The two – day technical session on Climate change Action Policy Brief and Disability Perspectives has ended in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti, State capital .
The meeting, organized by a non governmental organization, Disability Not Barrier Initiative (DINABI) ,with support from international humanitarian organization, Christian Blind Mission (CBM) Ireland, with funding support from the European Union and Irish Aid ,brought together experts from the Civil Society Space as well as the media .
The participants brainstormed on issues affecting persons with disabilities in relation to climate change.
A disability inclusion expert and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Corporate Inclusion Limited,Kolawole Jayeoba said the idea was to prepare a policy brief for Ekiti State government .
Speaking at the meeting ,Kolawole said there has been growing concern regarding the inclusion of persons with disabilities in climate action, climate adaptation and climate justice in Nigeria particularly in Ekiti State.
“During this period, we have identified several challenges and, at the same time, come up with actionable recommendations that the government can leverage.
Fortunately, there are indications that the government may soon introduce a State Action Plan on Climate Change. We hope that our recommendations from persons with disabilities, civil society organisations and the media will be incorporated ,so that persons with disabilities can have a true sense of belonging in all state climate initiatives. That is the idea behind this interface .
“We also expect prompt action on these recommendations so they can be integrated into the government’s day-to-day activities to address climate change while safeguarding the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
In his remarks , Olajide Funso Benjamin. the Executive Director , DINABI said “over the past two days, we have been developing a policy brief to examine the challenges and gaps in various government programs, activities, and projects related to climate change, and to propose solutions. During this period, we have identified several challenges and, at the same time, come up with actionable recommendations that the government can leverage.
” Fortunately, there are indications that the government may soon introduce a State Action Plan on Climate Change. We hope that our recommendations from persons with disabilities, civil society organisations and the media will be incorporated into that plan so that persons with disabilities have a true sense of belonging in all state climate initiatives. That is the main reason for organising this event at this time.
” It is important for all states to key into this, as climate action is a global priority. Beyond that, I believe we must commend the political will of the Ekiti State Government. When you look at the calibre of people the government has put in place to drive climate action, it is truly commendable.
” This gives us confidence that we will receive a positive response, just. Whatever happens in relation to climate change whether flooding, drought, or impacts on farming also affects persons with disabilities, sometimes even more severely. Because of this, we felt it was important to work with the government to ensure the necessary measures are put in place.
Though ,the DINABI Boss expressed joy that Ekiti is taking the lead ,he however hinted that other states are already working on similar initiatives.
” Several states already have climate change policies, and very recently perhaps just last week, the Ondo State Government inaugurated a committee to draft their own climate change policy and action plan framework. I believe Ekiti State will remain fully committed to this cause.” He said .