The Federal Government of Nigeria and the State of California, USA, have formalized a partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation on climate change, environmental protection, and trade.
This was cemented on Wednesday with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the sidelines of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties in Belém, Brazil.
Mrs. Tenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), highlighted that the agreement provides a framework for the two parties to coordinate actions and policies to combat climate change, safeguard the environment, and strengthen trade ties.
“Nigeria is rapidly advancing its technology, clean energy, creative industry, and agricultural sectors, which complement California’s key economic strengths,” she said.
Majekodunmi noted that Nigeria is committed to achieving net-zero emissions across all sectors and building a climate-resilient economy by 2060.
She added that Nigeria’s population is expected to grow from 240 million to 400 million by 2050, creating a significant workforce and consumer base to fuel economic growth.
The MoU is designed to establish a flexible framework for collaboration on climate change mitigation, environmental protection, strengthening economic relations among others.
California Governor, Gavin Newsom emphasised that the MoU aimed to reduce carbon emissions, protect both natural and built environments, and advance low-carbon development strategies.
He outlined the key objectives, including advancing sustainable transportation and clean energy initiatives, promoting research, development, and innovation in climate policy, supporting integrated urban planning and land use to reduce congestion and urban sprawl and encouraging public-private partnerships and private sector collaboration.
The agreement marked a significant step in fostering international cooperation for climate action while also creating opportunities for trade and technological exchange between Nigeria and California.
