By Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
A Gombe-based non-governmental organisation, Jewel Environmental Initiative (JEI), has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching the Renewed Hope Climate Change Awareness Tour (REHCCAT), describing it as a significant move toward addressing the growing challenges of climate change in Nigeria.
The organisation said the initiative would help improve public understanding of environmental issues, encourage innovation and promote sustainable development, particularly among communities most affected by climate change.
In a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Ismail Bima Mai Gombawa, JEI said the campaign would stimulate collective action and strengthen efforts aimed at protecting the environment while improving the livelihoods of vulnerable communities.
According to the organisation, the impact of climate change continues to be felt across many parts of the country, especially in northern Nigeria where unpredictable rainfall patterns, rising temperatures and desertification have negatively affected agricultural activities and the wellbeing of rural populations.
JEI noted that awareness and understanding of climate change remain low in many rural communities, making it difficult for residents to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
It explained that the awareness tour would help bridge this gap by promoting education, partnerships and innovative approaches that could enhance climate resilience at the community level.
“The increasing effects of climate change on livelihoods and the environment require urgent and coordinated action. Awareness campaigns such as this will help build understanding and encourage cooperation among communities and stakeholders,” the organisation stated.
JEI also called on the Federal Ministry of Environment and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the programme reaches grassroots communities through effective collaboration with state and local governments.
The group further urged government institutions, private sector organisations and civil society groups to work together in supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable development.
JEI commended President Tinubu and the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, for initiating the programme and emphasised that tackling climate change requires collective responsibility and sustained commitment.
President Tinubu had earlier inaugurated the national climate awareness tour in Abuja, urging state governments, the private sector and other stakeholders to translate climate awareness into concrete actions that will strengthen Nigeria’s climate resilience and promote sustainable growth.
