The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a healthier, safer, and cleaner environment for Nigerians, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, made the pledge in Abuja during the commemoration of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.
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Lawal described the event as an opportunity for reflection on the dangers of pollution and a renewed dedication to sustainable practices.
He warned that air pollution had become the leading environmental health risk globally, causing more than seven million deaths annually—surpassing malaria and HIV/AIDS combined.
The minister expressed concern over the continued global inaction on air pollution, noting its severe effects on public health, ecosystems, and economic growth, particularly in Nigeria.
He identified bush burning, vehicular emissions, and gas flaring as major contributors to pollution with devastating consequences.
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According to him, the global target is to reduce all forms of air pollution by 50 percent by 2030. He urged Nigerians to embrace sustainable practices, adopt cleaner technologies, and inspire community-driven initiatives aimed at building a healthier environment.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mahmud Adam Kambari, welcomed stakeholders to the event, which also featured the launch of the National Clean Air Programme and the unveiling of the #BreatheEasyNigeria campaign.
Kambari said the programme provides a coordinated framework to combat air pollution through policy reforms, public sensitisation, and the adoption of clean technologies, while aligning Nigeria’s efforts with global best practices.
In his goodwill message, the Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), Dr. Yakubu Mohammed-Baba, commended the ministry’s support and pledged the Council’s commitment to improving air quality across the country.
The President of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), Prof. Ekanem Ekure, also praised the ministry’s efforts, emphasising that children are the most vulnerable to the dangers of air pollution.
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He described clean air as a fundamental right and pledged stronger collaboration with the ministry to raise awareness about the impact of pollution on child health.
The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is observed annually to draw global attention to the need for cleaner air and stronger collective action against pollution.