President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s ambitious goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2060 will address climate change, create new jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth.
He disclosed this yesterday during the Accelerating Nigeria’s Net Zero Target and Carbon Market Ecosystem with Netzence Sustainability Limited in Abuja.
Represented by the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, President Tinubu emphasised that transitioning to a low-carbon economy presents significant opportunities for Nigeria.
“As we transition to a low-carbon economy, we will create new economic opportunities, generate jobs, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians,” he said.
To realise this vision, Tinubu said his administration focuses on several key areas, including developing a robust carbon market ecosystem, which is expected to stimulate green investments and create new employment opportunities.
“Expanding the Green Bond Initiative, which has already mobilised over N57 billion for low-carbon projects, creating jobs in sustainable sectors
“Increasing the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix to 30% by 2030, potentially opening up new industries and job markets.
“Establishing a Research and Innovation Fund to support startups and entrepreneurs in the green technology sector.
The president stressed that achieving net zero is not just an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity, potentially creating new jobs and improving the quality of life for all Nigerians.
The President’s strategy also includes strengthening international partnerships to attract investments and open new markets for Nigerian products and services in the global green economy.
“The path to net zero is not just a policy goal; it is a national imperative,” he said, highlighting the administration’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.
President Tinubu views the challenges posed by climate change as opportunities for economic diversification and innovation.
The government aims to position Nigeria as a leader in the emerging global green economy by focusing on green finance, carbon pricing, and technological innovation.
He emphasised that achieving the net zero target requires collective effort from government, businesses, and individuals, promising a future where “economic growth and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.”
He commended Netzence Sustainability Limited for its leadership in this area and pledging government support through various ministries and agencies to accelerate Nigeria’s path to net zero emissions.
