Nigeria should establish a multi-stakeholder decarbonisation hub to coordinate climate action, mobilise investment and accelerate its transition to a low-carbon economy, according to industry and environmental stakeholders who met in Lagos during the 2026 World Decarbonisation Day celebrations. The proposal was presented on September 3 at a gathering organised by Women in Energy, Oil and Gas (WEOG) and the World Decarbonization Summit, where participants argued that stronger institutional coordination will be essential if Africa’s largest economy is to reconcile industrial growth, energy security and climate commitments.
The call comes as Nigeria faces increasing pressure to reduce emissions while sustaining economic expansion in a country where oil and gas remain central to government revenues, export earnings and foreign exchange inflows. Stakeholders said a dedicated decarbonisation hub could bring together government agencies, regulators, private investors, energy companies, financial institutions, research organisations and civil society groups to align transition strategies and accelerate implementation across sectors.
Speaking at the event, Dr Felicia Chinwe Mogo highlighted the potential role of Nigeria’s blue economy in supporting a more resilient and sustainable growth model. She said the country’s extensive maritime and ocean resources could serve as an engine of economic development if managed alongside environmental safeguards and climate objectives. According to Mogo, the blue economy has evolved beyond an environmental policy concept into a strategic economic opportunity capable of supporting trade, industrialisation and long-term development across Africa.
The proposal reflects a broader debate taking place across Africa as governments seek practical mechanisms to implement climate commitments while addressing infrastructure deficits, unemployment and rising energy demand. Although many African countries contribute relatively little to global greenhouse gas emissions, they are increasingly exposed to climate-related economic disruptions, including extreme weather events, agricultural losses and damage to critical infrastructure.
For Nigeria, the challenge is particularly complex. The country has committed under its climate strategy to reduce emissions while pursuing industrial growth and expanding access to energy. According to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, achieving long-term net-zero ambitions will require substantial investment across power generation, transport, industry, cooking energy and the oil and gas sector. Estimates referenced in international climate financing discussions place the country’s transition financing needs at approximately $1.9 trillion through 2060.
