By Favour Emmanuel
Religious leaders, civil society groups, and climate advocates have called for urgent action to address the escalating climate crisis, urging stakeholders to mount pressure on policymakers to implement concrete solutions.
Speaking at the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Summit, organized by Connected Development (CODE) at the NAF Conference Centre, in Abuja on Thursday, Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, emphasized the need for a radical shift in environmental policies.
Ehusani also decried the widespread pollution and lack of proper waste management in Nigeria, noting that urgent policy interventions were needed.
He said, “Religious organizations, civil society groups, and concerned citizens must mount pressure on our policymakers and legislators to take climate change seriously.
“We cannot continue to pay lip service while our environment is deteriorating at an alarming rate.”
“Nigerians have adjusted themselves to a high level of environmental degradation.
“We see mountains of refuse, toxic waste in our rivers, and worsening air pollution, yet there is little action. If we do not act now, future generations will pay the price.” He said.
Executive Director of the KUKA Center, Rev. Fr. Attah Barkindo, stressed the influence of faith leaders in mobilizing climate action, noting that their voices resonate deeply within communities.
“Religious leaders have millions of followers listening to them every week,” he said. “If they understand climate change, they can shape public opinion and drive action. This is why we must mainstream climate education in faith-based discussions.”
Chief Executive of Connected Development (CODE), Hamzat Lawal, called attention to Nigeria’s failure to access sufficient climate finance, stating that the country had only secured 20% of available funds, most of which were loans.
He said, “Nigeria is one of the countries suffering the worst effects of climate change, yet we are not getting the resources we need to adapt.
“Faith-based advocacy is critical. We must demand justice and ensure Nigeria is at the center of global climate discussions.” He said
The summit featured the launch of the first Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report & Policy Brief, highlighting strategic messaging and policy recommendations for faith-driven climate action.
