Enugu State has intensified efforts to attract global climate finance, as Governor Peter Mbah called on international investors to partner with the state in delivering climate-resilient projects and accelerating green economic growth.
Mbah made the appeal during the Nigeria Climate Investment Showcase held at the London Climate Action Week (LCAW), where he highlighted Enugu’s readiness to become a leading subnational hub for climate investment in Africa.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the governor said the state had undertaken strategic reforms to create an enabling environment for sustainable investments and access to international climate finance.
He noted that Enugu had enacted a climate law, established a Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and developed a comprehensive Climate Change Policy and Action Plan to guide its green transition.
According to Mbah, the state has already made significant investments in clean transportation, urban greening initiatives, and smart green schools powered by rooftop solar energy.
He emphasised that global climate finance increasingly prioritises projects backed by strong political commitment, credible institutions, and measurable economic and social impact.
The governor outlined key investment priorities, including waste-to-energy projects, clean urban mobility, climate-smart agriculture, green industrial zones, and clean cooking solutions.
He explained that the proposed waste-to-energy initiative would reduce methane emissions, improve waste management, create jobs, and generate both energy and compressed natural gas.
Mbah also revealed plans to expand electric bus systems, compressed natural gas (CNG) transport networks, charging infrastructure, and sustainable mobility corridors across the state.
On agriculture, he said climate-smart practices would enhance food security, improve rural livelihoods, and empower women and youth.
He added that the development of green industrial zones would support solar-powered manufacturing, sustainable logistics, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
To further strengthen its climate investment drive, the governor disclosed that the state had developed a Climate Investment Plan detailing priority projects, financing requirements, and implementation frameworks.
He also announced plans to establish a Climate Finance and Carbon Markets Unit to enhance project preparation, facilitate investor engagement, and track climate finance flows.
Mbah said Enugu was upgrading its climate data systems, including monitoring, reporting, and verification mechanisms, to meet international standards and boost investor confidence.
Describing climate action as a catalyst for economic transformation, he said it would drive job creation, expand energy access, improve public health, and build long-term resilience.
The governor reaffirmed Enugu State’s commitment to working with global partners on impactful projects that improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development.
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The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including climate investors, project developers, policymakers, and technology firms, many of whom expressed interest in partnering with the state.
Members of the Enugu delegation included Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, Senior Personal Adviser on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, and Ms Sandra Gerge, Senior Personal Assistant on Revenue.
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