• SGF emphasises unity, collaboration ahead of major climate summit in Brazil
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
At a pivotal inter-ministerial meeting ahead of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30), scheduled for November 2025 in Belem, Brazil, top government officials have rallied for a coordinated national strategy and robust collaboration across agencies to ensure Nigeria’s strong presence at the global climate negotiations.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, represented by Permanent Secretary at the Special Services Office, Sanusi Danjuma, underscored the stakes of COP30.
He described the meeting as “crucial preparatory meeting”, detailing the government’s commitment to comprehensive participation: “As the Government Office saddled with the responsibility of policy and inter-ministerial coordination, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is convening this meeting to assess Nigeria’s readiness for COP30. We are here to lay the groundwork and ensure that our nation’s voice is not only heard but is also impactful on the global stage.”
Akume outlined the critical priorities set for COP30, highlighting cross-cutting challenges from energy transitions and biodiversity protection to transforming agriculture and strengthening urban resilience. “The stakes at COP30 are exceptionally high. The upcoming conference will focus on a number of critical global priorities, which underscore the complexity and cross-cutting nature of climate change and are designed to accelerate global climate action,” he explained. “Given the multifaceted nature of these challenges, it is imperative that we work together. The presence of all the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies here today is a testament to our collective commitment.” He called for unity in purpose, noting, “The success of our participation at COP30 rests on our ability to speak with one unified and coordinated voice. It requires us to bring our diverse expertise and resources to the table. We will review our progress, identify our strengths, and address our gaps to ensure we are fully prepared for the tasks ahead.”
Danjuma urged all attendees to “engage actively in the discussions, share your insights, and work together to formulate a robust and comprehensive strategy for Nigeria’s successful participation at COP30,” expressing hope that the process would be completed over three consecutive meetings.
Echoing these sentiments, Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Council on Climate Change, Omotenioye Majekodunmi, passionately reaffirmed the need for collaboration and urgency. “I am extremely delighted to be here amongst such revered committee members, but I am truly, truly hopeful for each of us,” she said.
Majekodunmi championed teamwork as central to Nigeria’s climate efforts: “I really affirm collaboration. Collaboration is a new policy as you move, and the way the world is, we’re really looking within, looking inward. It’s time for all of us to come together and get the momentum that we need for Nigeria. I am so enamored, happy and just very excited about the opportunity to do this.”
With over 17 years working with key climate stakeholders, Majekodunmi spoke of her readiness and resolve: “So I’ve seen all the different facets that are important for this sector to thrive. And I am so, so happy that everything has aligned nicely, and we thought by my side and amazing committee members like this, I know you definitely put Nigeria on the map where it definitely belongs this year, COP30, we are ready.”
She closed by reiterating her dedication: “My mantra I have told my staff is we must be known as an efficient, high performing team, and the legacy we leave behind will be the one to take us to where we want to go to. And I believe that we will get there. … Please be rest assured that with God and your kind support, I will not let you down. And I want to just say thank you for the opportunity.”
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