Experts in the environmental field have highlighted climate change as a primary danger to economic stability and safety within the Niger Delta. This conclusion emerged during a Policy Roundtable on Advancing Climate Resilience, Climate-Sensitive Peacebuilding and Human Security held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, hosted by Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND).
Attendees, including government officials and community representatives, observed that issues like coastal erosion and flooding are exacerbating resource-based tensions. Dr. David Udofia, representing PIND, emphasized that climate change has evolved from a purely environmental issue into a critical driver of poverty and regional instability. He argued that the loss of farms and fishing grounds creates a chain reaction that worsens displacement and local grievances.
A newly released Policy Brief on Climate Change and Human Security confirms that unpredictable rainfall and land degradation are cutting into agricultural productivity. To combat this, PIND is advocating for the inclusion of climate resilience in all regional development and peacebuilding frameworks.
Chief Amiefamonyo Braid Fredrick Ongiri from the Bayelsa State Emergency Management Agency highlighted that no single organization can tackle this problem independently. He called for improved data usage and stronger collaboration between the private sector and government entities. Community members, such as Ebijimi Olugbenga, echoed these concerns, noting that local involvement is vital for crafting effective, practical solutions to protect livelihoods.
