In a statement released in Abuja, Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, expressed the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to address issues related to climate change.
The statement was issued on the occasion of the 2023 International Day of the Parliament, a global event introduced by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018.
Kalu highlighted that the International Day of the Parliament provides an opportunity for parliaments worldwide to review the progress they have made in achieving their goals and responsibilities.
It allows them to conduct self-assessments on various aspects, including the inclusion of more women and youths as members of parliament and adapting to new technological innovations.
The theme for the 2023 International Day of the Parliament is ‘Parliaments for the Planet,’ with a focus on mobilizing parliaments to be more responsible and responsive to climate change issues and related emergencies. Kalu emphasized that climate change has adverse effects on lives, property development, peace, and security globally.
The deputy speaker stressed the importance of taking action on climate change at the domestic level, stating that parliaments can play a significant role in reducing carbon footprints. By adopting greener policies and embracing sustainability, parliaments can contribute to addressing the climate crisis.
Kalu assured Nigerians and key stakeholders that the 10th National Assembly would prioritize climate change issues and set an example by greening the parliament and promoting a culture of sustainable change.