the first edition of the Nigeria Climate and Security Conference 2024

USPA NEWS - On November 1, the first edition of the Nigeria Climate and Security Conference 2024 was held at El Kanemi Hall, University of Maiduguri, Borno State, bringing together a diverse assembly of government officials, international organizations, civil society, and youth leaders. As the world approaches major global climate events—UNFCCC COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—the critical role of these stakeholders in advancing climate and security agendas was highlighted. Youth leaders, in particular, were recognized as pivotal figures, both as those most affected by climate change and as pioneers of innovative solutions.

The event was organized by GLOBE, GECCI, Prosperity and Peace Pathways Project (University of Greenwich), Youth Climate Council Nigeria (YCCN), and the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with the support of valued partners.

???? Honored Virtual Dignitaries and Esteemed Guests: Mr. Ovais Sarmad (Former Deputy Executive Secretary, UNFCCC Secretariat and IOM), Mohammed Azhar Siddique (Advocate, Supreme Court of Pakistan; Legal Adviser to Former PM Imran Khan), Mr. Patrick Worms (President, International Union of Agroforestry)

???? Key Speakers Included: Hon. Samuel Ifeanyi Onuigbo (Special Guest & Co-host), Dr. Uche Okpara (Co-host), Abubakar Muhammad Abatcha (Convener & Co-host), Abdulhamid Tahir Hamid (CEO, GECCI; AU GGW Youth Advisory Board Chair; YCCN Chair)

???? Highlighted Keynotes: Creating a Safe Environment for Climate Security - Prof. Irfan Zaheer Khan, University of Maiduguri, Integrating Peacebuilding in Climate Initiatives Prof. Abubakar K. Monguno, Youth Leadership in Climate Resilience and Peacebuilding - Prof. Daniel Musa Gwary

???? Panel Discussions: Session 1: Integrating Peacebuilding into Climate Initiatives moderated by Zara Mohammed Gashua with Panelists Yazid S. Mikail and Amb. Usman Aliyu (Director General, GGW, Borno State) Session 2: Youth Leadership in Climate Resilience moderated by Muhammad Shuaibu with Panelists Bashir Ishaq Ahmad, Umar Garema, and Yahuza Ismail Ahmed Special thanks to Mamman Modu Kime, Ibrahim Babagana (GECCI Borno), and Salisu D Dankumbo (GECCI Bauchi) for their vital roles as MCs and facilitators! This gathering marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s climate conversation. Together, we are building a resilient, secure future for all. ????