Benue Assembly Convenes Public Hearing on Climate Change Bill

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State House of Assembly has held a public hearing to receive strategic contributions from stakeholders on the Climate Change Bill presently before the House.
In a message delivered at the opening of the session on Monday in Makurdi, the Speaker, Berger Alfred Emberga, called on stakeholders to actively engage with the proposed legislation, which is designed to protect the state’s environment and secure its future.

The Speaker’s message, presented by the Majority Leader, Thomas Dugeri, emphasized the seriousness of climate change and its growing impact on Benue’s weather patterns. He noted that the disruptions have already begun to affect agriculture, the backbone of the state’s economy.
“As Speaker of the House, I recognize the urgency of the climate crisis. Its consequences are already visible across Benue State, from erratic weather conditions to increasing challenges in agricultural production,” the message stated.
He described the proposed bill as more than routine legislation, characterizing it as a deliberate effort to mobilize resources and expertise to confront climate challenges decisively.
“This bill is not merely a legislative document; it represents a crucial step toward building a resilient and sustainable future for our people,” Emberga noted, adding that the public hearing offers an important platform for citizens, experts, and development partners to provide insights that will ensure the law is inclusive, practical, and responsive to community needs.
He encouraged frank and constructive dialogue, stressing that contributions from farmers, business owners, community leaders, and concerned citizens are vital to shaping an effective and inclusive legal framework.
The proposed Benue State Climate Change Law, 2026, sets out a comprehensive structure for climate action, including provisions for carbon budgeting and the establishment of a Benue State Council on Climate Change Secretariat.
It also outlines mechanisms for mainstreaming climate action across government policies, promoting low greenhouse gas emissions, coordinating climate initiatives, mobilizing funding, and integrating climate considerations into development planning to support socio-economic growth.
Additionally, the bill establishes long-term targets aimed at achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions between 2050 and 2070, aligning with Nigeria’s international climate commitments. It seeks to strengthen resilience, enhance adaptive capacity, and support sustainable livelihoods across both public and private sectors.
Once enacted, the law will apply to all ministries, departments, agencies, and private entities operating in Benue State, positioning the state firmly on the path toward environmental sustainability and climate resilience.