NIGERIA’S CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGY: HOW POLICY AND REGULATION WILL ENABLE NIGERIA’S JOURNEY TO ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND ITS PROPOSED 2060 NET ZERO TARGET

By Tijani Salaudeen

KEY TERMS: climate action strategy, policy, regulation, sustainable economic development, proposed 2060 net zero target.

ABSTRACT:

This paper examines Nigeria’s climate action strategy and the role of policy and regulation in achieving sustainable economic development and the proposed 2060 net zero target. The paper provides an overview of Nigeria’s climate policy and outlines the key challenges and opportunities for achieving the proposed net zero target. It also discusses the role of policy and regulation in driving investment in low-carbon technologies, promoting energy efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in key sectors such as agriculture, transportation, and industry. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of a coordinated and integrated approach to climate action in Nigeria, and the need for continued policy and regulatory support to enable the country’s transition to a low-carbon and resilient economy.

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 OVERVIEW OF NIGERIA’S CLIMATE ACTION STRATEGY

Given the detrimental consequences climate change is having on Africa, it is imperative to take immediate action. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has recognized the continent’s high potential for climate services; however, there are still certain gaps that need to be filled. As such, Africa requires climate change adaptation planning which is based on accurate and up-to-date data.[1]

The impacts of climate change on Nigeria’s economy and social infrastructure have become increasingly clear. Drought and flooding have hit agricultural activities, caused displacement of 1.9 million Nigerians in 2018, and led to the destruction of housing, medical facilities, and roads. Sea levels and ocean surges have caused flooding in places such as Lagos and some parts of the Niger Delta, and drought in the North has limited access to drinking water. Additionally, changing precipitation and temperature patterns have the potential to compromise the production of hydroelectric and thermal electricity. To manage these climate issues, the Nigerian Government has developed the Climate Action Strategy.[2]

Nigeria’s Climate Action Strategy is a comprehensive plan that outlines the country’s commitment to mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change in line with the Paris Agreement’s goals. To achieve sustainable economic development and its proposed 2060 net-zero target, policy, and regulation will play a crucial role in enabling Nigeria’s journey[3]. The strategy includes various measures such as promoting renewable energy sources, encouraging energy efficiency, sustainable land use practices, enhancing community resilience, and developing low-carbon transportation systems[4]. These measures are necessary to reduce Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions and increase its resilience to climate change. Achieving Nigeria’s net-zero target requires the implementation of ambitious climate action measures and a transition to a low-carbon economy. The Climate Action Strategy provides a roadmap for achieving these goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making it a a critical part of Nigeria’s effort to achieve sustainable economic development and its 2060 net-zero target.

2. BENEFITS OF ACHIEVING THE 2060 NET ZERO TARGET

Nigeria has committed to achieving the 2060 net-zero target, which would bring significant benefits to the country’s economic development and well-being. President Muhammad Buhari emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for a transition to a low-carbon economy[5]. Achieving net-zero emissions would promote economic growth by attracting investment into sustainable industries and reducing health costs associated with air pollution. Nigeria could also improve energy security and become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, protecting key industries such as agriculture. Achieving the net-zero target could also improve Nigeria’s global reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking nation.[6]

However, achieving this target would require significant investments in clean energy infrastructure, policies supporting sustainable development, and the cooperation of all stakeholders.

3. CHALLENGES IN ACHIEVING THE 2060 NET ZERO TARGET

To meet the 2060 Net Zero Target, it’s crucial to anticipate and address the challenges that could impede progress, particularly in Nigeria, where it’s a significant goal. Unlike developed countries, Nigeria lacks the necessary policies and plans to achieve the target, making it more challenging to accomplish. Failure to address crucial considerations could result in Nigeria falling short of the goal. In essence, the Nigerian government has promised to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2060, but progress towards achieving this target has been slow.

The following are some of the challenges that Nigeria faces in achieving the 2060 Net Zero Target:[7]

Slow implementation of the Climate Change Act: Although the Climate Change Act has become law, several provisions remain unimplemented, such as promoting renewable energy and regulating industrial emissions. Furthermore, the Ministry of Environment has not created a council to oversee the implementation of the law, which means that the government cannot effectively put it into action.
Low Climate Education: A significant percentage of Nigerians lack sufficient knowledge about climate change and its effects on the environment. This lack of knowledge could hinder their ability to contribute to achieving the set targets by complying with the stated directives.
Insufficient Information on the Net Zero Target: Nigeria has set a target to achieve net-zero emissions, but it has not provided enough information on how it plans to achieve this goal. This lack of transparency raises doubts about Nigeria’s commitment to taking action on climate change. The upcoming COP27 conference in Egypt presents an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate its commitment to tackling climate change.

Despite the challenges, the benefits of achieving the 2060 net-zero target would be significant and far-reaching, positioning Nigeria as a leader in sustainable economic development in the region and contributing to a more sustainable future for the country and the world.

4. SOLUTIONS TO THE CHALLENGES IN ACHIEVING THE 2060 NET ZERO TARGET

The lack of enough policies and plans, poor implementation of the climate change Act, low climate education, and insufficient information on the target are some of the major obstacles that need to be addressed to achieve this goal. Policy and regulations play a key role in addressing these challenges. The government needs to implement provisions of the Climate Change Act, create a council to oversee its implementation, and provide incentives and resources to encourage the adoption of renewable energy. Additionally, efforts need to be made to educate the population on climate change and its effects. Finally, there is a need for more transparency and information on how Nigeria plans to achieve its net-zero emissions target. The upcoming COP27 conference in Egypt is an opportunity for Nigeria to show its commitment to tackling climate change by implementing the commitments it made at the previous conferences.[8]

5. ROLE OF POLICY AND REGULATION IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY AND THE PROPOSED 2060 NET ZERO TARGET FOR THE FEDERATION

The achievement of a sustainable economy and the proposed 2060 Net Zero Target for the federation require the effective implementation of policies and regulations. Policies and regulations are guidelines and rules that are put in place to ensure that businesses, industries, and individuals operate in a way that promotes sustainability[9]. With these policies and regulations, businesses, industries, and individuals can reduce their negative impact on the environment and contribute to a sustainable economy.

The achievement of a sustainable economy and the proposed 2060 Net Zero Target for the federation is highly dependent on the effective implementation of policies and regulations. These policies and regulations are essential to guide the actions of businesses, industries, and individuals towards sustainable practices.

Here are some of the ways policies and regulations can help achieve a sustainable economy and the proposed 2060 Net Zero Target:

Adoption of Renewable energy sources: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable economic development, Nigeria needs to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources through policies and regulations. The government can use tax incentives, grants, and subsidies to incentivize renewable energy infrastructure development, establish a renewable energy standard, provide research and development funding, and promote education and awareness programs. These policies and regulations can help to increase the percentage of energy consumption from renewable sources and reduce Nigeria’s carbon footprint while promoting sustainable economic development.[10]
Carbon Pricing: By carbon pricing, this is a policy that puts a cost on carbon emissions to incentivize industries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Nigeria could establish a carbon pricing mechanism, such as a carbon tax or a cap-and-trade system, to encourage companies to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in low-carbon technologies. However, the implementation of carbon pricing policies should take into account their economic consequences and ensure that they are effective and equitable.[11]
Energy Efficiency Standards: Regulations can be established in Nigeria to establish energy efficiency standards that require businesses to meet specific requirements. This can lead to a reduction in energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and lower operational costs for companies.[12] By promoting the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, practices, and equipment, the regulations can help Nigeria achieve its climate targets while also improving energy security and reducing energy costs for businesses. However, it is essential to ensure that these standards are practical and achievable for businesses of all sizes and types, and that there are mechanisms in place to monitor and enforce compliance with the regulations.
Sustainable land use: Sustainable land use policies and regulations in Nigeria can encourage sustainable practices such as reducing deforestation, promoting reforestation, and protecting biodiversity. These policies can reduce carbon emissions, preserve ecosystems, and achieve sustainable development goals. Sustainable land use can prevent deforestation, encourage reforestation, and protect biodiversity to maintain essential ecosystem services.[13] However, the policies should consider the needs and interests of local communities, including their rights to access and use natural resources, during the implementation of such policies.
Circular economy: Policies and regulations in Nigeria can promote a circular economy by minimizing waste and promoting resource reuse, recycling, and repurposing. This can reduce the demand for new resources and minimize waste generation, leading to environmental pollution reduction and sustainable development.[14] The circular economy can create new jobs, reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure sustainable resource use. However, the policies and regulations should consider various stakeholders, involve collaboration between different sectors and levels of government, and ensure effective implementation and monitoring.
Consumer behavior: Policies and regulations can influence consumer behavior towards sustainability in Nigeria to achieve a sustainable economy and the proposed 2060 Net Zero Target. These policies can promote sustainable products and services, provide information on sustainable choices, and incentivize sustainable behavior. The policies and regulations must be designed to be effective, achievable, and considerate of the needs and interests of different segments of the population, including vulnerable groups. Additionally, promoting consumer education and awareness is crucial to achieving the target.

In summary, policies and regulations are critical in achieving a sustainable economy and the proposed 2060 Net Zero Target for the federation. These policies and regulations can help to promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, promote sustainable land use practices, promote a circular economy, and influence consumer behavior. By creating a supportive regulatory environment, the federation can accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy and achieve its 2060 Net Zero Target.

6. RECOMMENDATION AND SOLUTIONS TO THE CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING POLICY AND REGULATION

Achieving a sustainable economy and meeting a net-zero target requires effective policy and regulation implementation. Here are some recommendations and solutions to the challenges faced in implementing policy and regulation for achieving a sustainable economy and meeting the proposed 2060 net-zero target:[15]

Align Policies and Regulations: Different policies and regulations may overlap or even contradict each other. Therefore, it is crucial to align policies and regulations to ensure that they work together towards achieving the common goal of sustainability. This can be achieved through cross-departmental collaboration and inter-ministerial coordination.
Increase Stakeholder Engagement: Stakeholder engagement is essential to ensure that policies and regulations are practical, and their implementation is feasible. Government, businesses, and civil society should be engaged in the policy-making process to ensure that their views and concerns are taken into account.
Provide Incentives: Incentives such as tax breaks, subsidies, and grants can encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Governments can also provide incentives to consumers to promote sustainable consumption and behavior.
Develop Standards and Certification: Developing standards and certifications for sustainable products and services can help to create a level playing field for businesses. This can also help consumers to make informed choices about the products and services they buy.
Foster Innovation: Innovation is critical to achieving a sustainable economy. Governments can invest in research and development to support the development of sustainable technologies and practices.
Strengthen Regulatory Enforcement: Regulations that are not enforced are ineffective. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen regulatory enforcement to ensure that businesses comply with sustainability regulations.

In sum, implementing policy and regulation for achieving a sustainable economy and meeting the proposed 2060 net-zero target requires a holistic approach that involves stakeholder engagement, incentives, standardization, innovation, regulatory enforcement, awareness and education of climate change and its applicable laws, international cooperation, and so forth.

7. CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Nigeria’s Climate Action Strategy is a critical step towards achieving sustainable economic development and addressing the challenges of climate change. The country’s ambitious 2060 net-zero target, along with policy and regulation, will enable Nigeria to reduce its carbon emissions, promote clean energy, and enhance climate resilience. However, achieving this goal will require significant efforts and investment in areas such as renewable energy, green infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture. Therefore, Nigeria’s government and stakeholders must work together to consistently implement the necessary policies, regulations, and initiatives to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon future.

[1] Oluwatoyin Oladapo, ‘The Nigerian Government is Designing a National Adaptation Plan’ (climatescorecard.org, 8 October 2022) <https://www.climatescorecard.org/2022/10/the-nigerian-government-is-designing-a-national-adaptation-plan/> accessed 14 March 2023.

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ejiofor Alike, ‘Nigeria’s 2060 Net-Zero Projection’ (thisdaylive.com, 18 November 2021) <https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2021/11/18/nigerias-2060-net-zero-projection/amp/> accessed 14th March 2023.

[5] Ibid.

[6] Deng, L., Shang, L., & Wang, Y., ‘Significance of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060 on China’s energy transition pathway: A multi-model comparison analysis’ (science direct.com, 2013) <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1674927823000205> accessed 14 March 2023.

[7] Oluwatosin Fatoyinbo, ‘ANALYSIS: How realistic is Nigeria’s net-zero target?’ (thecable.ng, 19 November 2021) <https://www.thecable.ng/analysis-how-realistic-is-nigerias-net-zero-target/amp> accessed 14 March 2023.

[8] Ibid.

[9] Oluwatosin Fatoyinbo, ‘ANALYSIS: How realistic is Nigeria’s net-zero target?’ (thecable.ng, 19 November 2021) <https://www.thecable.ng/analysis-how-realistic-is-nigerias-net-zero-target/amp> accessed 14 March 2023. (Supra).

[10] Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo, ‘Energy and sustainable development in Nigeria: the way forward’ (energsustainsoc.biomedcentral.com, 2012) <https://energsustainsoc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2192-0567-2-15> accessed 14th 2023.

[11] OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development), ‘PRICING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS: KEY FINDINGS FOR NIGERIA’ (oecd.org, 2022) <https://www.oecd.org/tax/tax-policy/carbon-pricing-nigeria.pdf> accessed 15th March 2023.

[12] Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo, ‘Energy and sustainable development in Nigeria: the way forward’ (energsustainsoc.biomedcentral.com, 2012) <https://energsustainsoc.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2192-0567-2-15> accessed 14th 2023.

(Supra).

[13]Edo Oga Ojoko, ‘Sustainable Land Use and Forest Management for Socioeconomic Growth and Development in Nigeria’ (researchgate.net, 2016) <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304771527_Sustainable_Land_Use_and_Forest_Management_for_Socioeconomic_Growth_and_Development_in_Nigeria> accessed 15th March 2023.

[14] OECD, ‘Towards a more resource-efficient and circular economy The role of the G20’ (oecd.org, 2016) <https://www.oecd.org/environment/waste/OECD-G20-Towards-a-more-Resource-Efficient-and-Circular-Economy.pdf> accessed 15th March 2023.

[15] OECD, ‘RECOMMENDATION OF THE COUNCIL ON REGULATORY POLICY AND GOVERNANCE’ (oecd.org, 2012) <https://www.oecd.org/environment/waste/OECD-G20-Towards-a-more-Resource-Efficient-and-Circular-Economy.pdf> accessed 15th March 2023.