CEPASD Empowers 300 Environmental Defenders in Kaduna

From October 27 to 29, 2026, the Community Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development (CEPASD) trained 300 environmental defenders in Kaduna, covering the Unguwar-Rimi, Television, and Sabo communities. This training was part of the CIVIC-GUARD Nigeria Project, led by Young Advocates for Sustainable Future (YASIF) with support from CIVICUS.

The training aimed to equip participants with skills to identify and respond to environmental and climate-related risks, improve personal and digital security, and contribute to community-based early-warning systems. It also addressed the links between environmental challenges and community tensions, particularly regarding pollution, flooding, and water scarcity.

Representatives from the Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA) and the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KASUPDA) participated, emphasizing the need for cooperation between government and local communities. CEPASD Executive Director Augustine Igweshi noted the importance of environmental defenders and the threats they face.

The project will continue with simulation exercises and monitoring to assess the application of the knowledge gained.