Nigeria will work together to protect environment from Ozone depletion – Minister

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, has promised to continue to work tirelessly together to protect the environment from ozone-depleting substances, citing scientific evidence that shows the ozone layer is on track to recover by 2066.

Lawal spoke at the 2025 World Ozone Day Celebration in Abuja, explaining that the Vienna Convention was adopted 40 years ago, followed by the Montreal Protocol which remains the most successful multilateral environmental agreement, and served as a guide to the global phase-out of ozone-depleting substances (ODS).

He declared: “This year’s theme, ‘From science to global action,’ underscores the vital role of science in driving collective environmental solutions. Nigeria ratified both the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol in 1988 and has since met key phase-out targets, including CFCs and Halons.

“The Kigali Amendment of 2016 further enhances this progress by addressing the effects of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), contributing to climate change mitigation, especially in African nations. We have also ratified the amendment and will soon commence implementation of the plan.”

The minister highlighted that, by collaborating with partners to phase out harmful substances in the refrigeration, air-conditioning, foam, aerosol, and fire protection sectors, they will promote the adoption of climate-friendly alternatives and energy-efficient technologies.

“We are also training technicians, strengthening regulations, and facilitating technology transfer with neighbouring countries to attain our goals.We remain committed to enhancing gender inclusivity and skills acquisition with a view to advancing sustainable environmental development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

“As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that our work is far from over. With the Kigali targets ahead, we owe it to our country and the world to save our only ozone layer by strengthening our policies, adopting cleaner technologies, building strong partnerships, and ensuring that future generations inherit a safer and healthier environment.”

The minister acknowledged the efforts of international partners, including UNDP, UNIDO, UNEP, and GIZ, in implementing the Protocols, and expressed gratitude for their support to agencies such as the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and NESREA in helping us achieve our goals over the years.

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