The recent discussions following COP 30 have ignited a passionate call among stakeholders in the environmental sector for actionable steps to be taken regarding global climate initiatives. Attendees at the Post COP 30 National Consultative Dialogue, held in Abuja on Wednesday, emphasized the urgent need for concrete implementation of existing policies and financial commitments to effectively tackle the escalating climate crisis.
Rep. Sam Onuigbo, who serves as the Patron of the Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet), articulated that global climate action is transitioning from mere promises to actual execution. He pointed out that for Nigeria, the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Climate Change Act of 2021 is pivotal in guiding national climate efforts. This is particularly significant as it not only addresses climate change but also seeks to promote equity, inclusiveness, and a fair transition for communities affected by climate impacts.
Onuigbo underscored various key opportunities that arise from the implementation of NDC 3.0, which include enhancing both mitigation and adaptation strategies, advancing nature-based solutions, increasing transparency and accountability in climate governance, and expanding the deployment of renewable energy, alongside the creation of green jobs. Furthermore, he highlighted the potential of Nigeria's emerging carbon market to attract climate investment and expedite emissions reductions, all while maintaining strong environmental integrity and community safeguards.
Expressing optimism, Onuigbo stated his dedication to collaborative, evidence-driven climate action and expressed confidence that Nigeria could emerge as a leader in low-carbon development and resilience against climate change. He stressed the importance of aligning post-COP 30 priorities with the real experiences of communities dealing with climate-related shocks—ranging from farmers facing unpredictable weather patterns to young individuals seeking sustainable job opportunities and institutions focused on ecosystem protection.
"Implementing Nigeria’s NDC 3.0 gives us a vital chance to enhance our mitigation strategies, boost adaptation financing, promote nature-based solutions, and solidify the transparency frameworks that are essential for building trust in our climate governance systems," Onuigbo affirmed.
Dr. Sam Ogallah, who heads the Climate Change Unit at the African Union, expressed concern that although Africa did not cause the climate crisis, it is suffering the consequences more severely than others. He noted that the outcomes of COP 30 reinforced longstanding African demands for safeguarding livelihoods, jobs, and equitable development, alongside a commitment to fair transition pathways and increased support for adaptation and addressing loss and damage.
Ogallah pointed out that Nigeria’s NDC 3.0 correctly emphasizes the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 29 percent by 2030 and 32 percent by 2035, based on 2018 levels, while also aiming for a 50 percent shift towards renewable energy sources by 2030.
Prof. Ibrahim Choji, the Chairman of the CSDevNet Board, reiterated the organization's steadfast commitment to ensuring Nigeria’s national climate priorities align with international climate efforts. He acknowledged the significant climate-related challenges faced by Nigeria, such as catastrophic flooding, rising food insecurity, and the increasing vulnerability of communities. Yet, he also celebrated positive strides like the validation of Nigeria’s NDC 3.0 and progress in climate policy following COP 30.
Choji emphasized that CSDevNet is dedicated to transforming climate policies into tangible actions by elevating civil society voices within both national and global climate dialogues, while also supporting grassroots engagement and accountability in climate governance. He remarked, "Civil society plays an essential role in ensuring that climate commitments evolve beyond written policies to deliver real improvements in people's lives."
Mrs. Anna Kalu, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted the vital connections between agriculture, food security, climate resilience, and the Sustainable Development Goals as underscored by COP 30. "For Nigeria, these outcomes align closely with our national goals to boost sustainable agricultural productivity, enhance resilience to climate shocks, and protect food production amidst our rapidly growing population."
She reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to aligning its policies with the outcomes of COP 30, including climate adaptation plans and ongoing reforms in agricultural governance. "As we transition into the phase of implementing COP 30 outcomes, the Ministry will continue collaborating with CSDevNet to transform ambitious goals into impactful actions that ensure climate-secure food security for all in Nigeria," she assured.
