By Abbas Nazil
Nigeria is set to strengthen its profile in global climate diplomacy as former member of the House of Representatives and sponsor of the Climate Change Act 2021, Rt. Hon. Sir Sam Onuigbo, prepares to assume the presidency of GLOBE International during the 2026 London Climate Action Week in the United Kingdom.
With his elevation, Onuigbo becomes the first African to lead the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment (GLOBE International), a non-partisan network of lawmakers committed to advancing environmental governance, climate action and sustainable development across the world.
His appointment comes at a time when climate leaders, parliamentarians, investors and development partners are gathering in London for a series of high-level engagements focused on accelerating climate solutions and green investments.
As convener of the inaugural Nigeria Climate Investment Summit scheduled to take place from June 23 to 26 at Mansion House in the City of London, Onuigbo is expected to deliver a keynote address highlighting the summit’s objectives and Nigeria’s increasing role in climate action, sustainable development and climate finance.
The leadership transition is being viewed as a significant recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global climate governance and environmental policy.
Observers have linked the development to the passage of the Climate Change Act 2021, landmark legislation championed by Onuigbo during his tenure in the National Assembly.
The law established a framework for climate governance in Nigeria and strengthened the country’s commitment to achieving sustainable development and emissions reduction targets.
Founded in 1991 by former United States Vice-President Al Gore, former US Secretary of State John Kerry and lawmakers from Europe, Russia and Japan, GLOBE International has remained a key platform for promoting legislative action on climate change, environmental sustainability and energy transition.
According to information from the organisation, Onuigbo will formally take over leadership from Argentine parliamentarian Deputy MC Juan Carlos Villalonga during activities marking GLOBE International’s 35th anniversary celebration at the London Climate Action Week.
Currently serving as GLOBE Legislators’ Vice-President for Africa, Onuigbo will also oversee the organisation’s strategic transition as its headquarters relocates to Nairobi, Kenya.
In addition, he is expected to deliver his inaugural presidential address during GLOBE’s 35th Anniversary Reception at the UK Parliament on June 24.
The reception will be hosted at the House of Commons by former United Kingdom Minister for Climate Change and former GLOBE President, Rt. Hon. Graham Stuart MP.
The event is expected to attract lawmakers, climate experts, development institutions and environmental advocates from different regions of the world.
Discussions during the anniversary gathering will focus on strengthening political support for climate action amid increasing domestic and geopolitical challenges.
Participants are also expected to examine pathways for accelerating investment and innovation toward net-zero economies, enhancing climate resilience, restoring ecosystems and oceans, and mobilising broader public participation in climate action.
Since sponsoring the Climate Change Act, Onuigbo has continued to advocate for environmental sustainability, climate resilience and energy transition initiatives both within Nigeria and internationally.
His contributions to climate governance have earned him several recognitions, including being named among the Top 30 Global Climate Action Leaders by a New York-based publication in 2023.
He was also inducted into the National Assembly Most Valuable Parliamentarian Hall of Fame for the 2019–2023 legislative period and recognised as a Worthy Ambassador of the House of Representatives by the 10th National Assembly.
Organisers noted that London Climate Action Week has grown into one of the most influential climate diplomacy events globally, bringing together governments, businesses, investors, academics and civil society groups to advance practical solutions to climate change.
The 2026 edition is expected to surpass previous records, with hundreds of climate-focused events planned across London, reinforcing the city’s role as a major centre for global climate dialogue and action.
