The Ambassador to the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Abuja, Her Excellency Annett Günther, commended Ecosystem Sustainability Network (EcoSusNet) and other CSOs selected for the Empowering Civil Societies to Build Stronger Communities in Nigeria Project for their dedication and passion for solving pressing climate problems that affect their communities locally.
The Ambassador stated this during her keynote address at the Nigeria Futures Summit, which was held recently, to be precise, 8-9 October 2024 in Abuja.
She expressed that climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time. The world at large is experiencing some form of climate change impact.
Her Excellency also added that the role of young people is very essential in solving climate issues.
“Youths are not just stakeholders; they are leaders driving change; young people have the creativity, energy and passion for ambitious futures,” said Her Excellency.
“Nigeria Government must engage young people and empower them with resources to make significant contributions,” she added.
She commended EcoSusNet and the other 14 CSOs who implemented the project in the five focal States in Nigeria.
“Thanks to the youth CSOs for demonstrating dedication, passion and hardwork in the works you do for the Nigeria climate.
Speaking earlier, Joshua Alade, the Founder of NG Youth SDGs, stated that his organisation recognised the fact that youth civil society is very effective in advocating for vulnerable groups in the community.
Therefore, collaboration to implement the project is essential to empowering young people to make significant changes in their local communities.
He appreciated the youth CSOs for carrying out the step-down training and conducting community dialogues in their communities.
He also encouraged the youth CSOs to have an open mind and to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.
“This is an opportunity to learn, unlearn, and relearn,” he said.
In response, the Executive Director of EcoSusNet, Jiata Ekele, remarked that EcoSusNet is excited about this partnership and that implementing the project in Nasarawa state was a milestone achievement for us as an organisation.
Also speaking, Tashi Manasseh, Project Officer at EcoSusNet, stated that the project spanned through capacity-building training, train-the-trainer workshops, a community dialogue, LAPA creation and a multi-stakeholders engagement workshop.
Tashi mentioned that EcoSusNet has trained ten youth CSOs on Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
He said EcoSusNet had also conducted a community dialogue in Nasarawa State, which had the active participation of government officials, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community groups, associations, students’ community, women groups, PWD groups, security operatives, and many others.
“EcoSusNet is dedicated to solving pressing environmental issues that affect young people, women, children, PWDs and local communities, and we are open to partnership and collaboration,” he added.
