Nigeria’s COP29 Simulation Highlights Urgency in Tackling Climate Change
Maryam Aminu
In a concerted effort to fast-track Nigeria’s climate action, Save the Children Nigeria, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Environment, hosted a landmark COP29 Simulation as part of its “Generation Hope” campaign.
The event, held in Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, and youth organizations to evaluate the country’s progress in addressing climate change and to highlight gaps in national climate strategies.
The simulation served as a precursor to the official COP29 summit, offering Nigerian youth and climate advocates a platform to present innovative solutions and policy recommendations aimed at improving climate resilience in the country’s most vulnerable communities.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Erhunwunse, Deputy Director of Program Quality and Development at Save the Children Nigeria, acknowledged the efforts made by the government and partner organizations, but stressed the need for urgent and sustained action.
“Our children and future generations are the ones who will bear the brunt of inaction on climate change,” Mrs. Erhunwunse emphasized.
“Save the Children is championing the ‘Generation Hope’ campaign to ensure that today’s decisions reflect the urgency required to secure a livable planet for tomorrow.”
The COP29 Simulation focused heavily on youth-driven solutions, with participants advocating for the integration of climate education into Nigeria’s school curriculum and the investment in green technologies to combat environmental challenges.
The session underscored the pivotal role young Nigerians play in shaping the nation’s climate future.
Mrs. Erhunwunse further highlighted the broader goals of Save the Children’s “Generation Hope” initiative, which seeks to address the overlapping challenges of climate change and child rights.
“Young people must be at the forefront of climate conversations and decision-making processes,” she added, noting that the COP29 Simulation is just one of many activities planned to influence both local and global climate policies ahead of the official summit.
The Director of Climate Change Department at the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Abiola Awe represented by Mrs. Victoria Gyang, Deputy Director at the ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meeting international climate targets, including those outlined in the Paris Agreement.
“We remain dedicated to ensuring that our policies and actions align with national and global climate goals,” Dr. Awe stated.
“Youth are a vital part of this conversation, and we must continue to engage them as we chart the course for a greener, more resilient Nigeria.”
As Nigeria grapples with the increasing impacts of climate change ranging from severe flooding to prolonged droughts and food insecurity, the COP29 Simulation served as a crucial reminder of the need for swift and decisive action.
The outcomes of the simulation will be compiled into a comprehensive report to guide future climate policy recommendations for the Nigerian government and its international partners.
This simulation marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward achieving its climate goals, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet capable of sustaining life.
