By Marie-Therese Nanlong

Jos – The Plateau State Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development has organized a dialogue to promote the green economy of the State as stakeholders highlighted practical actions that would enhance the subsector.

The event was with the support of the GIZ-Sustainable Economic Development Cluster, SEDEC.

During the one-day event, the engagements bordered on ways in which the State can become a model for sustainable and inclusive growth in key areas like sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, eco-tourism, waste management, green finance/investments, and green skills.

Speaking at the event held on Thursday at the Government House in Jos, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Samuel Jatau noted the importance of the dialogue as it presents an opportunity to address challenges and explore opportunities within the green economy.

His words, “This gathering comes at a critical time in our history — a time when the global community is grappling with the harsh realities of climate change, environmental degradation, resource depletion, and economic inequality. These challenges are not distant from us; they are already impacting our environment, our livelihoods, and the well-being of our people here in Plateau State.

“Yet, within these challenges lies a tremendous opportunity — the opportunity to build a green, inclusive, and sustainable economy that will catalyze innovation, job creation, and long-term prosperity for our State.”

He stated that Plateau State is abundantly blessed with rich natural resources, a favorable climate, and breathtaking landscapes and has the potential to lead in green agriculture, renewable energy, sustainable tourism, climate-smart mining, and environmentally responsible urban development.

“To realize this potential, we must act decisively — and collaboratively. Today’s dialogue is a step in the right direction. It provides a platform for all of us — government, private sector, civil society, academia, and development partners — to share ideas, align our priorities, and co-create a Green Economy Roadmap that will guide our collective efforts,” he added.

Also, the State Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change, and Mineral Development, Peter Gwom stated that his Ministry is open and committed to integrating green growth principles into the development plans and policies.

Gwom commended the efforts of the stakeholders towards achieving a green economy and assured of continued collaboration to drive inclusive economic growth while safeguarding the environment and building climate resilience.

According to him, “According to the National Bureau of Statistics, as of 2023, Plateau State’s youth unemployment rate stood at 7.4%, and more than 60% of our population depends directly on natural resources for their livelihoods.

“At the same time, we face accelerated land degradation, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and rising waste generation in both the rural and urban areas of the State. We cannot afford to continue with business as usual.

“As the renowned Kenyan environmentalist Wangari Maathai once said: “We are called to assist the Earth to heal her wounds and, in the process, heal our own.”

“A green economy presents an opportunity not just to heal the environment, but to build a new economic model that creates jobs, drives innovation, enhances food and energy security, and restores hope for our communities.”

However, Akinwande Pearse of GIZ-SEDEC who represented Akinropo Omoware, the Head of Component, BEE Reforms/Investments and Sustainable Infrastructure, in a keynote address titled: Unlocking the Green Economy Opportunities of Plateau State, pointed out ways of maximizing the abundant economic potential in the State.

A Climate Change economic expert, Adewole Agbojo from the Federal Ministry of Finance Abuja, was in attendance to share his experience on accessing climate finance, investments, and green skills.

There was a panel discussion on practical solutions in the green space, a breakout session where participants deliberated on diverse topics, a question and answer session, and a presentation of the action plan by participants.