In this interview with PREMIUM TIMES on the sidelines of the ongoing 17th session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP17) in Mongolia, Martins Archadu, a lawmaker at the Cross River State House of Assembly, who is the Chairman House Committee on Education; and Vice Chairman Committee on Environmental Matters, argued that COP17 has exposed major gaps in Nigeria’s environmental policies.
He believes stronger legislation and enforcement are essential to restore degraded land and protect biodiversity. The lawmaker said Cross River’s heavy rainfall makes the state vulnerable to flooding, erosion and landslides, hence the reason why he and the Clerk of the State’s Assembly were nominated to seek International intervention at the ongoing COP17 in Mongolia. The lawmaker says Nigeria should adopt stronger state participation in mining and agricultural project approvals.
Excerpt:
PT: How has your participation at COP17 been so far? Is this your first COP?
Achadu: Yes, this is my first COP, and I am very impressed by the expositions here. I have done my best to participate in all the relevant sessions, particularly those concerning issues in my state.
