By Mercy Peter
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and aligning national conservation efforts with global targets at the Validation Workshop for the 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), held on February 23, 2026, in Abuja.
The Director of Forestry, Hajiya Halima Bawa-Bwari, represented by Ahmed Labaran, Assistant Director, Forestry, described the workshop as a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards sustainable management of its rich biological resources.
She noted that the CBD National Report is more than a statutory obligation, but “a mirror reflecting our progress, challenges, and aspirations in conserving the rich biological heritage entrusted to us.” According to her, biodiversity remains central to livelihoods, food security, climate resilience, and cultural identity, making it imperative for stakeholders to validate a report that accurately captures cross-sectoral efforts and lessons learned.
Bawa-Bwari commended government agencies, research institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and community representatives for their contributions to the draft report, stressing that biodiversity conservation requires collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
She urged participants to approach deliberations with urgency in view of the global biodiversity crisis and to ensure alignment with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
“Our discussions should strengthen our resolve to meet national targets, mainstream biodiversity into development planning, and mobilize resources for effective implementation,” she said, encouraging stakeholders to validate the report with integrity and professionalism to position Nigeria as a nation firmly committed to sustainable development.
The Honourable Minister of Environment Malam Balarabe Lawal, represented by Tijani Ahmed, Deputy Director Forestry, underscored that the 7th National Report comes at a defining moment for both global and national biodiversity action.
He highlighted Nigeria’s response to global commitments through the revision of its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), describing it as a strategic roadmap for translating international obligations into measurable national actions.
The Minister emphasized that the validation process must ensure the report is comprehensive, evidence-based, and reflective of realities on the ground, serving as a bridge between global biodiversity targets and domestic implementation.
“The outcomes of this process should go beyond international reporting,” he stated. “They must inform decision-making, guide investment priorities, support resource mobilization, and strengthen accountability for NBSAP implementation at all levels.”
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, the Minister called for strengthened coordination, sustainable financing, improved data systems, and inclusive participation of sub-national actors, indigenous peoples, women, youth, and the private sector.
He expressed optimism that the finalized report would not only showcase Nigeria’s achievements but also articulate renewed ambition toward meeting the 2030 biodiversity targets.
