FLASH POINT

By SHEHU YAHAYA

Kaduna State Honors Ibrahima Yakubu with Recognition for Environmental Journalism

In a moment of pride for environmental journalism in Nigeria, Ibrahima Yakubu, a prominent science and environmental journalist, was honored by Kaduna State for his exceptional work in wildlife protection and ecosystem preservation. The event saw a significant gathering of Nigerian journalists, environmental civil society organizations (CSOs), and other key stakeholders, all celebrating Yakubu’s achievements in environmental reporting.

The Special Assistant to the Governor of Kaduna State on Climate Change, Honorable Yusuf Idris Amoke, along with top government officials and representatives from the NGO Green Climate Africa, presented Yakubu with the prestigious Kaduna Climate Champion of the Year 2024 award. This recognition was part of the 3.0 Green Hangout Annual Conference, which brings together environmental NGOs and climate change advocates to celebrate the year’s most impactful environmental journalist.

During the ceremony, it was highlighted that Ibrahim Yakubu’s reporting on climate science and environmental issues has had a profound impact, educating millions across Africa through various international media platforms. His work has been instrumental in raising awareness about critical issues such as desertification, deforestation, erosion, flooding, and global warming.

Yakubu, who has received numerous international accolades for his contributions, has also inspired a new generation of journalists to focus on climate journalism with the goal of educating and mobilizing the public on environmental matters.

The conference, which also reflected on the outcomes of COP29, aimed to share lessons learned and chart a path forward for tackling climate change in the region.

Barrister Rebecca Sako John, Permanent Secretary of the Kaduna State Peace Commission, praised Yakubu’s award, stating, “This recognition is truly well-deserved.”

In her remarks, Madam Gloria Musa, founder of the NGO Bridge the Gap, commended Yakubu’s commitment to environmental journalism. She noted, “From the first time I met him, Ibrahim has consistently been a dedicated and passionate journalist, driving change through his coverage of environmental issues.”