By Bunmi Yekini
A robust national climate plan could usher in a new era of economic growth and prosperity for Nigeria, according to UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell. Speaking at a symposium organized by the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Stiell emphasized that ambitious climate action would not only mitigate the adverse effects of global warming but also unlock significant economic opportunities for the country.
“A strong new national climate plan can be the gateway to a new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity, fueled by clean and affordable energy, available to all,” Stiell said. During his four-day visit to Nigeria, the UN climate chief engaged with senior government officials, business leaders, and civil society groups, highlighting how clean energy and sustainable agriculture could create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global market. “With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every local community and economy,” Stiell noted.
He pointed out that in 2024 alone, USD $2 trillion was invested globally in clean energy and infrastructure, emphasizing that nations investing in green technologies will reap the most benefits. “It’s abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the USD $2 trillion global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths,” he added.
Stiell also underscored the importance of Nigeria’s vast mangrove forests, the largest in Africa and the third largest globally. He described them as a critical natural defence against climate impacts, including coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events.“Expanding and restoring these ecosystems can strengthen community resilience and drive sustainable economic growth,” he said. “Investing in nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration is not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity that can pay for itself many times over.”
With climate change already costing Nigeria up to 5% of its GDP, Stiell stressed the urgency of securing more international finance from both public and private sources to support climate adaptation and green development.
In Abuja, Stiell met with Nigerian parliamentarians and senior government officials, discussing how a strong national climate plan could accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He commended Nigeria’s ongoing efforts in tackling climate change and engaging stakeholders across different sectors. He also held discussions with civil society groups focusing on climate change, environmental protection, women’s empowerment, and youth involvement, recognizing their vital role in translating climate commitments into action.
Reaffirming the UNFCCC’s support for Nigeria’s climate ambitions, Stiell called for sustained collaboration to ensure climate policies translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.
“There is much work ahead to ensure the people of Nigeria share in the monumental benefits of bold climate action,” he said. “That’s why it’s so essential that people across Nigerian society have a chance to contribute to new national climate plans, to implement and benefiting from them. UN Climate Change will be working with all of you and all other nations, every step of the way.”