The Federal Government has issued a dire warning, signaling that humanity is nearing a critical crossroads marked by what it terms a “triple whammy” of impending environmental crises. Yet, it emphasizes that unity and the advocacy for press freedom hold the potential to alter this trajectory.
Addressing attendees at the 2024 National World Press Freedom Day in Abuja, Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, underscored the pivotal role of journalists in combating climate change. He urged them to harness their reporting as a form of climate action, thus safeguarding the planet for both present and future generations.
Under the theme ‘A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,’ this year’s event emphasized the urgency of the situation. Minister Salako stressed that sustainable development hinges on addressing the multifaceted needs of society, especially in confronting pressing environmental challenges.
Highlighting the triple environmental crisis encompassing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, Salako underscored their interconnectedness with societal issues such as poverty, food insecurity, and conflicts. He emphasized the indispensable role of the press in informing, educating, and mobilizing the public to tackle these critical challenges.
The government is actively pursuing environmentally friendly initiatives, including promoting clean energy sources and combatting pollution. Salako emphasized the significance of press freedom in promoting transparency and accountability, crucial for raising awareness about the climate crisis and fostering informed decision-making.
Journalism, he asserted, serves as a catalyst for change by shedding light on environmental issues and galvanizing collective action. Through investigative reporting and compelling storytelling, journalists contribute to raising awareness and mobilizing society to address environmental challenges.
Despite prevailing ignorance and a lack of awareness about the climate crisis, Salako urged collaboration and highlighted the importance of press freedom in driving positive change. He emphasized that through collective efforts and by empowering journalists to engage in climate action, humanity can avert the looming environmental catastrophe and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
