By Hajara Usaman
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has expressed his administration’s commitment to supporting the North East Development Commission’s (NEDC) efforts to combat climate change and ensure a sustainable future for the North East region.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the NEDC’s inaugural climate change summit held in Gombe, the governor extended his congratulations to the NEDC for leading such an important initiative.
Represented by his Deputy, Malam Auwal Jatau, Governor Mohammed praised the NEDC for its efforts in promoting environmental protection through the implementation of the North East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan.
He emphasised that this initiative is essential for safeguarding the future of the region. He stated that the Master Plan, which addresses climate change challenges such as unpredictable weather, desertification, and dwindling water resources, demonstrates the NEDC’s dedication to tackling these issues head-on.
The plan, he added, serves not just as a strategy but as a comprehensive action blueprint, integrating environmental protection with sustainable development to ensure that economic growth does not come at the cost of the region’s natural heritage.
The governor further noted that Bauchi, along with neighboring states, stands to gain significantly from the Master Plan, which provides a framework for improving agricultural practices and enhancing the overall quality of life. “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, with impacts felt globally,” Governor Mohammed said.
“Here in the North East, we face unique vulnerabilities that require innovative and targeted solutions. The realities of climate change, such as erratic weather, desertification, and water shortages, demand a collective and proactive response.
He also called for collective action, urging all stakeholders to contribute to the efforts. “The challenges are immense, but through collaboration and innovation, we can transform them into opportunities for positive change,” he said.
Governor Mohammed reaffirmed Bauchi State’s commitment to working closely with the NEDC and other partners to ensure the successful implementation of the Master Plan, fostering a resilient and sustainable environment for current and future generations.
Earlier, NEDC Managing Director and CEO Mohammed Goni Alkali explained that the climate change summit was organized to coordinate efforts in addressing climate challenges and bridging policy and governance gaps in the sector.
