Ecosystem Sustainability Network (EcoSusNet) organised a physical step-down training for ten youth-led civil society organisations (CSOs) in Nasarawa State on September 19, 2024.
The event was part of the Empowering Youth Civil Society to Build Stronger Communities project, supported by the Nigerian Youth SDGs Network and the German Missions in Nigeria. Held at the AK-Connect Hub in Akwanga, the training aimed to equip youth CSOs with the capacity to engage with Nigeria’s climate policies and advocate for climate action within their local communities.
The participating CSOs included Beacon Youth Initiative, Mother and Child-Care Enhancement Foundation, Kpaba Initiatives, Better Leven Advancement Center, and YALI Network Nasarawa State, amongst others. These organisations are vital in championing causes such as environmental justice, youth leadership, and women’s empowerment across Nasarawa State.
Nigeria is one of the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, grappling with increasing floods, desertification, and unpredictable weather patterns. The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which were central to the training, are critical frameworks that the country has adopted to mitigate these impacts. The NAP outlines strategies to bolster climate resilience across sectors like agriculture and water resources, while the NDCs underscore Nigeria’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030, or up to 45% with international assistance.
The training sessions were led by facilitators Praise Danson Wraiba and Mr Adagazu Eggah, who provided practical guidance on how to organise impactful climate campaigns, communicate effectively, and engage communities in climate advocacy efforts. The interactive nature of the training allowed participants to share their experiences and brainstorm creative solutions to local climate issues.
Praise Danson Wraiba, a climate change education expert, underlined the importance of youth leadership in achieving climate resilience. “Youth CSOs play a crucial role in advocating for climate action at the grassroots. This training empowers them with the knowledge and skills they need to understand and implement Nigeria’s climate policies,” he said.
The participants expressed their enthusiasm for the knowledge gained during the training. Joseph Joy Naveh, from Beacon Youth Initiative, shared her thoughts: “Understanding the NAP and NDCs has helped us relate national climate strategies to the realities we face locally. This knowledge will enable us to lead more impactful climate campaigns in our communities.”
Mr Ibav Dominic, representing the National Association of Special Education Students, emphasised the need for inclusivity in climate advocacy. “People with disabilities are often left out of climate solutions. This training has equipped us with the tools to ensure our communities are more inclusive in tackling climate challenges.”
Mr Daniel Dauda, from YALI Network Nasarawa State, remarked, “This training has given us the practical skills to mobilise young people for climate action. It’s about more than just raising awareness – it’s about making a tangible difference in our communities.”
The participants also took part in exercises that encouraged them to think creatively about how to tackle local climate challenges. They explored innovative approaches to climate education and campaign organisation.
Mr Adagazu Eggah, a communications expert, highlighted the significance of clear messaging in climate advocacy. “The way we communicate the urgency of climate action is crucial. We must ensure our messages are relatable and accessible to all members of our communities,” he said.
At the conclusion of the training, many participants felt reinvigorated and committed to driving climate action in their localities. They plan to initiate community-based projects focusing on climate education and policy awareness, alongside resilience-building activities.
EcoSusNet’s Project Officer, Mr Tashi David Manasseh, expressed his optimism about the outcomes of the training.
“Our objective is to provide these youth CSOs with the tools and knowledge they need to spearhead climate action in Nasarawa State. By engaging young leaders, we are contributing to the development of stronger and more sustainable communities,” he said.
“This step-down training marks a critical milestone in building climate resilience in Nasarawa State, as young leaders are now better equipped to address the climate challenges affecting their communities. Through their efforts, these CSOs will play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for all,” he added.