By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Ministry of Home Affairs, Information and Culture has intensified efforts to strengthen community resilience against flooding, cholera and other climate-related hazards with the commencement of statewide advocacy campaign targeting traditional institutions.
Leading a delegation on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, Abdullahi Bego, was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Hajiya Salamatu Yahaya Nangere, on an advocacy visit to the Emir of Fika and the Chairman of the Yobe State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, CON, CFR in his palace in Potiskum.
Speaking during the visit, Hajiya Salamatu Yahaya Nangere said the advocacy campaign forms part of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods through public enlightenment on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and the anticipated impacts of the rainy season.
She noted that predictions indicated flooding in 12 Local Government Areas of the state, with Geidam, Gulani and Yunusari expected to be among the worst hit, stressing the need for proactive measures to prevent flooding, cholera, malaria and other climate-related health challenges through improved environmental sanitation, proper waste disposal, personal hygiene and strict adherence to early warning advisories.
The Permanent Secretary also said that the Ministry was engaging traditional rulers because of their strategic role in mobilising communities and influencing behavioural change at the grassroots, urging them to champion public awareness on disaster preparedness, environmental sanitation and climate resilience.
Responding, the Emir, represented by the Maiyasa of Fika, Alhaji Muhammadu Idriss, who delivered the royal message through the Sarkin Adabi of the Emirate, Alhaji Mohammed Dahiru Zayi, conveyed the Emir’s appreciation to Governor Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, for according priority to climate resilience and environmental sustainability through sustained public awareness and environmental initiatives.
The royal father, commended the Governor’s administration for recognising the pivotal role of traditional institutions in community mobilisation, describing the advocacy campaign as timely in view of the increasing threats posed by climate change.
The Emir also called for intensified tree planting across the state, noting that afforestation remains one of the most effective measures for combating desertification, mitigating the effects of climate change.
The advocacy team also featured experts from the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health, and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who delivered presentations on the causes and impacts of climate change, flood preparedness, disease prevention, climate-smart agricultural practices and the critical role of communities in mitigating climate-related risks.
