By Abbas Nazil
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 47 per cent by the year 2030 as part of its climate action goals under the Paris Agreement.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, disclosed this during the 2025 edition of the Africa Climate Forum (ACF) held in Abuja on October 14.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Foreign Direct Investments, Dr. Obafemi Bajomo, Keyamo said the theme of this year’s forum, “Bolder, Greener, and Better Steps: Closing Transition Gaps in Africa,” reflects the urgency of Nigeria’s climate response efforts.
He explained that Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan outlines a clear path to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 through expanded renewable energy access, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, climate-smart agriculture, reforestation under the Great Green Wall Initiative, and widespread climate education.
The minister emphasized that Africa must take decisive steps to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change, noting that the continent’s vast natural and human resources provide a foundation for a sustainable future.
Kenyan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Isaac Parashina, highlighted Kenya’s progress in renewable energy, noting that over 90 per cent of its electricity comes from geothermal sources.
He called for stronger collaboration among African nations, including Nigeria and Kenya, in renewable energy, green technology, and sustainable agriculture.
Similarly, Nigeria’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Dingyard, stressed that the labour sector plays a vital role in achieving climate goals through job creation in renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Director-General of the Global Centre for Law, Business and Economy, Prof. George Nwangwu, described ACF as a cornerstone of Africa’s climate action, while the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, said the Council is enhancing Nigeria’s climate data verification system through stronger international partnerships.
All speakers agreed that collaboration, innovation, and commitment remain central to Africa’s pursuit of a resilient and low-carbon future.
