Nigeria’s Decarbonisation Push, Key To Jobs, Investment

The Director for Africa at the Global Wind Energy Council, Wangari Muchiri says Nigeria’s push toward decarbonisation presents a major opportunity to create jobs, attract investment, and diversify the economy.

Speaking at a decarbonisation dialogue in Abuja with members of the House of Representatives of Nigeria and other stakeholders, Muchiri said the transition to a low-carbon economy is critical given the heavy carbon footprint of key sectors such as oil and gas and agriculture.

“The decarbonisation agenda for Nigeria is really critical. Many sectors, including oil and gas and agriculture, are very carbon-heavy. But in today’s global economy, this presents a big opportunity to capitalise on the carbon economy, create jobs, and bring new income into the sector,” she said.

Muchiri explained that the discussions are designed to bring government institutions, industry players, and development partners together to chart practical pathways for reducing carbon emissions while unlocking economic opportunities.

She said Nigeria has already demonstrated readiness for the transition, citing statements by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the global climate forums, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

“I think one of the things we are seeing is that Nigeria is ready. The President has said on several occasions, including at COP last year, that Nigeria is prepared for a decarbonisation agenda. We are excited to see many partners ready to walk this journey with the country,” Muchiri said.

She called for stronger support from development partners, investors, and technical experts in financing, knowledge transfer, and capacity-building, stressing that decarbonisation remains a relatively new field in many developing economies.

Drawing from her experience in Kenya, Muchiri expressed optimism that Nigeria could achieve similar economic gains through a coordinated energy transition.

She also praised the current administration’s policy direction and engagement from lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and major oil and gas companies in aligning with the decarbonisation agenda.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji