Sustainable Environment and Fisheries Foundation (SEFFA), an NGO, says it has empowered communities in Jos and environs for environmental sustainability.

Mrs Ololade Adegoke, Chief Executive Officer, SEFFA, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

She said that SEFFA, a Jos-based NGO, is dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection as well as empowering young girls in the fight against climate change.

‘Since its inception in 2008, SEFFA has been a pivotal force in empowering communities, especially women, to improve their livelihoods and contribute to environmental sustainability

‘The organisation continues to complement the efforts of government and development partners in promoting climate-friendly actions and ensuring a sustainable environment for humans, livestock, and plants.”

According to her, the foundation welcomes partnerships with development organisations and government bodies to further their mission of
advocacies, actions and sustainable practices.

The chief executive officer emphasised the importance of raising awareness about climate-smart agriculture and sustainable practices.

According to her, by providing education and resources, SEFFA aims to create a new generation of ‘climate smart ambassadors’ who can drive change in their communities.

‘By educating young girls about climate change and its impacts, we prepare them to ask the right questions and take meaningful actions to address these challenges.”

She said SEFFA recently conducted a three-day training programme from May 16 to May 19 in Jos with the theme ‘Building Life Resilience for Climate Change in Jos, Plateau.”

Adegoke said that the young girls who participated in the training would not only serve as ambassadors but also become influential voices for change in their communities and beyond.

‘The involvement of future leaders in climate advocacy is crucial.”

She said that SEFFA also recently concluded a programme in collaboration with
United Nations Development Programme/ Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA).

Adegoke said that the collaboration brought together 48 young girls from selected secondary schools and communities in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas.

‘During the training, participants engaged in sessions such as: Introduction to Climate Change and Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices, Financial Literacy for Young Farmers Building Synergy through Cooperatives and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene(WASH).

‘Others are General Hygiene Practices for Girls and the Introduction to Solar Charging Point Business.

‘SEFFA has a series of climate-smart activities planned for July, which will expand their outreach to more communities,’ she said.

On his part, Newton Akpona, acting Chairman of the National Sector Skills Council for Agriculture and Agri-processing, highlighted the significance of creating awareness among young farmers.

He said that fostering a positive mindset and adopting climate-smart practices
were essential steps in mitigating the effects of climate disasters.

NAN recalls that on May 14, 2024 SEFFA also distributed farm inputs to communities in Gurapwana, Dahwol-Bob, and Vom in Jos South Local Government Area.

SEFFA is collaborating with the Federal College of Veterinary Research and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom, to build a greenhouse facility and to support individuals, families, and societies in adopting smart agricultural practices.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria