In a groundbreaking move to combat the climate crisis and unlock green economic opportunities, Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has announced that 30% of the state’s annual budget will be dedicated to climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainability projects. This commitment was unveiled during the Katsina State Climate Action and Green Investment Summit held in Abuja, under the theme "Turning Climate Challenges into Development Opportunities in Katsina State."
Governor Radda's address highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change, which is already a pressing reality for the people of Katsina. He acknowledged that over 80% of the state’s population relies on rain-fed agriculture, which is being severely impacted by desertification, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures. Radda revealed that Katsina has already lost over 20% of its arable land to desertification, while the region’s temperature has risen by 1.2°C, surpassing the global average.
Despite these alarming statistics, the Governor emphasized that Katsina’s government is choosing proactive action over despair. Radda outlined a roadmap that includes the creation of 50,000 green jobs by 2030 through initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, afforestation, and climate-smart infrastructure.
The Governor’s plan also includes the establishment of a ₦5 billion Green Investment Fund, which aims to de-risk climate projects and attract private capital to support the state’s green economy. He called on stakeholders and partners to support the vision for a sustainable, prosperous, and climate-resilient Katsina through the Katsina Green and Alternative Growth Agenda (KAGGA).
During the summit, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal commended the state's leadership in climate action, recognizing Katsina’s proactive approach in a region that is highly vulnerable to climate shocks. He pledged the Federal Ministry of Environment’s support for the state through various initiatives, including the Great Green Wall and ACReSAL programs.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, also praised the event, emphasizing the significance of sub-national leadership in addressing the climate emergency. He highlighted Katsina’s potential for renewable energy generation, citing the abundant solar and wind resources in the region, and underscored the importance of investing in the state’s dynamic youth and resilient communities to drive the green economy.
Governor Radda’s bold climate initiative is set to position Katsina as a model for climate action and economic prosperity in Nigeria and beyond.
