Efforts to integrate climate action into Nigeria’s health sector gained fresh momentum as Cross River and Bauchi States participated in a Green Climate Fund (GCF) Design Workshop aimed at developing strategies for climate-resilient health systems and communities.
The two-day workshop, held in Kaduna from February 5 to 6, 2026, brought together key stakeholders from the two pilot states to design practical, finance-ready interventions to address the growing health impacts of climate change.
The workshop was organized by Save the Children International in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, with support from development partners. Participants included officials from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, as well as climate and health stakeholders from Cross River and Bauchi States.
Speaking on the workshop, Mr. Odu Patrick, Acting Director of Public Health in the Cross River State Ministry of Health, said discussions focused on the increasing health risks linked to climate change, including flooding, extreme weather events, heat stress, and climate-sensitive diseases. He noted that these threats disproportionately affect women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations.
Participants jointly identified priority climate-health risks, vulnerable groups, and high-risk local government areas, while examining gaps in the health system that limit preparedness and response to climate-related emergencies. They also explored strategies to strengthen climate-resilient primary healthcare, improve disease surveillance, enhance emergency preparedness, and build community-level resilience.
The engagement further provided guidance on Green Climate Fund requirements, including project design standards, results measurement frameworks, and financing pathways. Discussions highlighted how GCF support could complement ongoing national and state health and climate initiatives.
Also speaking, Mr. Asuquo Henry Eyibio, Programme Manager and Focal Person for Climate Change and Health in Cross River State, said the workshop clarified priority actions for the state and strengthened partnerships critical for accessing climate finance.
He emphasized the need to conduct a comprehensive Climate and Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment to support evidence-based planning and targeted investments.
Eyibio added that once finalized, the proposed initiative would position Cross River and Bauchi States to access Green Climate Fund financing to build climate-resilient and low-carbon health systems, strengthen service delivery, and contribute to broader climate adaptation and mitigation goals.
The workshop concluded with agreement on next steps toward developing a robust GCF proposal aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and reinforcing the resilience of health systems against the growing impacts of climate change.
Kingsley Agim
