The Benue State Government has taken a significant step toward addressing the growing threat of climate change by inaugurating a Technical Working Committee tasked with developing a robust climate change policy.
This initiative aims to protect the environment and effectively mitigate the risks associated with climate change impacts.
The ceremony, held in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, was presided over by the State Commissioner of Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change, Odoh Ogwu. During his remarks, Commissioner Ogwu emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing the forthcoming policy once it is finalized.
Benue State has faced considerable challenges due to climate change, including flooding, erratic rainfall patterns, and other adverse effects. These challenges have resulted in substantial losses for farmers, who are among the most affected annually.
The situation has prompted the state government, in collaboration with the Women Environmental Programme (WEP), to organize an inception workshop and stakeholder consultation to devise effective climate change strategies.
During the workshop, Commissioner Ogwu formally inaugurated the State Technical Working Committee, which is expected to develop a comprehensive climate change policy aimed at mitigating the threats posed by climate change. The committee’s work will be guided by a draft outline of the document, presented by Lead Consultant Huzi Mshelia.
As the workshop entered its second day, stakeholders expressed optimism about the development of a resilient framework that would effectively combat climate change threats. The process aims to domesticate the National Climate Change Policy, tailoring it to meet the specific needs and challenges of Benue State.
In the coming weeks, the technical working committee is expected to produce a document that will serve as a long-lasting solution to the climate change challenges facing the state.