Kefas launches Taraba climate change policy, action plan

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By Femi Bolaji

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JALINGO — GOVERNOR Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, Friday, launched the state’s Climate Change Policy and Action Plan, calling for collective action across all sectors to build an environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient state.

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Unveiling the policy document in Jalingo, Governor Kefas stated that the framework represents a critical step in determining the state’s environmental future, particularly the preservation of its forests, rivers, and rich natural resources.

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He warned that climate change is already taking a toll on agriculture and local communities through unpredictable rainfall and drying water bodies, stressing that any climate framework failing to support farmers would fail.

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Kefas said: “We are taking the decision about the future of Taraba. We are deciding whether our forests will still be standing and whether our rivers will still be flowing.

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“The success of this policy will no longer be measured by the number of conferences or workshops organised, but by tangible changes in our communities.”

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The governor directed local government councils to take a central role in implementation to effectively tackle grassroots environmental challenges such as flooding and bush burning.

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He also called on the Federal Government, the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), and international partners to support the state’s green initiatives.

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Earlier, the State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aishat B. Barde, described the launch as the beginning of a coordinated, measurable climate action era in Taraba.

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Barde noted that the cross-cutting policy spans health, education, and infrastructure, urging ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), traditional institutions, the private sector, and community groups to take ownership of the initiative.

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She also commended the Natural Eco Capital, Society for Planet and Prosperity, and the African Climate Foundation for providing technical and financial support toward formulating the policy.

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