SEO Riders:
– Buhari’s assent to Climate Change Act placed Nigeria firmly at COP global negotiating tables.
- – Established National Council on Climate Change & legal framework targeting net‑zero emissions by 2050‑70.
– Champion of climate justice: Nigeria contributed to “Loss & Damage” fund discussions at COP27.
Rep. Sam Onuigbo, sponsor of the Climate Change Bill and member of the North East Development Commission, has praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for significantly elevating Nigeria’s international standing on climate diplomacy. Buhari’s historic signing of the Climate Change Act in November 2021—after multiple delays—established the National Council on Climate Change, mandated carbon budgeting, and enshrined Nigeria’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050–70. This legislative milestone enabled Nigeria to actively participate in COP26 and emerged as an influential voice at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, advocating for the creation of the “Fund for Responding to Loss & Damage” for vulnerable countries.
Onuigbo said Buhari’s decisive action turned Nigeria from a passive observer into a proactive negotiator, giving the nation enhanced visibility and respect in the global climate arena. By championing structured climate governance and legal frameworks, Buhari brought credibility to Nigeria’s messaging on issues like climate justice, loss and damage, and energy transition. According to Onuigbo, Buhari’s leadership “made Nigeria stand tall in the international community,” infusing diplomatic engagements with newfound purpose and clarity.
