Nigeria Validates NDC 3.0, Reaffirms Commitment to Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development

Abuja, Nigeria–The Federal Government has formally validated Nigeria’s third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), reinforcing the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its broader goal of integrating climate action with national development priorities.

Speaking at the validation event in Abuja, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Finance and Stakeholders Engagement, Ibrahim Shelleng, noted that the updated NDC reflects Nigeria’s ambition to align climate policy with economic growth, poverty reduction, job creation, and improved public health outcomes.

The NDC is a central component of the Paris Agreement, representing each country’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change through locally tailored strategies. Shelleng explained that NDC 3.0 builds on the progress made under previous iterations, incorporating new scientific findings, policy developments, and alignment with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and long-term development goals.

“This version of the NDC emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that diverse stakeholders are engaged in setting and achieving realistic but ambitious climate targets,” Shelleng stated.

Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr. Teni Majekodunmi, welcomed participants and reiterated that climate action is a collective responsibility. She called for active involvement from all sectors, including government ministries, private sector actors, civil society, youth and women’s groups, academic institutions, and development partners.

“As we validate NDC 3.0, let us ensure it reflects not only our technological capabilities and financial realities but also our national priorities and commitment to a just transition,” she said.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Nigeria, Varsha Redkar-Palepu, commended the country’s inclusive and bottom-up approach to developing its climate strategy. She described the document as timely, noting that global cooperation remains vital amid growing skepticism around multilateral processes.

“At a time when the world stands at a critical crossroads, Nigeria’s leadership on climate action sends a strong message — the Global South is not waiting; it is taking initiative,” Redkar-Palepu said.

Also speaking at the event, African Development Bank (AfDB) representative Gerard underscored the Bank’s readiness to support Nigeria in mobilizing financing and crafting an investment plan to drive the implementation of NDC 3.0.

The updated NDC outlines Nigeria’s highest achievable climate ambition and is reviewed every five years as part of the global framework for climate accountability and progress under the Paris Agreement. It is expected to serve as a blueprint for integrating environmental sustainability into the country’s economic planning and development agenda.
By Enoch odesola/ August 28,2025