By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

Against the backdrop of the ongoing climatic change ravaging the globe, Nigeria has established a Committee for the Carbon Market Activation Plan, positioning the country at the forefront of creating a robust, sustainable carbon market projected to be worth $2.

In addition, the Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions has been set up to oversee and coordinate all climate-related policies and programmes, ensuring that the country remains focused on its goals for green economic development.

The vice president, Senator Kashim Shettima disclosed this in his keynote address at the ongoing 2nd Africa Climate Forum (ACF) 2024 held in Abuja on Monday.

He however pointed out that despite these interventions, “we know that none of our efforts will yield optimal outcomes unless we collectively agree that climate change is not a topic for idle debate—it is a manifest threat to our existence.

“So, I reiterate today an open call across our dear continent to all governments, civil society organisations, the private sector, and the development community to join hands. Only through a unified front can we create an all-inclusive approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and delivering lasting social impact.

“Let us seize this moment to draw up evidence-based action plans, just as we are doing here at this forum. I also urge everyone at this event to engage in constructive dialogue and to exchange best practices that can enhance our collective resilience to the climate-related challenges we face. Together, we can chart a path towards sustainable development and harmonious coexistence with our environment.

Kashim enjoined stakeholders “to recognise that any solution for Africa’s climate future must begin with protecting our ecosystems, promoting sustainable practices, and building climate-resilient communities”.

“The brunt of climate change that Africa faces can only be mitigated if we stand together. The interventions we implement today will not only secure a greener future through social innovation, but will also serve as our springboard into global leadership on climate action.

“We are bound here today by a shared vision that transcends borders and ideologies—a vision that seeks to navigate the pathways of our collective future. As stakeholders in Africa’s climate journey, we are entrusted with the weighty responsibility of charting the course for our continent in the face of one of the most formidable challenges of our time: climate change. And so, we embark on this journey of deliberation and collaboration, fully aware of the profound implications that this threat holds for our peace, stability, and prosperity”.

He noted that Nigeria has been proactive in taking steps to address climate change, adding that one such step is the Climate Change Act of 2021, which aims to achieve low greenhouse gas emissions and sustainable, green growth.

According to him, “This Act sets ambitious targets, including the goal of reaching net zero, and serves as a cornerstone of our efforts to transition to a more sustainable future. Our Energy Transition Plan (ETP) further outlines our commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2060. Alongside this, the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP), Debt-for-Climate Action Swaps, and Renewable Energy Targets are key interventions designed to accelerate our progress, whether through policy adjustments or financing the transition to a low-carbon economy”.

He also noted that  like many other nations, has experienced first-hand the devastating effects of climate change, adding that “We have been at the mercy of unpredictable water bodies, perennial floods, disrupted livestock production, intermittent power generation, and food crises.

“These climate-driven realities are not just calls to action; they are vivid reminders that none of us is immune to their consequences. This is why we must come together to compare notes, adopt peer learning mechanisms, and agree on practical solutions that will move us forward.

“As we gather here to address the future, let us remember that the stakes are high, and the time for decisive action is now. May our deliberations here today inspire the bold actions necessary to secure Africa’s climate future”.

In his address, the Director General of the Global Centre for Law, Business and Economy (GCLBE), Prof. George Nwangwu, said The Africa Climate Forum 2024 comes at a crucial time when the continent must seize the opportunity to lead in sustainable development.

“We are excited to gather diverse stakeholders to address our shared climate challenges and drive actionable solutions that will benefit not just Africa, but the world.”, he added.

“The 2nd edition of the forum coming after the overwhelming success of the inaugural forum last year,promises to be a landmark event, bringing together key stakeholders from across the continent and beyond to discuss and address critical issues related to Africa’s climate future”, he said.

Themed “Africa’s Climate Future: Pathways from Dependence to Leadership,” ACF 2024 will serve as a platform for high-level dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaborative action towards sustainable development and climate resilience in Africa”, he stated.