Nigeria urges UN to ensure equitable global hydrogen transition
Nigeria has called on the United Nations to promote an inclusive and equitable hydrogen economy, stressing that no region should be left behind in the transition to cleaner energy systems.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, made the call during his closing remarks at the Conference on Clean Hydrogen: Shaping Sustainable Industry’s Future, organised by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation in Vienna.
Bagudu said the global body must address historical inequalities where value creation has been concentrated in a few regions, leaving others as mere suppliers of raw resources, warning against repeating such patterns in the emerging hydrogen economy.
“We must ensure that the emerging hydrogen economy does not replicate past inequalities, where value creation is concentrated in a few regions while others remain mere suppliers of raw potential,” he said.
He described hydrogen as more than a decarbonisation tool, noting that it offers opportunities for industrialisation, job creation, energy security, and economic diversification, particularly for developing countries.
The minister highlighted Nigeria’s hydrogen policy as part of its broader energy strategy, aimed at strengthening climate resilience while advancing economic growth, industrialisation, and energy access.
He said the country is leveraging natural gas under its “Decade of Gas” initiative to develop blue hydrogen, while expanding renewable energy to unlock long-term green hydrogen opportunities.
Bagudu urged stronger global cooperation, increased investment, and improved access to finance for developing nations, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to partnerships that support inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
