Nigeria, Canada Partner on Gender-responsive action on Climate Change

Nigeria, Canada Partner on Gender-responsive action on Climate Change

In a landmark move to integrate gender equality into climate action, the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) of Nigeria, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, hosted a one-day validation workshop in Abuja on Thursday.

The collaboration is aimed at scrutinising and refining a draft report on gender-responsive climate action, marking a significant step towards sustainable environmental governance in Nigeria.

The Director General of the NCCC, Dr. Salisu Dahiru opened the workshop with words of gratitude towards the Canadian government for its invaluable support.

He emphasized the workshop’s role in not only enhancing the capabilities of its participants but also in aligning with the United Nations’ mandates for gender inclusivity within climate change efforts.

Dr. Dahiru also underlined the intrinsic link between gender equality and effective climate action and advocated for “massive sensitization, mobilization, education, capacity building, and enhancement.”

He proudly highlighted the NCCC’s unique position, backed by Nigeria’s progressive Climate Change Act, which he said sets a global precedent with its comprehensive approach to climate governance.

Similarly, the First Secretary and Senior Development Officer of the Development Cooperation Section at the Government of Canada High Commission, Likezo Karn, illuminated his country’s commitment to gender equality as a core element of its international assistance.

Karn stated that, “Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy is based on the understanding that effective development necessitates the equal involvement of all genders.”

She underscored the efficiency and fairness of incorporating gender perspectives into every aspect of development, including climate change, which affects men and women in different ways.

The workshop was attended by various government entities and technical stakeholders.

It was said to also laid the groundwork for a more gender-responsive climate action plan in Nigeria, setting an example for global climate change efforts.

By PRNigeria