
Currently, thirty-eight journalists are participating in a capacity-building program in Kano State, organized by the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance under the Plan International.
The selected journalists represent three states: Adamawa, Yobe, and Abuja.
Yunus Abdulhamid, the Communications Advisor, articulated the objectives of the project, emphasizing the importance of equipping journalists with the knowledge needed to elevate climate change issues in public discourse.

“The media, as the fourth estate, serves as a powerful tool for disseminating critical messages,” Yunus stated regarding the partnership formed by Plan International.
He further underscored Plan International’s commitment, in collaboration with relevant government agencies in the involved states, to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative.
Mr. Yunus provided an overview of Plan International, noting that it is an independent, non-profit organization focused on development and humanitarian efforts, particularly advocating for children’s rights and promoting gender equality.

“We advocate for children’s rights from birth until they reach adulthood. For over eighty-six years, we have built impactful partnerships for children and currently operate in more than seventy-five countries, driving changes in practice and policy at local, national, and global levels through our extensive reach, experience, and knowledge,” he explained.
He affirmed that Plan International, which commenced its operations in Nigeria in 2024, is dedicated to empowering 200 million girls worldwide to learn, lead, decide, and thrive.
Dr Nasiru Abba, the Project Coordinator, elaborated on the goals of the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance (ZCRA) project of Plan International.

This initiative, according to him, primarily aims to enhance climate resilience within communities and strengthen early warning systems at local, state and national levels, with a specific focus on vulnerable children and girls.
Dr Nasiru emphasized that ZCRA also involves advocating for policies and practices that prioritize child safety and well-being in the context of climate change, incorporating initiatives such as disaster preparedness education, community-based adaptation strategies, and promoting active participation by children in decision-making processes related to climate action. The initiative is funded by the Zurich Foundation.

The journalists participating as climate change champions are expected to effectively communicate and raise awareness about the project’s objectives and impacts and call for actions geared towards sustainability.