As Nigeria gears up to join the international community at the upcoming COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the nation plans a bold display of innovative, climate-resilient solutions under the “Made in Nigeria” initiative. National Coordinator and Executive Director of the Made in Nigeria Project Office, Nwabueze George, outlined Nigeria’s strategy on Wednesday in Lagos, emphasizing that the country’s pavilion will promote climate action while underscoring sustainable development through indigenous technology, art, and community-led solutions.
Scheduled from November 11 to 22, COP29 provides a platform for countries to present their strategies for mitigating climate change impacts. Nigeria’s participation, according to George, aims to highlight local advancements in climate-friendly technologies, foster international collaborations, and share knowledge with global climate experts.
“Nigeria’s pavilion at COP29 will represent a confluence of innovation, policy, and culture aimed at showcasing the progress made toward climate resilience,” George stated. “Our presence in the Green Zone allows us to spotlight Nigerian-made products that are both environmentally sustainable and economically viable.”
Showcasing Indigenous Climate Solutions
Nigeria’s pavilion will offer an interactive experience, with sessions led by local climate experts, exhibits on climate-friendly products, and community-led environmental initiatives. Visitors will also see a unique cultural component as Nigerian art installations illustrate climate change’s impact on various communities. The “Made in Nigeria” initiative will be central to Nigeria’s presentation, bridging the climate conversation with the promotion of Nigerian craftsmanship and resourcefulness.
George emphasized that Nigeria’s commitment goes beyond climate solutions, pointing out that the pavilion serves as a global stage to promote locally crafted products. “It’s about showcasing everything Nigeria has to offer, from climate technology to traditional products,” he said.
Barrister Titi Akosa, Lagos State Coordinator for the Made in Nigeria Project (MAiNPro), added that accredited participants would receive two-week access to COP29 events, with successful applicants eligible for visa support. Akosa encouraged Nigerian innovators, state governments, and the private sector to participate actively, noting the opportunities for networking, collaboration, and investment that the summit will provide.
Calling for Stakeholder Engagement
A vital aspect of Nigeria’s COP29 mission is engaging various stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and entrepreneurs, in aligning with the global climate agenda. George urged these groups to leverage COP29’s platform to highlight Nigeria’s innovative responses to climate challenges.
“Working together for climate action and sustainable development is essential,” he stated, calling for applications for side events and exhibition space at Nigeria’s pavilion. He believes that this collective effort will send a strong message of Nigeria’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future, both nationally and internationally.
With a dynamic array of activities, Nigeria’s participation in COP29 not only aims to demonstrate the country’s progress on the Paris Agreement goals but also to position the nation as a leader in African climate innovation. This effort is set to reinforce Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage, signaling that the country is a serious player in climate resilience, technology, and sustainability.
