The UN Climate Change and Natural Eco Capital have advocated ambitious climate action as a key to prosperity in Nigeria.
At the recent inaugural session of the ‘Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove and Art’ symposium in Lagos, UN Climate Change executive secretary Simon Stiell highlighted the transformative potential of climate action for Nigeria’s future just as Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital, shared his reflections, describing the event as “an inspiring convergence of science, nature, and creativity.”
Mr Itua emphasised the critical role of mangroves as ecological powerhouses and cultural symbols of resilience in the face of climate change.
“This is just the beginning. We must build on this momentum by fostering deeper collaborations between environmental scientists, local communities, and creative voices,” said Itua. “The next steps should include developing policy frameworks that integrate artistic advocacy into climate resilience strategies, expanding community-driven mangrove restoration initiatives, and leveraging the power of storytelling to drive behavioural change.”
He pointed out that the intersection of climate, biodiversity, and culture “offers a unique opportunity to reshape the narrative around environmental conservation—and we must seize it.”
Mr Stiell noted the Nigerian government’s “ambitious goal” of lifting 100 million people out of poverty, including pursuing a seven per cent growth rate target.
“These are ambitious, transformational targets. They are about changing lives on a huge scale for the better. Helping overcome the pressing challenges you face, including providing power to over 85 million Nigerians who currently lack access to electricity,” said the UN climate chief.
He added, “So, I think strong climate action is key to reaching your goals and setting you up for even better days to come. Because climate action is not just about averting the disastrous impacts of global heating – which the best science and analysis now shows can wipe up to 5% off GDP and decimate nature.
“It can be the gateway to a new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity fueled by clean and affordable energy available to all. It’s abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the two trillion U.S. dollars global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths.”
He reiterated that clean energy can power up Nigeria’s growing population, providing “clean access for countless millions.” Additionally, Mr Stiell mentioned investing in green buildings, clean infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing to drive economic growth.
“Sustainable agriculture is essential for the 70 per cent of Nigerians involved in the sector. Clean cooking can protect the health of families. But of course, this isn’t possible without finance. And that was mentioned earlier. And it would be unfair to expect Nigeria to act alone,” the UN climate boss.