The Federal Government has launched the Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking intended to celebrate states across the country for their efforts aimed at tackling climate change and environmental issues.
Speaking during the launch which was held in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal reiterated the government’s call for Nigerian states to develop their own climate policies, actions and plans to support sustainable development in the country.
The minister explained that the Performance Ranking is more than just a ranking—it is a tool for motivation, collaboration, and accountability.
He explained that the ranking highlights best practices, identifies areas for improvement, and fosters a spirit of healthy competition among states and local governments in Nigeria.
“By celebrating the achievements of top performers and providing support to those lagging behind, the country can collectively enhance its national climate response,”he said.
Lawal also highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change impacts while also emphasising that addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from all levels of government.
“Climate governance at the sub-national level is essential for several reasons. It is at this level that the impacts of climate change are acutely felt,”he said. “Coastal communities suffer from erosion, while desertification is rampant in the Northern region. Sub-national governments are often at the forefront of implementing policies and actions that directly affect the lives and livelihoods of people at the grassroots level. Therefore, their role in driving climate action is indispensable,”.
The 2024 edition of the awards saw Lagos State ranked top among the 36 states in Nigeria for Climate Governance Performance. The maiden edition also ranked Gombe State second and Ebonyi State third, while Borno and Ekiti states jointly took fourth place.
Oyo, Kano and Zamfara states occupied the 34th, 35th, and 36th spots, respectively, in the results announced at the event organised by the department of climate change in the Federal Ministry of Environment in conjunction with the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP).
Story was adapted from Science Nigeria.
