TheCable

The house of representatives committee on climate change says it will ensure that Nigeria meets the United Nations framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC).

Chris Nkwonta, chairman of the committee, spoke on Monday, at the panel’s inaugural meeting.

Nkwonta said climate change is a reality that affects every aspect of human lives and poses a threat to “health, food security, water resources, biodiversity, security, and economic development”.

“It is a threat that knows no boundaries, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. It is a threat that requires urgent and collective action from all of us, as Nigerians, Africans, and as global citizens,” he said.

“As Legislators, there is a need to enable solutions to the climate change challenges by legislating on matters relating to climate change mitigation and adaptation to ensure that our laws and policies are aligned with global best practices.

“My vision is to ensure that Nigeria meets her target to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 as part of Nigeria’s energy transition plan.

“To see that Nigeria fulfils her part in the agreement under the United Nations framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC) and to proffer a lasting solution to the challenges on implementation of Nigeria’s obligations on climate change.”

The lawmaker said the committee would work “closely” with the National Council on Climate Change on capacity-building programmes, international conferences and seminars on climate change within and outside the country.

“We will also ensure that adequate provisions are made under the budget to allow the necessary agencies to carry out their statutory obligations and activities in line with the vision,” he said.

He asked his colleagues to be committed to their oversight duties so that they can leave “remarkable footprints”.