Tinubu Delegates Shettima to Lead Nigeria’s UNGA 2026 Mission

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States, and has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the gathering.

The announcement ends weeks of uncertainty surrounding the President’s participation in the annual meeting of world leaders.

Questions about Tinubu’s attendance had followed an earlier Presidency announcement that he would return to Nigeria after a three-week vacation in Europe. That announcement did not indicate whether he would subsequently travel to New York.

Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, had previously indicated that the President would attend, saying seating arrangements had been made for him near Donald Trump. The Presidency, however, did not clarify its position until Sunday.

In a statement, the Vice President’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, confirmed that Shettima had been mandated to lead the Nigerian delegation.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, UNGA, in New York, United States,” the statement said.

According to Nkwocha, the delegation will include Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.

He said the General Debate would take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”

Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s priorities and positions on development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.

Beyond the General Debate, the Vice President is scheduled to participate in high-level discussions addressing the Right to Development, climate action and other issues of strategic importance to Nigeria and Africa.

His programme also includes the customary reception for heads of delegation, where he is expected to join other world leaders attending the assembly.

Shettima will additionally hold bilateral meetings with representatives of other countries, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the gathering.

Nkwocha said these engagements would help Nigeria advance its economic diplomacy and strengthen relationships with international partners.

Discussions will also provide opportunities to press for changes to global financial systems and promote cooperation on sustainable development and climate finance.

The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria after completing his official engagements in New York.

Tinubu’s absence will mark the third consecutive UN General Assembly he has missed since taking office in 2023.

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The Federal Government has expanded Nigeria’s renewable energy programme with the rollout of 60.82 megawatts (MW) of mini-grid projects, reinforcing efforts to improve electricity access for underserved communities while supporting economic growth and sustainable development. The initiative forms part of the country’s broader strategy to increase clean energy adoption and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. (punchng.com)

The projects are being implemented through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in partnership with development partners and private sector investors. The mini-grid programme is designed to provide reliable electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and small businesses located in communities that are either off the national grid or receive limited power supply. (punchng.com)

According to the REA, the latest rollout will improve access to affordable and sustainable electricity for thousands of Nigerians while stimulating local economic activities. Reliable electricity is expected to support businesses, improve healthcare delivery, enhance educational outcomes, and create employment opportunities in beneficiary communities.

The agency explained that renewable mini-grids have become an important component of Nigeria’s energy transition strategy because they can be deployed more quickly and cost-effectively than extending the national transmission grid to remote areas. Solar-powered systems, battery storage, and other clean energy technologies are expected to play a growing role in meeting the country’s increasing electricity demand.

Government officials noted that expanding renewable energy infrastructure will also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner sources of power generation. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to increasing energy access while supporting global climate and sustainable development goals.

Energy experts say mini-grids are becoming an increasingly important solution for addressing Nigeria’s electricity deficit, particularly in rural communities where grid expansion remains economically challenging. They note that reliable power supply can improve productivity, encourage investment, strengthen local industries, and support housing development through access to modern infrastructure.

Stakeholders also believe that continued collaboration between government, development finance institutions, and private investors will be essential to scaling renewable energy projects nationwide. They argue that sustained investment in decentralised energy systems will help improve electricity reliability, enhance economic resilience, and accelerate inclusive development across Nigeria.

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The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to promote sustainable urban development by engaging professional consultants to review and prepare strategic development schemes, while simultaneously warning contractors handling key housing projects against delays.

The initiative, spearheaded by the New Towns Development Authority (NTDA), is aimed at ensuring orderly physical development, improving land administration and delivering well-planned communities in line with the state’s long-term master plan.

Speaking during an inception meeting with the consultants, the General Manager of the NTDA, Olakunle Aboyeji, said the authority was mandated to establish new towns, develop government schemes, provide infrastructure within government estates and coordinate large-scale physical development across the state.

He explained that the agency also oversees site selection for government ministries, departments, agencies and private developers, monitors unauthorised developments within government estates, and periodically reviews existing development schemes to reflect changing urban realities.

According to Aboyeji, the consultants will update the layout plan and review the Approval Order for Lekki Peninsula Scheme I, conduct a comprehensive inventory of scheme areas within the Badagry Corridor, prepare a detailed layout for the proposed New Town in Ise-Igbogun, Ode Omi and adjoining communities, as well as commence preliminary work on the proposed Epe Development Scheme Phase II.

He noted that the assignments are expected to facilitate the continuous expansion of government schemes through properly planned site-and-services layouts and private developer projects while ensuring full compliance with the Lagos State Master Plan.

Aboyeji also disclosed that the NTDA is collaborating with the Lands Bureau and the Office of the State Surveyor-General to strengthen coordinated land administration and improve project implementation.

In a related development, the state government has expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work on some of its ongoing housing projects, warning that contractors who fail to meet agreed timelines risk sanctions.

Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, issued the warning during an inspection of the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Scheme, the Joint Venture Housing Scheme in Ipaja and the Lagos State Workers’ Village in Ipaja.

He stressed that the administration would not allow underperforming contractors to undermine its commitment to expanding access to affordable housing for residents.

Also speaking, the Head of the Town Planning Services Department, Olusola Orebiyi, commended the consultants for their prompt mobilisation and urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, quality and regulatory compliance in executing the assignments within the stipulated timelines.

He assured them of the NTDA’s full cooperation and institutional support throughout the implementation of the projects.

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The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has called for deeper collaboration with the Federal Character Commission (FCC) to strengthen infrastructure planning, promote balanced national development and create more employment opportunities for professional town planners across Nigeria.

The appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the NITP National President, Dr. Chime Ogbonna, and members of the institute’s leadership to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Mrs. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, in Abuja.

Speaking during the meeting, Ogbonna said both institutions share a common objective of ensuring equitable and sustainable development across the country.

He explained that while the NITP is responsible for preparing national physical development plans, regional development frameworks and urban master plans, the FCC plays a critical role in ensuring the fair distribution of public infrastructure, opportunities and resources across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The NITP president urged the commission to strengthen its technical capacity by recruiting more professional town planners and engaging consultant planners to provide expert guidance on the location and development of major government projects.

According to him, involving qualified town planners in infrastructure planning would ensure that projects align with approved master plans, enhance service delivery and support orderly physical development nationwide.

Ogbonna also expressed concern over reports that positions reserved for town planners in some public institutions were being occupied by professionals from unrelated disciplines.

He called for greater recognition of the profession in public sector recruitment and appointments, stressing that proper urban and regional planning remains essential for sustainable development.

Responding, FCC Executive Chairman, Mrs. Hulayat Omidiran, welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the commission’s willingness to collaborate with the institute.

She acknowledged the technical expertise of town planners and noted that the commission would benefit from professional input in ensuring that infrastructure projects are aligned with existing master plans and national development priorities.

Omidiran stated that the FCC remains committed to engaging professional bodies whose contributions support national growth and development.

She added that effective planning and stronger institutional collaboration are critical to managing the rapid expansion of Nigeria’s cities and communities while ensuring sustainable development outcomes.

The meeting was attended by FCC commissioners representing Taraba and Lagos states, as well as senior officials of the NITP, including the Second National Vice President, Tpl. Dr. Garba Jibrin; National Secretary, Tpl. Dr. Zayyanu Muhammad; Chairman of the NITP Presidential Committee on Youth Employment, Tpl. PK Lami Ayuba; Acting Executive Secretary, Tpl. Jide Bananola; and representatives of the Young Planners Forum of the FCT Chapter.

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The Katsina State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has commissioned a series of development projects aimed at strengthening climate resilience, promoting peace, restoring livelihoods and supporting internally displaced persons across the state.

The projects include 152 housing units for internally displaced persons (IDPs), a Climate Peace Hub, a rehabilitated cattle market and a solar mini-grid energy system designed to expand access to clean and reliable electricity.

The interventions were unveiled during a commissioning ceremony attended by government officials, development partners, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, private sector representatives and members of the media.

Speaking at the event, Governor Dikko Umar Radda reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working with development partners to address insecurity, climate challenges and economic vulnerability.

“Katsina State stands ready to deepen that partnership. We will continue to work hand in hand with UNDP, GIZ, the Norwegian Government and every partner committed to human dignity to address the underlying drivers of insecurity, expand livelihoods, build climate resilience and empower our women and youth,” the governor said.

The projects are being implemented under UNDP’s integrated development framework, which combines peacebuilding, climate resilience, governance, energy access and economic recovery initiatives to deliver sustainable development outcomes.

The Mass Housing Project, delivered under the Prevention Facility Project, provides permanent housing solutions for vulnerable and conflict-affected families, helping to improve living conditions and support community recovery.

Speaking during the commissioning, UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative, Elsie G. Attafuah, said the investments were designed to address the root causes of instability while creating opportunities for affected communities.

“The 152 housing units provide more than shelter. They provide dignity, stability and a place that families can once again call home. The rehabilitated cattle market and veterinary clinic help restore livelihoods and support local economic activity,” she said.

Attafuah added that the Climate Peace Hub would serve as a platform for climate-security coordination, conflict prevention, early warning systems and community engagement.

According to her, the facility will also provide women and youths with opportunities to acquire green skills in renewable energy and climate-smart solutions, preparing them for emerging opportunities in the green economy.

The initiative is supported by the governments of Germany and Norway, which have partnered with UNDP to advance climate security and resilience-building programmes in Northwest Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Annett Günther commended the Katsina State Government for its commitment to sustainable development and resilience-building efforts.

The solar mini-grid project, implemented under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) programme, is expected to provide electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses in underserved communities.

Representing the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Dr. Bala Tyoden said the initiative would enhance economic activities and improve living standards in beneficiary communities.

He noted that the Africa Minigrid Programme demonstrates how clean energy can support businesses, create jobs and improve quality of life while promoting climate-resilient development.

The Katsina State Government and its partners expressed optimism that the integrated investments would strengthen social cohesion, improve livelihoods and create sustainable pathways for peace and prosperity across the state.

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The Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) has called for stronger collaboration among governments, developers, investors and built environment professionals to address the growing impact of climate change on housing and infrastructure across the country.

In a statement marking the 2026 World Environment Day, themed “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” REDAN warned that Nigeria is already experiencing severe environmental challenges, including flooding, drought, desertification, coastal erosion and biodiversity loss.

The association said these environmental disruptions pose significant threats to communities, livelihoods and economic development, underscoring the need for urgent and coordinated action.

Speaking through its President, Oba Akintoye Adeoye, REDAN described climate change as a present-day reality that requires all stakeholders in the housing and construction sectors to embrace sustainable solutions.

According to the association, every flood-ravaged community, erosion-threatened settlement and environmentally degraded neighbourhood highlights the need for the built environment sector to become part of the climate solution.

REDAN stressed that housing development and climate action must go hand in hand, noting that the future of Nigeria’s urban centres depends on resilient and sustainable planning.

The association said its response to climate challenges is guided by its core values of Advocacy, Transparency, Innovation, Professionalism and Sustainability (ATIPS), which it believes should shape decision-making across the real estate value chain.

It called for stronger policies and regulatory frameworks that promote climate-resilient housing, sustainable urban planning, green infrastructure, responsible land administration and environmental stewardship.

REDAN also urged industry operators to adopt Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles to improve transparency, attract responsible investments and enhance public confidence in the real estate sector.

The association advocated the use of climate-smart construction technologies, renewable energy systems, sustainable building materials, water conservation practices, waste reduction strategies and smart-city concepts to improve housing delivery and environmental performance.

It further emphasised the importance of professionalism and strict compliance with environmental standards in planning, design, construction and property management.

According to REDAN, housing development must strike a balance between economic growth, environmental protection and social inclusion to ensure communities remain safe, affordable and resilient.

As part of its sustainability agenda, the association highlighted the launch of the Africa ESG Conference and Exhibition in 2025, describing it as a platform for promoting responsible investment and sustainable development across Africa’s housing and real estate sectors.

REDAN invited stakeholders to participate in the 2026 edition of the conference, expressing confidence that it would deepen collaboration, encourage innovation and strengthen collective efforts towards building a more sustainable built environment.

The association also called on federal and state governments, legislators, financial institutions, developers, construction firms, architects, engineers, planners, surveyors, building material manufacturers, development partners and academic institutions to work together in creating climate-resilient communities.

“The climate signals are clear, but so are the solutions. Nature itself is showing us the way forward. The future belongs to greener cities, smarter buildings, resilient communities and sustainable economies,” the association stated.

REDAN reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with government agencies, private sector operators, development organisations and communities to ensure that housing development contributes to both economic growth and environmental sustainability.

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The Nathaniel Atebije Foundation for Planning Advocacy has called for greater commitment to physical planning and sustainable urban development as part of efforts to build safe, resilient, and environmentally sustainable cities across Nigeria.

The call was made in a statement marking the 2026 World Environment Day, where the foundation urged governments, private sector actors, and citizens to prioritise responsible environmental management and orderly urban development.

Urbanisation Driving Environmental Challenges

According to the foundation, rapid urbanisation in Nigeria and other developing countries has intensified environmental and infrastructural challenges.

These include flooding, traffic congestion, pollution, indiscriminate development, housing shortages, and climate-related disasters.

Founder of the foundation, Nathaniel Atebije, said these challenges highlight the urgent need for effective physical planning as a strategic tool for environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social stability.

The foundation stressed that no nation can achieve resilient and sustainable cities without strict adherence to sound urban and regional planning principles.

It described physical planning as one of the most effective tools for:

• Orderly urban development
• Environmental protection
• Disaster risk reduction
• Efficient land use management
• Creation of livable human settlements

Call for Stronger Institutions and Enforcement

The organisation urged all levels of government to strengthen planning institutions and enforce development control regulations.

It also called for the preparation and implementation of functional regional, urban, and local development plans across the country.

The foundation further insisted that planning approvals and infrastructure decisions should be guided by qualified indigenous planning professionals with strong knowledge of local environmental and socio-economic conditions.

Private Sector and Developers Urged to Comply

The foundation appealed to corporate organisations, private developers, financial institutions, and individuals to integrate physical planning principles into all development projects and investment decisions.

It warned that developments carried out without proper planning often lead to:

• Environmental hazards
• Economic losses
• Avoidable disputes
• Unsustainable urban growth patterns

Underutilisation of Local Expertise

The statement noted that Nigeria has a pool of highly trained indigenous professionals in the built environment sector whose expertise remains underutilised in national development.

It stressed that involving town planners and related experts in project design, site selection, environmental management, and infrastructure planning is both a legal requirement and a long-term investment in sustainability.

Need to Update and Enforce Master Plans

The foundation also called for a comprehensive review and implementation of urban and regional master plans to reflect Nigeria’s rapid population growth and climate change realities.

It urged strict enforcement of development control regulations to prevent illegal structures and encroachment on floodplains, road setbacks, green areas, and utility corridors.

Commitment to Advocacy and Awareness

Reaffirming its mission, the foundation said it remains committed to promoting planning consciousness, environmental sustainability, housing advocacy, and responsible urban governance through research, policy advocacy, and public enlightenment.

“We call on all citizens to become active partners in protecting our environment and building cities that are inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable for present and future generations,” the group stated.

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The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers has called for a strategic shift in Nigeria’s real estate development approach, urging stronger alignment with infrastructure investments to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

The call comes as industry stakeholders gather in Umuahia, Abia State, for a high-level conference focused on integrating real estate planning with the country’s expanding infrastructure corridors.

Speaking ahead of the event, NIESV Second Vice President, Emmanuel Mark, warned that Nigeria risks missing the full benefits of ongoing infrastructure expansion without coordinated planning.

He outlined a framework centred on integrated planning, regulatory reforms, inclusivity, and data-driven decision-making, stressing that investments in transport, energy, and digital infrastructure must be deliberately aligned with real estate development.

Mark emphasised the need to move away from fragmented, project-based development toward coordinated spatial planning that defines land use, density, and development standards.

According to him, such an approach would encourage mixed-use and transit-oriented developments, helping to build efficient urban centres while reducing unplanned urban sprawl.

He also highlighted the importance of leveraging infrastructure nodes such as transport hubs, energy systems, and digital networks as anchors for real estate growth, noting that collaboration between government, developers, and investors is critical to mobilising long-term capital.

On regulatory issues, Mark identified bureaucratic bottlenecks and high transaction costs as key barriers to investment, calling for streamlined approval processes, clearer policies, and stronger public-private partnerships to boost investor confidence.

Beyond economic considerations, he stressed the importance of inclusivity, warning that infrastructure-led development could displace vulnerable communities if not properly managed.

He advocated for the integration of affordable housing into major projects, supported by subsidies and innovative financing models, as well as land value capture mechanisms to ensure that local communities benefit from rising property values.

Also speaking, NIESV National Publicity Secretary, Richard Olodu, noted that Nigeria is witnessing a transition from isolated infrastructure projects to integrated development corridors that are opening new economic opportunities.

He explained that improved connectivity, particularly through transport networks, is reshaping where people live, work, and invest, while also unlocking growth in previously underserved areas.

However, Olodu cautioned that without proper coordination, rapid expansion could lead to congestion, inefficiencies, and pressure on existing infrastructure.

He emphasised the need for proactive, data-driven planning to align development with infrastructure trends and avoid long-term urban challenges.

Olodu also pointed to the growing influence of energy and digital infrastructure in property markets, noting that reliable power supply and broadband access are now critical factors for real estate viability, especially in commercial and industrial sectors.

While highlighting opportunities, he identified persistent challenges such as inefficient land administration systems, regulatory constraints, and weak institutional coordination as barriers to growth.

He reiterated the need for policies that promote affordable housing and community participation, warning that unchecked increases in land values could widen inequality.

On sustainability, stakeholders stressed the importance of integrating climate-resilient practices and green building standards into development plans, noting that long-term resilience depends on environmentally responsible growth strategies.

Industry observers say aligning real estate development with infrastructure investments will be key to unlocking Nigeria’s urban potential while ensuring balanced and inclusive growth.

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South Africa’s housing and real estate sector is set for a major sustainability boost following a $200 million financing agreement between Investec Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The funding is aimed at accelerating the development of green buildings, including environmentally sustainable housing projects, across the country.

The investment will be deployed through Investec’s Sustainable Solutions platform, targeting both residential and commercial real estate developments that meet globally recognised green building standards. 

Driving Sustainable Housing Development

According to details of the agreement, the $200 million facility will support projects designed to reduce energy consumption, water usage, and the carbon footprint of construction materials.

The initiative aligns with growing demand for climate-resilient housing in South Africa, where rising utility costs and infrastructure pressure are pushing developers toward more efficient building solutions. 

By focusing on certified green developments, the partnership aims to promote buildings that are not only environmentally responsible but also more cost-efficient to operate over time.

Closing the Green Finance Gap

Stakeholders say the deal addresses a critical financing gap in sustainable construction across Africa.

The funding will enable developers and investors to access capital for projects that comply with international environmental and social standards, including frameworks such as EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies).

Industry experts note that limited access to affordable financing has long slowed the adoption of green building practices in emerging markets.

This partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities by lowering financing barriers and incentivising developers to adopt sustainable construction methods.

Incentives for Developers and Homebuyers

As part of the initiative, Investec plans to introduce innovative financial products, including green mortgages, to support homebuyers purchasing certified sustainable housing units.

These incentives are designed to create a full ecosystem—from developers constructing green buildings to buyers accessing financing for energy-efficient homes.

Additionally, performance-based incentives linked to the programme will reward developers who meet sustainability benchmarks, further encouraging compliance with green standards. 

Economic and Environmental Impact

The partnership is expected to deliver multiple benefits across the property value chain:

• Reduced energy and water consumption in buildings
• Lower operating costs for homeowners and businesses
• Increased investment in sustainable real estate
• Job creation within the construction and housing sectors

Experts also highlight the broader role of green buildings in supporting South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

With urban populations growing and infrastructure systems under strain, sustainable housing is increasingly seen as a strategic solution to balance development with environmental responsibility.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

South Africa continues to face significant challenges in maintaining and expanding energy and water infrastructure.

Officials say green construction offers a practical pathway to reduce pressure on public utilities while improving long-term resilience in the housing sector.

By promoting resource-efficient buildings, the initiative is expected to contribute to improved service delivery and reduced environmental impact.

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Nigeria’s transition to a sustainable and low-carbon economy will depend heavily on women, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, has said.

Speaking in Abuja at the Women Leading Climate Action, Green Economy Dialogue, Mignot stressed that women already play a central role in Nigeria’s economic structure but remain largely excluded from critical opportunities that could scale their impact.

According to him, unlocking women’s potential is not just a social priority but an economic necessity for Nigeria’s future.

Mignot noted that while Nigeria has significant untapped economic capacity, the most underutilized asset remains women, who dominate key sectors but lack access to finance, leadership roles, and structured investment opportunities.

Women Dominate Key Economic Sectors

Providing insight into women’s contributions, the EU envoy revealed that women account for over 70 percent of Nigeria’s informal economy. He added that they also make up between 50 and 70 percent of smallholder agricultural labour.

Beyond agriculture, women are active players in markets and regional value chains, positioning them as key drivers of grassroots economic activity.

Despite this, Mignot said their influence is not reflected in policy-making, financing access, or leadership roles within the green economy ecosystem.

He explained that although women are already contributing to climate action and sustainability efforts, systemic barriers continue to limit their ability to expand and formalize their businesses.

Call for Inclusive Financing and Policy Support

The ambassador called for the development of inclusive financing systems that can support women-led enterprises across different growth stages.

He argued that financing the green economy should go beyond mobilising capital and focus on accessibility, diversity, and inclusion.

According to him, financial systems must be designed to connect women entrepreneurs with opportunities, while also creating investment pipelines that reflect the realities of small and medium-scale enterprises.

Mignot emphasized that without intentional inclusion, many women-led businesses would remain small, informal, and unable to scale their environmental impact.

Bridging the ‘Missing Middle’ Gap

Also speaking at the event, the convener, Amanda Archibong-Doukouré, highlighted a major structural challenge affecting women-led green businesses—what she described as the “missing middle.”

She explained that many enterprises fall between early-stage grant funding and large-scale investment readiness.

As a result, these businesses struggle to access funding because they are considered too advanced for grants but not sufficiently structured to attract institutional investors.

Archibong noted that this gap continues to limit innovation and growth, particularly for businesses working at the community level where climate impact is most visible.

She added that women-led enterprises dominate areas such as clean energy adoption, agro-processing, circular economy systems, and last-mile distribution, yet remain largely invisible in formal investment ecosystems.

Nigeria’s Green Economy at a Turning Point

Stakeholders at the dialogue agreed that Nigeria is at a critical stage in its transition to a green economy.

With global attention shifting towards climate resilience and sustainable growth, the country has an opportunity to build an inclusive economic model that integrates environmental sustainability with job creation.

However, experts warned that achieving this goal would require deliberate policies that address structural inequalities, especially those affecting women.

Mignot reiterated the European Union’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s green transition through investments in renewable energy, climate finance, and sustainable value chains.

He stressed that empowering women is essential for building resilient communities and ensuring inclusive economic growth.

A Defining Moment for Inclusive Growth

As Nigeria explores pathways toward a low-carbon future, experts say the role of women cannot be overlooked.

From agriculture to clean energy and trade, women are already laying the foundation for a green economy.

The challenge, however, lies in creating systems that allow them to lead, scale, and fully benefit from their contributions.

With the right policies, access to finance, and institutional support, stakeholders believe women can become the driving force behind Nigeria’s sustainable economic transformation.

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