Nigeria’s COP28 Agenda Unveiled for Climate Action in Dubai
With the approaching 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Nigeria sets out its priorities and expectations for the summit scheduled to be held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The conference holds particular significance for Nigeria, given its vulnerability to climate change impacts.
Nigeria is strategically positioned to enhance its climate resilience and adaptation efforts, contributing to global mitigation goals. The nation aims to seek international support, especially from developed countries, to implement climate action and address the adverse effects of climate change.
Scheduled in Dubai, the COP28 conference is seen as a crucial moment for the global community to intensify efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, aligning with the Paris Agreement.
During the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA78), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu outlined six key points, emphasizing the need to prioritize Africa’s development through partnership, direct investment in critical industries, affirming democratic governance in the ECOWAS region, combating human trafficking, securing mineral-rich areas in Africa, and addressing climate change.
President Tinubu stressed the importance of aligning efforts with global collaboration based on Africa’s unique requirements, particularly in the context of climate change and the continent’s growth. Nigeria advocates for climate justice and equity, particularly supporting vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and indigenous peoples.
The country also supports the operationalization of the loss and damage fund to address the irreversible impacts of climate change. Nigeria endorses nature-based solutions, promoting the restoration of degraded lands and watersheds to enhance ecosystem services and livelihoods.
President Tinubu expressed anticipation for Nigeria’s participation in the COP 28 Platform, a virtual platform enabling stakeholders worldwide to engage with the negotiations and share their views and solutions.
He commended the UAE for its leadership and innovation in renewable energy and the green economy, expressing interest in potential partnerships and collaborations with the UAE and other countries.
Looking ahead to COP 28, President Tinubu expressed optimism that the conference would be a historic opportunity for Nigeria and other developing countries to secure more support and resources for climate action and sustainable development.
Nigeria aspires to witness a successful outcome at COP 28 aligned with the principles of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, coupled with the highest possible ambition.
The nation anticipates robust engagement and collaboration among all stakeholders, spanning governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia, to fulfill the objectives of the UNFCCC and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Being a party to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change since 1994 and ratifying the Kyoto Protocol in 2004, Nigeria has taken substantial steps in climate action. The approval of the National Policy on Climate Change in 2013 aims for low-carbon, high-growth economic development and a climate-resilient society.
Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement, submitted in 2015, pledges a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. However, the nation faces challenges in implementing its climate commitments, including dependence on fossil fuels, deforestation, land degradation, water scarcity, poverty, and insecurity.
While per capita emissions are relatively low, Nigeria’s total emissions rank highest in Africa and 15th globally. The country grapples with the impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, drought, and desertification.
To address these challenges, Nigeria has initiated various programs, including the Nigeria Climate Change Response Programme, the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action, and the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy.
Institutional frameworks like the Department of Climate Change and the National Climate Change Commission coordinate and oversee policy implementation.
In 2021, Nigeria passed the Climate Change Act, providing a legal framework for its climate response and defining roles and responsibilities for stakeholders. The Act mandates the review and update of the NDC every five years in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
Anticipated at COP28 is Nigeria’s presentation of its updated NDC and a long-term vision for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as announced by former President Muhammadu Buhari at COP26 in 2021.
Nigeria seeks international support, especially from developed countries, to implement climate action and address adverse climate effects.
Nigeria views its participation in COP28 as an opportunity to showcase leadership, commitment to the global climate agenda, and learn from best practices.
The country aims to foster partnerships and collaborations, particularly with the UAE, the host country of COP28, known for its advancements in renewable energy and green technology.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari expressed optimism about COP 28, considering it a historic opportunity for developing countries to secure support for climate action and sustainable development.
Nigeria is committed to collaborating with the UAE presidency and other partners for a balanced and ambitious outcome, emphasizing equity, common but differentiated responsibilities, and the highest possible ambition.
President Buhari urges developed countries to fulfill climate finance pledges and enhance transparency and accountability mechanisms. Nigeria stands ready to engage with the global community, emphasizing inclusivity and participation to address the climate crisis and build a resilient and prosperous future.
President Tinubu, concluding his speech at UNGA78, stated that Nigeria is ready to work with the UAE presidency and other partners to achieve a balanced and ambitious outcome that reflects the principles of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, and the highest possible ambition.
He also urged all stakeholders, including governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia, to join forces and collaborate to tackle the climate crisis and build a more resilient and prosperous future for all.
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