By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives is considering new legislation to provide legal backing for Nigeria’s decarbonisation programme as part of efforts to accelerate the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
Chairman of the House Committee on Mandatory National Decarbonisation Programme, Sesi Whingan, said the proposed National Decarbonisation Bill is aimed at strengthening climate governance and establishing a comprehensive framework to guide Nigeria’s energy transition.
According to him, the bill is designed to complement existing climate initiatives, particularly the Climate Change Act 2021, which established the National Council on Climate Change.
“This bill is designed to complement what the National Council on Climate Change is already doing,” Whingan said.
He disclosed that the proposed legislation has already passed its first and second readings in the House and will proceed to a public hearing where stakeholders will make further contributions before its final consideration.
The lawmaker noted that the committee has engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including private sector operators, oil and gas industry players and environmental groups, in a bid to harmonise policies and programmes supporting the country’s decarbonisation agenda.
Whingan emphasised that adequate funding and clear policy direction are essential to achieving the programme’s objectives, noting that investors require a stable and predictable regulatory environment.
He also revealed that the committee plans to host a National Carbon Summit in June to broaden consultations and involve state governments as well as grassroots communities in shaping Nigeria’s decarbonisation strategy.
According to him, the goal is to develop a robust and inclusive legislative framework that will effectively support Nigeria’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy
