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Bennett Oghifo 

From the 4th to the 7th of March 2025, the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) and other partners hosted Mr. Simon Stiell, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UNFCCC) Executive Secretary, on a four-day visit to Nigeria. 

The UNFCCC has been pivotal in providing support for countries climate policy development, capacity building, and other initiatives. The maiden visit which included a series of event helped to review the country’s progress to an ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), chief of which is to achieve net-zero green house gas emissions by 2060 and the economic benefits a strong climate action plan can bring. 

The visit started in Abuja where he met with top government officials and civil society organizations on the 4th and 5th of March. The federal government restated its commitment to climate change action and sustainable development while ensuring solutions are beneficial to local communities and the environment. 

On the 6th of March, Mr. Simon Stiell visited Lagos to participate in a symposium and breakfast meeting hosted at the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC), the Headquarters of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. The symposium was jointly put together by the Lagos State Government, the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS), and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). The symposium was a critical part of a broader programme, featuring an Art Exhibition and Symposium under the theme: “Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove, and Art,” scheduled to run from the 5th of March to the 18th of March 2025. It was organized in collaboration with the National Arts Gallery and Crimson Fusion, highlighting the role of creative industries in driving climate literacy, awareness, and behavioural change.

The symposium brought together policymakers, corporate leaders, environmentalists, and the media to engage on Nigeria’s path toward an economy wide NDC 3.0; its implications for the nation, and the role of the private sector in implementing climate commitments. It also featured a documentary on mangroves, keynote addresses, and a panel session comprising high-profile international and national speakers and dignitaries, reinforcing the country’s commitment to exploring nature-based climate solutions as a mechanism for accelerating climate resilience. 

In his welcome remarks at the symposium, Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director-General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), emphasized the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s natural resources for sustainable development. He stated: “Nature-based solutions, like mangrove restoration, are among the most effective tools we have in the fight against climate change. Nigeria’s vast mangrove forests not only protect our coastlines but also serve as critical carbon sinks, supporting biodiversity and local livelihoods. At the NCF, we are committed to fostering partnerships that drive sustainable conservation efforts, ensuring that our natural ecosystems remain a key pillar of Nigeria’s climate resilience strategy.”

Speaking at the symposium, Senator Kassim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, ably represented by Mrs Rukaiyah El-Rufai, reiterated the country’s commitment to global cooperation in tackling climate change and leveraging clean energy investments. She reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to integrating nature-based solutions into its climate strategy especially mangrove conservation. 

With the global clean energy industry projected to reach $2 trillion, the discussions emphasized the importance of Nigeria investing in its people and natural strengths to fully benefit from this economic transformation.

The UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Mr. Simon Stiell, underscored Nigeria’s vast potential in green industries and clean energy adoption. He noted: “With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises and the country’s abundant resources of renewable energy- sun, wind and critical minerals, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every local community and economy. Investing in clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness.”

Mr. Stiell called for increased climate financing from public and private sources, stressing that a robust national climate plan could ‘supercharge’ Nigeria’s economy while positioning the country as a leader in climate action. He emphasized that inclusive climate policies must allow all Nigerians to contribute to and benefit from sustainable development efforts.

He urged stakeholders to scale up mangrove restoration efforts, stating that investing in these ecosystems is not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity that can pay for itself many times over.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was ably represented by, Mrs. Abimbola Hundeyin, the Secretary to the State Government, highlighted Lagos state’s commitment to protecting mangroves, “We are playing our part to protect the mangroves with initiatives like the Lagos Climate Action Plan and the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan. Our historic partnership with NCF has further amplified these efforts and has put us on a path to creating a blueprint for sustainable urban growth.”

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s natural heritage and promoting climate resilience through conservation initiatives, community engagement, and strategic partnerships.

Dr. Onoja reiterated NCF’s stance, stating: “Nigeria must seize the opportunity to integrate nature-based solutions into its climate strategy. By restoring and protecting our mangroves, wetlands, and forests, we can mitigate the worst impacts of climate change while ensuring economic prosperity for future generations.”

Speaking at the event, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General of the NCCC highlighted the importance of collaboration, “Nigeria’s climate ambitions are clear: we are committed to leveraging our natural resources and innovative policies to drive sustainable development. This symposium has reinforced the critical role of partnerships in accelerating climate action. With Nigeria’s vast mangrove ecosystems and clean energy potential, we have a unique opportunity to lead in nature-based solutions, attract climate finance, and build a resilient, low-carbon economy.”

As climate change continues to impact Nigeria’s economy—already costing up to 5% of the country’s GDP annually—NCF calls for sustained investment in ecosystem conservation as a key pillar of Nigeria’s climate resilience strategy.

The symposium concluded with a strong call for government, private sector, and community collaboration to scale up efforts in conservation, green infrastructure, and climate adaptation. The Nigerian Conservation Foundation urges all stakeholders to work together to protect Nigeria’s ecosystems, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.

Mr Simon Stiell rounded off his visit on the 7th of March with a breakfast meeting with business leaders at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) secretariat in Lagos. The event highlighted Nigeria’s opportunity to lead Africa’s clean energy transition while emphasizing the urgent need for stronger climate action, increased finance, and ecosystem restoration.