Nigeria, like many countries, faces significant challenges in combating climate change. These challenges range from inadequate financing to poor legislation. But we also have various resources and opportunities that could be leveraged to improve our response. But then, are these resources and opportunities enough in our fight against climate change? Before we get to this, it is important to highlight a summary of Nigeria’s progressive steps towards addressing environmental challenges.
1. Nigeria’s Response to Climate Change.
In an attempt to mitigate the effects of climate change, the Nigerian government has taken critical steps, some of which include:
Legislative and Policy Frameworks
Nigeria has implemented several key legislative and policy frameworks to mitigate the effects of climate change. Some of these policy frameworks include the National Climate Change Policy, the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), the Long-term Vision (LTV), the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP), and the Biennial Update Report (BUR). The 2021 Climate Change Act is the cornerstone, aiming to mainstream climate actions within national development priorities and set a net-zero target for between 2050 & 2070. This act empowers the National Council on Climate Change to coordinate efforts, mobilize resources, and ensure climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Programs & Initiatives
Several programs have been launched to enhance climate resilience. Nigeria Climate Change Response Program (NCCRP), supported by the European Union, focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening renewable energy usage. It also aims to integrate climate action into broader economic and development strategies. Moreover, projects like the Nigerian Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) have been crucial in combating land degradation and improving livelihoods through sustainable land management practices. Other projects include the Building Nigeria’s Response to Climate Change (BNRCC) project and the Great Green Wall implemented in different countries.
International Support and Finance
Nigeria’s participation in international climate summits, such as COP28, emphasizes the need for substantial climate finance to meet its adaptation and mitigation goals. International funding is crucial for implementing the country’s Energy Transition Plan and other climate resilience measures.
2. Nigeria’s Climate Change Challenges.
Nigeria has many challenges that make the fight against climate change quite an uphill task. Some of these challenges include:
Economic Dependence on Oil:
The Nigerian economy is heavily dependent on oil revenues, complicating efforts to transition away from fossil fuels. Economic diversification is necessary to reduce this dependence.
Infrastructure Deficits:
Existing infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, could be more efficient and prone to damage. Upgrading this infrastructure is costly and requires significant investment. A clear example of this is the inefficient structures in gas flaring that have led to increased carbon emissions.
Political and Regulatory Framework:
Inconsistent policies, weak enforcement of environmental regulations, and lack of alternatives have hindered effective climate action. An example is the latest ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics in Lagos, which has been ineffective due to a lack of expensive alternatives.
Financial Constraints:
Limited financial resources have restricted Nigeria’s ability to invest in necessary climate resilience and mitigation strategies. Although international funding is available, accessing these funds often requires solid institutional capacities.
Public Awareness and Engagement:
While awareness of climate change is growing, widespread public understanding and engagement with climate issues can still be improved. Effective communication and community involvement are needed to drive behavioral change and support for climate policies.
Vulnerability to Climate Impacts:
Nigeria is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and desertification. These impacts pose immediate and severe risks that complicate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
3. Nigeria’s strengths in the Fight against Climate Change
Despite the challenges Nigeria faces in the fight against climate change, the belief is that we have enough to combat climate change. Some of these strengths include:
Renewable Energy Potential:
Nigeria has substantial renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, and hydropower. The geographic and climatic conditions favor these technologies, which could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Youthful Population:
Nigeria’s young and growing population can be a dynamic force for change. Educating this demographic on sustainability and green technologies could drive innovation and implementation in renewable energy sectors.
International Partnerships:
Nigeria is involved in several international climate initiatives. It can access financial and technical support from global organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, and various NGOs that help implement climate-resilient projects.
Agricultural Adaptation Opportunities:
Adopting more sustainable agricultural practices resilient to changing climatic conditions and less carbon-intensive is a potential solution. These practices include agroforestry, improved crop varieties, and better soil management techniques.
Conclusion:
Nigeria does have potential resources and opportunities to combat climate change, but leveraging these effectively requires overcoming significant economic, infrastructural, and governance challenges. Success in these efforts will also depend on a concerted effort from governmental and non-governmental sectors to implement comprehensive, coherent, and sustainable climate policies.
