energy and Environmental Strategy Research at Kaduna State University, highlighted the critical role of gender in climate change adaptation and resilience. She underscored the need for gender-sensitive laws and policies to address the specific vulnerabilities faced by women in the face of climate change, aiming to enhance their ability to adapt and thrive in changing environmental conditions.