BRICS Summit: Tinubu seeks climate justice, emerging economies inclusion in global systems
By Abdullahi Lukman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for urgent climate justice and greater inclusion of low-income and emerging economies, particularly from Africa, in global environmental and financial systems.
Speaking at the 17th BRICS summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu stressed that climate change and environmental degradation remain major barriers to development across the Global South.
He highlighted Africa’s minimal contribution to global emissions despite being the most affected by climate impacts, urging fair access to sustainable technology and financing to build climate resilience.
The president emphasized the importance of the upcoming COP-30 climate summit as a critical moment for global alignment on environmental strategies.
Citing Nigeria’s leadership in initiatives like the African Carbon Market Initiative and the Great Green Wall, Tinubu urged emerging economies to have a stronger voice in shipping international climate policies and global decision-making.
He also linked the climate crisis with the need for financial restructuring and improved healthcare equity, calling on BRICS nations to drive solutions based on solidarity, self-reliance, and sustainability.
“We need a new path of justice, anchored in fairness, sustainable technology transfer, and accessible financing,” Tinubu said.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to renewable energy, nature-based solutions, and urban resilience, the president urged global cooperation to support vulnerable communities and youth—who make up 70 percent of Nigeria’s population—most affected by climate change.
