In a bold reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to a sustainable future, the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has outlined strategic innovation-driven solutions aimed at tackling climate change and food insecurity.
Speaking at the Commonwealth Roundtable on Climate Finance & Food Security, Chief Nnaji emphasized that Nigeria is taking a leadership role in aligning scientific research, technology, and sustainable policies to address the urgent environmental challenges confronting the nation and the global community.
Nigeria, like many other nations, faces critical challenges such as climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity loss. Chief Nnaji highlighted that under his leadership, the Ministry is fully committed to advancing green innovation and technology-driven solutions to build a resilient and knowledge-driven economy.
“Our mission in the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology is clear,” Chief Nnaji stated. “Guided by the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (2022), we are fostering collaboration among federal ministries and agencies to drive sustainability across all sectors.”
To accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a greener economy, the Ministry has launched several groundbreaking initiatives, including the Nigeria Green Economy Transition Project, which promotes sustainable land use, renewable energy adoption, reforestation, and agroforestry. Another key initiative is the Methanol Fuel Production Technology, a cleaner and more efficient fuel alternative aimed at reducing the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels and cutting harmful emissions. The Climate-Smart Greenhouses initiative advances modern, controlled-environment farming systems, ensuring year-round food production and boosting food security. Additionally, the National Technology Action Plan is a strategic roadmap designed to integrate advanced technologies in agriculture, industry, and energy, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.
According to Chief Nnaji, these initiatives not only align with Nigeria’s national policies but also position the country as a key player in achieving global climate commitments, particularly through the Commonwealth Living Lands Charter—a framework that prioritizes restoration, conservation, and climate-smart agriculture.
Recognizing the role of financing in achieving these ambitious goals, Chief Nnaji stressed the importance of unlocking new funding streams for large-scale climate adaptation projects. He emphasized that public-private partnerships and international collaborations are crucial in driving sustainable development at scale.
To strengthen Nigeria’s presence at the Roundtable, Chief Nnaji was joined by two distinguished Director-Generals from key agencies under the Ministry: Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA), who presented Nigeria’s progress in climate-resilient biotechnology, and Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), who showcased clean energy solutions for climate-smart agriculture. Together, they engaged with global leaders, policymakers, and experts from various Commonwealth nations, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a hub for innovation and sustainability.
Chief Nnaji ended his address with a powerful call for collaboration among governments, private enterprises, and civil society to invest in climate finance and drive the green transition.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, and to all our distinguished partners for their steadfast support,” he said. “Through collective effort and innovative solutions, we can transform today’s challenges into opportunities and secure a thriving future for Nigeria and the Commonwealth.”
With Nigeria’s leadership in climate-smart solutions and sustainable development, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji and his team are ensuring that science and technology remain at the heart of the nation’s quest for a greener, more resilient future.
