From Felix Egbadon, Abuja

Stakeholders have warned that climate change and shrinking natural resources could worsen conflicts over land and livelihoods in Nigeria.

They therefore urged young Nigerians to take a leading role in climate action and peacebuilding efforts.

The warning came at a one-day Campus Dialogue for Peace held at the University of Abuja.

The programme, themed “Youth Voices, Inclusion and Action,” brought together civil society leaders, student advocates and young peacebuilders.

The event was organised by fellows of the Young Peacebuilders Fellowship, Cohort II. The fellowship is an initiative of the Building Blocks for Peace Foundation(BBFORPEACE.)

Speaking at the event, Eniola Dorcas Mokikan, a fellow representing Gwagwalada Area Council, described climate change as an emerging security concern.

She said environmental degradation and shrinking natural resources could intensify competition for land and livelihoods.

“Climate change is no longer merely an ecological issue, but a primary security threat directly impacting socio-economic stability,” Mokikan said.

She urged young people to recognise the link between environmental protection and peaceful coexistence.

Another fellow, Idris Salisu Idris, challenged more than 80 participating students to develop practical solutions to environmental challenges.

He urged them to use their demographic strength, digital skills and creativity to drive grassroots climate initiatives.

Idris said empowering students through dialogue and institutional support would help create resilient and peaceful communities.

He encouraged the participants to turn discussions into practical actions that could improve environmental protection.

Youth advocate and BBFORPEACE fellow, Victoria Omale, highlighted the role of digital platforms in promoting climate action.

She urged young people to use social media to mobilise public support for environmental campaigns.

Omale also advised youth-led organisations to build networks and partner with non-governmental organisations.

She said they should also engage policymakers and contribute to discussions shaping environmental policies.

The organisers noted that environmental stress could worsen existing socio-economic tensions and community hardship.

They said competition for dwindling resources could further expose vulnerable communities to conflict.

The stakeholders therefore called for greater youth participation in climate security and peacebuilding initiatives.

Participants subsequently resolved to establish student-led climate action committees across tertiary institutions.

The committees will organise tree-planting exercises and promote proper waste management on campuses.

They will also conduct community sensitisation programmes on climate security and peaceful coexistence.

The organisers said the initiative would keep young Nigerians at the forefront of efforts to protect the environment and strengthen peace across the country.