UNICEF Warns: Over 110 Million Nigerian Children Face Climate Crisis Risks

• UNICEF designates Nigeria as the second most vulnerable country for children facing the impacts of climate change, affecting over 110 million
• Inter-school quiz competition during World Children’s Day in Gombe State addresses children’s concerns amid Nigeria’s climate crisis

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has identified Nigeria as the second most vulnerable country globally concerning children’s exposure to climate change. With a staggering over 110 million children grappling with the harsh realities of escalating temperatures, the situation poses a severe threat to their well-being.

Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, disclosed this information at the conclusion of an inter-school quiz competition in Gombe State, part of the activities marking the 2023 World Children’s Day. The day, established in 1954, serves to promote international togetherness, raise awareness among children worldwide, and enhance their welfare.

Nigerian children not only face rising temperatures but are also confronted with the challenges of flooding, drought, and severe storms. Munduate highlighted that child displacement due to environmental disasters, particularly floods, reached 650,000 between 2016 and 2021.

The 2023 World Children’s Day celebration in Nigeria became a pivotal platform for children to express their concerns and experiences, focusing on child rights amid the growing climate crisis. Events across the country, including Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Enugu, Sokoto, and Maiduguri, witnessed children leading discussions on the significant impacts of climate change on their lives and future.

Discussions delved into critical issues, such as the direct health impact of climate change on children, including increased physical dangers, waterborne diseases, and malnutrition. The event also shed light on the alarming rate of child displacement due to environmental disasters.

Munduate stressed that the children’s input in this year’s celebration is crucial in shaping stakeholders’ collective path toward a sustainable and resilient future. Mr. Clement Adams, Officer in Charge, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, emphasized the need to celebrate children and create a better environment for them to thrive.

In the quiz competition, Government Girls Secondary School, Doma, secured the first position with 21 points, followed by Government Day Secondary School, Gandu, in the second position with 20 points. Government Day Science Secondary School, Gombe, claimed the third position with 18 points.