Nigeria Commits to Net-Zero by 2060 with Bold Renewable Energy Drive
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, unveiling strategic policies and partnerships to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy. This pledge was reinforced at the Nigeria Climate Change Forum, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology under the theme “Accelerating the Transition towards a Net-Zero Future in Africa.”
Held in Abuja on Tuesday, the event highlighted Nigeria’s progress in integrating renewable energy into its climate action plans. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Director of Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment, represented by Edidiong Aboje, outlined key government initiatives, emphasizing the National Climate Change Policy as a blueprint for incorporating renewable energy into Nigeria’s development strategy.
Nigeria’s Roadmap to Net-Zero
Several landmark policies are driving Nigeria’s transition to clean energy:
🔹 National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy – Aims to increase renewable energy’s share of the energy mix from 13% in 2015 to 23% by 2025 and 36% by 2030.
🔹 2021 Climate Change Act – Provides a legal framework for embedding climate action into national development plans.
🔹 Nigeria Renewable Energy Master Plan – Targets 10% renewable energy in total energy consumption by 2025.
🔹 Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP) – Focuses on achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 while addressing energy poverty.
Despite these strides, challenges remain, including high upfront costs, limited financing for local entrepreneurs, and inadequate infrastructure. However, ongoing initiatives—such as the Climate Renewable Energy Investment Forum, organized with support from the European Union and UNIDO—aim to tackle these obstacles by scaling up clean technology solutions and financial support for small enterprises.
Private Sector Takes the Lead
The private sector is playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s renewable energy transition. Gregory Ovie Jobome, Executive Director of Access Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment to sustainable finance. “Through our Sustainable Finance Group, we design and co-create products that support renewable energy while managing risks carefully,” he said. Jobome also noted Access Bank’s involvement in the global Climate Finance Partnership, enabling access to international funds for renewable energy projects in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa.
Building Awareness & Localizing Production
Raising public awareness remains a priority. Teseer Ugbor, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, stressed the need for climate education. “Many Nigerians are still in denial about climate change, but it’s a reality we must adapt to,” he stated, adding that international partnerships and climate funds will be crucial in meeting Nigeria’s environmental goals.
Meanwhile, Alero Balogun, Senior Vice President of Oando Clean Energy Limited, called for localizing renewable energy production to maximize economic benefits. “Nigeria has the raw materials for battery production. Instead of exporting these resources, we should process and manufacture them locally, creating jobs and boosting the economy,” she noted.
Balogun also revealed plans to manufacture electric vehicles in Nigeria, aligning with long-term climate strategies. Additionally, Oando is collaborating with local universities to train a skilled workforce and drive innovation in renewable energy technologies.
Nigeria’s Green Future
As the nation moves towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy, experts agree that a combination of policy reforms, private-sector investment, and public awareness will be key to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. With momentum building, Nigeria is positioning itself as a renewable energy leader in Africa.
