Nigeria's Road to COP29: Achievements, Expectations, and the Tinubu Administration's Vision

As the world prepares for the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its climate action journey. The upcoming conference presents not only an opportunity for the country to showcase its progress but also a platform to secure the support and resources necessary to advance its climate goals.

Nigeria's Achievements in the Last Five Years

Over the past five years, Nigeria has made significant strides in its climate change agenda. Some key achievements include:

1. Adoption of the Climate Change Act (2021): This landmark legislation established the National Council on Climate Change, providing a legal framework for climate governance in Nigeria. The Act mandates the integration of climate action into national development planning and underscores Nigeria's commitment to meeting its obligations under the Paris Agreement.
2. Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (2022): This ambitious plan aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, with a focus on expanding renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies. The plan is a cornerstone of Nigeria's strategy to combat climate change while driving economic growth.
3. Reforestation and Afforestation Efforts: Nigeria has undertaken significant reforestation initiatives, particularly through the Green Recovery Nigeria program, which aims to restore degraded forests and increase the country's forest cover. These efforts are crucial in combating desertification and enhancing carbon sequestration.
4. Participation in Global Climate Initiatives: Nigeria has been an active participant in global climate initiatives, including the African Adaptation Initiative and the Great Green Wall project, which seeks to combat desertification across the Sahel region.

What Nigeria Stands to Benefit from COP29

At COP29, Nigeria has the opportunity to further its climate agenda in several key ways:

1. Access to Climate Finance: One of the most significant benefits for Nigeria at COP29 will be securing access to international climate finance. This includes funding for mitigation and adaptation projects, which are essential for building resilience against climate impacts. Nigeria will likely push for the fulfillment of the $100 billion annual climate finance commitment made by developed countries.
2. Strengthening International Partnerships: Nigeria can use COP29 to forge stronger partnerships with other nations and international organizations. These partnerships can support the implementation of Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan and other climate initiatives, providing technical assistance, capacity building, and investment.
3. Showcasing Progress and Attracting Investment: By highlighting its achievements and future plans, Nigeria can attract investment in its green economy. This includes opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate-smart infrastructure.

The Tinubu Administration's Approach to COP29

President Bola Tinubu’s administration is taking a pragmatic and fiscally responsible approach to COP29. In a recent announcement, Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Envoy on Climate Change and Media Adviser to the President, outlined several key measures aimed at reducing costs and enhancing transparency:

• Cost-Cutting Measures: The administration plans to save approximately ?10 billion by eliminating unnecessary expenditures such as the costly showcase pavilion that was used at COP28. Instead, Nigeria will utilize a more economical delegation office within the conference complex (Punch Newspapers) (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.).
• Enhanced Transparency: A new Climate Accountability and Transparency Portal will be launched, allowing Nigerians to access real-time information on the government’s activities and expenditures at COP29. This move reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to fiscal prudence and accountability in climate governance (Punch Newspapers).
• Focused Delegation: Only officials with direct responsibilities linked to attracting business opportunities and climate finance will be part of the Nigerian delegation. This ensures that Nigeria’s participation at COP29 is not only cost-effective but also strategically aligned with the country’s economic and environmental objectives (Punch Newspapers).

Conclusion

As Nigeria heads to COP29, the nation is poised to leverage the conference to advance its climate goals, secure essential funding, and showcase its achievements on the global stage. The Tinubu administration’s approach underscores a commitment to both climate action and good governance, setting a precedent for how developing countries can engage in global climate diplomacy while safeguarding national interests.

Through its continued efforts in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and international cooperation, Nigeria is not only contributing to global climate goals but also paving the way for sustainable development that benefits all Nigerians.