Nigeria, a nation grappling with the dual challenges of energy poverty and climate change, has set its sights on a bold ambition: achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
Net zero refers to the state of balancing greenhouse gas emissions with greenhouse gas removal from the atmosphere. This means that the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere is equal to the amount removed.
This capitalises on emission reduction and Carbon removal;
Emission Reduction involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions from various sources, such as power plants, transportation, and industry. This can be achieved through transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power, improving energy efficiency in buildings, transportation, and industries by adopting cleaner technologies and practices.
Carbon Removal involves removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and storing it away from it permanently. This is done to combat climate change by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. This can be done through Natural processes like planting trees and restoring forests Technological solutions like carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS).
Why is net zero important?
Net Zero is important because it will promote climate change mitigation, enhance sustainable future and above all global corporation.
Climate Change Mitigation: By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and removing carbon from the atmosphere, we can mitigate the effects of climate change, such as global warming, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels.
Sustainable Future: Achieving net-zero emissions is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Global Cooperation: The transition to a net-zero economy requires international cooperation and collaboration.
At the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari announced Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. This ambitious goal is outlined in the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP), a comprehensive roadmap for the country’s energy sector.
Nigeria’s decision to set a 2060 target for achieving net-zero emissions is rooted in several factors which are contributory factors to the same, these factors ranges from Economic Development and Energy access, reliance on Fossil fuel, Financial constraints, technological limitation and Climate Justice
This ambitious goal is outlined in the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP), a comprehensive roadmap that aims to transform the country’s energy sector and position it as a global leader in sustainable development.
Key Pillars of the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan
The Nigeria ETP rests on four key pillars:
Clean Energy Access: The plan prioritizes expanding access to clean and affordable energy for all Nigerians. This includes increasing electricity generation capacity, particularly from renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydropower.
Energy Efficiency: The ETP emphasizes energy efficiency measures across various sectors, such as industry, transportation, and buildings. This will help reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Clean Cooking: The plan aims to replace traditional biomass-based cooking methods with cleaner alternatives like Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and electric stoves. This will significantly improve air quality and reduce deforestation.
Industrial Decarbonization: The ETP recognizes the need to decarbonize the industrial sector, which is a major contributor to emissions. This will involve transitioning to low-carbon technologies and promoting circular economy principles.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Nigeria’s net-zero journey is fraught with challenges, it also presents immense opportunities. Some of the key challenges include:
Financing: The transition to a low-carbon economy requires significant investments, which may strain the country’s financial resources.
Infrastructure: Nigeria’s existing energy infrastructure is often outdated and ill-suited for renewable energy integration.
Capacity Building: The country needs to build the capacity of its workforce to support the transition to a green economy.
However, Nigeria also has several advantages:
Abundant Renewable Resources: The country is endowed with abundant solar, wind, and hydropower resources.
Growing Economy: Nigeria’s growing economy can attract investment and create jobs in the renewable energy sector.
Youthful Population: Nigeria’s young population is a source of innovation and entrepreneurial energy.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 is a bold step towards a sustainable future. The Nigeria Energy Transition Plan provides a clear roadmap for the country to decarbonize its economy while addressing energy poverty and improving air quality. By overcoming the challenges and seizing the opportunities, Nigeria can emerge as a global leader in the fight against climate change.
Nigeria’s journey towards a sustainable future is ongoing. By staying committed to the Paris Agreement and taking decisive action, the country can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change while ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for its people.
Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its ambitious net-zero target demonstrate a strong commitment to a sustainable future. By implementing the strategies outlined in the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan and addressing the challenges, the country can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change while ensuring a prosperous future for its people.
Samson is an HSEQ Professional and an MSc student of Energy Transition and Sustainability, Federal University of Petroleum resources, Effurun Warri, Delta State.
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