Buhari seeks more focus on environmental sustainability in business

President Muhamamdu Buhari has called for more focus on issues affecting environment and its sustainability in business practice in the wake of changing global environment.

Speaking when he received members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria ICAN, the President charged the Accountants to use their knowledge to prioritize environmental sustainability in their operations.

Buhari who noted that knowledge of environmental and sustainability business practices is critical, added that “ You have a responsibility to ensure that your clients, in both the public and private sector, prioritize environmental sustainability in their operations”
The President while congratulating ICAN led by its President Razak Jayeola,for the recently concluded 48th Annual Accountants’ Conference, said “all hands must be on deck to ensure Nigerians work towards an inclusive, diversified and sustainable future.”
“ I am particularly pleased to learn that the communique at the end of the conference talked about environmental issues facing our nation.

“It is very clear to all of us that climate change and environmental challenges are major threat to the peace and prosperity of our nation and its citizens.

“ In the Niger-Delta region, man-made environmental problems have adversely impacted the livelihoods of the inhabitants. Farmers and fishermen in particular have seen their means of livelihood destroyed. Our assessments have shown it will take decades to reverse this damage. But we have made a start. With or without international cooperation, we are starting to clean up our degraded areas, beginning with Ogoni.”

He recalled the recent clashes between farmers and herders in the North Central region, said the country was witnessing a significant increase in farmer herdsmen clashes, as a result of the environmental crises

“ This trend, which is recurring in many West and Central African nations is as a result of desertification”

“We are also seeing unpredictable rain patterns resulting in significant floods across our riverine communities. These floods have destroyed hundreds of homes and farmlands.
“In the past 3 years, this administration has worked hard to enhance the transparency and efficiency of public sector financing through the Treasury Single Account.

“We have also introduced policies that are improving the business environment. We have implemented projects that enable young entrepreneurs. We will also continue to review obsolete laws that are hindering growth in many sectors

The President also on Friday said his administration will work harder to improve on the gains recorded in securing the country from the onslaughts of terrorists and criminals, and ensuring that Nigerians enjoy a better livelihood by stabilising the economy.
The President, stated this when he received Tijjaniyya Shura Council at the Presidential Villa.

The President assured that government continues to review its interventions and projections on security and the economy, with the hope of bringing peace and improved economy to all.

President Buhari commended religious bodies and Nigerians for the encouragement shown to the administration through prayers, pointing out that a peaceful and prosperous country is realisable with collective vision and shared effort.

“I am grateful for the prayers and words of encouragement,’’ he said, “Nigeria’s unity is strong and must be sustained. It is instructive to note that Nigeria preceded all of us in age, and we must do our best to keep the country together.’’

In his remarks, leader of the Tijjaniyya, Sheikh Ibrahim Shiekh Maihula, said, “our desire is to live in a country that is peaceful and economically vibrant, and we will keep praying for you and members of your administration.’’

Shiekh Maihula said peace and economic prosperity were not negotiable for the unity of the country, urging the president to remain focused and steadfast in pursuing the policies he had outlined.

Tony Ailemen, Abuja