Nigeria’s minister of environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal says projects initiated to advance the country’s economic goals and climate change objectives will be given utmost priority..
The newly sworn- in minister who resumed duty Wednesday in Abuja identified Climate change, deforestation, air and water pollution, as well as loss of biodiversity as all critical issues that demand immediate attention.
In his words: “As we enter this new chapter, there will undoubtedly be challenges ahead. . We cannot afford to be complacent or delay action any longer. Our planet is sending us distress signals, and it is our responsibility to act swiftly and decisively”.
He added that to achieve the set goals, there’s need to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity within the ministry.
His speech read in part: “Our success will depend on our ability to work together as a team, leveraging each other’s expertise and ideas. I encourage open communication and the sharing of knowledge across all levels of the Ministry. Let us create a safe space for creativity, where new ideas can flourish and be transformed into meaningful action.”
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For the newly appointed minister, it is imperative to collaborate with other Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the federal government, even as the environment ministry provides leadership in the areas of environmental sustainability in all the 36 States of the federation and the (FCT).
Lawal expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the trust and confidence placed in him to lead the ministry as well as Minister of State, Dr. Ishak Salako for providing leadership at the ministry before his appointment.
Balarabe Abbas Lawal was among the last three ministers appointed by president Bola Ahmed Tinubu bringing the total number of cabinet members in his administration to forty- eight.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
