COP 29: Nigerian children advocate for commitments to combat climate change

Nigerian children are calling for stronger commitments from the government to support actions aimed at addressing climate change and mitigating its effects in the country.

This is as students from various secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) created artworks that highlight climate change issues as part of activities marking the Conference of Parties (COP 29).

These students showcased their creations on Thursday during an event organized by Save the Children’s Generation Hope Campaign, titled the Eco-exhibition. The event is part of the lead-up to COP 29.

The exhibition aims to raise the government’s awareness so that they can convey the concerns of Nigerian children at COP 29, which will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November.

Faith Osaretin, a representative of Save the Children, stated that the artwork sends a powerful message from children about the challenges posed by climate change.

“The children are using art to communicate the impacts of climate change and the actions they want to see taken. The artworks carry clear messages that the children are putting forward,” she said.

Osaretin added, “The exhibition is part of the COP 29 simulation activities and is intended to ensure that children’s voices are heard in the climate change conversation. We know that Nigeria will send a delegation to COP 29, and we want to make sure those delegates hear the children’s voices and take action so that their concerns are included in Nigeria’s presentation at COP 29.

“These children came up with these activities themselves, and they are delivering messages through them. They have call-to-action messages, letters that have been read, and detailed descriptions accompanying their art.

“Children want the government to adopt innovations that will reduce the impact of climate change in Nigeria.”

Okoro Izuchukwu Gelasius, a student from Federal Government Boys’ College, Garki, described his artwork: “The paintings I made represent the world — the contrast between how it looked before and after climate change. The greenhouse in the artwork symbolizes the earth’s atmosphere and ozone layer. Just as the earth absorbs extra heat from the sun, the greenhouse absorbs extra heat to prevent plants from overheating or becoming too cold during cooler climates.”

Speaking on his contribution to combating climate change, Gelasius pledged to raise awareness about its effects and work to stop plastic pollution in school environments. He also advised Nigerians to cultivate the habit of planting trees, emphasizing that it is key to addressing climate issues in the country.

Another exhibitor, Jimoh Nazirah, a student from Junior Secondary School, Jabi 1, Abuja, described the severity of climate change issues. According to her, children and people with disabilities are the most affected.

Nazirah called for immediate government intervention and urged children to do their part by avoiding littering and refraining from burning waste to reduce pollution.