Nigeria takes regional lead on climate change, unveils new emission targets
By Kunle Sanni –
Nigeria has taken the lead in West Africa’s climate action efforts, becoming the first country in the region to submit its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The milestone comes as Vice President Kashim Shettima prepares to unveil Nigeria’s green transition roadmap at the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, where global leaders have gathered to accelerate climate action and investment.
Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), Dr. Tenioye Majekodunmi, disclosed this in Belém during a media briefing ahead of the summit’s opening ceremony.
Majekodunmi said Nigeria’s early submission of its updated climate plan positions the country for increased investment and stronger partnerships in renewable energy, carbon markets, and sustainable development.
“This is the implementation COP we have all been waiting for, and we are excited to be the first in West Africa to submit our NDC 3.0,” she said. “Our goal is to turn our climate commitments into tangible projects, partnerships, and pay-for-performance initiatives.”
She explained that the Federal Government has recently approved the National Carbon Market Framework and begun operationalising the National Climate Change Fund, signalling clear policy direction for investors seeking high-integrity carbon projects that deliver real mitigation and community benefits.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, said Nigeria’s participation at COP30 reaffirms President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.
“Vice President Shettima will articulate Nigeria’s intent and direction, highlighting the country’s NDC 3.0 and its targets of reducing emissions by 32 percent by 2035 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2060,” Nkwocha said.
