By Chuks Oyema-Aziken (Baku, Azerbaijan)
Nigeria and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Green economy and the deepening of the renewable sector.
The MoU was signed by Nigeria Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal and China Minister of Ecology and Environment, Zhao Yingmin at the ongoing COP29 In Baku Azerbaijan on Friday.
The signing took place during the High level forum on South South Cooperation on Climate Change.
Speaking during the forum, Lawal said Climate change remains one of the most significant threats of our time.
“Its impacts are felt across all borders, but they are particularly acute in vulnerable regions, including Africa. We face increasingly severe droughts, floods, and rising temperatures that threaten the livelihoods and resilience of our communities. As nations of the Global South, we share not only common challenges but also a united determination to address these urgent issues together.
“The Power of South-South Cooperation
South-South cooperation provides a powerful platform to amplify voices, share resources, and exchange knowledge. By working together, we can accelerate climate resilience through initiatives in technology transfer, capacity building, and financial support. This collaborative approach allows us to simultaneously address climate adaptation and foster economic development.
He said the implementation of the “Declaration on China-Africa Cooperation on Combating Climate Change” reflects shared commitment to strengthening exchanges and collaboration in climate action.
“Nigeria remains committed to actively support this partnership, especially in scaling solar energy and enhancing renewable energy capacity in Nigeria.
“Nigeria’s Climate Commitments
Nigeria is dedicated to sustainable development through its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and its Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), which outline a comprehensive plan to transition to a low-carbon economy. These efforts reflect our dedication to achieving a resilient and sustainable future for all Nigerians.
“South-South cooperation is crucial for us to share best practices, learn from each other, and build a strong network capable of withstanding the climate crisis.
The Chinese Minister in his speech commended the forum saying it will ensure shared commitment in tackling climate change.
He said extreme weather conditions call for collaboration, especially among most vulnerable.
UN Under Secretary General and Executive Director, UNOPS said time is not on our side.
He stressed need for climate finance for most affected.
UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell harped on solidarity in the South South Forum, towards building a common future.
