Isiyaku Ahmed
Kano State Government, with support from the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Change (PACE), has officially launched the Kano State Climate Change Policy.
The unveiling ceremony was held on Tuesday at the Amani Event Center in Kano and brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, Civil Society Organizations, Traditional Leaders, Academia, Persons with Disabilities, Religious Leaders, Women’s Group, and the Media.
The policy positions Kano State in alignment with both national and international climate frameworks, notably the Paris Agreement and Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). It aims to drive a low-carbon, climate-resilient, and gender-inclusive path to socio-economic development.
Key thematic areas of the policy focus on agriculture, energy, education, flood and erosion control, forest and land use management, health, industrial processes and product use, short-lived climate pollutants, urban development, transport, and waste management.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano state, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Ibrahim Umar Farouk, delivered his address.
He said, “Today, marks a major milestone in our administration’s resolve to reposition Kano as a progressive subnational actor in climate governance and the environmental system.
“We are gathered here today for the official launch of the Kano State Climate Change Policy, a landmark framework that reinforces our commitment to sustainable development.
“Upon assuming office, we recognize the urgent need to strengthen our climate governance architecture and integrate climate action into the heart of our development agenda.
“Guided by our vision for a clean and resilient Kano, we fast-track the drafting, stakeholder validation, and final assent of the Kano State Climate Change Policy, which I have the honour to sign into law on 29 January 2025.
“The policy we are launching today is complemented by a climate change action plan that translates our political commitment into a practical and coordinated implementation framework.
“It focuses on key priority areas, including clean energy transition, sustainable land use, green land spot, and community resilience.
“This document, undoubtedly, will guide government, ministries, departments, and agencies, the private sector, and development partners in delivering impactful climate solutions across the state.
“I am proud that you have already commenced the practical implementation of some of these pillars.”
Governor Yusuf highlighted initiatives such as the solarization of public infrastructure, an effort that is energy efficient, reduces public energy cost, and enhances public safety and security, and a plan to plant 5 million trees in 2025 to reduce the effects of land degradation and improve air quality, enhancing urban aesthetics, and supporting biodiversity.
“As a people-focused administration, we believe that climate action must be inclusive, which is why we are prioritizing climate change education, public awareness, and youth engagement.
“Here today, we are inaugurating the state climate change steering committee, the secretariat, and technical working groups, which collectively will draw the implementation of this policy.
“This reflects our resolve and commitment to move beyond policy declaration to institutional action, coordination, and measurable outcomes,” he added.
Earlier, Kano State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir Muhammad Hashim, in his speech, said the climate change policy provides a strategic roadmap for mitigation, adaptation, and inclusive climate governance across all sectors, from agriculture to health, from transport to energy.
“It is the first of its kind in northern Nigeria and one of the few subnational climate policies in the country displaying not only expert inputs but also community voices, youth perspectives, and gender gender-sensitive framework, but our work does not end here.
“Today, we are also inaugurating the Kano State Climate Steering Committee, a high-level multi-sectoral body that will oversee the implementation, coordination, and accountability of climate actions across the state.
“This committee represents our commitment to institutional coordination and shared responsibilities.
“We are equally proud to unveil two critical legislative instruments that would strengthen the environmental protection framework.”
The Kano State Environmental Protection Law and the Kano State Environmental Pollution and Waste Control Regulation 2025 are available in both English and Hausa, ensuring broader accessibility and promoting compliance across the state.
The Commissioner said the laws empower the state to tackle pollution and protect public health with the full backing of the laws.
“It signals that in Kano state, environmental impunity will no longer be tolerated.
“Together, the policy, the steering committee, and these regulations form a three-pillar of new climate governance in Kano State – one that is coordinated, inclusive, and possible.”
According to the Commissioner, the journey would not be easy, as the climate crisis is real and its impact is already being felt in the communities, from drought to flood in the city.
Hashim said, “We are launching this policy today as something out of fear; it gives hope, courage, and structure.
“We are building a Kano that is not only climate aware but climate ready.
“A state where our children can breathe cleaner air, where our farmers can rely on a more resilient ecosystem, and where our industries can grow sustainably.”
The Commissioner then thanked the state governor for his leadership, political will, and unwavering support for the agenda.
He also appreciated development partners, technical experts, and stakeholders who contributed to the drafting and validation of the policy document.
In his speech, the Head of Governance and Stability at the British High Commission, Mr. William Robinson, said the policy is not just a document; it is a declaration of a roadmap of action and a symbol of leadership with a deep understanding that climate change is a challenge that affects lives.
“To tackle climate change requires more than a vision; it demands coordination, collaboration, and commitment across all levels of government.
“A good climate change governance is built on partnership between ministries, government, and civil societies, and of course between nations.
“It is with joint work that we can deliver solutions that are inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.
“The United Kingdom is proud to be part of Kano’s journey.
Climate is a top priority for the United Kingdom both at home and abroad.
“We are committed to supporting Kano to strengthen climate governance, unlock access to climate finance, and assist initiatives such as the waste program, which is also an environmental plan of action to drive economic opportunity.
“We recognize the unique challenges faced by Kano. The right support, a policy like this one, can catalyze investment, empower communities, and build a greener, prosperous future for all.
“Let me assure you that the UK will continue to serve in Kano, we will work together to turn this policy into action and impact.”
In her goodwill message, the Deputy National Program Manager of the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Change (PACE), Mrs. Titi Fakoya, said her organization is proud to be a part of the Kano climate change policy journey, supporting the design, consultation, validation, and now the operationalization of this policy.
“This achievement is a result of tireless work by state actors, the civil society, the traditional institutions, and partners.
“It demonstrates what is possible when ambition meets political will.
“In support of this policy, PACE has been deliberate in ensuring it reflects not only the technical soundness but also the voices, the realities, and resilience of women, youths, persons with disabilities, and frontline communities who are often the least resourceful of climate change, yet the most affected.
“The launch resonates deeply with the UK government’s global commitment to climate justice, inclusive governance, and locally led adaptation.”
The high point of the event was the panel discussion session on aspects of climate change.
