By Daniel Karlmax
A coalition of Nigerian climate and environmental activists has launched the #Vote4Climate Initiative, calling on political aspirants and parties to include climate change and environmental protection in their campaign manifestos.
In a statement made available to journalists, the coalition said the campaign is aimed at ensuring that climate change and environmental issues become part of political discussions and campaigns across the country.
The Head of Communications and Strategies at African Climate Reporters, Comrade Ibrahima Yakubu, said climate change should no longer be treated as a secondary issue during election campaigns because its impacts are already affecting millions of Nigerians.
He said flooding, drought, desertification, deforestation, extreme heat, pollution and water shortages are increasingly threatening agriculture, food security, livelihoods and public health.
Yakubu urged political aspirants to present clear and practical plans for tackling climate change, including tree planting, forest restoration, clean energy, sustainable agriculture, improved waste management, flood prevention and protection of water resources.
He also called on voters, particularly young Nigerians, to support candidates who demonstrate genuine commitment to environmental protection and climate action.
The coalition said making climate change a major issue in the 2027 elections would encourage future leaders to develop long-term solutions to Nigeria’s growing environmental challenges and protect vulnerable communities.
The #Vote4Climate Initiative is being supported by climate advocates, civil society organisations and environmental groups, including Metro-environmental Initiative, Green Connection with the aim of mobilising Nigerians to demand stronger climate commitments from political candidates.
Editing By Godwin Duru
