Advocates Call for Gender-Responsive Climate Law as Plateau Strengthens Climate Governance. The Special Adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Sustainable Technology and Carbon Credit, Nuhu Yakubu Chayi, has called for urgent and inclusive climate action to protect Plateau State’s economy, food systems, and vulnerable communities.
Chayi made the call while delivering a keynote address at a three-day Inclusive Climate Policy Advocacy Town Hall held at Lamonde Hotel, Jos. He described climate change as a current development and security challenge already affecting lives across the state.
According to him, rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, longer dry seasons, and frequent flash floods are threatening agriculture, water supply, and public health.Climate change is no longer a distant issue, Chayi said. It is already affecting farming seasons, food prices, water availability, and livelihoods, and the response must be coordinated, inclusive, and supported by law.
The town hall was organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development in partnership with Side-By-Side Movement Nigeria, with support from Christian Aid. Participants included lawmakers, civil society groups, traditional and religious leaders, women’s groups, and representatives of persons with disabilities.
Globally, scientists report that 2023 and 2024 were among the hottest years ever recorded, with rising cases of floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Nigeria has experienced similar trends. Data from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency show increasing temperatures and unstable rainfall patterns across the country.
In Plateau State, farmers in areas such as Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Mangu, and Langtang have adjusted planting periods due to unpredictable rains. In some communities, early rainfall stoppage has reduced harvests of maize, potatoes, and vegetables. Recent floods have displaced families in riverine areas, while extended dry periods have reduced pasture availability, increasing pressure on land and water resources. Experts say mining activities and deforestation have worsened the state’s vulnerability to climate shocks.
A major focus of the town hall was a proposed Climate Bill being drafted for submission to the Plateau State House of Assembly. Desmond Chollom, Speaker of the Plateau State Climate Assembly, said the bill aims to ensure continuity and coordination in climate governance.
The bill will clearly define responsibilities, set up monitoring systems, and align Plateau State with national and global climate commitments, he said. The Climate Assembly was established by Governor Mutfwang to coordinate climate initiatives and help the state access climate financing opportunities, including carbon credit markets.
Chayi explained that climate-related investments could create jobs in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, land restoration, and green enterprises. He stressed that clear policies are essential for attracting international funding and private sector support.
Civil society groups urged the inclusion of gender and disability considerations in the proposed law. Offiong Enang of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development noted that women play key roles in farming and water management and are often the most affected by climate impacts.
Representing the disability community, Aaron Adamu, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Plateau State, said emergency responses often fail to consider accessibility needs. When disasters happen, evacuation and relief efforts rarely account for persons with disabilities, he said, adding that inclusion must be clearly stated in law.
Christian Aid officials cited research showing that climate impacts affect women and marginalized groups more due to economic and social inequalities. They called for dedicated budget provisions to support targeted adaptation programmes.
Agriculture remains a major employer in Plateau State, and reduced harvests have affected food prices, household income, and market stability. Public health officials have also reported increases in waterborne diseases following floods, linked to damaged sanitation systems.
Chayi recommended climate-smart farming practices such as improved irrigation, drought-resistant seeds, and soil conservation. He also highlighted renewable energy and reforestation as solutions that can reduce environmental pressure while creating jobs.
Traditional and religious leaders emphasized the role of community institutions in awareness and local action. Organizers said the town hall includes a detailed review of the draft Climate Bill to integrate stakeholder input.
At the end of the meeting, participants are expected to issue a communiqué outlining proposed amendments, timelines, and accountability measures. If passed, the law would place Plateau State among North Central states with a dedicated climate law that includes gender and disability considerations.
Chayi concluded by urging continued collaboration among government, civil society, and communities. Climate resilience requires long-term planning, reliable data, and inclusive participation, he said, adding that Plateau State has an opportunity to protect its environment while creating economic opportunities for its people.
The town hall will end with the presentation of recommendations to members of the Plateau State House of Assembly for legislative consideration.
