The Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal has assured Nigerians the Federal Government’s commitment in providing a healthier, safer and cleaner environment in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on environment.
Balarabe disclosed this recently in Abuja during the commemoration of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies.
The Minister added that the day has offered an ample opportunity to reflect on the danger of pollution and by extension another opportunity to renew its dedication and commitment to sustainable practices, work collectively to ensure that present and future generations enjoy cleaner, safer and healthier air.
He believed that “air pollution was recognized as the leading environmental health risk, causing over seven million deaths annually even more than malaria and HIV/AIDS combined.
The Minister further lamented the global inaction towards air pollution and its severity, with devastating impacts on health, ecosystems, and economic growth and development in Nigeria.
He regarded bush burning, vehicular emissions, gas flaring as major contributors to pollution with negative effects on both human health and ecosystems.
“Also noted that the global goal was to achieve a 50% reduction of all forms of air pollution by 2030.
“He urged all Nigerians to embrace sustainable practices, advocate for cleaner technologies and inspire their communities to take action with collective effort to build a future where every Nigerian breaths clean, safe and healthier air under blue skies.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of environment, Mahmud Adam Kambari welcomed the stakeholders to the landmark occasion as well as the launch of the National Clean Air Programme and the unveiling of the #BreatheEasyNigeriaCmpaign.
Kambari reiterated that the event symbolizes Nigeria’s commitment to tackling air pollution through policy reforms, public sensitization, and the adoption of cleaner technologies.
He opined that the National Clean Air Programme represents a coordinated framework to protect our environment, safeguard public health, and align with global best practices.
In his goodwill message, the Registrar, Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (ECHON), Dr. Yakubu Mohammed-Baba appreciated the Ministry for the support the Council has been receiving and pledged their support in ensuring quality air and cleaner environment in Nigeria.
While speaking at the event, the President of Pediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN), Prof. Ekanem Ekure commended the Ministry’s tireless efforts in promoting a healthy environment for all Nigerians most especially children who are vulnerable to air pollution.
Prof. Ekure said clean air was a fundamental right, and appreciated the ministry’s efforts for making our skies remain blue.
He pledged robust synergy with the ministry to promote awareness on the impact of air pollution on children’s health.
Signed
Ibrahim Haruna
Director of Information and Public Relations
