As the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) approaches, Nigeria has delineated its priorities and expectations for the summit.
Scheduled to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023, the conference holds significant importance for Nigeria, given its vulnerability to the impacts of climate change.
Nigeria is poised to advance its climate resilience and adaptation efforts, concurrently contributing to global mitigation goals as well as seek international support, especially from developed countries, to implement climate actions and address climate change’s adverse effects.
The conference is anticipated to serve as a pivotal moment for the global community to intensify efforts in limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, aligning with the Paris Agreement.
At the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78), precisely on September 20, 2023, the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, harped on six important points: (i) the need to see Africa’s development as priority through partnership, (ii) direct investment in critical industries; (iii) affirm democratic governance in Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS) region; (iv) human trafficking; (v) securing the mineral-rich areas in Africa; and (vi) Climate Change.
According to the president, efforts must be aligned with global collaboration based on Africa’s unique requirements, particularly as it intersects with climate change and the continent’s growth.
Emphasizing the imperative of climate justice and equity, Nigeria advocates for vulnerable and marginalized groups, including women, youth, and indigenous peoples.
The country supports the operationalization of the loss and damage fund, addressing the irreversible impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, Nigeria endorses nature-based solutions, promoting the restoration of degraded lands and watersheds to enhance ecosystem services and livelihoods.
The president stated that Nigeria is looking forward to participating in the COP 28 Platform, a virtual platform that will enable stakeholders from around the world to engage with the negotiations and share their views and solutions.
He also praised the UAE for its leadership and innovation in the field of renewable energy and green economy, and expressed his interest in exploring potential partnerships and collaborations with the UAE and other countries in this regard.
President Tinubu concluded his statement by expressing his optimism that COP 28 will be a historic opportunity for Nigeria and other developing countries to secure more support and resources for climate action and sustainable development.
At COP 28, Nigeria aspires to witness a successful outcome aligned with the principles of the Paris Agreement, encompassing common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, coupled with the highest possible ambition.
The nation anticipates robust engagement and collaboration among all stakeholders, spanning governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia, to fulfill the objectives of the UNFCCC and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Having been a party to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change since 1994 and ratifying the Kyoto Protocol in 2004, Nigeria has taken substantial steps.
The approval of the National Policy on Climate Change in 2013 aims for low-carbon, high-growth economic development and a climate-resilient society.
Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement, submitted in 2015, pledges a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
However, Nigeria confronts challenges in implementing its climate commitments, including dependence on fossil fuels, deforestation, land degradation, water scarcity, poverty, and insecurity.
While per capita emissions are relatively low, the country’s total emissions rank highest in Africa and 15th globally. Nigeria grapples with the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, drought, and desertification.
Addressing these challenges, Nigeria has initiated various programs, including the Nigeria Climate Change Response Programme, the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action, and the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy.
Institutional frameworks like the Department of Climate Change and the National Climate Change Commission coordinate and oversee policy implementation.
In 2021, Nigeria passed the Climate Change Act, providing a legal framework for its climate response, defining roles and responsibilities for stakeholders.
The Act mandates the review and update of the NDC every five years in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
Anticipated at COP28 is Nigeria’s presentation of its updated NDC and a long-term vision for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as announced by Former President Muhammadu Buhari at COP26 in 2021.
Nigeria seeks international support, especially from developed countries, to implement climate actions and address climate change’s adverse effects.
Nigeria views its participation in COP28 as an opportunity to showcase leadership, commitment to the global climate agenda, and learn from best practices.
The country aims to foster partnerships and collaborations, particularly with the UAE, the host country of COP28, known for its advancements in renewable energy and green technology.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari had expressed optimism about COP 28, considering it a historic opportunity for developing countries to secure support for climate action and sustainable development.
Nigeria is committed to collaborating with the UAE presidency and other partners for a balanced and ambitious outcome, emphasizing equity, common but differentiated responsibilities, and the highest possible ambition.
President Buhari urges developed countries to fulfill climate finance pledges and enhance transparency and accountability mechanisms. Nigeria stands ready to engage with the global community, emphasizing inclusivity and participation to address the climate crisis and build a resilient and prosperous future.
President Tinubu, concluding his speech at UNGA78, stated that Nigeria is ready to work with the UAE presidency and other partners to achieve a balanced and ambitious outcome that reflects the principles of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and the highest possible ambition.
He also urged all stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private sector, and academia, to join forces and collaborate to tackle the climate crisis and build a more resilient and prosperous future for all.
