Nigeria reaffirms climate commitment with a people-first Just Transition Guideline to ensure economic inclusion, job security, and low-carbon development

Just Transition Guideline is now at the heart of Nigeria’s climate strategy, as the Federal Government pushes forward with its commitment to a low-carbon economy.

Also read: Lekki Low Carbon Project Gets Lagos-China Boost for Climate Action

The guideline aims to protect vulnerable workers, create green jobs, and foster inclusive growth amid the country’s energy shift.

Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, made this announcement at the final stakeholders’ consultation held in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

“This isn’t just about infrastructure or regulations — it is profoundly about people,” she stated.

“Just Transition is about empowering communities while ensuring no one is left behind.”

Supported by UNDP, ILO, and UNIDO, the event concluded a nationwide dialogue spanning Abuja, Lagos, and Kano.

The Just Transition Guideline aligns with Nigeria’s Climate Change Act and National Development Plan.

UN representative Stephen Agugua underscored the urgency of implementation, noting that “this is about jobs, justice, and survival.”

He stressed that 49 countries globally have committed to workforce-centered climate action.

Labour unions were vocal. John Moses of the NLC demanded the establishment of a Just Transition Commission, emphasizing that workers must be central to climate policy.

Experts added that fossil fuel revenues must fund renewable energy. Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo cautioned against rapid divestment, advocating for a balanced shift. “We still need oil to fuel national development,” he said.

Also read: Taraba Green House Harvest Sparks Agricultural Revolution

From fossil fuels to renewables, and from policy to people, Nigeria’s Just Transition Guideline reflects a profound national effort to build a climate-resilient, inclusive future.