By Chidi Ugwu
In a groundbreaking move, Plateau State has established Africa’s first Climate Assembly, marking a significant milestone in climate governance and resilience.
The announcement was met with commendation from Suleiman Dikwa, Executive Director of the Climate Adaptation Business Alliance (CABA) and pioneer member of the Climate Assembly.
Dikwa, also the founder and former CEO of Green Sahara Farms, emphasized the importance of this initiative, highlighting Plateau State’s history of pioneering efforts in addressing climate challenges. “Today, history is being made once again in Jos, as the state takes a decisive step forward by establishing this innovative platform for inclusive, participatory climate governance,” Dikwa stated.
The Executive Director also commended their technical partner Fundlink Aid International for the massive support to CABA, declaring: ‘Your critical support is why we are celebrating today’
The Climate Assembly aims to foster collaboration among communities and stakeholders, empowering them to shape resilient policies and drive sustainable growth. Dikwa, as a member of the technical committee, has pledged his commitment to leveraging his expertise and network to support the assembly’s objectives.
“The creation of the Climate Assembly is a testament to Plateau’s pioneering spirit and its dedication to transforming climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth,” Dikwa noted. He believes this initiative will set a powerful example for other states and nations across Africa, inspiring local engagement and evidence-based policymaking.
The establishment of the Climate Assembly aligns with the shared vision of turning climate adversity into an advantage, mobilizing resources, and building a resilient future. Dikwa expressed confidence that the assembly will serve as a model for effective climate governance across the continent.
Dikwa’s commendation statement reads: “As the Executive Director of the Climate Adaptation Business Alliance (CABA), I am immensely proud to congratulate Plateau State for pioneering the establishment of Africa’s first Climate Assembly. This historic milestone not only signifies a remarkable achievement in climate governance but also reaffirms Plateau’s position as a trailblazer in Africa’s climate resilience journey.
“Plateau State holds many firsts—Green Sahara Farms, the company I founded and served as CEO for nearly two decades, was born in Jos, inspired by the urgent need to confront desertification and climate impacts in the region. Today, history is being made once again in Jos, as the state takes a decisive step forward by establishing this innovative platform for inclusive, participatory climate governance. It exemplifies visionary leadership and a commitment to empowering communities and stakeholders to shape resilient policies.
“As a member of the technical committee and a pioneer member of the Climate Assembly, I am committed to leveraging my experience, expertise, and extensive network to support the realization of its objectives. I will work tirelessly to ensure that the goals of the assembly are achieved, fostering effective collaboration, innovative solutions, and impactful outcomes.
“The creation of the Climate Assembly is a testament to Plateau’s pioneering spirit and its dedication to transforming climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth. It sets a powerful example across Africa, inspiring other states and nations to follow suit in fostering local engagement, evidence-based policymaking, and innovative solutions to climate change.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our shared vision of turning adversity into advantage—mobilizing resources, fostering dialogue, and building a resilient, sustainable future for all. I am confident that the Plateau Climate Assembly will serve as a model for effective climate governance across the continent.
“Once again, congratulations to Plateau State for this historic achievement. Your leadership continues to inspire us all, proving that with vision and determination, Africa can lead the way in climate adaptation and resilience”