Nigeria has taken the lead in advancing discussions on the link between climate change and security, hosting a regional forum that brings together policymakers, environmental experts, and peacebuilding practitioners from across Africa.
The high-level gathering, held in Abuja, focuses on how climate adaptation strategies can be aligned with peacebuilding efforts to address rising conflicts driven by environmental pressures.
Declaring the forum open, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Salihu Aminu Usman, warned that the pace of climate change is intensifying and demands urgent global and local responses.
“Extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent and severe across the world. We must act quickly before the situation worsens,” he said.
Usman highlighted Nigeria’s commitments under global climate agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement.
“We have pledged to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, with a target of up to 47 percent reduction supported by international cooperation,” he noted.
He explained that the country’s National Adaptation Plan, currently nearing completion, incorporates conflict-sensitive approaches, particularly in addressing security challenges such as farmer-herder clashes and banditry.
“It would be a mistake to separate climate adaptation from peacebuilding. Many of the conflicts we face today are linked to environmental stress,” Usman added.
In her remarks, Director of the Department of Climate Change, Iniobong Abiola-Awe, pointed to the growing impact of climate variability on livelihoods and national stability.
“Climate change is already affecting infrastructure, biodiversity, and economic activities, while also fueling security concerns,” she said.
“Our adaptation planning process is inclusive, transparent, and designed to address both immediate and long-term needs.”
Also speaking, Alec Crawford of the International Institute for Sustainable Development said the relationship between climate risks and conflict is no longer theoretical.
“We are seeing in real time how climate change is shaping conflict dynamics. It is no longer a future threat—it is happening now,” he said.
“The goal is not just to adapt, but to ensure adaptation efforts actively contribute to peace.”
Crawford also commended Nigeria for hosting the forum and acknowledged international support for the initiative.
“We appreciate the Government of Nigeria for convening this important dialogue and the Government of Ireland for its financial support,” he added.
The forum has attracted participants from several African countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Liberia, Mali, Somalia, and South Sudan.
Organisers say discussions will centre on integrating peacebuilding into climate policies, sharing national experiences, and strengthening collaboration between environment, security, and development actors.
The forum is scheduled to run through May 7, featuring technical sessions, policy dialogues, and peer-learning engagements among participating countries.