Lagos, Nigeria – Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called on the Nigerian government, radio stations, and other stakeholders to collaborate in promoting climate awareness and disaster preparedness.
This call was made in a statement released to commemorate World Radio Day.
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According to Mr. Ayode Longe, MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, radio plays a crucial role in disseminating climate education, fostering dialogue, and holding governments accountable.
He emphasized that Nigeria, as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, has a responsibility to take urgent climate action.
Longe noted that Nigeria has outlined ambitious climate targets, including a pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
However, he expressed concern that the country missed the deadline for submitting its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
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MRA urged the government to leverage radio’s wide reach to educate citizens on climate risks and solutions, and to ensure that marginalized voices are included in policy dialogues.
The organization also stressed the importance of media freedom and the safety of journalists who cover climate change issues.
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The statement concluded by calling on the international community to fulfill its climate finance pledges to enable Nigeria and other vulnerable nations to transition equitably.