By Abbas Nazil
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change as it joined the world to mark the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the 2025 World Ozone Day.
Speaking at an event in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, described the milestone as a reminder of the progress made under the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol, which remain the most successful environmental agreements in history.
He noted that scientific evidence shows the ozone layer is on course to recover by 2066, a development strengthened by the Kigali Amendment of 2016, which targets Hydrofluorocarbons known for their climate-warming effects.
According to him, this global collaboration has shown how science can drive meaningful action.
Nigeria ratified both the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol in 1988, achieving key phase-out targets including Chlorofluorocarbons and Halons.
The country also ratified the Kigali Amendment and is set to begin its implementation plan to phase out harmful substances in refrigeration, air-conditioning, foam, aerosol, and fire protection sectors.
The minister explained that Nigeria is working with partners to promote energy-efficient technologies, train technicians, strengthen regulations, and share knowledge with neighbouring countries to ensure sustainable progress.
He also highlighted a scholarship programme in honour of the late Mrs. Charity Kpabep, a pioneer female refrigeration and air-conditioning practitioner, aimed at empowering women in technical fields and advancing gender inclusivity.
While acknowledging achievements, Lawal stressed that much work remains to meet future targets, urging stronger policies, cleaner technologies, and broader partnerships.
He assured that Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, remains determined to safeguard the environment for future generations.
The minister expressed gratitude to international partners including UNDP, UNIDO, UNEP, and GIZ, alongside Nigerian agencies such as the Customs Service, NAFDAC, and NESREA for their roles in implementing the Montreal Protocol.
The occasion also witnessed recognition of award recipients, including the Emir of Nasarawa and former Environment Minister, Mallam Ibrahim Usman Jibril, who was honoured for his contributions.
Lawal closed his address with a call for collective responsibility, reminding Nigerians that protecting the ozone layer is a shared duty towards securing a safer and healthier planet.
