President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for global unity in addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development, emphasising that no nation can tackle these challenges alone.
Speaking on Wednesday at the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in the United Arab Emirates, the president reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to environmental sustainability and economic prosperity.
Delivering his address on the theme “From Climate Imperatives into Economic Prosperity: Bridging Africa with the Global Energy Future,” Tinubu highlighted the necessity of collective action, knowledge sharing, and mutual support in combating climate change.
“The fight against climate change is not merely an environmental necessity but a global economic opportunity to reshape the trajectory of our continent and the global energy landscape,” Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to the president, quoted Tinubu in a statement released on Wednesday.
“As leaders, stakeholders, and citizens of our planet, we stand at a critical juncture in human history. To succeed, we must innovate, collaborate, and act decisively as one global community.”
Reiterating his administration’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions, the president outlined Nigeria’s actionable programmes anchored on three pillars: Energy Transition, Climate Resilience, and Sustainable Development.
“We have embraced a vision of sustainability that aligns with global aspirations while addressing local realities,” Tinubu said.
“Our energy transition plans aim to diversify energy sources, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and prioritise cleaner energy as a cornerstone of our national development strategy.”
He noted that Nigeria is advancing infrastructure for the widespread adoption of Compressed Natural Gas and electric vehicles while leveraging solid minerals to support the green energy transition.
Also, the government is implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance food security and reduce environmental harm. Initiatives such as the National Clean Cooking Policy aim to promote clean energy, improve health outcomes, and support socio-economic development across Africa.
The president acknowledged the environmental challenges Nigeria faces, including deforestation, desertification, coastal erosion, flooding, and pollution, which threaten the livelihoods of millions.
He stressed the importance of working with local communities to implement solutions and urged international partners to mobilise resources and embrace innovation and technology.
“To promote a Green Economy in Africa, we must integrate sustainable practices in all sectors of our economy,” he said. “These investments are capital-intensive and require international support from partner countries, multinational organisations, development partners, and individuals who share our vision of a sustainable, prosperous, and equitable future.”
Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s achievements as the first African country to fund green projects through Sovereign Green Bond proceeds, with the third issuance currently underway.
He called on investors to partner with Nigeria to accelerate its green transition, assuring them of a conducive business environment.
“By partnering with global leaders and harnessing the power of technology, we are finding new and innovative ways to address our environmental challenges,” he added. “We have arable agricultural lands for advanced technological farming, including a bright future for Artificial Intelligence.”
The president expressed gratitude to the President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, for his invitation and visionary leadership in organising the summit.
The event brought together global leaders to discuss strategies for addressing pressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.
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