Oxfam, a leading international organization, has called on nations to honor their financial commitments made during the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) on climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for adequate funding to support climate action in vulnerable nations.
The call was made by Mr. Henry Ushe, Oxfam’s Program Manager for Accountable Governance in Nigeria, during a two-day workshop organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), with support from Oxfam, in Port Harcourt. The workshop focused on climate financing, policy implementation, and strategies for achieving a just energy transition in Nigeria.
Hobnob News recalls that at COP27, developed countries pledged to provide $100 billion annually to assist low- and middle-income nations in mitigating climate change impacts and transitioning to sustainable energy sources. However, reports indicate that the actual funds delivered so far remain significantly below the promised amount, with a substantial portion being provided as loans rather than grants, thereby worsening the debt burdens of recipient nations.
Nigeria’s Climate Commitments and Funding Challenges
Ushe noted that Nigeria has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing climate change by developing a comprehensive Gas Master Plan, which aligns with the country’s COP27 pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Additionally, Nigeria has passed the Climate Justice Act and established a secretariat tasked with coordinating efforts with civil society organizations and other stakeholders to implement the policy framework effectively.
However, despite these progressive steps, Ushe highlighted the absence of adequate financial support necessary to implement these policies effectively. “What we haven’t seen since COP27 is the financial commitment to drive these initiatives forward. The policies are in place, but without proper funding, their impact remains limited,” Ushe stated.
He reiterated Oxfam’s call for developed nations to fulfill their financial pledges, stressing that while the Nigerian government must be held accountable for ensuring transparency in the utilization of funds, donor nations must also uphold their end of the agreement.
“We are optimistic about Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy, considering the robust Gas Master Plan in place. However, funding remains a critical challenge that must be addressed to ensure full implementation of these policies,” he added.
Experts Advocate for Stronger Regulatory Frameworks and Investments
Speaking on the theme “Aligning Gas Plans with Climate Goals,” Mr. Lawrence Dube, the Head of the Community Environmental Legal Desk at Natural Justice Nigeria, urged regulatory agencies to strengthen enforcement mechanisms that promote global energy security. He emphasized the importance of aligning Nigeria’s gas expansion plans with international climate goals to ensure sustainability.
Dube further called on the government to actively engage investors in roundtable discussions to explore financing options for infrastructure development in the gas sector.
Similarly, Mr. Harry Udoh, Chairman of the Civil Society National Regulation Council of Nigeria, decried the slow pace of implementation of climate policies since 2007. He emphasized the need to accelerate gas infrastructure development, including expanding pipeline networks, processing plants, and storage facilities to enhance market accessibility.
“The government must invest in infrastructure such as virtual gas pipelines, including Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) trucking systems, to ensure access to clean energy, especially in underserved areas,” Udoh stated.
He also advocated for strengthening regional partnerships through initiatives such as the West Africa Gas Pipeline to bolster energy security and economic cooperation within the region.
The Road Ahead: Renewable Energy and Sustainability Goals
Adding to the discussion, Mr. Ayo Omowu, Programme Lead of the Department of Tax Justice, Environment, and Conservation of Nature at CISLAC, urged Nigeria to fully implement its policy framework for renewable energy and work towards its 2060 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He stressed the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources as part of Nigeria’s broader commitment to global climate action. “The shift towards renewable energy is no longer optional but a necessity if we are to meet our sustainability targets and reduce carbon emissions,” Omowu remarked.
As climate change continues to pose significant threats globally, Oxfam and other civil society organizations remain resolute in advocating for stronger financial commitments from developed nations. Ensuring timely and adequate climate financing will be instrumental in helping vulnerable nations, like Nigeria, build resilience and achieve a sustainable future.
