Editor
By Fatima Saka
In anticipation of COP29, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal has called upon all committee members to diligently collaborate in formulating the ministry’s stance, which will consequently represent the national position of the country at the upcoming 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, under the theme “In Solidarity for a Green World.”
Represented by Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, the Minister conveyed this message in Abuja during the committee’s inauguration for early preparations for the global event later this year.
Balarabe advised the committee to leverage their expertise and experience to craft a robust strategy for optimal engagement at the conference, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, equity, and the pursuit of just and comprehensive solutions, while advocating for financial mechanisms that bolster climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
He also urged the members to bring forth their determination and foresight to the committee, working collectively with the shared belief that a sustainable future is not only conceivable but also attainable as they adhere to the approved Terms of Reference (ToR) for the task at hand.
The decisions made by the committee will have a lasting impact and will enhance the nation’s delivery at the conference, reinforcing its commitments to the convention.
The Minister highlighted that COP29 will serve not only as a negotiation platform but also as a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm our collective dedication, elevate our aspirations, and foster collaborative ties across nations, sectors, and generations.
Chairing the Intra-Ministerial Committee, Minister of Environment urged the members to reflect on the outcomes of UNFCCC Dubai and the key highlights of COP28, emphasizing the necessity for financial support to address the repercussions of climate change-induced loss and damage.
Balarabe called upon all members, drawn from various professional departments within the Ministry and Agencies, to work cohesively as a unified team to achieve the committee’s objectives.
During her opening remarks, Dr. Iniagbon Abiola-Awe, the Director of Climate Change and Vice-chairman, reiterated that the members should perceive their selection as a national duty, emphasizing that the country’s success at COP29 will greatly hinge on the timely submission of the committee’s report.
It is worth noting that the preceding COP27 and COP28 took place in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, and Dubai, UAE, respectively.
