Kogi State House of Assembly has appealed to the State Government, to adopt global practices in remediation of global climate change and reduce the growing temperature experienced in the state, especially in Lokoja, the state capital.
This followed a motion of urgent public importance raised on the floor of the House by Member Representing Kabba Bunu State Constituency, Hon Bello Oluwaseyi Victor
Kogi State hosts two major Rivers which are Benue and Niger.
However, the heat generated from these rivers create unfriendly weather condition necessitating the motion.
The Lawmaker believes that the motion on the issue is long overdue
“1 rise to bring attention to the pressing issue of ecological challenges in Kogi State, particularly in Lokoja. The city’s high temperatures, exacerbated by its rocky terrain and limited green spaces, pose significant health risks to residents, especially the elderly and young children. As we are aware, the Nigerian Constitution, Section 20, emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development as stated in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.
He posited that Kogi State Government has demonstrated its commitment to addressing environmental concerns through initiatives like the tree planting program in a bid to address the ecological issues in Lokoja.
Bello prayed the House that the state government should Increase Green Spaces: mandate relevant Ministries and Agencies, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Kogi Agricultural Development Project, to plant more trees and shrubs in parks, streets, and open areas.
Also the state government is to Implement Sustainable Practices by directing the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to utilize water features, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems to reduce high temperatures and improve air quality.
It was also suggested that government promote Community engagement by educating residents about the benefits of planting trees, implementing energy-efficient practices, and raising awareness about heat-related health risks through community-led initiatives and campaigns.
Other lawmakers, including Member representing Lokoja 1 State Constituency, Bin Ebaiya Shehu Tijani, Member representing Ajaokuta state constituency, Jibrin Abu, in their contributions said that the motion was timely
Speaker of the House, Aliyu Umar Yusuf who aligned with the motion noted that the original plan of Lokoja city has been distorted due to indiscriminate falling of trees which he believes must have contributed to the rising temperature.