Education
Taraba unveils ‘Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026’, commits to environmental sustainability – EnviroNews
– Advertisement –
The Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has officially launched the Taraba State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026, describing it as a strategic framework for integrating environmental considerations into government planning and promoting sustainable development across the state.
The launch, which officials say marks a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and inclusive green development, held on Friday, August 21, 2026, in Jalingo, the state capital. It brought together top government functionaries, academics, environmental experts and other stakeholders.
Performing the launch, Governor Kefas said environmental considerations must henceforth be incorporated into government planning, stressing that all stakeholders must work together to achieve the objectives of the policy.
He said the policy provides opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, environmental protection and infrastructure, while strengthening the state’s response to climate related challenges.
The Governor urged the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to position Taraba State to benefit from the emerging carbon market, stressing that climate resilience must become an integral part of the state’s planning systems.
The Governor directed the ministry to develop a clear implementation framework and timeline to ensure the full implementation of the policy.
He also directed that local government areas be incorporated into the implementation process, while urging the ministry to liaise with relevant development partners to attract funding and investors that would support the state’s climate and environmental initiatives.
Governor Kefas called on residents of the state to contribute to the success of the policy by observing responsible environmental practices and complying with measures aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change.
Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aishat A. Barde, said the Climate Change Policy and Action Plan provides a clear roadmap for strengthening climate governance, protecting ecosystems, building resilience and unlocking opportunities that would support sustainable development in Taraba State.
Commissioner Barde described the occasion as a defining moment in the collective journey towards building a more sustainable and climate-secure Taraba State.
“This Policy and Action Plan provides a clear roadmap for strengthening climate governance, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting our ecosystems, building resilience to climate impacts, and unlocking opportunities for climate finance to support our development priorities.
“It is the outcome of extensive consultations, technical assessments and collaboration involving Ministries, Departments and Agencies, experts, development partners, civil society organisations and community stakeholders,” she declared.
Barde commended Gov. Kefas for providing the enabling environment and for his intentional leadership in making climate action a priority in the development agenda of the state.
She also expressed appreciation to Natural Eco Capital, Society for Planet and Prosperity as well as the African Climate Foundation (ACF) for their financial and technical support.
She equally lauded the Technical Working Committee, comprising experts drawn from the state, and national institutions, development partners and stakeholders “who contributed in one way or another to the successful completion of this important document.”
Barde added: “As we unveil this Policy today, we call on all MDAs, Local Government Councils, traditional institutions, communities, youth and women groups, the private sector and development partners to embrace their respective roles in its implementation.
“Climate action is not the responsibility of one institution; it is a shared mandate. Its success will depend on our collective commitment, coordination and sustained action.
“The launch of this Policy is not an end in itself, but the beginning of a new phase of coordinated and measurable climate action in Taraba State.
“Together, we can build a state that is environmentally sustainable, economically prosperous and resilient to the challenges of a changing climate.”
A presentation on climate change was delivered by Dr. Eugene Ituwa, CEO of Natural Eco Capital and Lead Expert for the development of the Policy and Action Plan, who described the policy as an indication of Taraba State’s commitment to tackling climate change and implementing practical actions to address its effects.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Dr. Tafarki Agbadu Eneme, the Member representing Kurmi at the Taraba State House of Assembly, and Chairman, House Committee on Environment and Climate Change; Professor Mahmoud Abdullahi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Taraba State University; Professor Oladipo Emmanuel of University of Lagos; and Dr. Vincent Ndukka Ojeh of Taraba State University.
The stakeholders commended the state government for developing the policy and called for effective implementation to ensure that its objectives translate into tangible environmental, economic and social benefits for the people of Taraba State.
