The Federal Government has raised concerns over the growing impact of climate change on food production, livelihoods and national security, urging citizens to adopt sustainable practices and support efforts aimed at reducing environmental degradation.

The warning was delivered by the Director of the Department of Climate Change at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Iniobong Abiola-Awe, during a climate dialogue organised by the C-Circle Foundation to mark the 2026 World Environment Day celebration in Abuja.

Represented by the department’s Principal Scientific Officer, Mrs. Dolapo John-Akhigbe, Abiola-Awe described climate change as one of the most significant challenges facing the current generation, with consequences that cut across virtually every aspect of human life.

She noted that rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation continue to threaten food security, water resources, public health, livelihoods and national security.

According to her, developing nations such as Nigeria are among the most vulnerable to climate change despite contributing only a small fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions.

She, however, said the challenge also presents an opportunity for countries to rethink their development models, strengthen sustainability efforts and build more resilient economies.

Abiola-Awe highlighted Nigeria’s climate commitments, including plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 29 per cent unconditionally and by 52 per cent with international support by 2030, while working towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

She also pointed to several government initiatives designed to address climate-related challenges, including the Climate Change Act 2021, the Energy Transition Plan, the Great Green Wall Initiative and the National Adaptation Plan.

Addressing students participating in the event, she encouraged them to become active advocates for environmental protection and climate action.

She stressed that young people have a critical role to play in driving the changes needed to secure a more sustainable future, noting that their creativity, innovation and determination could contribute significantly to addressing environmental challenges.

Earlier, the Executive Director of the C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment, Dr. Chimere Ohajinwa, explained that the annual programme was created to increase awareness of environmental issues among young people.

She said this year's event focused on climate change and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for greater understanding of environmental challenges and their impact on society.

Ohajinwa observed that the effects of climate change are already evident across Nigeria through rising temperatures, irregular rainfall patterns, flooding and drought.

According to her, these environmental changes are worsening existing socio-economic challenges, particularly in agriculture.

She explained that changes in weather patterns have affected vegetation growth and contributed to conflicts between farmers and herders, while displacement caused by insecurity and environmental pressures has further strained food production.

Ohajinwa noted that these challenges have contributed to rising food prices and increased hardship for many communities.

She added that this year’s programme departed from the traditional debate format and instead adopted a dialogue-based approach to encourage learning, collaboration and practical understanding of climate issues.

The event, she said, was designed not only to raise environmental awareness but also to help students develop public speaking skills and gain a deeper understanding of the links between environmental health, food systems and human wellbeing.

Ohajinwa further urged Nigerians to take responsibility for protecting the environment by adopting proper waste management practices and promoting sustainable lifestyles.

The programme brought together students from various schools, government officials and environmental experts to discuss the growing effects of climate change and explore ways to build a more sustainable future.

Participants were sensitised on how climate change is affecting food systems, livelihoods and national security, while also examining practical measures that individuals and communities can take to reduce environmental risks.

Globally, climate change remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges, with rising temperatures, extreme weather conditions, flooding, drought and ecosystem degradation affecting economies and communities across the world.

In Nigeria, its impact is increasingly reflected in changing rainfall patterns, desertification, food insecurity and the displacement of vulnerable populations, underscoring the need for sustained action at both national and community levels.