02 Dec 2021 Press Release Climate change

Nigeria launches National Adaptation Plan project

December 2, 2021 - The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a new project to develop a National Adaptation Plan, aiming to strengthen the capacity of Nigeria’s government to plan and budget for actions that build resilience to climate change impacts. 

The three-year project, titled Strengthening Nigeria’s Capacity to Advance the National Adaptation Plan Process, is funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and assisted by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

The National Adaptation Plan project is based on the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action on Climate Change in Nigeria (NASPAN-CNN), which was prepared in 2011 and focused on 13 thematic areas to be implemented in all states of the country.

In a speech to formally launch the project in the nation's capital, Abuja, the Minister of State at the Federal Ministry of Environment Chief Mrs Sharon Ikeazor said the project would assist the country to reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change by building the adaptive capacity and resilience.

“It is expected that Nigeria’s National Adaptation Plan and other adaptation initiatives would help the vulnerable groups better adapt to the impacts of climate change, with minimal loss of livelihoods, ecosystem and biodiversity. There must be a shift away from the ‘business-as-usual’ way of doing things, which will only lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and more severe climate impacts.”

Chief Ikeazor stressed that the project would facilitate the integration of climate change adaptation into relevant new and existing policies, programmes and activities.

“As Nigeria joins the rest of the world in towing the path of renewable energy and energy efficiency sources, as well as low carbon pathways towards sustainable development and a “green economy”, it is also important that we cater for the vulnerable groups to ensure the continuity of life. Adaptation is the way to go”.

UNEP is now assisting over 20 countries with the development of their National Adaptation Plans, including ten African countries.

UNEP’s Regional Climate Change Coordinator for Africa, Richard Munang, explained that as a result of this project, “Nigeria will be well equipped to advance climate resilience at the national, state, and local government level.”

Munang continued: “Resilience will be part and parcel of mainstream economic actions that drive food security, create jobs and competitive enterprises, and enhance economic competitiveness.”

 

For more information about National Adaptation Plans, please visit here.