By Faridat Salifu
The Africa Infrastructure, Climate Change, and Investment Summit (AICIS) Committee is taking proactive measures to address the far-reaching impacts of climate change, all while propelling infrastructure development in Africa to new heights.
The committee is set to host a significant summit in the heart of Washington, DC, from October 30 to November 2, 2023.
During a press conference held in Abuja on October 18, 2023, Mr. Moses Owharo, Chairman of the committee, emphasized the truly Pan-African nature of this event.
A primary objective of this summit is to unite stakeholders from across the African continent, with a special emphasis on Nigeria, to secure vital international funding for developmental projects.
This funding aims to tackle pressing challenges related to infrastructure deterioration and declining investments throughout Africa.
The summit’s key mission is to forge a unified front among African stakeholders and governments, harnessing green climate financing to combat issues spanning investments, infrastructure, and disaster management.
These issues encompass a wide array of critical concerns, from power generation and alternative energy sources to hydroelectric facilities for agricultural use, water and dam management to combat deforestation, and many more, impacting various regions of Africa.
Furthermore, the summit is deeply committed to conducting environmental impact assessments, encompassing climate, soil, livestock, flora, fauna, and the rejuvenation of green vegetation and green belts.
Highlighting their commitment as signatories to the Paris Agreement, Mr. Owharo underscored the imperative shift toward low-emission development, which promises sustainable economic growth, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and an array of social, economic, and environmental benefits.
In addition to the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) outlining climate actions until 2030, the Paris Agreement, as defined under Article 4.19, urges global efforts in crafting long-term, low-emission development strategies (LT-LEDS).
AICIS emerges as a pivotal platform, offering clear guidance to all stakeholders for navigating the transition toward a low-carbon economy. This approach is anticipated to invigorate growth across all sectors, foster new employment opportunities, and advance sustainable development, thus fortifying economic resilience in the face of climate impacts.
Moreover, AICIS aspires to serve as a robust foundation not just for Nigeria but for the entire African continent, aligning with global objectives related to climate neutrality, resilience, a knowledge-driven economy, and advanced digital infrastructure.
Recognizing the formidable challenges associated with these endeavors, Mr. Owharo has called for the bold implementation of policies and actions.
He has stressed the paramount need for widespread involvement across various sectors and robust collaboration among stakeholders to actively engage Nigeria in African infrastructure development, climate change initiatives, and investment leadership.
Distinguished figures such as Professor Sunday Ogunduyile, the Former Vice Chancellor of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okiti-Pupa, Ondo State, have underscored the positive contributions that investments in climate change can make to Nigeria’s growth.
Dr. Fatima Damagudu, an aide to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has highlighted the importance of President Bola Tinubu’s mandate on climate change and has urged extensive support for this noble cause.
Mr. Faith Oniuwherin, Managing Director of Joeta and Sons Limited, has expressed a profound sense of optimism regarding the upcoming summit, firmly believing that it will serve as an enlightening experience and a catalyst for the development of the entire African continent.