Changing the Climate Narrative: One Story at a Time

by Hannah Kumadee

In North Eastern Nigeria, a region that has battled insurgency for over a decade, resulting in over a million displaced persons, land destroyed by explosions, and pollution among other crisis inflicted hazards, a new wave is beginning to emerge.

For several years now, this region, which comprises states such as Borno, Yobe and Adamawa has experienced the challenges that come with climate change including  desertification, deforestation, shrinking water levels and intense heat waves.

With UNICEF estimating that about one billion children are likely to be affected by climate change issues, Ali Yusuf Al-Hussain is one youth who is changing the climate narrative in North Eastern Nigeria to protect his primary home as well as save the lives of children.

Al-Hussain’s journey into activism began in college, where he studied Environmental Biology. There he developed a deeper understanding of the challenges being faced and those that may arise as a result of climate crisis. He developed an interest in protecting his environment, which metamorphosed into a passion to contribute to solutions.

Witnessing firsthand the effect of climate change such as floods, deforestation, and pollution fuelled him to engage in advocacy, community initiatives and environmental projects.

The young activist has described his journey as “both challenging and rewarding”. As he worked to protect his environment, he was able to lead the Climate Student Movement Nigeria ( a revolutionary, intersectional youth force rising to confront climate crisis and fight for climate justice) at the University of Maiduguri. While serving, he launched several campaigns and programs such as awareness programs, tree planting initiatives, webinars and seminars with the students and the University community at large. 

As he navigates the complexities of climate change activism, Al-Hussain has inevitably encountered obstacles that tested his resolve. A path without challenges probably leads nowhere. Throughout Al-Hussain’s journey, he has encountered challenges such as resistance from individuals who do not fully understand the urgency of climate action and limited resources to drive impactful initiatives, among others. He believes these challenges will wither away with persistence, collaboration and continuous community engagement.

Despite these challenges, the activist draws motivation from the hope that the generation to come can live in a healthier, more sustainable world. The belief in the power of the youth to drive change no matter how small keeps him going. Most importantly, seeing tangible results like restored green spaces from the tree planting campaigns further reinforces his commitment to changing the narrative.

With Nigeria having about 70 per cent of its population under the age of 30, with a median age of 18.1, Al-Hussain has no doubt that the country can fight against climate change. He urges other youths to contribute to changing the narrative whether through advocacy, innovation or grass root campaigns. He reiterated that climate change is not a future problem, it is happening now hence need to be treated with urgency.

“Every voice counts. The world needs your energy, creativity and drive… Stay informed, stay passionate and work together to build a sustainable world we all deserve”