Tasks govt on climate disaster risk reduction

An environmentalist, Dr Michael David, yesterday, urged Nigerians to embrace a sustainable lifestyle in the New Year as part of measures to significantly mitigate the impact of climate change in the country.

David also emphasised that while it is important to fund long-term mitigation and adaptation strategies, the government should invest strategically in climate disaster risk reduction to protect vulnerable communities.

He spoke in a chat with The Guardian, warning that climate change remains one of the greatest challenges of the era. He said the year represents a pivotal moment for climate action in Nigeria as the escalating impacts of climate change are becoming more evident every year, affecting ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide.

David, who doubles as the Executive Director, the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), added that investments in flood defences, drought-resistant crops, and disaster preparedness programmes could safeguard livelihoods and reduce inequalities.

“Consumer habits play a central role in resource depletion and emissions. We need to adopt the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” mantra. Repair items rather than replace them, purchase second-hand goods and recycle responsibly. Supporting eco-conscious brands and businesses that prioritize sustainability can also drive broader change,” he said.

He stressed that making climate-smart choices at home is a powerful starting point for climate action.

The Executive Director said: “Equally important is funding to preserve natural resources and support sustainable resource management and ecosystem restoration, ensuring long-term resilience. Also, transitioning to renewable energy should go beyond political statements to taking advantage of economic opportunities.

“Energy transition creates jobs and stimulates economic growth. Studies show that investments in solar, wind and other green technologies yield higher returns than fossil fuels, offering a pathway to sustainable development. Funding for community engagement is as important to strengthen local capacities for disaster response and resilience building.”

David harped on educating others by organising workshops or community discussions to inspire collective action while individual actions are vital.