Grace Oluchi Mbah, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Climate Action Africa (CAA), has called on Nigeria and other African nations to prioritize the implementation of technology-driven solutions and innovation across various areas such as emissions reduction, transportation, agriculture, energy, as well as building and construction in order to effectively combat the challenges posed by climate change in Africa. Mbah delivered the message at the press conference for the upcoming Climate Change African Forum (CCAF2024), focusing on the theme of ‘Green Economies, Brighter Futures – Promoting Innovation and Investment in Africa’s Climate-Resilient Development’.
Mbah stated that it is important for everyone to contribute to the fight against climate change. He pointed out that Africa is facing a larger impact from climate change compared to other regions. One striking fact is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) prediction that African countries could suffer agricultural losses equivalent to 5 percent to 15 percent of their gross domestic product. Hence, it is imperative to discover, create, and allocate resources towards practical measures that secure the long-term viability of agricultural communities.
CAAF24 Deal Room is set to materialize thanks to partners.
The implementation of CAAF will protect the wellbeing and economic stability of individuals in at-risk neighbourhoods. CAAF symbolizes our collective dreams and commitment to fighting climate change. Key features of CAAF 2024, as highlighted by him, include the establishment of the ‘Deal Room’ and a ‘National Call for Innovations’ focused on emissions reduction, transportation, agriculture, energy, circularity, and building and construction. We are seeking innovative solutions powered by technology from all corners of Nigeria, she said. The CAAF24 Deal Room is set to materialize thanks to the collaboration of our partners, including the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Founders Institute, and Innovation Support Network.
Furthermore, CAAF24 offers an extensive schedule aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge, abilities, and tactics needed to support the advancement of the circular economy and to access funding for projects in Adaptation, Mitigation, and Resilience. The ‘Energy Evolve Stage,’ spearheaded by the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, holds equal significance in our discussions. Exploring the intricacies of the energy transition in Nigeria and Africa, this platform will shine a light on the essential contribution of renewable energies to our path towards sustainable development. Embracing global norms while customizing them to suit our distinct African landscape presents a chance for advancement and progress.
Investing in CNG for transport is key to reduce carbon footprints.
Mrs. Taiwo Fasipe, the Head of Media for the Presidential Committee on Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), restated the current administration’s commitment to supporting hybrid alternative fuel transportation. She stressed that investing in this means of transportation is key to reducing carbon footprints and creating a healthier environment. Compressed natural gas is both efficient and non-corrosive, making it a sustainable choice for the future. It offers a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for powering vehicles compared to the gasoline and diesel fuels.
Along with a range of collaborators and investors, PCNI has been actively building new infrastructure throughout Nigeria. Their goal is to grow and make use of the country’s natural gas resources while also expanding the availability of CNG facilities in the region. She stated that PCNI has set up CNG conversion facilities throughout Nigeria, particularly in Abuja, Lagos, and other regions of the country, in order to usher in a new era in Nigeria’s transportation industry. This initiative will enable vehicle owners to switch to a cleaner and more efficient fuel source, resulting in a range of personal economic and environmental advantages crucial for combating the effects of climate change.
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Representative of the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC), Mrs. Jummai Vandu emphasized the importance of promoting a fair transition to gas while also advocating for smart processes. To achieve our conditional target, we must seek support and ensure thoughtful considerations in our transition efforts. In order to address the impacts of climate change, it is crucial to have access to technical assistance, financial resources, and expert knowledge to effectively mitigate its effects. The current era is marked by the close proximity of cyclones and other climate change-related disasters, highlighting the urgency of implementing intelligent strategies to combat these challenges.
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