The Federal Government has announced plans to raise ₦500 billion through the issuance of green bonds in 2026, as part of efforts to expand funding for climate-related and environmental projects across the country.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this in a post on his verified X handle following Nigeria’s participation at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
According to Lawal, the proposed green bond issuance reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening climate financing mechanisms while reducing dependence on oil revenues and conventional borrowing for development funding.
He explained that proceeds from the ₦500 billion green bond would be deployed to support projects focused on climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental protection, renewable energy development, sustainable agriculture and other environmentally friendly initiatives aligned with Nigeria’s climate objectives.
The minister noted that the planned issuance underscores Nigeria’s growing reliance on climate-linked debt instruments to mobilise long-term capital for sustainable development, while also attracting investors with strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) interests.
Nigeria has previously issued green bonds to finance eco-friendly projects, positioning the instrument as a critical component of its broader strategy to meet international climate commitments and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.
The Federal Government believes that scaling up green bond financing will enhance environmental resilience, promote sustainable economic diversification and support inclusive growth, while reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in climate action within Africa.
