The Federal Ministry of Environment has raised concerns over escalating public health risks in Nigeria’s coastal communities due to worsening flooding, erosion, and climate change.
Speaking at the recent National Stakeholders Consultative Workshop in Abuja, Usman Bokani, Director of the Department of Erosion, Flood, and Coastal Zone Management, highlighted the increasing toll of flooding on critical infrastructure, ecosystems, and human well-being.
He was represented by Abdullahi Atta, Assistant Director, Coastal Zone Management.
“Our coastal areas are under mounting pressure from erosion, flooding, pollution, and the impacts of climate change,” Bokani said. “These challenges threaten not just infrastructure and biodiversity, but also the livelihoods and health of millions of Nigerians. Through collaboration and informed policy action, we can build effective and lasting solutions.”
He noted that the introduction of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) policy marks a significant shift toward a structured and inclusive framework for managing Nigeria’s marine and coastal environments.
“We hope this workshop generates productive dialogue, innovative ideas, and united efforts to shape a policy that strengthens and protects our coastal communities,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mahmud Kambari—represented by Kunle Awojemila, Deputy Director of the Department of Flood, Erosion Control and Coastal Management—affirmed the government’s full support for the ICZM policy development.
“Our goal is to deliver a practical, results-driven framework to sustainably manage and protect Nigeria’s coastal and marine resources for current and future generations,” Kambari said.
He emphasized the economic and ecological importance of Nigeria’s coastal regions, noting their contributions to commerce, biodiversity, and local livelihoods.
“Unfortunately, these vital areas face mounting threats from sea level rise, environmental degradation, poor land use, and recurrent natural disasters,” he warned.
The Federal Government’s renewed push for an integrated coastal policy is seen as a proactive step toward safeguarding Nigeria’s coastline amid intensifying climate challenges.
