Nigeria is increasingly entrenched in fossil fuel reliance, as evidenced by excitement over private oil refineries like Dangote’s, despite affirmations to transition towards renewable sources. This contradiction poses significant economic and environmental risks in the context of global climate change commitments, particularly as major economies move towards greener alternatives. Tightening international norms concerning carbon emissions further complicate Nigeria’s energy landscape, presenting stark choices for its future.
Nigeria is currently faced with a significant dilemma regarding its energy future, as it maintains a heavy reliance on fossil fuels amidst the pressing climate crisis. The recent enthusiasm surrounding the Dangote Refinery alongside the government’s pursuit of new private oil refineries exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to hydrocarbons, despite the accompanying economic and environmental risks. The country has entered into commitments at international forums, such as COP28, to transition away from fossil fuels by 2050; however, Nigeria’s actual practices reflect a contradictory stance, continuing to intensify fossil fuel production and consumption. At the COP26 climate summit, former President Buhari articulated the urgent climate threats Nigeria faces today, including desertification, flooding, and coastal erosion, attributing these directly to climate change. Recent catastrophic flooding in Maiduguri has underscored these vulnerabilities. Despite acknowledging the consequences of climate change, President Bola Tinubu has exhibited contradictory behavior, once referring to climate change in dismissive terms during his campaign, yet now speaks of it with renewed concern after recent disasters. Despite his new rhetoric, the tangible outcomes of Nigeria’s climate action efforts remain insufficient. The government continues to explore new oil opportunities, contrary to international climate objectives. The Petroleum Industry Act mandates significant investment in increased oil production, demonstrating a clear contradiction in Nigeria’s approach to climate policy versus its fossil fuel dependency. The situation contrasts starkly with global trends, where major fossil fuel nations are actively transitioning to renewable energy sources. Countries like China and the United States are increasingly investing in clean energy technologies, while Nigeria appears entrenched in its fossil fuel strategy by trending towards expanded refinery capacity, of which the Dangote Refinery is emblematic. Furthermore, as developed nations prepare to phase out their refineries and embrace electric vehicles, Nigeria remains reluctant to divert from refined fuels, positioning itself unfavorably for future energy transformations. Consequently, Nigeria faces two principal challenges: a potential economic downturn as global demand for crude oil decreases, coupled with reduced foreign investment due to the nation’s failure to adequately address carbon emissions. There are rising concerns regarding the long-term viability of both the Dangote Refinery and the broader petroleum sector amidst the shifting global energy landscape. Nevertheless, should global pressures eventually steer Nigeria towards renewable energy, there exists an opportunity for its refineries to pivot towards sustainable practices, focusing on green energy.
Nigeria’s economic structure is heavily dependent on oil and gas exports, which raises significant concerns for its climate policy and sustainability efforts. Despite international commitments to reduce fossil fuel utilization as a response to climate change, the country has been criticized for its contradictory approach, characterized by increased investment in oil refineries and exploration. This juxtaposition highlights the ongoing tension between Nigeria’s immediate economic interests and its longer-term environmental obligations, particularly as evidence mounts of climate change’s dire impact on its population and infrastructure.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s path forward in the context of climate change is increasingly fraught with challenges due to its persistent reliance on fossil fuels. The nation’s leadership must reconcile its economic desires with the urgent need for a sustainable energy transition. Without a significant shift towards renewable energy, Nigeria risks economic decline, growing environmental degradation, and diminished international investment. Constructive steps towards green energy could ensure a more viable future and help align local practices with global climate objectives.
Original Source: businessday.ng
