By ibrahima yakubu 
On November 1, 2024, the first Nigeria Climate and Security Conference took place at El Kanemi Hall, University of Maiduguri, Borno State. The event convened a diverse group of government officials, international organizations, civil society members, and youth leaders. As the world prepares for major climate events, including UNFCCC COP29 in Baku and UNCCD COP16 in Riyadh, the crucial roles of these stakeholders in promoting climate and security agendas were underscored. Youth leaders were particularly highlighted as vital agents of change, both affected by climate change and as innovators in developing solutions.
The conference was organized by GLOBE, GECCI, the Prosperity and Peace Pathways Project (University of Greenwich), the Youth Climate Council Nigeria (YCCN), and the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with support from key partners.
Distinguished Guests Included:
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 Featured:
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)
Notable Keynotes Included:
“Creating a Safe Environment for Climate Security” by Prof. Irfan Zaheer Khan, University of Maiduguri
“Integrating Peacebuilding in Climate Initiatives” by Prof. Abubakar K. Monguno
“Youth Leadership in Climate Resilience and Peacebuilding” by Prof. Daniel Musa Gwary
Panel Discussions:
Session 1: “Integrating Peacebuilding into Climate Initiatives,” moderated by Zara Mohammed Gashua, featuring 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 recognition was given to Mamman Modu Kime, Ibrahim Babagana (GECCI Borno), and Salisu D. Dankumbo (GECCI Bauchi) for their crucial roles as MCs and facilitators.
This conference represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s climate discourse. Together, we are committed to building a resilient and secure future for all.
