By Jane Okeke
The UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) programme has formally launched a national initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of Nigeria’s private sector to address climate change and air pollution, with special focus on the transport sector.
The initiative was unveiled at a stakeholders’ event in Abuja that brought together key private sector players, policymakers, regulators, financial institutions and civil society organisations. A second launch is scheduled to hold in Enugu on Thursday, Dec. 4.
Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Finance and Stakeholder Engagement, Mr. Ibrahim A. Shelleng, said Nigeria’s climate ambitions could not be achieved without an empowered private sector.
“Nigeria cannot achieve its climate and clean-air ambitions without a fully empowered, innovative and committed private sector,” Shelleng said.
He noted that climate change is already affecting lives and livelihoods across the country through flooding, extreme heat and worsening air quality in major cities.
The programme, titled “Enhancing Private Sector Capacity for Climate and Clean Air Action in Nigeria,” is designed to provide private enterprises with the training, tools and policy support required to transition to low-carbon operations.
Research shows that air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions contribute to over 200,000 premature deaths annually in Nigeria, while the transport sector alone accounts for more than 15 per cent of national emissions.
The project is delivered by a consortium led by the University of York–Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), in partnership with the Consulting Engineers Group (CEG), SLOCAT, Escher Silverman Global (ESG) and AP3 Advisory.
UK PACT is a flagship technical assistance programme of the UK Government, supporting partner countries to reduce emissions and promote inclusive green growth.
UK PACT Flags Off National Initiative to Boost Private Sector Climate, Clean Air Action
