President Bola Tinubu has called for a reevaluation of the global governance structure, financial, and healthcare systems to prioritise equity and inclusion for low-income and emerging economies, particularly in Africa.
Speaking at the 17th BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, President Tinubu emphasised the need for collective action to address environmental degradation, climate crisis, and healthcare inequalities that hinder growth and development.
Tinubu noted that Africa contributed the least to global emissions, but suffers the most from climate change.
He advocated for a new path of justice, fairness, sustainable technology transfer, and accessible financing to enable emerging economies to benefit from initiatives.
According to him, “The African continent is creating the path through the African Carbon Market Initiative and the Great Green Wall.
”We believe that COP-30 will strengthen our resolve to adopt a strategic approach to achieving a healthy global environment”, he said.
Tinubu further said, “Nigeria strongly believes in South-South cooperation. We can, therefore, not be passive participants in global decision-making on financial restructuring, debt forgiveness, climate change, environmental issues, and healthcare.
“We must be the architects of a future that addresses the specific needs and concerns of youths, who represent 70 per cent of our population in Nigeria.
”Therefore, Nigeria remains guided by our long-term vision, 2050, and nationally determined contribution.
“We are taking bold steps to accelerate renewable energy adoption, mainstream climate action, promote nature-based solutions, strengthen urban resilience, champion South-South cooperation, align with the global renewal framework, and achieve universal health coverage for all”, he added.
The President also highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to South-South cooperation and its efforts to accelerate renewable energy adoption, promote climate action, and achieve universal health coverage.
He emphasised the need to address non-communicable diseases and strengthen the global health system.
Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strategic collaboration and sustainable development, stating that the country aimed to be a beacon for emerging solutions and resolutions rooted in solidarity, self-reliance, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
Nigeria became the ninth partner country of BRICS in January 2025, joining other nations in promoting South-South cooperation and reforming global governance.
