Nigeria Reaffirms Climate Leadership at COP30 in Brazil

ECN DG pushes for cleaner cooling, stronger alliances, and fair energy transition

Nigeria recorded a major highlight at COP30 in Belēm, Brazil, as Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), delivered a key address at the High-Level Buildings and Cooling Pavilion Side Event, drawing global attention to the country’s climate commitments.

Speaking to an audience of international experts and energy leaders, Dr. Mustapha outlined Nigeria’s strategy for transitioning to smarter, energy-efficient cooling systems that align with global sustainability targets. He emphasized that cooling remains critical for health, agriculture, and economic stability in tropical nations like Nigeria.

He joined global partners such as Daikin Industries, UNEP-U4E, and the International Energy Agency to discuss how emerging economies can expand access to cooling without worsening environmental harm. Central to the discussions were Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and the adoption of next-generation cooling technologies.

On the sidelines, Dr. Mustapha held talks with NNPC officials on how federal institutions can support the scale-up of these initiatives across the country.

A strong advocate of Nigeria’s solarization programme, the ECN DG restated the nation’s commitment to deeper collaboration under the Global Cooling Pledge. He reiterated that Nigeria is prepared to harmonize standards and fast-track innovations that reduce emissions while improving quality of life.

Dr. Mustapha also met with Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy and Climate Change. Their engagement focused on ensuring a just energy transition, particularly for developing nations that depend heavily on natural resources. Both sides agreed on the need for responsible resource management that accelerates economic growth without compromising environmental protection.

As COP30 draws to a close, Dr. Mustapha joined other Nigerian dignitaries at the Nigeria Pavilion to mark Nigeria Day. He delivered brief remarks celebrating the country’s growing role in global climate policy.

Present were the Minister for Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha; and the Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Adelegbe Emmanuel Oluwatimehin.

Others in attendance included several distinguished Nigerian representatives, all underscoring the country’s renewed commitment to bold climate action and sustainable development.