Nigeria CSOs Demonstrate Strong Commitment to Climate Action at COP28

Dubai, December 6, 2023

The first half of COP28 negotiations and events were held from November 30th to December 6. 2023, saw an active and impactful participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Nigeria. During the first half, Nigerian CSOs actively engaged in approximately 30 side events, with representatives delivering impactful speeches on various climate-related topics.

The mobilization of CSOs at COP28, led by the Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st), Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), and Environews Development Network (Endenet) with support from Foreign, Commonwealth and Department Office (FCDO), British High Commission (BHC) in partnership with the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) has been remarkably phenomenal. The collaboration between these organizations has continued to facilitate daily briefings and regular updates for CSOs on the ongoing negotiations and events at COP28. This enabled the Nigerian CSOs to stay abreast of all streams of developments and make their voices heard and visible.

One notable highlight of the first half was the invitation extended to the CSOs leadership to participate in the first-ever Nigeria Day celebration at COP28. During this momentous occasion, the Nigerian CSOs position was successfully conveyed to Dr. Salisu Dahiru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Climate Change Commission (NCCC). The Director General, who was excited by the activities of the CSOs committed to transmit the CSOs position to the Nigerian President. This recognition of the CSOs’ efforts signifies a new impetus for collaboration and affirms the importance of their role in shaping climate policies and conversations at such a global level.

The positive momentum gained at COP28 will be continued through the remaining days at COP28 and a post-COP28 meeting, which aims to further enhance cooperation between CSOs and the Nigerian government to foster global engagement. This opportunity will also allow for the exploration of new avenues to advance climate action and achieve meaningful progress in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change at the national and subnational level in Nigeria with CSOs as frontiers of development.

The collective efforts displayed so far by Nigerian CSOs at COP28 demonstrate their unwavering commitment to climate action and their determination to contribute to a more sustainable future for Nigeria. These efforts and dedication are commendable and one can only look forward to their continued endeavors in driving positive change in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) deeply regret the media’s negative portrayal of the country’s delegates to COP28. This portrayal, viewed as misinformation, has the potential to undermine the progress made in opening up the climate space that CSOs have tirelessly fought for over the decades.

It is crucial to note that some Nigerian CSOs have achieved observer status with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This acknowledgment highlights their credibility and expertise in matters related to the climate crisis. As observers, they possess the authority to register participants for COP and actively contribute to shaping the climate agenda.

Nigeria’s Govt Participation:

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) commend the Government of Nigeria for its active participation in COP28, marking a significant turning point in the country’s commitment to climate action. For the first time, Nigeria has sent a strong signal to the global community, showcasing its readiness to mobilize climate finance and collaborate with stakeholders to address the impacts of climate change within Nigeria.

During the first week of COP28, Nigeria achieved several notable milestones, marking quick wins in its pursuit of climate action. These achievements include:

1. Launching of Nigeria’s Long term Low Carbon Emission Development Strategy
2. Nigeria Carbon Market Activation
3. Signing of MOU with Siemens
4. Promising Discussions with development partners and investors to mobilize climate finance for Nigeria

Statement on Key Climate Agenda Items

Loss and Damage

Nigerian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) warmly welcome the early operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund during the first week of COP28. This significant step highlights progress in addressing the losses and damages experienced by communities on the frontlines of climate change. However, Nigerian CSOs emphasize the urgent need for expeditious establishment of the fund’s operational details, particularly the swift submission of pledges. The current pledge of $655 million falls far short of the actual finance required, which amounts to trillions, to adequately address the daily sufferings of affected climate-vulnerable communities.

Adaptation

On the agenda of the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), Nigerian CSOs advocate for increased efforts to ensure the realization of doubling adaptation finance by 2025. It is imperative that an action plan, clearly outlining the path toward this goal, be developed. While a commitment of $14 billion to adaptation finance has been made, it remains insufficient compared to the actual requirements.

Mitigation

Regarding mitigation, Nigerian CSOs acknowledge the progress made by many countries in delivering Low-Carbon Development and Just Transition strategies. However, they emphasize the importance of incorporating gender equity and addressing existing vulnerabilities and marginalization. It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon society actively includes and safeguards the rights and well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable populations and a specific definition of Just Transition for the developing countries.

Climate Finance

Recognizing the vital significance of climate finance, Nigerian CSOs stress that the current pledges are inadequate. The global goal on climate finance requires urgent and serious attention, with the realization of fair and realistic metrics that can effectively address the world’s response to climate change. Adequate financing is the lifeblood of climate action, and urgent action is needed to achieve the scale required.

Conclusion

As the negotiations enter the second round, Nigerian CSOs call for concrete action and heightened commitment across all negotiation streams. It is crucial to align the discussions and decisions with the temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement and deliver climate finance at a significant scale.

Nigerian CSOs remain steadfast in their dedication to pushing for meaningful outcomes during COP28. They call upon all stakeholders to demonstrate real commitment and take decisive steps to address the pressing challenges of climate change. By working collaboratively, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria and the global community.

Signed

Titilope Gbemisola Akosa

Executive Director

Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st)

For Convening organizations

Dubai, December 6, 2023

The first half of COP28 negotiations and events were held from November 30th to December 6. 2023, saw an active and impactful participation of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Nigeria. During the first half, Nigerian CSOs actively engaged in approximately 30 side events, with representatives delivering impactful speeches on various climate-related topics.

The mobilization of CSOs at COP28, led by the Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st), Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), and Environews Development Network (Endenet) with support from Foreign, Commonwealth and Department Office (FCDO), British High Commission (BHC) in partnership with the Nigeria Climate Justice Alliance (NCJA) has been remarkably phenomenal. The collaboration between these organizations has continued to facilitate daily briefings and regular updates for CSOs on the ongoing negotiations and events at COP28. This enabled the Nigerian CSOs to stay abreast of all streams of developments and make their voices heard and visible.

One notable highlight of the first half was the invitation extended to the CSOs leadership to participate in the first-ever Nigeria Day celebration at COP28. During this momentous occasion, the Nigerian CSOs position was successfully conveyed to Dr. Salisu Dahiru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Climate Change Commission (NCCC). The Director General, who was excited by the activities of the CSOs committed to transmit the CSOs position to the Nigerian President. This recognition of the CSOs’ efforts signifies a new impetus for collaboration and affirms the importance of their role in shaping climate policies and conversations at such a global level.

The positive momentum gained at COP28 will be continued through the remaining days at COP28 and a post-COP28 meeting, which aims to further enhance cooperation between CSOs and the Nigerian government to foster global engagement. This opportunity will also allow for the exploration of new avenues to advance climate action and achieve meaningful progress in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change at the national and subnational level in Nigeria with CSOs as frontiers of development.

The collective efforts displayed so far by Nigerian CSOs at COP28 demonstrate their unwavering commitment to climate action and their determination to contribute to a more sustainable future for Nigeria. These efforts and dedication are commendable and one can only look forward to their continued endeavors in driving positive change in Nigeria and beyond.

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) deeply regret the media’s negative portrayal of the country’s delegates to COP28. This portrayal, viewed as misinformation, has the potential to undermine the progress made in opening up the climate space that CSOs have tirelessly fought for over the decades.

It is crucial to note that some Nigerian CSOs have achieved observer status with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This acknowledgment highlights their credibility and expertise in matters related to the climate crisis. As observers, they possess the authority to register participants for COP and actively contribute to shaping the climate agenda.

Nigeria’s Govt Participation:

Nigeria’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) commend the Government of Nigeria for its active participation in COP28, marking a significant turning point in the country’s commitment to climate action. For the first time, Nigeria has sent a strong signal to the global community, showcasing its readiness to mobilize climate finance and collaborate with stakeholders to address the impacts of climate change within Nigeria.

During the first week of COP28, Nigeria achieved several notable milestones, marking quick wins in its pursuit of climate action. These achievements include:

1. Launching of Nigeria’s Long term Low Carbon Emission Development Strategy
2. Nigeria Carbon Market Activation
3. Signing of MOU with Siemens
4. Promising Discussions with development partners and investors to mobilize climate finance for Nigeria

Statement on Key Climate Agenda Items

Loss and Damage

Nigerian Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) warmly welcome the early operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund during the first week of COP28. This significant step highlights progress in addressing the losses and damages experienced by communities on the frontlines of climate change. However, Nigerian CSOs emphasize the urgent need for expeditious establishment of the fund’s operational details, particularly the swift submission of pledges. The current pledge of $655 million falls far short of the actual finance required, which amounts to trillions, to adequately address the daily sufferings of affected climate-vulnerable communities.

Adaptation

On the agenda of the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA), Nigerian CSOs advocate for increased efforts to ensure the realization of doubling adaptation finance by 2025. It is imperative that an action plan, clearly outlining the path toward this goal, be developed. While a commitment of $14 billion to adaptation finance has been made, it remains insufficient compared to the actual requirements.

Mitigation

Regarding mitigation, Nigerian CSOs acknowledge the progress made by many countries in delivering Low-Carbon Development and Just Transition strategies. However, they emphasize the importance of incorporating gender equity and addressing existing vulnerabilities and marginalization. It is crucial that the transition to a low-carbon society actively includes and safeguards the rights and well-being of all, particularly the most vulnerable populations and a specific definition of Just Transition for the developing countries.

Climate Finance

Recognizing the vital significance of climate finance, Nigerian CSOs stress that the current pledges are inadequate. The global goal on climate finance requires urgent and serious attention, with the realization of fair and realistic metrics that can effectively address the world’s response to climate change. Adequate financing is the lifeblood of climate action, and urgent action is needed to achieve the scale required.

Conclusion

As the negotiations enter the second round, Nigerian CSOs call for concrete action and heightened commitment across all negotiation streams. It is crucial to align the discussions and decisions with the temperature goal outlined in the Paris Agreement and deliver climate finance at a significant scale.

Nigerian CSOs remain steadfast in their dedication to pushing for meaningful outcomes during COP28. They call upon all stakeholders to demonstrate real commitment and take decisive steps to address the pressing challenges of climate change. By working collaboratively, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria and the global community.

Signed

Titilope Gbemisola Akosa

Executive Director

Centre for 21^st Century Issues (C21st)

For Convening organizations

Nigerian CSOs storm COP28 to advocate for global climate policy

A delegation of Nigerian civil society groups is currently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), as they look forward to actively participate in this year’s 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which will take place from Thursday, November 30, to Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

The body, led by three non-profit organisations—the Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st), the EnviroNews Development Network (Endenet), and the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), will harmonise the activities of CSOs, governments, and other important stakeholders at this global conference to ensure Nigeria receives the best outcomes that will protect its people from the disruptive effects of climate change.

Supported by the British High Commission (BHC) in Nigeria under a project named “Strengthening Nigeria’s Civil Society Organisations’ Engagement with Global Climate Change Policy,” this group will additionally advocate, lobby, and enhnace communications in order to promote Nigeria’s effective participation in the various COP28 negotiations.

The coalition of environmental rights activists has proposed many strategies for achieving this goal following the COP28 thematic programme and plan of action. One of these tactics is to measure Nigeria’s success during the international meeting by having daily in-person involvement as well as online monitoring and reporting of all the conversations. Others are online advocacy campaigns to engage the public in the several negotiating streams and global days of action to assess the momentum and achievements of the overall goal of COP28.

These discussions, which will centre on specific solutions that need to be scaled up this decade to limit warming to 1.5 degrees, build resilience, and mobilise finance at scale, they hinted further, will help bring together a diverse range of stakeholders around the loss and damage fund, global stocktake, global goals on adaptation and finance, energy transition and renewables, phase down and phase out, as well as agriculture and food systems. The idea is to create an understanding of where the world stands on climate action and support, identify the gaps, and work together to agree on solutions and pathways to 2030 and beyond.

A group of carefully chosen Nigerian journalists and communication experts has been assembled and constituted. They will boost CSO participation with policymakers, gender mainstreaming in the UN climate negotiation, and help spread awareness of the full range of discussions.

Earlier in the project’s first execution phase, the three implementation partners carried out a scoping study on the role and participation of Nigeria’s CSOs in climate change negotiations over the previous two years in order to identify the problems and bridge the gaps to strengthen CSOs’ engagement in global climate change policy at COP28.

The scoping research findings were used to develop a capacity-building programme and to promote pre-COP28 multi-stakeholder conversations with relevant government agencies and climate change institutions.

Beginning on Friday, November 10, and ending on Friday, November 24, the virtual and physical training and knowledge-sharing exercise gave the beneficiaries the tools they required to understand how to navigate the UNFCCC’s multiple negotiation streams, investigate the various negotiation interests, and clearly define Nigeria’s position within the African climate change arena.

Titi Akosa, executive director of C21st, believes that the capacity-building engagement has better prepared Nigerian CSOs to advocate for their interests, impact policy results, broaden their network, and generate meaningful change.

“This timely training programme has equipped climate-focused CSOs in Nigeria with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of UNFCCC negotiations,” she said, emphasising that, if properly informed, CSOs can effectively contribute to global climate policy discussions.