The Taraba State Government has launched its Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2026, setting out a framework to integrate climate and environmental considerations into government planning and attract investment in green development.
The policy was unveiled in Jalingo on August 21 by Governor Agbu Kefas, who said climate resilience and environmental sustainability must become part of the state’s development planning.
Kefas said the framework would create opportunities across sectors including agriculture, environmental protection and infrastructure while strengthening Taraba’s ability to respond to climate-related risks.
He directed the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to develop a clear implementation framework and timeline and work with development partners to mobilise funding and investment for climate and environmental projects.
The governor also urged the ministry to position Taraba to take advantage of the emerging carbon market, while calling for the participation of local governments in implementing the policy.
He asked residents to comply with measures designed to mitigate the effects of climate change.
A roadmap for climate finance
Aishat Barde, the state’s commissioner for environment and climate change, said the policy provides a framework for improving climate governance, protecting ecosystems and strengthening the state’s resilience while opening access to climate finance.
“This Policy and Action Plan provides a clear roadmap for strengthening climate governance, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting our ecosystems, building resilience to climate impacts, and unlocking opportunities for climate finance to support our development priorities,” Barde said.
She said the policy was developed through consultations, technical assessments and collaboration among ministries, departments and agencies, experts, development partners, civil society organisations and community stakeholders.
Barde acknowledged the financial and technical support provided by Natural Eco Capital, Society for Planet and Prosperity and the African Climate Foundation.
She also commended the technical working committee, which brought together experts from state and national institutions, development partners and other stakeholders involved in developing the policy.
The commissioner called on government agencies, local councils, traditional institutions, communities, youth and women’s groups, the private sector and development partners to participate in implementing the plan.
“Climate action is not the responsibility of one institution; it is a shared mandate. Its success will depend on our collective commitment, coordination and sustained action,” she said.
“Together, we can build a state that is environmentally sustainable, economically prosperous and resilient to the challenges of a changing climate.”
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