Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Charcoal Production, Urge Political Backing for Kaduna’s Climate Action

By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna

Environmental stakeholders have sounded the alarm over the rising environmental toll of charcoal production in Kaduna State, warning that unless immediate and inclusive actions are taken, the state risks accelerated deforestation, desertification, and worsening climate conditions.

The call came during a technical session on climate governance organized by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), funded Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) Programme in collaboration with the Kaduna State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, as part of ongoing efforts to establish a dedicated Climate Change Department in the state.

Participants, including Climate Change Desk Officers from key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), development partners, and environmental experts, identified unregulated charcoal production as a major contributor to forest depletion and climate vulnerability in rural communities.

“If we do not take immediate and deliberate action, the continuous loss of forest cover will have devastating long-term impacts on our ecosystem and food systems,” one participant cautioned during the session.

While acknowledging the environmental threats, stakeholders emphasized that an outright ban on charcoal production could backfire if not accompanied by alternative livelihoods for those involved.

“Most people producing charcoal do so out of necessity. They are aware it’s hazardous, but they lack better options. A blanket ban without alternatives would worsen poverty,” a participant noted.

As part of their recommendations, stakeholders called for the promotion of indigenous affordable cooking gas alternatives and livelihood transition programmes to support charcoal producers.

Enforcement of forest protection laws alongside community forest management. Increased climate education among political leaders and policymakers.

Strong institutional support for the operationalization of the newly created Climate Change Department. They underscored that sustained political commitment is key to driving impactful climate solutions.

“Climate change is not abstract. It affects food security, public health, and economic stability. Political buy-in is critical to enacting policies that protect our environment and people,” a participant emphasized.

In response to growing environmental challenges and concerns, the Kaduna State Government has announced the formal establishment of a Climate Change Department under the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

Speaking at the event, Ahmed Abdullahi, Director of Finance at the Ministry, said the department was a strategic evolution from a former unit and reflected the government’s heightened commitment to climate action.

“Globally, climate change is gaining momentum, and we cannot afford to be left behind,” Abdullahi said. “This full-fledged department will allow us to tackle climate issues more comprehensively—from policy to implementation.”

The two-day technical session aimed to build the capacity of newly appointed Climate Change Desk Officers, who will serve as focal points in their respective MDAs to coordinate and report climate-related activities.

Abdullahi commended development partners, especially PACE, for their continuous support in convening stakeholder engagements and capacity-building sessions across the state.

“We are grateful for your commitment. This collaboration is laying the foundation for a stronger, more coordinated climate response,” he said.

On challenges, Abdullahi acknowledged that funding gaps remain a barrier but expressed optimism in Governor Uba Sani’s political will.

“His Excellency has a listening ear. Once he understands the value of an initiative, he gives it his full backing. We’re confident in our ability to operationalize this department effectively,” he stated.