By Dele Ogbodo
The Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Lawal, on Monday, appraised the 7th National Report on the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and it’s associated National Biosafety Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), with conclusion that the report signposts a critical bridge between global biodiversity targets and national processes.
Speaking at a Stakeholders Validation Workshop on CBD in Abuja, he said it assesses Nigeria’s progress in implementing previous biodiversity targets, highlights challenges and lessons learned, and provides a baseline for tracking implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework through our NBSAP.
“Let me begin by expressing my appreciation to all stakeholders, representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, research institutions, civil society organizations, the private sector, development partners, and our technical experts who have contributed to the preparation of the draft 7th National Report.
“Your collective efforts demonstrate our shared commitment to strengthening biodiversity governance in Nigeria.” He said.
According to him, the 7th National Report is being prepared at a defining moment for global and national biodiversity actions.
At the global level, the adoption of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, has set ambitious goals and targets aimed at halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030, he said.
He added that biodiversity contributes meaningfully to sustainable development, human well-being, and climate resilience.
“At the national level, Nigeria has responded to this global call through the revision of its National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), which provides our country’s strategic roadmap for translating global biodiversity commitments into concrete, measurable, and nationally relevant actions.
“The NBSAP prioritizes ecosystem restoration, sustainable use of biological resources, mainstreaming of biodiversity across sectors, resource mobilization, capacity development, and inclusive governance.
“As such, the report must be accurate, comprehensive, and reflective of realities on the ground.
” This validation workshop is therefore not a routine exercise. It is an opportunity to ensure that the report clearly demonstrates how Nigeria is aligning national policies, plans, and actions with the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, while responding to our unique socio-economic and ecological context.” He said.
According to the Minister, it is also an opportunity to strengthen coherence between biodiversity reporting, national development planning, and implementation mechanisms under the NBSAP.
He emphasize that the outcomes of this process should go beyond international reporting.
“The findings and recommendations must inform decision-making, guide investment priorities, support resource mobilization, and strengthen accountability for NBSAP implementation at all levels.
“The report should also highlight the contributions of sub-national actors, indigenous peoples and local communities, women and youth, and the private sector in advancing biodiversity goals.” Lawal, added.
The Federal Government, he explained remains firmly committed to implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, as articulated in our NBSAP.
“We recognize that achieving the 2030 biodiversity targets will require strengthened coordination, sustained financing, robust data systems, and effective partnerships across sectors.
” I therefore encourage all participants to engage actively and constructively in reviewing the draft report, validating the data and analysis, and providing practical recommendations that will enhance its quality, credibility, and policy relevance.
“Your inputs will be valuable in ensuring that Nigeria submits a strong 7th National Report that reflects both our achievements and our renewed ambition for biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.”
In her remark, the Director of Forestry, Hajiya Halima Bawa-Bwari, at the Ministry, said the workshop marks a significant milestone in our collective journey to safeguard biodiversity and ensure the sustainable management of our natural resources.
According to her, the CBD National Report is not merely a statutory requirement; it is a mirror reflecting our progress, challenges, and aspirations in conserving the rich biological heritage entrusted to us.
“We recognize that biodiversity underpins our livelihoods, food security, climate resilience, and cultural identity. This workshop provides us with the opportunity to critically review our draft report, validate its findings, and ensure that it accurately captures the efforts, achievements, and lessons learned across sectors.
“I wish to commend all stakeholders, government agencies, research institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and community representatives whose contributions have shaped this report.
“Your dedication demonstrates that biodiversity conservation is not the responsibility of one institution alone, but a shared commitment that requires collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
“As we deliberate today, let us be guided by the urgency of the global biodiversity crisis and the need to align our national actions 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.
“Together, we can ensure that our Seventh National Report stands as a credible document one that reflects our realities and positions us as a nation committed to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.” The Director, said.