BY AKINTOROYE ADENIKE FATIMO
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo blamed climate change solely on human activities for phenomena such as floods, droughts, deforestation and pollution.
In his call to action on climate change, Obasanjo urged young Nigerians to lead the fight and contribute to the development of a green economy to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly environment.
He also supported the planting of trees and the use of organic fertilizers to reduce the risk of environmental disasters and the challenges of climate change, including floods, extreme droughts and deforestation.
Speaking at a retreat titled “Contribution to a Green Economy” held on Monday, November 6, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, southwest Nigeria, Obasanjo encouraged young people to stand up and remove obstacles created by ineffective leadership.
The Presidential Youth Retreat (0.4) was organized by the Center for Youth Development, a branch of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), and attracted youths from across the country.
He stressed that the idea that “young people are the leaders of tomorrow” is misleading and called on young people to realize that they are the leaders of today.
Obasanjo encouraged them not to wait for those who erected the barriers to remove them because it was not in their interest.
Instead, he called on young people to unite and take the initiative to demonstrate their leadership qualities.
Furthermore, Obasanjo urged young Nigerians to take a stand against climate change and actively contribute to the development of a sustainable environment and the promotion of a green economy.
Dr. Bisi Kolapo, President of OOPL Center for Youth Development, informed the youths that this year’s edition of the Presidential Retreat was aimed at shaping a future that is environmentally conscious and committed to sustainable practices.
