By Palma Ileye
As the world convenes at COP29, ActionAid Nigeria, in partnership with global Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, has called on wealthy, high-emitting countries to deliver on promises of climate finance to curb the escalating climate crisis.
In a press release signed by Andrew Mamedu, Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, disclosed that Nigerians, especially in vulnerable communities, were already suffering from the devastating effects of climate change, which have intensified droughts, floods, food shortages, and displacement.
Mamedu stated that without adequate support, Nigeria and other Global South nations will continue to bear the brunt of these effects, threatening lives, livelihoods, and future prospects.
The statement noted that climate finance was crucial to supporting Nigerian communities bearing the brunt of climate change.
“Despite previous promises, many developed countries have failed to meet their $100 billion annual climate finance pledge under the Paris Agreement, leaving vulnerable nations stranded.
“Recent flooding across Maiduguri, Yobe, Bayelsa, and Jigawa displaced millions and devastated livelihoods. ActionAid Nigeria urges developed nations to establish a New Collective Quantified Goal, NCQG, that commits at least $1 trillion annually to address loss and damage, adaptation, and mitigation,” the organization said.
ActionAid Nigeria stated that this fund must include clear timelines, accountability mechanisms, and equitable access for countries like Nigeria noting that to strengthen resilience, the Nigerian government must prioritize this funding for rebuilding infrastructure, expanding community-based support systems, and increasing budgetary allocations for social safety nets and adaptive agricultural projects.
It explained, “Adaptation is critical to Nigeria’s future, given the severe impacts of climate change on essential sectors like agriculture, public health, and infrastructure. With more than 70% of Nigerians dependent on rain-fed agriculture, climate disruptions place millions at risk of poverty and food insecurity.”
ActionAid Nigeria urged the government to advocate for COP29 to establish a comprehensive adaptation framework, with predictable funding robust accountability mechanisms and clear indicators to measuring progress saying that domestically, Nigeria must invest in proven adaptive agricultural practices, including agroecology, drought-resistant crops, and sustainable irrigation technologies.
These efforts they said will improve food security, protect livelihoods and reduce poverty.
“To prevent exploitation through carbon markets, ActionAid Nigeria emphasizes the importance of strict regulations under Article 6.
“Carbon markets should not enable polluters to offset emissions without reducing them, nor should they lead to land grabs or environmental degradation in Nigeria.
“In areas like the Niger Delta, unregulated carbon projects have contributed to environmental degradation and land conflicts, impacting communities reliant on fishing and farming,” AAN expained.
AAN stressed that COP29 must establish stringent rules for carbon markets to prevent greenwashing and exploitation adding that the Nigerian government should adopt national standards to safeguard vulnerable communities from land grabs and other adverse effects.
The organization said that women were critical to climate resilience in Nigeria, yet they remain underrepresented in climate action explaining that structural barriers, including limited access to land, financing, and training, restrict women’s participation in climate adaptation efforts.
ActionAid Nigeria called on COP29 to mainstream gender in all climate policies and secure dedicated resources for the Gender Action Plan, GAP.
“Domestically, Nigeria’s government must prioritize female-led farming cooperatives, capacity-building programs, and inclusive policies that empower women as leaders in climate resilience efforts. A gender-sensitive approach is not only equitable but essential to achieving sustainable development.
“The agriculture sector, which sustains nearly 70% of Nigeria’s population, requires urgent reform. ActionAid Nigeria calls for a shift from industrial farming to agroecology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect local food systems.
It also explained that Agroecology offers a path to climate-resilient farming by promoting biodiversity, reducing dependence on chemical inputs, and protecting natural resources. The Nigerian government must prioritize investments in agroecological practices, such as community seed banks, sustainable pest management, and integrated crop-livestock systems, to safeguard livelihoods, enhance food security, and create green jobs for future generations.
“At COP29, ActionAid Nigeria will be represented by a team of experts, women leaders, and youth activists advocating for climate finance, gender equity, and the empowerment of local communities.
“Their voices will amplify stories from communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis, demanding global action to match the scale of the challenge.”
ActionAid Nigeria also believed that by strengthening both international support and local policies, Nigeria can restore environmental resilience, secure livelihoods, and build a sustainable future adding that the time to act was now.
Furthermore, the organisation said that COP29 must be the turning point where promises are kept, policies are implemented, and accountability is ensured.