The far-reaching consequences of climate change have become a global concern, impacting both humans and ecosystems. Nigeria faces substantial systemic risks from the climate crisis, leading to conflicts, loss of livelihoods, aquatic and terrestrial life, food security, and economic instability. Paradoxically, African nations including Nigeria contribute the least to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, yet suffer disproportionately. Lack of climate financing, inadequate infrastructure, and inequality worsen these problems.
To address these challenges, Nigeria has created various climate change adaptation and mitigation plans, such as the National Determined Contribution (NDC), National Adaptation Plan Framework (NAPF), Climate Change Act (CCA), and more. However, despite having these adaptation priority sectors, the country struggles due to limited access to climate finance and technical capabilities.
The Climate Change Adaptation project by Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI), in collaboration with the Centre for Climate Change and Development at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (CCCD-AEFUNAI) and the Federal Ministry of Environment’s Department of Climate Change (DCC), aims to understand Nigeria’s climate adaptation status, challenges, and opportunities, particularly focusing on locally-led adaptation (LLA). Through policy document reviews and stakeholder meetings, the project assesses how effective communities are in adopting LLA. Three case studies in priority areas (agriculture, renewable energy, and land use) delve into challenges, opportunities, and entry points for effective adaptation actions.
The project’s workshop seeks to share key findings and collaborate with stakeholders, CSOs, and policymakers to develop policy priorities and messages. These efforts aim to secure support from local and international funding agencies to bolster climate adaptation actions across Nigeria, benefiting all citizens.