The federal government and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have urged Nigerians to adopt climate-friendly materials in housing and other construction projects to promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

The call was made on Saturday in Abuja during an event commemorating the 2026 World Environment Day.

The event was organised by the Yar’Adua Foundation in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, YouthHub Africa, and the Centre for Climate Action Innovation and Engagement.

Speaking at the event, Iniabong Abiola-Awe, Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, described the programme’s theme, “The Climate of Our Cities: Urbanisation, Creativity and Climate Resilience in Nigeria”, as timely and forward-looking.

According to her, the theme speaks directly to one of the defining challenges of the modern era: building cities that are economically vibrant, socially inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and resilient to the growing impacts of climate change.

“World Environment Day remains the United Nations’ flagship platform for promoting environmental awareness and action across the globe.

“Beyond a day of commemoration, it serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the environment and pursue development pathways that secure the wellbeing of present and future generations.

“It challenges governments, institutions, businesses, communities and individuals to move beyond commitments and embrace transformative action,” she said.

Mrs Abiola-Awe identified climate change as one of the most significant threats to sustainable development globally, noting that countries across continents were grappling with rising temperatures, biodiversity loss, ecosystem degradation, desertification, flooding, sea-level rise, and other extreme weather events.

She said developing countries such as Nigeria were especially vulnerable because of the interplay between climate risks, rapid population growth, urbanisation pressures, infrastructure deficits, and broader development challenges.

According to her, Nigeria’s urban population continues to grow at an unprecedented rate.

“While urbanisation presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, innovation and improved quality of life, it also places increasing pressure on infrastructure, natural resources, housing systems, public services, and environmental management.

“Many of our cities are experiencing heightened vulnerability to flooding, urban heat stress, waste management challenges, air pollution, coastal erosion, and the loss of critical ecosystems.

“These realities underscore the urgent need to integrate climate resilience into urban planning, infrastructure development, and governance systems,” she said.

Mrs Abiola-Awe said the federal government recognised that climate action was no longer optional but imperative for national development.

She noted that the enactment of the Climate Change Act 2021 established a robust legal and institutional framework for coordinating climate action, promoting low-carbon development, and enhancing climate resilience.

According to her, the landmark legislation demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to achieving sustainable development while fulfilling its obligations under the Paris Agreement and other international environmental commitments.

Also speaking, Vivian Emehelu, Director of Administration and Programmes at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, said the country’s environmental challenges underscored the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders.

She said climate change had exacerbated many challenges across the country, largely due to deforestation and other unsustainable human activities.

Ms Emehelu noted that although urbanisation remained an important driver of economic growth and development, it also presented environmental challenges that required careful management.

“All of these developments are beneficial for economic growth. However, it is important for us to understand how to enjoy these benefits while remaining mindful of our environment.

“We must also be conscious of sustainability in our day-to-day activities and how our actions affect the environment,” she said.

She called for increased dialogue, public education, and awareness campaigns to promote environmentally responsible behaviour.

Ms Emehelu also stressed the need to expand access to clean cooking solutions, renewable energy, and energy justice.

In his remarks, Abubakar Sam, Group Head, Strategy and Corporate Development at Jaiz Bank, said the bank was implementing various initiatives as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments.

According to him, the bank focuses on key sectors such as agriculture, health, education, youth development, and women’s empowerment.

“We also support initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, including recycling and responsible waste management,” he said. 

(NAN)