In response to public discussions surrounding Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing Climate Summit in Dubai, COP-28, the Federal Government, led by President Tinubu, has issued a comprehensive statement, signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
According to the Minister, the objective is to uphold transparency and accessibility regarding public information, in line with the government’s commitment to open communication.
Nigeria’s Robust Presence at COP-28
COP-28, the world’s premier Climate Change Conference, has attracted over 70,000 participants and delegates from 100 countries. Nigeria’s representation aligns with its status as Africa’s leading voice and player in climate action. The diverse Nigerian delegation includes government officials, private sector representatives, civil society, media, state governments, and more.
The overall delegation comprises both government-sponsored and non-government-sponsored participants from private companies, NGOs, CSOs, media, and academia, among others. The Federal Government-funded delegation consists of 422 individuals, representing various entities.
Nigeria’s Stake in Climate Action
As Africa’s largest economy and most populous country with a significant extractive economy and vulnerability to climate change, Nigeria’s active and robust participation at COP-28 is justified.
Demonstrable Benefits of Participation
Nigeria’s engagement at COP-28 has already borne fruit, with tangible outcomes demonstrating the impact of its involvement:
• Accelerated Performance Agreement with Germany: A significant agreement was signed to expedite the implementation of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), aiming to enhance Nigeria’s electricity supply.
• Nigeria Carbon Market Activation Plan: President Tinubu spearheaded a high-level meeting on the Nigeria Carbon Market and the Electric Buses Rollout Programme. The President unveiled a comprehensive plan co-chaired by the Executive Chairman of FIRS and the Director-General of NCCC.
• Innovative Electric Buses Program: The Electric Buses program, a sustainable initiative, marks the beginning of a series of innovative projects across various sectors, addressing climate change challenges, reducing carbon footprint, and modernizing infrastructure.
• Benefiting from the Loss and Damage Fund: Nigeria stands to benefit from the Loss and Damage Fund established during COP-27, providing substantial non-debt financing to support countries most affected by climate change.
• Strategic Bilateral Engagements: President Tinubu’s meetings with the President of UAE and various countries showcase Nigeria’s commitment to concrete engagements.
Nigeria’s Climate Action Credentials
Over the years, Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its commitment to climate action, standing out as the first African country to launch its Energy Transition Plan, issue a Sovereign Green Bond, and pass national climate change legislation.
President tinubu’s Advocacy for Equitable Climate Action
President Tinubu has been vocal in advocating for equitable climate action, emphasizing the need for funding and investment in alternative and clean energy sources, particularly for developing nations heavily reliant on extractive industries.
In conclusion, the Federal Government assures Nigerians that President Tinubu and the delegation in Dubai are focused on serious business, dispelling any misconceptions about the nature of Nigeria’s participation at COP-28.
