FG Commits to Energy-Efficient, Climate-Friendly Technologies

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting energy-efficient and climate-friendly technologies to protect the environment.

Speaking at the 40th Anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the 2025 World Ozone Day celebration in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Environment Malam Balarabe Lawal emphasized this commitment. 

Under the theme “From Science to Global Action,” Lawal highlighted Nigeria’s collaboration with partners to phase out harmful substances in refrigeration, air-conditioning, foam, aerosol, and fire protection sectors.

“We owe it to our country and the world to save our only ozone layer by strengthening our policies, adopting cleaner technologies, building strong partnerships, and ensuring future generations inherit a safer, healthier environment,” he said.

He said Nigeria had ratified the Kigali Amendment and would soon begin implementing its plan.

“We are training technicians, strengthening regulations, and facilitating technology transfer with neighbouring countries to achieve our goals. Today, scientific evidence shows that the ozone layer is on track to recover by 2066,” Lawal said.

He explained that the Kigali Amendment of 2016 builds on earlier progress by tackling the impact of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), thereby contributing to climate change mitigation, especially across Africa.

Mrs Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Resident Representative, said the commemoration underscored the power of global cooperation.

“This year’s theme, ‘Fixing the Ozone Layer and Reducing Climate Change,’reminds us of the importance of protecting the planet while advancing human development,” she said.

Attafuah said Nigeria’s leadership in implementing the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment remained a beacon of hope.

She noted that through bold policy reforms, capacity building and stakeholder engagement, Nigeria had made significant strides in phasing out ozone-depleting substances.

She added that protecting the ozone layer was also a public health necessity, as reducing harmful emissions prevented skin cancers, respiratory illnesses and other health risks that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

She further commended Nigeria’s proactive approach in mainstreaming Montreal Protocol priorities into its nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement.

Attafuah also said UNDP was committed to supporting Nigeria in scaling up climate-smart technologies, fostering green entrepreneurship, and promoting circular economy models that reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency.

Alhaji Ibrahim Jibrin, Emir of Nasarawa and former Minister of Environment, said World Ozone Day was a reminder of the achievements of the international community under the Montreal Protocol.

“As a nation, Nigeria has played an active role in these global efforts. I am proud to have contributed to the adoption of the historic Kigali Amendment in 2016.

“I will continue to remain loyal to the protection of our dear environment,” he said. 

NAN