By Adedapo Adesanya
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday departed Abuja for Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, to attend the COP28 Climate Summit which takes place from December 1 —2, 2023, with the theme Unite, Act, and Deliver.
According to the presidential spokesman, Mr Ajuri Ngelale, the President will be using the platform to advocate for funding as well as technical support to tackle the array of climate problems facing the country.
He said Mr Tinubu was “mindful of the severe impact of climate change on Nigeria, such as desertification, flooding, erosion, drought, and national security risks arising therefrom, will maximise the opportunity afforded by the platform to advocate increased financial and technical support for developing nations, while reminding developed countries of their public pledge to provide $100 billion annually for support to localized initiatives to address climate change-related challenges.”
“The President’s message will also focus on holding businesses and institutions accountable, reflecting Nigeria’s dedication to sustainable and responsible practices,” the statement added.
At the world leaders’ summit, which will take place on Thursday and Friday, President Tinubu will deliver a national statement, highlighting Nigeria’s stance on various thematic issues, including renewable energy and climate financing.
While in Dubai, he is also expected to participate in key sideline events, which will further support the advancement of his avowed commitment to aggressively attract foreign direct investment for enhanced wealth creation and revenue expansion in the country, in addition to other events hosted by the Nigerian delegation.
He had also informed the National Assembly, during the 2024 budget presentation, that the Nigerian delegation will strive to emerge from COP28 with tangible commitments and work towards securing substantial funding commitments that will bolster Nigeria’s energy transition.
The President is accompanied by senior government officials to the summit also known as the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP28).
