The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Simon Stiell, is set to embark on a four-day official visit to Nigeria to engage government officials, business leaders, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders on the country’s climate action plans.
Stiell’s visit, scheduled from March 4 to March 7, aims to explore the economic and environmental opportunities presented by Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)—a strategic climate plan designed to address climate change while fostering economic growth.
Engagements in Abuja and Lagos
During the first phase of his visit on March 4 and 5, Stiell will hold high-level discussions in Abuja with top government officials and civil society groups. His focus will be on how Nigeria can strengthen its climate policies to drive economic prosperity while mitigating the effects of climate change.
On March 6, he will travel to Lagos to attend a symposium on “The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangroves, and Art”, organized by the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS). The event, taking place at the Lekki Conservation Centre, will serve as a platform for discussions on the role of climate resilience in Nigeria’s development.
At 10:05 AM (WAT), Stiell will deliver a keynote address focusing on how Nigeria’s bold climate strategies can unlock new economic opportunities, create jobs, lift millions out of poverty, and enhance energy access for all.
“Key sectors in Nigeria’s economy are on the verge of take-off, and bold climate plans are essential for them to thrive, bringing significant benefits for households, businesses, and government,” he is expected to emphasize in his speech.
Panel Discussions & Civil Society Engagement
Beyond his keynote address, Stiell will participate in a panel discussion with business leaders, shedding light on how climate-smart investments can spur economic growth. On March 7, he will conclude his visit with a meeting with civil society organizations, reinforcing the importance of grassroots participation in Nigeria’s climate policies.
The Global Climate Agenda & Nigeria’s Role
With 198 parties, the UNFCCC is the parent treaty of both the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. The Paris Agreement aims to limit global temperature rise to well below 2°C, with efforts to cap the increase at 1.5°C.
As climate change continues to impact Nigeria—affecting agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods—Stiell’s visit underscores the urgent need for decisive action. From protecting the country’s mangroves to enhancing resilience against extreme weather, the path forward involves strong policies, sustainable investments, and inclusive collaboration.
