Business Post Nigeria

Tag: Grace Oluchi Mbah

  • Climate Crisis: Mbah Advocates Localised Innovative Solutions

    Climate Crisis: Mbah Advocates Localised Innovative Solutions

    By Dipo Olowookere

    The co-founder and Executive Director at Climate Action Africa (CAA), Ms Grace Oluchi Mbah, has made a strong case for investments in localised innovative solutions to the climate crisis, emphasising that only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches.

    At a media sensitisation in Lagos on Friday ahead of the Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF24) scheduled for June 19-20, 2024, in Lagos, Ms Mbah stressed that urgent steps must be taken to address Nigeria’s climate issues.

    According to her, a more impactful and inclusive approach must be used to tackle the country’s pressing climate challenges, especially with Nigeria facing significant vulnerability to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and environmental degradation.

    “This year’s February was the hottest, same was March, and it is certain that April will not be different,” she said at the event, noting that things may worsen in the coming years.

    She informed newsmen that her organisation intends to use the forthcoming programme to enlighten policymakers and investors on the need to support innovators, who should develop products that will solve the peculiar climate challenges of the nation.

    Ms Mbah noted that the event would introduce the Deal Room, a dynamic marketplace connecting Africa’s brightest innovators with forward-thinking investors to accelerate impactful deals for climate action and sustainable development.

    Following the conference, CAA will partner with Silicon Valley-based Founder Institute, the world’s largest startup accelerator, to provide ongoing support to African innovators in a post-accelerator programme.

    “CAAF24 provides a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, collaborative problem-solving, and forging strategic partnerships,” she stated.

    “By working together, we can ensure that Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, emerges as a leader in building a sustainable and climate-resilient future,” she added, noting that the private sector has a significant role to play in the climate action discussions, though with good and favourable government policies.

  • Climate Finance: The Urgency of Climate Action in Nigeria

    Climate Finance: The Urgency of Climate Action in Nigeria

    By Grace Oluchi Mbah

    Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is facing a critical challenge: climate change. The country is highly vulnerable to the devastating impacts of a warming planet, including extreme weather events like floods and droughts, rising sea levels, and ecological disruptions. These changes threaten not only Nigeria’s environment but also its economic growth, social development, and overall well being.

    There was a time when we could reasonably predict the weather in Nigeria. Rainy and dry seasons arrived at specific periods in the year, allowing for preparation, especially among rural farmers. By monitoring the seasons, farmers could cultivate crops and achieve bountiful harvests.

    Nigeria’s rainy seasons have changed. Once a land of consistent rain, the country now experiences more intense downpours followed by longer dry periods. This disrupts agricultural production, leading to food insecurity. Floods caused by heavy rains destroy crops and infrastructure, displacing communities. Since September 2022, the worst floods in a decade have affected 3.2 million people across Nigeria, of whom an estimated 60 per cent are children. Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Jigawa States have seen the highest numbers of displaced persons.

    In Northern Nigeria, conflict may have continued to drive population displacement, disrupt livelihood activities, and restrict market access. However, the region’s suffering intensifies due to its particular vulnerability to droughts caused by rising temperatures and reduced rainfall. Lake Chad, a vital source of water for millions, is shrinking at an alarming rate. Since the 1960s, the lake has shrunk by around 90 per cent. This recession of water is a result of both reduced precipitation induced by climate change and the development of modern irrigation systems for agriculture, alongside the increasing human demand for freshwater.

    Coastal cities like Lagos face the risk of inundation due to rising sea levels. This saltwater intrusion contaminates freshwater sources and threatens coastal ecosystems. Erosion caused by rising sea levels destroys infrastructure and can displace populations. If global warming exceeds 2°C, Lagos State is predicted to see a 90cm rise in sea level by 2100.

    Some other current climate change issues in Nigeria include frequent and intense heat waves, deforestation, overgrazing, and extreme weather events that contribute to land degradation. There is no doubt that Nigeria faces a real climate change challenge. It is imperative that the government and other stakeholders put in place mitigation and adaptation projects, such as developing renewable energy sources and reducing emissions, as well as adaptation efforts, including building resilient infrastructure and fostering community resilience, to curb climate change challenges in Nigeria.

    A solution to Nigeria’s rising climate change challenge is climate finance. Climate finance refers to local, national and transnational financing that is drawn from public, private and alternative sources of financing that seeks to support mitigation and adaptation actions that will address climate change. Climate finance plays a critical role in empowering developing nations like Nigeria to combat climate change. It provides the much-needed resources to implement mitigation and adaptation strategies that safeguard the environment and bolster climate resilience.

    While Nigeria has ambitious climate goals enshrined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – a pledge under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions –  achieving them hinges on a crucial factor: climate finance.

    Climate finance serves as a crucial instrument for Nigeria to confront its climate change challenges. It encompasses various funding sources, that includes, multilateral aid in form of grants and concessional loans provided by developed countries and international organizations. Investments from banks, insurers, and asset managers in climate-smart projects that emanate as private sector investment and carbon pricing mechanisms which are revenue generated from carbon taxes or emissions trading schemes.

    By effectively deploying climate finance, Nigeria can invest in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power which can lessen reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Funds can be directed towards strengthening infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, developing climate-resistant crop varieties, and improving early warning systems. Support for the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance food security and reduce deforestation can also be achieved.

    The Funding Gap and the Urgency for Action

    Nigeria’s current climate finance scenario paints a concerning picture. Estimates suggest the country receives around $1.9 billion annually, a far cry from the estimated $17.7 billion required to meet its NDC targets by 2030. This significant funding gap translates to a lack of resources for crucial climate action initiatives.

    The consequences of inaction are dire. Studies by the Department for International Development (DFID) indicate that climate change could cost Nigeria between 6% and 30% of its GDP by 2050. This economic strain, coupled with environmental degradation and social upheaval, could significantly destabilize the nation.

    Bridging the climate finance gap necessitates a multi-pronged approach involving various stakeholders:

    • Public Sector: The Nigerian government must prioritize climate finance allocation within its budget. Innovative mechanisms like carbon taxes and green bonds can be explored to generate additional revenue for climate projects.

    • Private Sector: The private sector has a vital role to play. Banks and financial institutions need to develop financial products that incentivize investments in low-carbon and climate-resilient technologies. Additionally, corporations should factor climate risk into their decision-making processes and invest in sustainable practices.

    • International Community: Developed nations have a responsibility to support developing countries like Nigeria in their climate efforts. Fulfilling pledges made under international agreements like the Green Climate Fund is crucial.

    Despite the challenges, there are positive developments on the Nigerian climate finance landscape. In November 2021, The Climate Change bill was signed into law by President Buhari in order to provide Nigeria with a legal framework for climate action, fostering transparency and accountability in climate finance management. Nigeria also issued sovereign green bonds to finance renewable energy projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development.

    Nigeria’s climate action journey will require sustained efforts and strategic partnerships. Some key areas for focus are:

    • Enhancing Transparency and Accountability:  Clear reporting mechanisms and robust governance structures are essential to ensure that climate funds are used effectively and efficiently.

    • Capacity Building:  Building domestic expertise in climate finance management is crucial. Training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives can equip stakeholders with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of climate finance.

    • Unlocking Private Sector Investment:  Creating an attractive environment for private sector investment in climate solutions, through policy incentives and de-risking mechanisms, is essential.

    Climate change is an existential threat to Nigeria, but it also presents an opportunity for transformation. By mobilizing adequate climate finance, Nigeria can build a low-carbon and climate-resilient future. This will require a collective effort from the government, private sector, and international community. With decisive action and innovative solutions, Nigeria can not only safeguard its environment but also  secure a sustainable and prosperous future for its citizens.

    Grace Oluchi Mbah is the co-founder and Executive Director at Climate Action Africa

  • Building Resilience: 6 Simple Climate Solutions for Big Impact in Nigeria

    Building Resilience: 6 Simple Climate Solutions for Big Impact in Nigeria

    By Grace Oluchi Mbah

    Nigeria, a nation brimming with potential, faces a significant challenge: climate change. In 2023, Nigeria recorded a decline in rainfall to about 1061 millimetres (mm) compared to 2022, which was about 1137.078 millimetres (mm). These erratic rainfall patterns, combined with rising sea levels of 0.5 meters, could force 27-53 million Nigerians who live along the coast to relocate by the end of the century. These factors are driving adverse climate effects that are already being felt.

    But amidst these challenges lie opportunities. Here, we explore six simple yet impactful climate solutions that Nigerian communities can adopt to build resilience and secure a sustainable future.

    1. Embrace Climate-Smart Agriculture: Nigeria is a developing economy with 2022 statistics of an estimated population of 88.4 million people who live in extreme poverty. Agriculture can be a solution to the poverty experienced by a majority in Nigeria. According to the World Bank, investing in the agricultural sector is more effective at raising incomes among the world’s poorest. Still, traditional farming methods in Nigeria are often vulnerable to droughts and floods.

    Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) offers a solution. CSA is a set of farming methods that is aimed at increasing the resilience and productivity of the land affected by climate change. Practices like using drought-resistant crop varieties, practising water-saving irrigation techniques like drip irrigation, and incorporating cover crops to improve soil health all contribute to a more resilient agricultural system. By adopting CSA techniques, Nigerian farmers can not only protect their livelihoods but also become part of the climate solution. It is important to note that Climate Smart Agriculture is a solution to the many problems caused by climate shocks but not a final solution to climate change.

    2. Plant Trees, Reap the Rewards: The United Nations places Nigeria with the highest deforestation rate in the world, with an estimated 3.7% of its forest lost every year. Expanding agriculture and logging; both illegal and legal are some of the causes of deforestation in Nigeria. Still, it is imperative to understand that forests play a vital role in regulating climate.

    Interestingly, in 2023, some of the States in Nigeria were involved in tree-planting initiatives. There is still a lot that needs to be done. Nigeria could take a cue from Ethiopia which accomplished an exceptional feat in 2019 when they planted 350 million trees within 12 hours. Large-scale tree-planting initiatives can create green corridors, improve air quality, and mitigate the effects of floods and droughts.  Planting trees also provides economic benefits. Programs that encourage community involvement in tree planting, with benefits like carbon credits or fruit production, can create a sense of ownership and ensure the long-term success of these initiatives.

    3. Harness the Power of Nature: Harnessing solar energy technologies for generating electricity as an option for fossil fuel energy usage in Nigeria could prove to be a huge solution to climate change problems. The solar radiation potential in the northern and southern regions of Nigeria is given as 5.62 up to 7.01 and 3.54 up to 5.43 kWhm-2 respectively. Nigeria boasts abundant sunshine and investing in solar energy solutions like rooftop panels or community solar farms can significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

    Solar power is not just environmentally friendly; it’s also reliable and cost-effective in the long run.  Government incentives and microloans can make solar technology more accessible, empowering individual households and businesses to become energy-independent. Practical solutions are needed to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy. A notable example is the “Nigeria Police Green Initiative” that was announced last year.

    4. Waste Not, Want Not:  The challenge of having sanitary landfills in Nigeria is still a huge conversation when it comes to creating solutions for climate change problems. Most States in Nigeria still operate open dumping. Organic waste, when left to decompose in landfills, releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.  Composting kitchen scraps and yard waste transforms this waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer, perfect for boosting soil health in gardens and farms.  This simple practice reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, promotes a circular economy, and mitigates climate change.

    Landfills can also be areas that can be transformed into thriving green spaces that would be fit for the whole surrounding community to enjoy. Some examples are the Mucking Marshes Landfill in England that was transformed into Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Mount Trashmore Park in Virginia, USA, Qiaoyuan Park in China and Chambers Gully in Australia.

    5. Embrace Sustainable Water Management:   Nigeria faces growing water scarcity. Inadequate access to water contributes to the water and sanitation crisis in Nigeria. According to the World Bank, approximately 70 million Nigerians do not have access to safe drinking water and 144 million do not have access to basic sanitation facilities.  One solution to the water crisis that affects climate change in Nigeria is to adopt sustainable water management.

    Rainwater harvesting systems can capture and store precious rainwater for later use. This captured water can be used for irrigation, washing, or even drinking after proper treatment.  Promoting water-saving practices like fixing leaky faucets and taking shorter showers can further reduce pressure on freshwater resources.

    6. Empowering Communities, Building Together:  The success of climate solutions hinges on community engagement.  Investing in education and awareness programs empowers communities to understand the threat of climate change and take ownership of solutions.  Supporting local NGOs and community leaders who are spearheading climate action initiatives is crucial.

    These six solutions are just a starting point. By adopting these practices and fostering a spirit of innovation, Nigerian communities can build resilience, mitigate the effects of climate change, and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.  The journey towards a climate-resilient Nigeria requires collaboration between government, businesses, and communities.  With collective action and a commitment to these simple yet impactful solutions, Nigeria can not only weather the storm of climate change but emerge stronger and more sustainable than ever before.

    Grace Oluchi Mbah is the co-founder and executive director of Climate Action Africa