In line with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan to achieve deep decarbonization and net zero target in 2060, an environmental expert has confirmed the possibility of achieving the target in Nigeria.
Edem Edem, the National Coordinator for Green Concern for Development, made this confirmation while giving his presentation at a recent workshop organised by African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) in Port Harcourt.
NatureNews recalls that in November 2021, at the United Nations climate change conference (COP26) held in Glasgow, President Muhammadu Buhari announced Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
Following this, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo launched Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP) on August 24, 2022, establishing the country’s strategy to reach a net-zero emissions energy system by 2060.
Nigeria’s energy sector accounts for about 65% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions (see figure 1 for a breakdown of the energy sector emission profile).
Edem, speaking on Energy Transition, explained that Nigeria needs Energy transition because of issues of desertification in the North, floods, population, pollution and amongst other environmental issues.
He emphasized that the key objectives of the ETP is to lift 100m Nigerians out of poverty by driving economic growth.
Others include, “Bringing modern energy services to the full population, managing the expected long-term job loss and building Africa that will include gas as a transitioning fuel,” he said.
Edem, who is also the CSO Committee Rep for Africa/Middle East Regions at World Bank, confirmed that achieving 2060 ETP target is possible.
He said this while highlighting efforts the Nigerian government has done towards achieving ETP objectives.
He said, “ Buhari made a commitment to carbon neutrality by 2060 and following this, the Nigeria’s energy plan has been approved.
“There is also the energy transition implementation group (ETWG). Last year, Osinbajo led Nigeria’s Energy Transition Implementation Working Group (ETWG) on the mission in USA to promote the plan and secure global support from the US government, the private sector, and other development partners.”
The ETWG which is chaired by the Vice President comprises relevant ministers and other top government officials.
Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan officially launched last week at a global virtual event is a homegrown, data-backed and multi-pronged strategy developed for the attainment of 2060 net-zero emissions commitment in 5 critical sectors: Power, Cooking, Oil & Gas, Transport and Industry.
Among other highlights, the plan needs at least $10 billion per annum above business-as-usual spending for effective implementation.
Edem also affirmed that partners with the Nigerian government like The Rockefeller Foundation and others are supporting Nigeria to achieve energy transition.
He called on the private sector to increase investment in renewable energy and fund technologies that will lead to alternative electrical sources.