Kano Rises from 35th to 4th Position in Nigeria’s Climate Governance Ranking
Kano, Nigeria — In a remarkable turnaround, Kano State has surged from 35th to 4th position in Nigeria’s 2025 Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking, marking one of the most significant improvements in the nation’s climate governance history.
The new ranking, released by the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) in collaboration with the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, recognizes Kano’s outstanding progress in institutional reforms, climate policy implementation, and sustainable environmental practices.
According to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, this milestone reflects the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose administration has placed climate action at the core of Kano’s development strategy.
“Through deliberate reforms, strengthened institutions, and community-driven programs, we have built a governance system that responds to both the global urgency of climate change and the local realities of our people,” Dr. Hashim said.
Over the past year, Kano State has implemented a series of transformative initiatives — including the enforcement of the Kano State Climate Change Policy, the deployment of renewable energy across public institutions, and the greening of urban spaces under the Urban Renewal Project. The state has also intensified afforestation campaigns and erosion control projects to enhance ecological resilience.
Dr. Hashim noted that these efforts have laid a strong foundation for a cleaner energy transition, improved environmental governance, and inclusive growth across the state.
He expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Environment, led by Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and the Department of Climate Change for their guidance in advancing subnational climate governance. The Commissioner also commended the UK-FCDO Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) Project and other development partners for their technical and institutional support.
“This achievement belongs to the Government and people of Kano State,” Dr. Hashim added. “Together, we will continue to strengthen our resolve to build a cleaner, greener, and more climate-resilient future for our state and for Nigeria.”
The Subnational Climate Governance Ranking is an annual performance assessment designed to promote accountability, innovation, and collaboration among Nigeria’s states in tackling climate change.
