The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change.
The Controller of Federal Operations Unit Zone B Kaduna, Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu who presented a pivotal paper at a 3-day retreat held at the National Teachers Institute (NTI) in Kaduna, themed “Youth Involvement in Tackling Climate Change in Our Community,” said this initiative falls under the Unit’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.
According to a press release by Customs Public Relations Officer,Isah Suleiman, the retreat was jointly organized by the Red Cross Kaduna North Division and the NCS, Federal Operations Unit B Kaduna, from October 6-9, 2024.
Comptroller Shuaibu according to the release made presentation highlighting the critical role the NCS plays in addressing climate change, emphasizing on collaborative efforts among stakeholders, support for renewable energy initiatives promotion of sustainable trade practices, and combating wildlife trafficking
Shuaibu’s address underscored the challenges in mitigating the effect of climate change in Nigeria which includes but not limited to lack of effective climate change policy and legislation, inadequate institutional framework and coordination, dependence on fossil fuels and oil exports, high level of poverty, deforestation and land degradation, limited public awareness and education on climate change, among others.
The event also drew attention to climate change’s devastating effects on Nigeria’s ecosystem, economy, and society, such as the rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events
The 3-day retreat concluded with organizers and participants planting trees, demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s quest to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change as the NCS, Federal Operations Unit B Kaduna, and the Red Cross Kaduna North Division have shown their shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.