Leading stakeholders from government, private sector, civil society, and international development partners have united in calling for accelerated investments in Nigeria’s green economy. They emphasize its critical role in achieving sustainable development, creating jobs, and meeting national climate commitments under the Energy Transition Plan (ETP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The appeal was made during recent high-level engagements, including the Green Energy Zones Dialogue and discussions around the Nigerian Climate Investment Platform. Participants highlighted untapped opportunities estimated at up to $250 billion in green investments, spanning renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, circular economy initiatives, clean transportation, and climate adaptation projects.
“Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment,” said Dr. Aisha Bello, a representative from the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC). “With the right investments in solar, wind, mini-grids, and green manufacturing, we can power economic growth while reducing emissions and lifting millions out of poverty. The launch of initiatives like the Climate Investment Platform, which aims to unlock $500 million in green finance, demonstrates strong momentum but we need bolder commitments from both domestic and international investors to scale these efforts.”
Key priorities identified include: Expanding renewable energy deployment, including distributed solar solutions and green energy zones to address energy access gaps. Supporting MSMEs and green entrepreneurship through incentives for eco-innovation and sustainable practices.
Developing robust carbon markets and green bonds, building on recent issuances like the ₦50 billion sovereign green bond. Fostering public-private partnerships to de-risk investments and build local capacity in clean technologies.
Stakeholders noted that Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan targets significant low-carbon development across power, transport, industry, and other sectors, with potential to lift 100 million people out of poverty by 2060 while achieving net-zero ambitions. However, they stressed that current financing levels must increase substantially to bridge infrastructure gaps and realize these goals.
Mr. Chinedu Okafor, CEO of a leading renewable energy firm, added: “Private sector participation is growing, but regulatory clarity, streamlined approvals, and access to affordable capital remain essential. Green investments are not just environmentally sound they offer attractive returns and position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s green transition.”
The coalition urged the Federal Government to strengthen policy frameworks, enhance investor confidence through just transition principles, and deepen collaborations with multilateral partners such as the African Development Bank, Green Climate Fund, and UN agencies.
As Nigeria advances its climate and development agenda, increased investments in the green economy are seen as vital for building resilience against climate impacts, fostering inclusive growth, and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.