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Climate Finance: The Urgency of Climate Action in Nigeria
By Grace Oluchi Mbah, Co-Founder and Executive Director, Climate Action Africa
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is facing a critical challenge: climate change. The country is highly vulnerable to the devastating impacts of a warming planet, including extreme weather events like floods and droughts, rising sea levels, and ecological disruptions. These changes threaten not only Nigeria’s environment but also its economic growth, social development, and overall well being.
There was a time when we could reasonably predict the weather in Nigeria. Rainy and dry seasons arrived at specific periods in the year, allowing for preparation, especially among rural farmers. By monitoring the seasons, farmers could cultivate crops and achieve bountiful harvests.
Nigeria’s rainy seasons have changed. Once a land of consistent rain, the country now experiences more intense downpours followed by longer dry periods. This disrupts agricultural production, leading to food insecurity. Floods caused by heavy rains destroy crops and infrastructure, displacing communities. Since September 2022, the worst floods in a decade have affected 3.2 million people across Nigeria, of whom an estimated 60 percent are children. Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Jigawa States have seen the highest numbers of displaced persons.
In Northern Nigeria, conflict may have continued to drive population displacement, disrupt livelihood activities, and restrict market access. However, the region’s suffering intensifies due to its particular vulnerability to droughts caused by rising temperatures and reduced rainfall. Lake Chad, a vital source of water for millions, is shrinking at an alarming rate. Since the 1960s, the lake has shrunk by around 90%. This recession of water is a result of both reduced precipitation induced by climate change and the development of modern irrigation systems for agriculture, alongside the increasing human demand for freshwater.
Coastal cities like Lagos face the risk of inundation due to rising sea levels. This saltwater intrusion contaminates freshwater sources and threatens coastal ecosystems. Erosion caused by rising sea levels destroys infrastructure and can displace populations. If global warming exceeds 2°C, Lagos State is predicted to see a 90cm rise in sea level by 2100.
Some other current climate change issues in Nigeria include frequent and intense heat waves, deforestation, overgrazing, and extreme weather events that contribute to land degradation. There is no doubt that Nigeria faces a real climate change challenge. It is imperative that the government and other stakeholders put in place mitigation and adaptation projects, such as developing renewable energy sources and reducing emissions, as well as adaptation efforts, including building resilient infrastructure and fostering community resilience, to curb climate change challenges in Nigeria.
A solution to Nigeria’s rising climate change challenge is climate finance. Climate finance refers to local, national and transnational financing that is drawn from public, private and alternative sources of financing that seeks to support mitigation and adaptation actions that will address climate change. Climate finance plays a critical role in empowering developing nations like Nigeria to combat climate change. It provides the much-needed resources to implement mitigation and adaptation strategies that safeguard the environment and bolster climate resilience.
While Nigeria has ambitious climate goals enshrined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – a pledge under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – achieving them hinges on a crucial factor: climate finance.
Climate finance serves as a crucial instrument for Nigeria to confront its climate change challenges. It encompasses various funding sources, that includes, multilateral aid in form of grants and concessional loans provided by developed countries and international organizations. Investments from banks, insurers, and asset managers in climate-smart projects that emanate as private sector investment and carbon pricing mechanisms which are revenue generated from carbon taxes or emissions trading schemes.
By effectively deploying climate finance, Nigeria can invest in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power which can lessen reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Funds can be directed towards strengthening infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, developing climate-resistant crop varieties, and improving early warning systems. Support for the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance food security and reduce deforestation can also be achieved.
The Funding Gap and the Urgency for Action
Nigeria’s current climate finance scenario paints a concerning picture. Estimates suggest the country receives around $1.9 billion annually, a far cry from the estimated $17.7 billion required to meet its NDC targets by 2030. This significant funding gap translates to a lack of resources for crucial climate action initiatives.
The consequences of inaction are dire. Studies by the Department for International Development (DFID) indicate that climate change could cost Nigeria between 6% and 30% of its GDP by 2050. This economic strain, coupled with environmental degradation and social upheaval, could significantly destabilize the nation.
Bridging the climate finance gap necessitates a multi-pronged approach involving various stakeholders:
Public Sector: The Nigerian government must prioritize climate finance allocation within its budget. Innovative mechanisms like carbon taxes and green bonds can be explored to generate additional revenue for climate projects.
Private Sector: The private sector has a vital role to play. Banks and financial institutions need to develop financial products that incentivize investments in low-carbon and climate-resilient technologies. Additionally, corporations should factor climate risk into their decision-making processes and invest in sustainable practices.
International Community: Developed nations have a responsibility to support developing countries like Nigeria in their climate efforts. Fulfilling pledges made under international agreements like the Green Climate Fund is crucial.
Despite the challenges, there are positive developments on the Nigerian climate finance landscape. In November 2021, The Climate Change bill was signed into law by President Buhari in order to provide Nigeria with a legal framework for climate action, fostering transparency and accountability in climate finance management. Nigeria also issued sovereign green bonds to finance renewable energy projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development.
Nigeria’s climate action journey will require sustained efforts and strategic partnerships. Some key areas for focus are:
Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Clear reporting mechanisms and robust governance structures are essential to ensure that climate funds are used effectively and efficiently.
Capacity Building: Building domestic expertise in climate finance management is crucial. Training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives can equip stakeholders with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of climate finance.
Unlocking Private Sector Investment: Creating an attractive environment for private sector investment in climate solutions, through policy incentives and de-risking mechanisms, is essential.
Climate change is an existential threat to Nigeria, but it also presents an opportunity for transformation. By mobilizing adequate climate finance, Nigeria can build a low-carbon and climate-resilient future. This will require a collective effort from the government, private sector, and international community. With decisive action and innovative solutions, Nigeria can not only safeguard its environment but also secure a sustainable and prosperous future for its citizens
QNET, a global leader in direct selling focused on wellness and lifestyle products, firmly disassociates itself from any unlawful activities being conducted by unauthorized individuals or entities fraudulently using the QNET name to mislead and exploit members of the Nigerian public.
These concerns have resurfaced following the arrests of several suspects in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
QNET commends the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its actions in apprehending those responsible and is actively supporting the authorities to prevent further misuse of its brand.
QNET Says NO to Brand Misuse and Criminal Misrepresentation
QNET is a 27-year-old international direct selling company offering wellness and lifestyle products through a network of independent distributors.
These individuals are customers who have purchased QNET products and have chosen to build their own direct selling business using our platform. They operate independently and are not employees of QNET.
Unfortunately, certain third-party entities such as Mighty Infinity Millionaire Ltd, that have no affiliation to QNET, and operate without our oversight or recognition, have grossly misrepresented the QNET business model and acted in a manner that is in no way a representation of QNET business ethics or values.
We unequivocally state that such entities and individuals are not affiliated with or endorsed by QNET. QNET reiterates that Transblue Nigeria Limited remains our sole partner in Nigeria.
Operating Within Legal and Ethical Boundaries
In Nigeria, QNET operates strictly within the legal and regulatory frameworks through our official local partner, Transblue Nigeria Limited. We remain committed to ethical business practices and protecting both our brand and the public from exploitation. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of individuals or entities claiming affiliation with QNET, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
Statement from QNET’s Regional Leadership & Legal Nigerian Partner
Responding to the fraudulent activities being perpetrated in QNET’s name, Biram Fall, Regional General Manager of QNET for Sub-Saharan Africa, states, “We are extremely disturbed by the way unscrupulous individuals have misused the QNET brand to deceive innocent Nigerians with false promises. At QNET, our values are rooted in honesty and empowering people to build better lives through genuine means. We remain committed to supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to bring these fraudsters to justice and encourage the public to verify any claims of affiliation with QNET before getting involved.”
To avoid further confusion, QNET wishes to emphasize the following:
● QNET does not operate or endorse any physical or online university under the name “Q-University” in Nigeria. QNET is part of a larger business conglomerate that operates the Quest International University in Malaysia, which does not have any overseas campus.
● QNET is not involved with online medical courses or academic institutions in Nigeria.
● QNET does not support or condone recruitment-driven models that promise employment, scholarships, or guaranteed returns unrelated to the legitimate sale or purchase of QNET products.
● QNET strongly condemns the unauthorized use of our intellectual property – including company logos, founder portraits, and promotional materials – by fraudulent actors aiming to mislead the public.
QNET’s Awareness Creation and Consumer Protection Efforts
Since entering the Nigerian market in 2022, QNET with the support of our local partner, Transblue Nigeria Limited, have prioritized financial literacy and consumer protection. In November 2023, we launched the Say NO! Awareness Campaign to educate the public about scams and promote responsible entrepreneurship. The campaign has reached thousands through multilingual billboards, radio messages, educational pamphlets, and online platforms. As part of this campaign, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE) and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) were also engaged.
Cooperation with Law Enforcement
QNET expresses its full support and appreciation for the EFCC’s efforts to protect citizens and crack down on cyber and financial crimes. We are actively cooperating with the Commission in its investigations and are committed to further educating the public on the nature and values of QNET’s legitimate operations.
Public Advisory: How to Stay Safe
To protect yourself from scams falsely linked to QNET:
● Verify all QNET-related information at: www.qnet.net
● Report suspicious activity via email: [email protected] or WhatsApp: +233 256 630 005
● Learn how to identify scams at: www.saynocampaign.org
QNET remains fully committed to ethical business practices and transparency. We stand with Nigerian authorities in protecting citizens from fraud and will continue to cooperate fully to bring those misusing our brand to justice.
Eedris Abdulkareem, veteran hip hop artiste, is showing no signs of backing down as he hints at releasing another protest song, shortly after his last track was banned by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
Eedris Abdulkareem, veteran hip hop artiste
He recently again stirred the political waters as he hinted at the release of a new protest song, only weeks after his controversial track Tell Your Papa was banned by the National Broadcasting Commission.
The outspoken musician took to social media on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, to share an animated cover design with the words “3 Arms of Government,” suggesting the theme of his upcoming release.
Though the title remains undisclosed, the post was captioned simply with “Stay tuned,” fueling speculation that another hard-hitting social commentary is on the way.
Abdulkareem, known for his unapologetic political views, recently described the NBC’s decision to ban Tell Your Papa as hypocritical. Undeterred by censorship, he appears set to continue using music as a platform to criticize injustice and demand accountability.
The rapper also recently reaffirmed the relevance of his classic hit Jaga Jaga, stating that it would remain the country’s “second unofficial national anthem” until key issues like security, electricity, and governance are addressed.
With another protest song on the horizon, fans and critics alike are bracing for what may be Eedris Abdulkareem’s most direct political message yet.
In celebration of the Easter season, MultiChoice has announced the launch of a dedicated Easter Pop-Up Channel, offering DStv and GOtv subscribers across Nigeria the chance to experience live broadcasts of key Easter events and services from the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos.
The special channel, which runs from Thursday, April 17 to Monday, April 21, will be available on DStv channel 196 and GOtv channel 28, bringing the significance and beauty of Easter directly into viewers’ homes.
Throughout the Easter period, the channel will broadcast a rich lineup of live religious events. The programming begins on Thursday, April 17, with the Chrism Mass in the morning, followed by the Mass of the Last Supper in the evening.
On Good Friday, April 18, viewers can join in the Good Friday Tenebrae and the Seven Last Words service, followed by the Stations of the Cross from St. Gregory’s, and later the Passion Service.
The spiritual journey continues on Saturday, April 19, with the Easter Vigil Mass late in the evening, leading into the Easter Sunday Mass on April 20. The channel’s special programming concludes on Monday, April 21, with the Easter Monday Mass from Galilee.
This dedicated pop-up channel is designed for those who may be unable to attend church services in person, as well as for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual observance during the Easter holidays. By broadcasting these significant events, MultiChoice reaffirms its commitment to providing content that resonates with the cultural and religious values of its viewers.
Subscribers are encouraged to tune in to DStv channel 196 and GOtv channel 28 throughout the Easter period to take part in these important religious celebrations from the comfort of their homes.
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