The inaugural year of the 10th Senate saw 10 bills introduced to address climate change amid the environmental crisis plaguing the country
In the face of an unprecedented climate crisis characterized by rising temperatures, desertification, drought, flooding, and coastal erosion, only 10 climate-related bills were introduced in the first year of the 10th Senate. Such a limited legislative response is deeply concerning, particularly as Nigeria grapples with escalated climate impacts that displace communities, jeopardize agriculture, and undermine livelihoods.
The bills introduced primarily focused on environmental sanitation, climate preservation, and ecological concerns. However, this constrained legislative response fails to address the comprehensive climate-related challenges and signals that Nigeria may not be prioritizing climate action adequately, especially when it should be at the forefront of the national agenda. The country’s vulnerability to climate change necessitates robust policy interventions, as neglecting this issue can lead to severe consequences.
The senate is enjoined to take decisive and immediate action to tackle Nigeria’s climate crisis. While the introduction of 10 bills is a starting point, it is insufficient. To effectively confront climate change, the senate must prioritize comprehensive and ambitious legislation that tackles the root causes of these climate crisis
10th NASS Report Card: Read up on the performance of other senators and members of House and other specialized categories here
