Katsina: Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has pledged to allocate 30 per cent of the state's annual budget to climate resilience as part of efforts to establish a Green Investment Fund. Radda made this commitment at the Katsina State Climate Action and Green Investment Summit in Abuja, which focused on transforming climate challenges into development opportunities in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Radda emphasized that the state government would accelerate implementation with an initial capitalisation of five billion naira and mechanisms to leverage additional private capital. He unveiled the 'Katsina State Green Growth Agenda (KAGGA)' as a blueprint for harmonising economic progress with ecological preservation, including initiatives like drip irrigation, drought-resistant crop varieties, and agroforestry.
The governor also announced plans to enact climate-related laws within 12 months to institutionalise accountability and provide a stable policy environment for green investments. To combat water scarcity, the state has constructed 120 solar-powered boreholes, with an additional 60 under construction, and invested N5.9 billion in rainwater harvesting structures.
Radda highlighted the state's ambition to electrify 500 rural communities with solar mini-grids by 2030 and expand its participation in the Great Green Wall Initiative. Additionally, a 'Waste-to-Wealth' programme will be launched to turn plastic waste into eco-friendly products, driven by youth entrepreneurs.
Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, noted the urgency of addressing climate change and praised Katsina's proactive approach. He emphasized the region's vulnerability and potential for turning adversity into advantage through strategic action and investments.
Ms Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, expressed support for Katsina's green economy initiatives, emphasizing the transition to climate leadership and sustainable energy solutions. Ms Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, commended the governor for aligning climate action with gender equality, highlighting the environmental and health benefits of transitioning from firewood to biogas technology.