FG urged to consider implementation of national carbon framework

In a unified statement, the environment commissioners from five Niger Delta states— Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers have called on the Federal Government to prioritise the implementation of a national carbon framework within the next three months and to permit the creation of the National Carbon Registry within six months, utilising expertise from local and international partners.

This consensus was formed during a meeting in Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, where environmental stakeholders from the nine Niger Delta states convened to discuss addressing climate change through the restoration, conservation, and protection of the nation’s mangrove ecosystems.

They underscored the importance of mangroves, which provide construction materials, energy, industrial resources, and essential ecosystem services. In Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta, mangroves cover an area of 10,500 km², the largest in Africa and the third largest worldwide.

Tribune Online reports that the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) is developing a comprehensive plan to restore Nigeria’s vital mangrove forests. This initiative, aimed for completion between 2025 and 2035, recognizes the crucial role these coastal ecosystems play in addressing climate change and protecting communities from its impacts.

The NCCCS has placed high importance on this plan within its 2025 agenda, titled “Amplifying Nature-Based Climate Solutions,” which reflects a commitment to secure funding for the restoration of degraded mangrove areas and the protection of existing forests.

The national mangrove restoration strategy consists of three main goals: to create a clear, actionable plan for conserving Nigeria’s mangrove forests, to attract essential funding for these projects, and to enhance Nigeria’s national strategies for both mitigating and adapting to climate change.

During her opening address, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change and DG/CEO of NCCCS, pointed out that there is no dedicated national strategy for mangrove conservation, despite existing forest policies and Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as well as progress in the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).

She remarked, “The Town Hall Meeting is crucial for stakeholders to discuss the next steps for sustainable mangrove conservation and protection in Nigeria. A key result from this meeting will be the National Roadmap on Mangrove Restoration, Conservation, and Protection, which is expected to align with the ongoing review of NDC 3.0 and delineate clear pathways for securing funding for mangrove initiatives in Nigeria.”

Dr. Maduekwe emphasized the important role of state governments in implementing policies and ensuring effective action. She recognized the vital participation of the attendees, asserting that political will at the state level is crucial for success and that this meeting offers a unique opportunity to unify efforts and rally support.

Additionally, Cross River State Governor Senator Bassey Otu, represented by Hon. Oden Ewa, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to mangrove restoration in the state.

He stated, “For decades, Cross River State has been at the forefront of environmental conservation, with over 53,000 hectares of degraded mangroves ready for restoration. We are actively engaging investors and development partners to leverage carbon emission opportunities. A significant achievement was realised at COP28 with the national climate change department.”

Otu emphasised the urgent need for a framework to unlock Nigeria’s potential in the carbon economy, highlighting the country’s strategic position in the global carbon market.

“We advocate for the revitalisation of the carbon market framework to ensure stability and rebuild trust in the sector.”

He concluded with optimism, stating that through enhanced cooperation and a shared vision, Nigerians could lead the African carbon market.

“While the carbon economy is attainable, we must act quickly and collaboratively to establish effective policies,” he asserted.