Nigeria Targets $4 Billion Mangrove Conservation Fund For Climate Action

The Nigerian federal government aims to tap into the $4 billion Mangrove Breakthrough Initiative finance introduced during the COP27 Climate Change Conference, prioritizing mangrove conservation, afforestation, and environmental protection.

Mrs. Chinwe Oluwatoyin Adindu, Executive Secretary of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS), revealed this during a media briefing in Abuja. She disclosed that the NCCCS is working on a National Roadmap for Mangrove Conservation, Afforestation, and Protection, positioning Nigeria to access grants rather than loans from the initiative.

Adindu explained that the roadmap serves as a strategic document, providing clarity for potential investors and financiers on Nigeria’s policies, vision, and strategic investment timelines concerning mangrove protection.

Focus on Nature-Based Climate Solutions
The theme for Nigeria’s climate efforts in 2025 will be “Simplified Climate-Based Nature Solutions,” aligning with the COP27 initiative. Nature-based climate solutions are central to Nigeria’s climate action, supporting the nation’s goal of remaining within the 1.5 degrees Celsius global temperature limit outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Adindu emphasized the importance of mangroves for Nigeria and the global community, highlighting their role in enhancing livelihoods, strengthening coastal resilience, and improving overall quality of life.

Key Conservation Plans for 2025
To advance its mangrove conservation efforts, the NCCCS plans to conduct technical visits across nine Niger Delta states to assess mangrove sites and gather insights for the national roadmap. Additionally, the council will hold a town hall meeting in Cross River State on February 4th. This state was the first to adopt the Climate Change Act and appoint a Commissioner for Green Economy.

The town hall meeting will involve international partners who will discuss financing opportunities and challenges associated with mangrove protection.

Upcoming Events and Partnerships
Adindu also mentioned the council’s collaboration with the Nigerian Art Gallery for an art exhibition highlighting the importance of mangroves. This event, scheduled from March 4th to 6th in Lagos, will focus on the intersection of mangrove conservation and climate change awareness.

Furthermore, the NCCCS plans to review the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) with inputs from focal ministries and media representatives, ensuring broad national acceptance.

Tree Planting Initiative
Recognizing the rapid decline in forest cover, the council will also emphasize afforestation, prioritizing tree planting campaigns as a vital strategy for climate resilience.

This strategic approach reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable climate solutions and international climate agreements.