Policymakers, academics, and development stakeholders have called for stronger accountability, inclusion, and evidence-driven climate action at the close of the Gender-Inclusive Climate Change Governance (GENCGOV) International Conference 2026 in Abuja.

 

The two-day event held at the Federal Ministry of Education, brought together participants from government, civil society, academia, the diplomatic community, youth networks, and community groups under the theme, “Governing Climate in an Age of Retreat, Risk and Geopolitical Re-alignment.”

 

Speakers examined emerging governance challenges and highlighted pathways for advancing climate justice, resilience, and inclusive policy frameworks.

 

Convened by Pedi Obani, the conference underscored the need for climate policies rooted in local realities and supported by collaboration across sectors.

 

In his remarks, Yusuf O. Kelani described climate change as an immediate concern, citing its links to flooding, desertification, food insecurity, and social inequality.

 

He stressed that women, youth, and vulnerable populations should play active roles in shaping climate governance, rather than remaining passive beneficiaries.

 

He however presented findings from a national household survey conducted with the National Bureau of Statistics, highlighting gender dimensions in climate vulnerability and the importance of disaggregated data for policymaking.

 

Discussions also focused on climate finance, transparency, and the role of institutions, media, and indigenous knowledge systems in strengthening governance outcomes.

 

Grants and recognitions were awarded to support community-based climate justice initiatives, while over 30 research papers explored issues ranging from energy transition to climate displacement.

 

International contributors, including Joyeeta Gupta and Patricia Mbote, added global perspectives to the dialogue.

 

The participants therefore called for sustained collaboration among governments, development partners, academia, and communities, emphasising that meaningful progress in climate governance depends on translating dialogue into practical, inclusive action.