The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State Chapter, has commended the Kaduna State Government for emerging third in the Nigeria Climate Governance Ranking, describing the feat as a remarkable milestone that underscores the State’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible climate governance.
The commendation was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of NAWOJ Kaduna’s Congress held in Kaduna, where members deliberated on key issues affecting the state, including the environment, public welfare, and women’s development.
NAWOJ described the ranking as a testament to Kaduna’s proactive environmental policies, noting that it reflects a positive shift toward responsible climate action, sustainable urban planning, and eco-friendly governance.
“The Kaduna State Government’s recognition as the third-best performer in the Nigeria Climate Governance Ranking is not only commendable but also reassuring,” the communiqué stated. “It demonstrates a clear commitment to tackling environmental challenges, promoting clean energy, and aligning the state’s development agenda with global climate goals.”
The association noted that climate governance has become an increasingly critical issue, especially as states across Nigeria grapple with the adverse effects of deforestation, flooding, desertification, and waste mismanagement.
NAWOJ praised Kaduna’s leadership for taking deliberate steps toward climate adaptation and resilience, such as tree-planting campaigns, waste-to-wealth initiatives, renewable energy partnerships, and public sensitization on environmental hygiene.
“By investing in green policies and environmental education, the Kaduna State Government is setting a model for other sub-nationals to emulate,” the statement continued. “This ranking should further inspire the government to strengthen its environmental frameworks, improve waste management systems, and ensure grassroots participation in climate actions.”
The association emphasized that women and children are often the most vulnerable to climate-related challenges, as environmental degradation directly affects health, food security, and livelihoods. NAWOJ therefore called for inclusive climate policies that empower women as key stakeholders in environmental decision-making and sustainable development.
“Women play a crucial role in community adaptation and resource management,” the communiqué added. “Integrating women journalists and advocates into environmental awareness and policy dialogues will help drive lasting behavioral change and public accountability.”
While congratulating the State Government, NAWOJ also encouraged continuous transparency, monitoring, and inter-agency collaboration to sustain the progress already achieved. The group urged the state to prioritize renewable energy solutions, enforce environmental laws, and intensify climate education at the community level.
“This achievement is a step in the right direction, but maintaining it requires consistency, citizen engagement, and measurable action,” the association stressed.
NAWOJ reaffirmed its readiness to support climate advocacy and to partner with relevant ministries, development agencies, and the media in promoting a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Kaduna State.
“As women journalists, we are committed to using our platforms to amplify conversations around environmental justice and to hold stakeholders accountable for sustainable governance,” the communiqué concluded.
Background:
The Nigeria Climate Governance Ranking is an independent environmental performance assessment that evaluates sub-national governments based on their climate policies, adaptation measures, renewable energy investments, and environmental management strategies. Kaduna State’s third-place ranking places it among Nigeria’s most environmentally conscious and forward-thinking states.