Simon Stiell, the UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, will visit Nigeria from March 4-7 to discuss the nation’s climate plan with government officials, business leaders, and civil society. His trip includes a symposium on climate change and mangroves, where he will address economic opportunities linked to climate action and resilience strategies that Nigeria can adopt.
The UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, is scheduled to visit Nigeria for four days to engage with government officials, corporate leaders, civil society, and other stakeholders regarding the advancements a robust climate plan could offer. His initial meetings will occur in Abuja on March 4-5, followed by a symposium on March 6 at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos.
During his visit, Stiell will deliver a keynote address on Nigeria’s new climate plan (Nationally Determined Contribution, or NDC) emphasizing the economic opportunities it presents. His speech, open to the media from 09:00 to 14:00, will discuss how proactive climate actions can alleviate poverty and enhance energy access.
The Executive Secretary aims to highlight how significant climate initiatives are pivotal for launching Nigeria’s potential economic sectors. He will assert that environmental protection increases resilience against climate-induced extreme weather, safeguarding lives and livelihoods in the process.
Stiell will advocate for concrete actions like preserving mangrove forests to prevent coastal flooding and developing a Great Green Wall initiative to restore degraded lands in the Sahel region, providing a clear path for Nigeria to adapt effectively to climate change impacts on agriculture and infrastructure.
Additionally, on March 6, he will participate in a panel discussion at the symposium and will engage with civil society representatives on March 7. As part of the UNFCCC, he underscores the global commitment to limiting temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions to protect ecosystems and sustainable development.
In summary, Simon Stiell’s visit to Nigeria emphasizes the critical role of a strong national climate plan in fostering economic opportunities and climate resilience. His engagements aim to inspire actionable strategies that can enhance Nigeria’s environmental, social, and economic landscapes. By promoting both corporate and civil partnerships, he seeks to highlight the interconnectedness of climate action and sustainable development.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com
