The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) and its partners hosted Mr. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), on a four-day visit to Nigeria to assess the country’s climate action progress and explore opportunities for sustainable development.
Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director-General of NCF, highlighted the UNFCCC’s role in supporting climate policy development and capacity-building efforts. He noted that the visit reviewed Nigeria’s journey toward an ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), which aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 while harnessing economic benefits from a robust climate action plan.
The visit commenced in Abuja on March 4 and 5, where Mr. Stiell met with top government officials and civil society organizations. The federal government reaffirmed its commitment to climate action and sustainable development, ensuring that solutions benefit local communities and the environment.
On March 6, Mr. Stiell traveled to Lagos for a symposium and breakfast meeting at the Lekki Conservation Centre, the headquarters of the NCF. The symposium, organized in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS), was a key part of a broader program, including an art exhibition and discussions on climate change, mangrove conservation, and artistic expression. The event, running from March 5 to 18, was also supported by the National Arts Gallery and Crimson Fusion, emphasizing the creative sector’s role in climate advocacy.
Dr. Onoja stressed the importance of nature-based solutions, particularly mangrove restoration, in mitigating climate change. He described Nigeria’s mangrove forests as vital carbon sinks that protect coastlines, support biodiversity, and sustain local livelihoods. He reaffirmed NCF’s commitment to partnerships that drive conservation and climate resilience.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Mrs. Rukaiyah El-Rufai, underscored Nigeria’s dedication to global cooperation in climate action and clean energy investments. He emphasized the significance of integrating nature-based solutions, particularly mangrove conservation, into the country’s climate strategy.
Mr. Stiell highlighted Nigeria’s potential in green industries and clean energy, citing the country’s renewable energy resources and the dominance of micro, small, and medium enterprises in the economy. He advocated for increased climate financing and policy frameworks that ensure all Nigerians benefit from sustainable development.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Abimbola Hundeyin, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting mangroves through initiatives such as the Lagos Climate Action Plan. He commended the longstanding collaboration with NCF in advancing sustainable urban growth.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, stressed the importance of partnerships in achieving Nigeria’s climate goals. She noted that with the country’s vast mangrove ecosystems and clean energy potential, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to lead in nature-based solutions and climate finance mobilization.
Mr. Stiell concluded his visit on March 7 with a breakfast meeting with business leaders at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) secretariat in Lagos. Discussions centered on Nigeria’s role in Africa’s clean energy transition, the urgency of climate action, and the need for stronger financial and policy commitments to ecosystem restoration.