His Excellency,
Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,
The Executive Governor of Delta State,
Governors Office, Asaba, Delta State.
Proposal to Domesticate the Climate Change Act 2021 in Delta State.
Dear Governor Sheriff Oborevwori,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to emphasize the critical need for Delta State to domesticate the Climate Change Act 2021, recently passed by the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Furthermore, I wish to underscore the significance of this domestication in granting Delta State access to international climate change funds.
The global consensus on climate change is unequivocal, with the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change highlighting the urgency of immediate climate action. The report reiterates that climate change threatens both human well-being and planetary health, and the actions taken in this decade will have lasting consequences for generations to come. Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13, which calls for decisive action against climate change and its impacts, is imperative.
The Climate Change Act 2021 was enacted at the federal level to mainstream climate actions into government policies, establish a system of carbon budgeting, and create the National Council on Climate Change. However, the impact of climate change varies across states in Nigeria, and community needs and vulnerabilities differ accordingly. It is crucial, therefore, to extend the provisions of this Act to the state level, tailoring climate action to Delta State’s unique requirements.
Domesticating the Climate Change Act 2021 in Delta State would serve several essential purposes:
Meeting International Commitments: Nigeria, like all nations, is obligated to fulfill its international commitments to combat climate change. By domesticating the Act, Delta State would align itself with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming.
Localized Climate Action: Domestication would enable Delta State to develop policies and strategies that are better suited to address the specific climate challenges facing the state. This targeted approach can enhance the effectiveness of climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Challenges and the Way Forward:
While the benefits of domestication are clear, it is essential to acknowledge potential challenges. These may include resource constraints, the need for capacity building, and the requirement for technical expertise. To overcome these obstacles, collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments, as well as engagement with international partners, are crucial.
Furthermore, public awareness and education initiatives must be prioritized to inform citizens about climate change and the significance of the Climate Change Act 2021. A well-informed public will be more supportive of implementation efforts and actively engage in climate action.
Conclusion:
The urgency of domesticating the Climate Change Act 2021 in Delta State cannot be overstated. Climate change poses a significant threat to the environment, economy, and well-being of our citizens. By adopting and implementing the Act at the state level, Delta State can take a substantial step toward mitigating climate change and building resilience against its impacts.
This action aligns with international commitments, empowers local communities, and secures a more sustainable future for all Deltans. It is my sincere hope that you will consider this proposal seriously and take the necessary steps to initiate the domestication process promptly.
Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter. I remain at your disposal for any further discussions or clarifications.
Sincerely,
Comrade Victor Ojie
Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Delta State on Civil Societies and NGOs