As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, Plateau State brought together diverse stakeholders for a critical Pre-COP29 workshop titled, “A Sustainable Green Plateau in Solidarity for a Green World.” Hosted by Youth for Environmental Sustainability and Development (YESD), in partnership with Murya Na Environmental Sustainability and Development Initiative, and Vanguard for Environmental Sustainability, this stakeholder engagement drew 30 attendees, including representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, international agencies, the private sector, and students. The event which held at A.P. Leventis Ornithological Research Institute in Jos, was a vital step in amplifying Plateau State’s voice in the global climate dialogue, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming UNFCCC COP29 negotiations.

The founder of YESD, Mrs. Adesuwa James Jang, in her opening remarks, stressed the need for continuous collaboration and decisive action.

“As stakeholders at the state level, our role in achieving sustainable environmental progress is not just important, it is essential. We have the responsibility and the capacity to align Plateau State’s strategies with global climate goals, paving the way toward an environmentally resilient and prosperous future for our communities.

Jang, reiterated that the discussions seek clarity and actionable insights through legal framework that will put the issue of Climate related issues as top most priority to government considering the negative impact the state has so far passed through and called for funding of various programs targeted at addressing climate change by young people in the state.

“Together, we identify state-specific strategies, uncover opportunities, and build frameworks for genuine impact. We look at Environmental adaptation in Plateau State, Advancing renewable energy policy implementation in Africa which is a pathway to energy sovereignty and sustainable development under COP29 Goals.” She stated.

Mr. Zeenret Zamani, CEO of Murya Na Environmental Sustainability and Development Initiative, at the workshop gave a call for youth. “Young people are not only the most impacted by climate change but also the innovators leading solutions,” he stated, underscoring the importance of coalition building in achieving COP29’s goals.

Mr. Guti Gwetkop, Team Lead of Vanguard for Environmental Sustainability, echoed this sentiment, urging stakeholders to align local actions with the UNFCCC’s climate framework and enhance Plateau State’s environmental resilience.

The workshop featured expert contributions from a range of distinguished speakers. Prof. Gideon Baklit, Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences at the University of Jos, was represented by Dr. Samuel Maton, who highlighted the importance of community-driven practices such as afforestation and sustainable agriculture in achieving a “green Plateau.”

Ms. Martina Danuk, Director of Climate Change at the Plateau State Ministry of Environment, emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable legacy for future generations and commended the coalition’s commitment to fostering meaningful environmental change.

Additionally, Mr. Oteikwu N. John, Assistant Zonal Director for North Central at the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), led a session on Environmental Adaptation, underscoring the need for adaptive strategies to address the impacts of climate change in Plateau State and beyond.
In a session led by Katong Alex, an Energy Analyst from the African Energy Council, he presented key insights on Advancing Renewable Energy Policy Implementation in Africa. He discussed the pathways to energy sovereignty and sustainable development under COP29 goals, emphasizing the significance of renewable energy for Africa’s future.

Katong Alex’s session emphasized the urgent need for African nations to adopt comprehensive renewable energy policies to achieve energy independence and long-term environmental sustainability, aligning with the broader objectives set under COP29.

The presence of students from Gaskiya High School (Jos South) and Rikkos Community Secondary School underscored the workshop’s inclusive approach to climate dialogue. Youth participants contributed fresh perspectives on sustainable practices, emphasizing that the state’s climate future depends on educating and empowering the next generation.