From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas, has stressed the Federal Government’s resolve to enhance the National De-carbonisation program (NDP) by creating the best enabling environment for industries to thrive sustainably.
He said this on Thursday during a workshop to usher in the industrial de-carbonisation program together with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Agency (NESREA) and other partners. He said that the launch of the NDP is a strategic step in the nation’s journey to achieving zero emissions.
“Through this interaction, we aim to facilitate the adoption of cleaner technologies, promote resource efficiency, and support industries in transition towards low-carbon operation. Industrial de-carbonisation requires a collaborative and multi-sector approach involving government agencies, the private sector, development partners, academia, and civil society organisations. This workshop serves as a vital platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, identify challenges, and develop actionable strategies for the implementation of NDP,” he said.
Furthermore, the Minister noted that the objective of the engagement is to provide clarity on existing environmental regulations, policies, and incentives for industrial de-carbonisation.
The Chairman Governing Council, NESREA, Garba Mohammed, in an opening speech, remarked that the event marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward sustainable industrial development and environmental stewardship.
He said: “I am proud of the commitment to reducing emissions and transitioning our industries toward a greener future. This program is not only a response to the pressing global challenge of climate change but also a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to assert itself as a leader in sustainable industrial practices, driving economic growth and global competitiveness.
“Our industrial sector is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, yet it is also a significant source of carbon emissions. It is incumbent upon us, as custodians of the environment, to lead the charge in transforming industrial practices adopting cleaner technologies, enhancing energy efficiency, and establishing robust mechanisms for compliance and carbon credit trading.
“Today’s workshop is a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, share insights, and collectively shape a regulatory and compliance framework that will serve as the foundation for our decarbonization efforts.
“I would like to extend a special welcome to our partners, including Oxytane Africa Investment Limited, whose technical expertise is instrumental in helping us measure, verify, and reduce industrial emissions. Your collaboration exemplifies the kind of public-private partnership that is essential to drive the innovation and commitment needed for this transformative journey.
Also, he said the Board is grateful for the participation of key regulatory agencies, industry representatives, and technical experts who have joined us today. He added that their experience and input are vital as Nigeria explores strategies to integrate sustainable practices into its industrial processes, ensuring that Nigeria not only meets its environmental targets but also capitalizes on new economic opportunities through the generation and trading of carbon credits.
“As we move forward with today’s agenda, I encourage each of you to actively participate, engage openly, and share your valuable perspectives. Together, we have the opportunity to build a framework that safeguards our environment, supports sustainable industrial growth, and positions Nigeria as a leader in the global low-carbon economy”.
While welcoming participants during the workshop, the Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Agency (NESREA), Dr. Innocent Barikor, stated that the event marks a pivotal moment in its collective journey toward a sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria.
Dr Barikor stated that the National Industrial Decarbonization Programme represents the agency’s firm commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning Nigeria’s industrial sector towards a low-carbon economy. This initiative, he observed, is in line with the nation’s international obligations under the Paris Agreement, as well as the ambitious domestic target of achieving net zero emissions by 2060.
“The National Industrial Decarbonization Program is designed to bring together government, industry, and technical experts to create a robust regulatory and compliance framework that supports our nation’s net-zero target by 2060. We are at a critical juncture where proactive measures must be taken to ensure that our industrial sector—which contributes significantly to our GDP and global carbon emissions is transformed into a driver of sustainable development.
“In alignment with Nigeria’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement and our national priorities, the program focuses on four main pillars. First, it promotes the adoption of environmentally sound technologies and energy-efficient practices that reduce operational costs while minimizing environmental impact. Second, it facilitates the development of innovative mechanisms for generating and trading carbon credits, thereby opening new revenue streams for our industries and the government. Third, it establishes a comprehensive compliance monitoring and enforcement framework that will ensure adherence to decarbonization targets. And finally, it fosters strategic partnerships across both public and private sectors, enhancing collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to our esteemed partners, including Oxytane Africa Investment Limited, whose technical expertise is vital in our efforts to measure, verify, and ultimately reduce carbon emissions. Their collaboration underscores the importance of leveraging global best practices and innovative solutions as we chart a course toward a cleaner and more resilient industrial landscape.
However, Barikor has reminded us that industry, which encompasses sectors such as cement, fertilizer, chemicals, and metals, is not only the backbone of Nigeria’s economy but also a significant contributor to carbon emissions. He said with projections indicating a potential threefold increase in industrial emissions between 2010 and 2030, the urgency to act cannot be overstated.
“By adopting decarbonization strategies and establishing a clear regulatory framework, we can significantly mitigate these emissions while simultaneously enhancing our competitiveness in international markets.
“Today’s workshop is designed to be an interactive and collaborative platform. Over the next few hours, we will hear from experts on decarbonization technologies, review proposed regulatory frameworks, and engage in breakout sessions to gather your valuable insights. Your participation is crucial, as the success of this program depends on our collective ability to design, implement, and enforce measures that are both effective and practical for the Nigerian context.
“As we embark on this journey, let us be guided by our shared vision of a sustainable, energy-efficient, and economically vibrant Nigeria. The road to industrial decarbonization is challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities that promise to deliver long-term environmental and economic benefits.
“By working together, we can ensure that our industries not only comply with global standards but also thrive in a low-carbon economy”, he said.