Governor Mohammed Bago has blamed the country’s worsening insecurity on climate change impact.

Mr Bago stated this at a Friday retreat organised for the House of Representatives press corps in Minna.

“Part of the insecurity we face today is attributed to climate change, which deserves priority attention,” stated the Niger governor.

According to him, we have problems of flood, desertification, and environmental pollution, and despite efforts being made, the devastating effects of climate change are recorded yearly.

He said it was unfortunate that some of these disasters were underreported, adding that perhaps the media is not adequately equipped to handle it.

“I believe that as journalists who report to the parliament where laws are enacted, it is essential that you acquire the necessary skills and tools to mainstream climate change,” the Niger governor explained.

The governor said this would enable the media to set the agenda for the legislature and the executive.

Mr Bago said the government of Niger, under his leadership, would prioritise climate change to mitigate natural and man-made disasters.

He said this informed the decision to convene a ‘Green Economy Summit’ slated for October 24 to 25.

“Since my assumption of office, we have raised the ante of informing the public about preventive measures to save lives and reduce damage to property and infrastructure,” added the governor. 

The governor added, “We are willing to collaborate with the media to drive this advocacy as well as work out strategies to put climate change issues on the front burner.”

He said at the end of the retreat, journalists would be better positioned to inform, educate and enlighten the society on the implications of climate change.

(NAN)