The World Children’s Day 2023 has given another mileage to issues around child rights and climate change issues.
In a groundbreaking nationwide celebration, Nigeria marked World Children’s Day 2023 by addressing the pressing issues of child rights and the escalating climate crisis.
The heart of the celebration, spanning cities such as Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Enugu, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, was a dynamic platform where children took the lead in discussions, bringing attention to the profound impact of climate change on their lives and futures.
The discussions delved into critical matters, unveiling the direct health implications of climate change on children, ranging from heightened physical dangers to the looming threats of waterborne diseases and malnutrition.
A poignant revelation was the alarming rate of child displacement due to environmental disasters, with an unsettling statistic of 650,000 children displaced between 2016 and 2021 due to floods.
Nigeria, positioned as the second most vulnerable country worldwide concerning children’s exposure to climate change, confronts severe challenges.
Over 110 million Nigerian children stand at risk, grappling with the harsh realities of rising temperatures, flooding, drought, and severe storms.
Dr. Salisu Dahiru, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, emphasized the urgency of a comprehensive response, stating:
“As one of the countries that suffers the greatest exposure to adverse climate impacts, Nigeria’s response to climate change must be swift and holistic, accounting for the needs of vulnerable people, including children and women, at the decision-making level, as well as in the implementation of the National Climate Change Action Plan.”
UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, underscored the significance of the celebration as a crucial platform for children most affected by climate change to voice their concerns.
He remarks:
“Their input is essential in shaping our collective path towards a sustainable and resilient future,”
Beyond the spotlight on children’s voices, the celebration also showcased collaborative efforts between the Government, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
The focus was on advocacy, partnerships, and climate education, illustrating a united front against the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change.
This unprecedented event serves as a beacon of hope, rallying stakeholders from diverse sectors to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable in the face of climate adversity.
For more detailed information on the impact of climate change on Nigerian children, read here.
Nigeria’s World Children’s Day celebration transcends a mere observance; it stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to fostering resilience, awareness, and sustainable solutions for its future generation.
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For more information, please contact:
Safiya Akau, Communications Officer, UNICEF sakau@unicef.org
