The UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, is visiting Nigeria for four days to engage with government officials, businesses, and civil society about the benefits of a robust climate strategy. His agenda includes delivering a speech on Nigeria’s climate plan and participating in discussions on environmental initiatives at a symposium in Lagos.
Simon Stiell, the UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) Executive Secretary, is set to visit Nigeria for a four-day trip aimed at discussing the potential benefits of a robust climate strategy with government officials and various stakeholders. His visit will commence in Abuja from March 4 to 5, where he will engage with Nigerian authorities and civil society members to explore collaborative initiatives.
Following his meetings in Abuja, Executive Secretary Stiell will attend a symposium titled “Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove, and Art” on March 6, organized by Nigeria’s National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos. During this event, he is scheduled to deliver a speech at approximately 10:05 am (WAT) regarding Nigeria’s new climate plan, known as the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).
In his address, Stiell will discuss how Nigeria’s climate strategy can generate economic opportunities and alleviate poverty, while also ensuring universal access to energy. He will highlight the potential for major sectors of Nigeria’s economy to thrive through proactive climate measures, underscoring the importance of such plans for benefiting households, businesses, and government entities alike.
Furthermore, he will elaborate on how environmental protection can enhance Nigeria’s resilience against severe weather conditions induced by climate change, thereby safeguarding lives and livelihoods. Emphasizing initiatives like preserving mangrove forests and the Great Green Wall in the Sahel, he will outline actionable steps for adapting to climate impacts on the populace and infrastructure.
Additionally, on March 6, the Executive Secretary will partake in a panel discussion with business leaders and will meet with representatives from civil society on March 7. With its membership comprising 198 parties, the UNFCCC serves as the foundation for the 2015 Paris Climate Change Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature increases to well below 2 degrees Celsius.
The ultimate goal of the UNFCCC and its related treaties, including the Kyoto Protocol, is to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, thereby preventing adverse human interference with the climate system and allowing ecosystems to adapt while facilitating sustainable development.
In summary, Simon Stiell’s visit to Nigeria aims to promote a comprehensive approach to climate action, emphasizing the economic advantages of a solid national climate plan. His engagement with various sectors is intended to inspire collaborative efforts that tackle climate challenges and safeguard the environment. By prioritizing sustainable initiatives and environmental resilience, Nigeria can pave the way for a prosperous future while contributing to global climate goals.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com