By Adeola Ogunlade
As Nigeria gears up for COP29, the country’s participation is set to highlight its climate resilience and sustainable development efforts on the global stage.
The Made in Nigeria Project, operating under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), has confirmed that Nigeria’s pavilion at the World Climate Change Summit will spotlight innovative solutions, policies, and initiatives. The summit is scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22, 2024.
During a press conference in Lagos on October 23, 2024, National Coordinator of the Made in Nigeria Project, Nwabueze George, outlined the goals of the country’s presence at COP29.
The pavilion will host panel discussions, workshops, and opportunities for exhibitors to showcase their work and network with potential partners, with a focus on Nigerian climate-related innovations.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s involvement aims to showcase locally-developed, climate-friendly technologies and innovations, promote international partnerships, and demonstrate Nigeria’s progress in meeting the Paris Agreement’s climate goals. Additionally, the event will serve as a platform for knowledge-sharing among Nigerian stakeholders.
“Nigeria’s exhibition stand will include interactive sessions with climate experts and policymakers, a display of eco-friendly products and services, community-driven climate initiatives, and cultural exhibitions illustrating the impact of climate change,” George stated.
He also encouraged partners from state governments, the private sector, and climate innovators to apply for limited exhibition space at the Nigerian pavilion.
“Let us work together to promote climate action, sustainable development, and a greener future for Nigeria and the world,” George urged.
While climate change is a focal point, George pointed out that the Made in Nigeria Project also aims to promote a broader array of indigenous products and services, showcasing the country’s diverse innovations to the global market.
Mr. Oladunjoye Musiliu, Director of the International Organization Department at the OSGF, stated Nigeria’s pavilion and exhibition stand at the event will highlight innovative solutions, policies, and initiatives aimed at showcasing the nation’s dedication to climate resilience and sustainable development.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s presence in the Green Zone of COP29 will feature a variety of sessions, exhibitions, and discussions dedicated to climate resilience, sustainable development, and cultural expression.
Lagos State Coordinator for the Made in Nigeria Project, Barr. Titi Akosa, added that exhibitors at COP29 will benefit from two weeks of accreditation, a free visa, and access to panel discussions, workshops, and project showcases.
She highlighted that this opportunity is open to businesses and individuals working on climate-related projects, with special consideration for Nigerian companies.
Akosa encouraged participants to use the platform to showcase their work, engage with international stakeholders, and form valuable partnerships in the global fight against climate change.