The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has said that the forthcoming 30th Session of the Conference of Parties on Climate Change (COP30), to be hosted by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Belém, Brazil, from November 10–21, 2025, will further strengthen bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil, particularly in advancing climate action under the Paris Agreement.
The Minister made this known during a courtesy visit by the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Carlos Garcete, and his delegation to the Federal Ministry of Environment on Wednesday in Abuja.
Balarabe highlighted that Nigeria and Brazil have enjoyed longstanding relations spanning trade, culture, tourism, and economic development since Nigeria’s independence.
He expressed optimism that COP30 will open new avenues for collaboration in climate change adaptation, mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.
He commended Brazil’s environmental leadership, noting the country’s vast forest cover, river systems, and diverse flora and fauna. The Minister also lauded the Brazilian government for the resumption of direct flights between both nations, describing it as a boost to trade, tourism, and economic growth.
Balarabe congratulated Brazil on securing the hosting rights for COP30 and the upcoming G20 Summit, while reiterating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes sustainable economic growth, climate resilience, and a healthy ecosystem.
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Earlier, Ambassador Garcete recalled that Nigeria and Brazil’s diplomatic relationship dates back over six decades, noting that Brazil was the only South American nation present at Nigeria’s independence in 1960. He emphasized the strong cultural and trade ties between the two countries, particularly in the non-oil sector.
The Ambassador assured the Minister of the embassy’s commitment to facilitating seamless visa processes for Nigerians participating in COP30.
He also reaffirmed Brazil’s readiness to support Nigeria’s full and successful engagement in the global climate summit.
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