Niger State Government has come up with a Blueprint for a Green Economy to demonstrate its resolve on safeguarding the environment for a prosperous future.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed this at the opening of the Maiden Green Economy Summit in Minna at the instance of the State Government.
He said the Blueprint spans across vital sectors, encompassing renewable energy, transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, inclusivity, and tourism among others adding that collective action is needed by government, private sectors and civil societies to achieve the desired objectives.
The Governor who explained that the state is blessed with enormous natural resources that are under threat due to the devastating effect of climate change and environmental degradation, said the Summit was to find ways of addressing them.
“We firmly believe that local communities are not just beneficiaries; they are the architects of change in the transition towards a green economy. We aim to equip them with the necessary skills and resources to partake in eco-friendly ventures and reap the benefits of green initiatives”.
Governor Bago used the forum to reiterate that the State will create an avenue where its citizens enjoy access to fundamental social amenities and infrastructure that enhance the quality of life.
The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was the Special guest of honour, said his administration is committed to harnessing the potential of a green economy hence the Federal Executive Council has recently approved a solid mineral development policy which he said will align with the objectives of the green economy.
President Tinubu who was represented by the Minister of State, Agriculture and Food Security, Abdullahi Sabi said the new policy will remove all forms of illegalities that are destroying the environment and bring about the principle of efficient resource use among others which he said will be of great benefit to the Niger state.
In her keynote address, the Deputy Secretary-General, of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed who spoke virtually described the Summit as a reflection point to squarely address the global challenge of climate change bearing in mind the huge natural resources endowed in Africa.
She commended Niger State Governor for the foresight in putting together the Summit saying, the State is uniquely positioned to be the first movers to engage in green growth and by extension be a leader in energy investment.
She advocated leadership, partnership and commitment to helping in the identification of Integrated solutions and responding to complex issues.
The Deputy Secretary-General said the days of oil-driven economic growth are numbered while global progress on meeting climate emergency is too slow, hence the need to end addiction to fossil fuels while expanding access to reliable and affordable energy for everyone.
In their separate goodwill messages, the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, and the former Governor of Niger State, Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu acknowledged that the Summit was timely, saying the green economy is the way to go as desertification has negatively impacted on the environment, especially the Northern region.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Alh. Abubakar Usman said the green economy initiative is capable of transforming the state and beyond and urged participants to engage in insightful discussions and exchange knowledge for a better society.
The first Niger State Green Economy Summit has the theme, “Sustainable future: Harnessing green assets and innovation for Niger State’s prosperity.
Governor Umaru Bago led dignitaries around the exhibition stands where they were shown various locally manufactured products.
Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger State
24/10/2023.
