By Dare Akogun
Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has called on stakeholders in Nigeria, including the government, civil society organizations (CSOs), and development partners, to collaborate with radio stations in promoting climate awareness and disaster preparedness to mitigate the adverse impact of the escalating climate crisis.
In a statement commemorating the 2025 World Radio Day, themed “Radio and Climate Change”, MRA emphasized the urgent need for the Nigerian government to take decisive climate action while ensuring accountability by harnessing the wide reach and popularity of radio to engage citizens.
World Radio Day is celebrated globally on February 13 to recognize the role of radio in shaping societies, promoting free expression, and fostering democratic dialogue.
UNESCO designated the day in November 2011 during its 36th General Conference.
MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Mr. Ayode Longe, underscored the critical role of radio in amplifying Nigeria’s climate commitments and mobilizing public action amid increasing environmental crises.
He described radio as a key tool in translating complex climate policies into actionable solutions for local communities.
“As the most accessible medium in Nigeria, radio remains pivotal in disseminating climate education, fostering dialogue, and holding governments accountable.
“Radio’s reach into rural and urban communities positions it as a vital instrument for bridging the gap between policy and practice,” he said.
He noted that in a nation grappling with floods, desertification, and energy poverty, strengthening radio as a platform for public engagement is crucial for achieving sustainable development.
Mr. Longe highlighted Nigeria’s commitments as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, which include pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
He also referenced Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan aimed at universalizing energy access by 2030 through investments in solar and hydropower while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
However, he expressed concern that Nigeria missed the February 10, 2025 deadline to submit its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which are crucial milestones for achieving the Paris Agreement’s long-term goals.
“The power of radio lies not just in broadcasting information but in fostering collective resolve.
“As Nigeria navigates intersecting climate and economic challenges, let us harness this medium to turn pledges into progress, ensuring no community is left unheard or unprotected,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of media freedom and journalist safety, particularly for those covering climate issues.
Longe argued that environmental journalists play a crucial role in holding governments, corporations, and policymakers accountable for their climate commitments and must be protected from threats, censorship, and intimidation.
MRA called on the Nigerian government to leverage radio as a platform for educating citizens about climate risks and solutions, while ensuring that marginalized voices are included in policy dialogues.
The organization also urged the international community to fulfill its climate finance pledges to enable Nigeria and other vulnerable nations to transition equitably.
