The Federal Government has inaugurated a Technical Working Committee on the National Carbon budget for Nigeria to fulfil international climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, and position the country as a responsible player in global climate action.
The carbon budget will utilise a five-year cycle to align with the projected targets and ambitions in the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC, 3.0, which will be reviewed annually to monitor and track the progress of its implementation toward achieving the country’s climate goals.
Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, said Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture in addressing the climate challenges that threaten the environment, economy, and social fabric by developing a robust and credible carbon budget.
Lawal explained that the development of this is not solely a technical exercise but also a national imperative that involves collaborative efforts from all sectors of our society, and it is an opportunity to align climate policies with sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental preservation.
He recalled the Climate Change Act, 2021, which mandated the ministry, in consultation with the Ministry responsible for Budget and Economic Planning, to set the carbon budget and budgetary period, and periodically revise the carbon budget in line with the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) in compliance with international obligations.
“Nigeria is committed to addressing climate change through ambitious emission reduction targets, as outlined in its NDCs under the Paris Agreement and the implementation of the Act.5, and stakeholders and partners roles are central to the success of this initiative,” he said.
According to Lawal, embracing sustainable practices will position Nigeria as a leader in the transition to a low-carbon economy, opening avenues for innovation and economic growth, reducing emissions and implementing climate resilience measures to safeguard the health, livelihoods, and vulnerable populations.
Similarly, the minister stated that government agencies will lead and coordinate efforts, providing strategic oversight and policy frameworks, while civil society organisations will serve as advocates and watchdogs aimed at ensuring accountability and inclusiveness.
“Environmental impact of a well-structured carbon budget will enable Nigeria to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively, contributing to global mitigation targets, protecting our ecosystems, and enhancing resilience against climate impacts such as flooding, droughts, and desertification,” he said.
Also, the Permanent Secretary, Mahmud A. Kambari, explained that the engagement is meant for the development of Nigeria’s National comprehensive and transparent carbon budget, a strategic step that will impact, protect vulnerable populations, ensure food and water security, and be a vital tool for tracking our emissions, setting realistic reduction targets.
Kambari hinted this will proffer solutions, and create green jobs, paving the way for a resilient, inclusive, sustainable development for present and future generations and socially, it will contribute to improved public health, enhanced
commitments, including those under the Paris Agreement.
“To ensure the success and integrity of Nigeria’s National Carbon Budget, we must secure adequate funding to support a comprehensive and technically sound development process, while robust financial resources are essential for accurate data collection, scientific research, and capacity building,” he added.
