Nigeria has restated its leadership role in climate action and commitment to a just energy transition at the opening of the maiden WASCAL International Conference on Climate Change and Just Energy Transition (I3C-JET) held in Abuja.
Declaring the three-day event open, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, said Africa, despite contributing the least to global carbon emissions, remains determined to lead the charge for sustainable and equitable climate solutions.
“The world is watching Africa. Even though we are not major contributors to global warming, our resolve to be part of the solution remains firm and inspiring. Africa is ever ready to serve as architects of a new energy paradigm built on equity and innovation,” Lawal stated.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambitious climate and energy goals, highlighting that the country’s Energy Transition Plan aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 while ensuring universal access to modern energy by 2030.
“Nigeria’s commitment to a Just Transition is clear, deliberate, and rooted in our belief that no one should be left behind in the journey toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient future,” he added.
The Minister urged delegates to translate policy declarations into actionable frameworks that empower communities, protect livelihoods, and unlock opportunities within the green economy. He commended WASCAL and the National Organizing Committee for convening the timely summit and called for stronger partnerships and science-driven policies across Africa.
Also speaking, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, Chairman of WASCAL’s Governing Board and Nigeria’s representative on the Board, described Nigeria as a “trigger point” for Africa’s climate solutions.
“For Africa to shoot down her challenges, her gunshots have to be triggered here in Nigeria,” he said, calling for deeper scientific engagement in the global climate discourse and urging WASCAL to spearhead Africa’s voice in climate research.
Referencing the twin threats of flooding and desertification, Prof. Nwajiuba proposed an innovative idea to re-channel floodwaters from the Niger and Benue rivers to replenish the shrinking Lake Chad, emphasizing the need for bold, science-based solutions.
In his remarks, WASCAL Executive Director, Prof. Emmanuel Ramde, reaffirmed the organization’s mission to strengthen West Africa’s resilience to climate change through research, training, and regional collaboration.
“WASCAL belongs to West Africa—it is not just a programme; it is our shared legacy. Only through collective ownership and sustained investment can we ensure its long-term impact and sustainability,” Prof. Ramde noted.
He described the I3C-JET conference as a “movement” designed to connect science, policy, and society in pursuit of actionable solutions for climate resilience and energy justice across Africa.
The conference brought together policymakers, scientists, investors, civil society, academia, youth, and development partners from across Africa and beyond, providing a platform for dialogue and innovation on the continent’s clean energy future.
