Ishaq Salako: Nigeria will advance climate action without jeopardising economic growth

Ishaq Salako, minister of state for environment, says Nigeria is determined to advance climate action without jeopardising its economic growth.

Salako said this on Thursday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja, after returning from the just concluded Africa Climate Summit (ACS) which held in Nairobi, Kenya.

The minister said Nigeria has an energy transition plan to achieve global access to energy by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060.

Salako said the country will achieve the goal while also prioritising industrialisation, job creation, and economic development.

He said the nation is partnering with stakeholders in the public and private sectors to drive innovative policies and advance renewable energy projects such as on-grid solar and electric vehicles.

“As a continent, it is critical that climate action spurs socioeconomic development for us. We know that with robust planning and increased investments in the region, this is achievable,” he said.

“Africa is already bearing the brunt of a climate crisis it did not cause but our continent, with our significant renewable energy resources, critical minerals, vast carbon sinks, and growing population, can be a strong solution center.

“In Nigeria, we have articulated our unchanging position to advance climate action without jeopardising economic development.”

Salako said addressing climate change would encourage more investments and innovative financing in Africa.

The minister added that climate action and environmental sustainability can help reduce poverty as well as improve food security on the continent.