By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, Nigeria.
In a significant step toward climate resilience, the Social Protection Systems Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Kaduna State, Nigeria, has validated a Community Engagement Framework for Climate Change-Related Shocks-Responsive Social Protection. Supported by LAFIYA, a program under the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the framework aims to equip local communities with tools to mitigate and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change.
Background: Addressing Climate-Induced Vulnerabilities
Climate change is intensifying environmental shocks worldwide, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. In Kaduna State, deforestation, flooding, and desertification threaten livelihoods, worsening poverty and food insecurity. Recognizing these challenges, the Kaduna State government, in collaboration with civil society organizations and international partners, has been working to develop policies that integrate social protection with climate adaptation strategies.
A Milestone for Community-Led Climate Resilience
Speaking at the two-day engagement session in Kaduna, Sumayya Abdullahi Hussaini, Co-chair of the Strengthening Social Protection Systems TWG and Lead at the Society for Equitable Development & Unity, emphasized the importance of the framework.
“The journey to this framework began in 2024 with extensive consultations to ensure our approach is rooted in community realities and practical solutions. This validation process ensures that the framework is not just a document but a functional tool for climate resilience,” she stated.
She highlighted that the framework was initially drafted in November 2024 in Zaria, with technical support from LAFIYA and PACE FCDO. The final validation aims to make it inclusive, practical, and responsive to the challenges faced by communities.
Government and Stakeholder Support
In his remarks, Chanan Solomon, State Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Coordinator for the LAFIYA program, reaffirmed the commitment of development partners to supporting Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani in delivering inclusive social protection programs.
“This framework acknowledges the unique vulnerabilities of communities impacted by climate change and ensures that no one is left behind in the fight against this crisis,” Solomon said.
Similarly, Hon. Yusuf Idris Amoke, Special Assistant on Climate Change to Governor Uba Sani, stressed the significance of having a structured policy to guide government interventions.
“For every government action, there must be a policy framework. This engagement ensures that stakeholders—including government, civil society organizations, and the private sector—validate the document, ensuring it reflects diverse perspectives and is fit for implementation,” Amoke noted.
The Role of Civil Society in Bridging Policy and Communities
Danjuma Abbas Dangiwa, Civil Society Advisor for OGP Kaduna, explained that the framework serves as a crucial link between communities and government in delivering climate-responsive social protection.
“Poverty is often multiplied by climate change. People are adapting within their means, but many lack access to institutional support, information, and resources that could enhance their resilience. This framework is a step toward changing that reality,” Dangiwa said.
Echoing similar concerns, Yusuf Isiyaku Goje, Head of the Coalition of Association for Leadership, Peace Empowerment, and Development (CALPED), warned about the devastating impact of deforestation and unchecked logging in Kaduna.
“The rampant charcoal trade and destruction of forests are accelerating climate change in our state. While people engage in these activities out of economic necessity, we must provide alternative livelihood options that are sustainable,” Goje cautioned.
Looking Ahead: Implementation and Policy Integration
As Kaduna finalizes this framework, the next critical step is ensuring its integration into existing state policies and its effective implementation at the grassroots level. Stakeholders emphasized the need for sustained community engagement, resource mobilization, and political commitment to transform this policy into action.
With climate change worsening globally, Kaduna’s initiative could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, proving that locally driven, participatory approaches are essential for building resilience and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
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Climate change is indeed a pressing global issue that requires immediate attention and collective action. It’s alarming to see the devastating impacts of climate change, from rising sea levels to intense natural disasters, and from droughts to heatwaves especially flooding here in Kaduna.
The consequences of inaction will be catastrophic, and it’s essential that we work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in renewable energy, and promote sustainable practices.
Kudos to Kaduna and all the participants for taking proactive steps towards creating a more sustainable future