- Emir Sanusi II advocates for renewable energy adoption to combat climate change, emphasizing its importance for environmental and human health
- Sanusi highlights the role of women in driving change and calls for proactive measures to address climate impacts in Africa
The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has called for collective efforts to adopt renewable energy to address the effects of climate change on the environment and human lives.
He appealed during the graduation and induction ceremony of women trainees of the “Energize-Her Gida-Gida” initiative, a state government program facilitated by the Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Transition (CREST) at Bayero University Kano.
Sanusi emphasized the importance of renewable energy, especially in light of current climate changes. He said, “Renewable energy is very important, especially when we are witnessing climate changes. Emissions from cooking in our houses alone contribute 2 percent of greenhouse gases and 20 percent of black carbon emissions. If we can adopt this everywhere, it will go a long way in addressing our issues.”
He also noted that the impacts of climate change, such as unexpected floods, desert growth, and extended rainy seasons, have become more evident, urging proactive measures to combat these effects. “If we are not proactive in addressing this, we will be affected and in trouble, especially in Africa, where we lack the resources to face the problem head-on,” he warned.
Sanusi further stressed the importance of supporting women as agents of change. “It’s important to give maximum attention to women. Historically, women were never idle; they engaged in business at home, while men sold their products in the market. Our grandmothers were active in economic activities,” he said, adding that generating more income is essential, especially in the current economic climate.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 7 and 13, which advocate for affordable and clean energy and urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. Represented by his Deputy, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, the Governor acknowledged the vital role women play in reducing the state’s carbon footprint through initiatives like the production of biogas, clean cooking stoves, and solar designs.
Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research and Development, Professor Abdullahi Sule Kano, emphasized the need for retooling graduates with skills to strengthen the educational sector, noting that a significant percentage of the youth are uneducated.
Professor Nasir Isah Fagge, the Director of CREST, congratulated the graduates and promised continued support. “The centre will continue to monitor your efforts and provide guidance wherever you are. Be good ambassadors of the university, and we shall prosper together,” he encouraged.