Nigeria seeks to host the COP32 climate summit in Lagos in 2027, highlighting its established leadership in climate action. The decision will be made by African nations at COP30 in November. Stiell welcomed Nigeria’s bid, emphasizing there is a competitive process. Nigeria’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2060 underscores its pivotal role in climate negotiations.
Nigeria has formally expressed its desire to host the COP32 United Nations climate summit in Lagos in 2027, as announced during a visit by Simon Stiell, the head of the UN’s climate body. Nkiruka Maduekwe, the leader of Nigeria’s climate change council, emphasized that Lagos is equipped to successfully host the summit, asserting that Nigeria has established itself as a leader in climate action.
Lagos state environment commissioner Tokunbo Wahab highlighted Lagos’ readiness to host COP32, drawing comparisons to Azerbaijan’s successful COP hosting in Baku. The Nigerian government has articulated that hosting this summit would enhance the nation’s climate leadership and visibility while creating economic advantages.
The decision regarding which African nation will host COP32 will be made by African countries at COP30 in Brazil this November. Nigeria is currently the first to officially declare its candidacy. Stiell expressed his encouragement for Nigeria, acknowledging that “there is a process” with more contenders expected.
COP summits involve representatives from 198 nations discussing climate change solutions. Hosting rights rotate among the UN’s five geographic areas, with Africa next in line after Egypt hosted COP27 in 2022.
Notably, Nigeria is the only African nation to have established a legally binding net-zero emissions target by 2060. The country, which is also Africa’s largest oil producer, heavily relies on oil revenues for its government budget. The recent COP28 summit resolved to transition from fossil fuels, albeit without a clear timeline.
Nigeria has been advocating for increased climate finance from developed nations to support developing countries in addressing climate challenges. President Bola Tinubu, during his campaign, insisted that compliance with climate change protocols by Nigeria would hinge on the fulfillment of climate financing commitments by wealthier nations. At COP29, Maduekwe garnered attention for her forthright criticism of insufficient climate financing commitments from affluent countries, stating, “We do not accept this.”
In conclusion, Nigeria’s bid to host COP32 reflects its commitment to climate action and leadership within Africa. The forthcoming decision from the African nations at COP30 will shape the future of Nigeria’s ambitions. With a legally binding net-zero emission target and ongoing advocacy for greater climate finance, Nigeria aims to position itself as a key player in global climate discussions. The responsibility to host this summit signifies both a challenge and an opportunity for the country beneath the international climate agenda.
Original Source: www.climatechangenews.com
