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Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2060, aligning with global climate objectives.
Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) Summit, President Tinubu called on international investors to partner with Nigeria in fostering sustainability and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
“This topic resonates deeply with Africans’ aspirations and challenges. It also underscores a pivotal reality about our dear continent. The fight against climate change is not merely an environmental necessity but a global economic opportunity to reshape the trajectory of our continent and the global energy landscape,” Tinubu stated.
Highlighting Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa, Tinubu noted the country’s responsibility as the continent’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies.
“We have embraced the vision of sustainability that aligns with global aspirations while addressing local realities,” he said.
The President outlined the three core pillars underpinning Nigeria’s efforts: energy transition, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Recognising the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions, his administration has prioritised transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.
“Our energy transition plan, like many nations, is aimed at diversifying energy sources and reducing our dependency on fossil fuel, prioritising the transition to cleaner energy sources as a cornerstone of our national development strategy… Nigeria is committed to achieving a net zero emission by 2060 in line with global climate objectives,” he said. Nigeria is also developing infrastructure to promote the use of compressed natural gas and electric vehicles, while significantly investing in energy generation through exploration and data-driven utilisation of critical metals and solid minerals in support of the green energy transition.
Tinubu emphasised the importance of building resilience against the adverse effects of climate change, particularly for vulnerable African communities and economies.
“Nigeria is implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance food security while reducing environmental impact… policies such as National Clean Cooking Gas policy is aimed at promoting clean energy environment and earth benefit and social economic development in our region,” he remarked.
He stressed the need for sustainable development that leaves no one behind.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure our policies promote equity and social justice,” he said.
He acknowledged the environmental challenges Nigeria faces, including deforestation, desertification, coastal erosion, flooding, and pollution. The shrinking Lake Chad, for instance, continues to threaten the region. Tinubu underscored the government’s efforts to work with local communities to mitigate these effects and build resilience.
Acknowledging the capital-intensive nature of green economy investments, Tinubu appealed for international support, stating, “For resources, to promote a green economy in Africa, we must focus on integrating sustainable practices in all sectors of our economy.
“These investments are capital-intensive in nature, and they require international support from partner countries, including multinational organisations. Developmental partners and individuals who share our vision of a sustainable, prosperous and equitable future must be included.”
He highlighted Nigeria’s pioneering role as the first African country to initiate funding for green projects through sovereign green bond proceeds, with the third issuance currently underway. “We urge investors to partner with us. Our government remains committed to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive,” Tinubu added.
The Nigerian president further outlined Nigeria’s efforts to adopt new technologies, including clean energy, water conservation, land and forest restoration, waste management, and advanced agricultural techniques. He also highlighted the potential for artificial intelligence in agriculture, further bolstering Nigeria’s sustainable development aspirations.
Additionally, Tinubu emphasised the need for collective action to achieve sustainable development goals.
“Global solutions will only be effective if we work together in the spirit of mutual respect and a shared future,” he noted. Tinubu urged continued strengthening of international cooperation to mitigate climate change and achieve a sustainable future.
President Tinubu’s participation at the ADSW Summit, themed “The Nexus of Next: Supercharging Sustainable Progress,” underscores Nigeria’s commitment to global climate action. The summit, hosted by the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, brought together world leaders to accelerate sustainable development and socio-economic progress.
Frances Ibiefo
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