Author Archives: sppnigeria

If Nigeria is to win the war against climate change and secure a sustainable future for its citizens, both living and unborn, it must immediately review its current strategy and shift its fight from the glasshouses in Abuja, the country’s capital, where most climate talks are usually held, to the subnational level spread across the various states.

Rainfall patterns in Katsina State, in the northwestern region, have become more unpredictable, leading to the disruption of agricultural cycles and endangering lives and food security. Similar to this, the constant flooding that still dominates the lives of the people in Bayelsa, another state in the South-South part of the nation, has resulted in the displacement of numerous communities.

These are the everyday realities that are taking place all around the country, not predictions from climate theories. The issue of climate change in Nigeria has become urgent, tangible, and deeply localised. Sadly, however, the infrastructure for responding remains heavily centralised, mostly in urban areas.

As Nigeria advances its climate objectives, from updating its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to implementing the Climate Change Act and detailing a net-zero pathway, one thing becomes increasingly clear: our 36 states hold the key to implementation. A national goal is meaningless if states are structurally underprepared to act.

In order to tackle this issue, the Department of Climate Change (DCC) in the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) carried out an extensive training needs assessment of climate change desk officers, directors, and focal persons throughout Nigeria. With 48 contributions from 34 states and the FCT, the response was overwhelming and provided the most comprehensive image to date of the capacity gaps impeding successfully implementing climate action at the state level.

From what the states told us in the assessment, three core gaps emerged as top priorities:

1. Accessing and managing climate finance (29 states)
2. Greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory and reporting skills (28 states)
3. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting (MER) for climate projects (25 states)

These aren’t “nice-to-haves.” They are foundational capabilities, essential for designing fundable climate projects, tracking impact, and mainstreaming climate into state policies and budgets.

Respondents also highlighted further areas for support: climate budgeting, carbon markets, digital monitoring tools, stakeholder coordination, gender integration, and effective engagement strategies. This points to a growing awareness among state actors of the complex, interlinked demands of modern climate governance.

Yet, despite this motivation and readiness, many states still face systemic barriers such as

• Underfunded or poorly structured climate desks

• Limited technical capacity, especially on climate finance

• Absence of reliable data systems or over-reliance on external consultants

• Weak integration of climate priorities into broader state planning

This implementation gap, between ambition and ability, undermines Nigeria’s credibility and progress where it matters most.

To move from diagnosis to delivery, as a framework to bridge the gap, the SPP/DCC team is launching a Capacity Building Implementation Framework, a practical roadmap to equip states/climate desk officers with the tools, skills, and support needed to lead local climate action.

But this cannot, and should not, be a standalone effort. Thus, in the Call to Collective Action,

Federal MDAs must:

• Institutionalise annual training and capacity-building for subnational actors

• Provide standardised toolkits, data frameworks, and benchmarking models

Donors and Development Partners must:

• Prioritise state-level technical support in GHG inventory, MER systems, and climate finance.

• Build readiness for Article 6 and results-based climate budgeting

State Governments must:

• Establish and fund dedicated climate change desks

• Mainstream climate into development planning and inter-ministerial coordination

Civil society and academia must:

• Drive peer learning, mentoring, and knowledge exchange

• Co-develop digital tools and community-responsive engagement strategies

The evidence is clear: Nigeria’s states are ready. What they need now is coordinated, sustained, and strategic support. That’s why we propose the creation of a National Subnational Climate Training Compact, a bold, collaborative initiative bringing together public, private, and development partners to ensure every state is equipped to lead climate action from within.

This is because it is not the beautiful glass palaces of Abuja, where most high-level climate talks are conducted, but rather the decisions made and the capacities built in places like Abia, Zamfara, and all points in between that will assure Nigeria’s climate resilience. The time to act is now, and we are all responsible for it.

By Timothy Ogenyi, who leads the SCGPR 2.0 project and coordinates subnational climate governance initiatives for the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP)

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) has made history by becoming the first environmental NGO in Nigeria to voluntarily publish its 2024 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Report—sending a bold message that climate accountability must begin with those who preach it.

Led by renowned climate scholar Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, SPP’s transparent disclosure stands in sharp contrast to the widespread reluctance of many private organizations to comply with Section 24(1)(a) of the Nigerian Climate Change Act 2021, which mandates annual emissions reduction efforts for entities with over 50 employees. While enforcement remains weak, SPP’s leadership offers a compelling demonstration that self-regulation is not only possible but necessary.

Climate policy expert Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo, responding to the development, described the move as “a landmark example of voluntary climate action,” urging institutions—especially advocacy-focused NGOs—to emulate SPP’s introspective approach. He noted that environmental responsibility should never be reduced to mere advocacy without internal reform.

The Climate Change Act’s Section 24(2) empowers the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) to penalize defaulters, yet compliance has remained low due to institutional lapses. SPP’s initiative dismantles the myth that emission reporting is too complex or impractical, instead proving that even non-profits can walk the talk through accurate carbon tracking and open disclosure.

By publishing its emissions data, SPP has set a powerful precedent that aligns with Section 32(a) of the Climate Act, which outlines plans for universal annual GHG reporting across public and private sectors. Oladipo stressed the need for strategic enforcement mechanisms that will nudge lagging institutions into compliance.

Beyond its moral significance, transparent emissions reporting is critical to meeting the Paris Agreement targets. It enables organizations to identify problem areas, set tangible climate goals, and adopt sustainable operational models. SPP’s action has already begun to spark discussions on responsible climate governance across boardrooms and policy circles alike.

With Nigeria facing rising climate threats—from desertification to flooding—the need for genuine, measurable climate action is more urgent than ever. As Prof. Oladipo put it, “SPP has turned climate responsibility from a slogan into a blueprint. Others must now follow.”

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) recently took a bold and unprecedented step by publishing its 2024 Greenhouse (GHG) Emissions report.

I consider this as good innovation and I wish all institutions can be made to do same. Given the current circumstance where organisations still hesitate to quantify and disclose their emissions as required by the Nigerian Climate Change Act 2021, SPP’s transparent self-assessment stands out as a powerful example of voluntary climate action.

Despite section 24(1)(a) of the Climate Change Act 2021 mandates that private entities with 50 or more employees must implement measures to achieve annual carbon-emission reduction targets in line with the National Adaptation plan; over the years, many organisations – NGOs included – have treated these obligations as optional, due largely to weak enforcement. This is what makes SPP’s move to be significant and laudable at the moment.

This weak enforcement is even more curious considering that Section 24(2) of the Climate Change Act further empowers the Council to impose fines on organisations that fail to meet emission reporting and reduction targets.

There is need for a strategic institutional approach to drive compliance as we don’t like to do things voluntarily

It is therefore highly commendable that when most organisations are not willing to be environmentally responsible – notably NGOs have largely focused on advocating for others to reduce emissions, and rarely scrutinizing their own practices – SPP’s voluntary climate action shines a light on two fundamental truths.

Firstly, it shows that without compulsion, voluntary climate action is possible. The climate advocacy landscape must start with self-reflection and accountability.

Secondly, by walking the talk, SPP, under the leadership of Professor Chukwumerije Okereke has shown that emission reporting is practicable. This has helped to lower the perceived barriers to emission reduction, making it easier for others to follow suit.

I encourage more organisations to emulate SPP’s leadership in this regard and transparently publish emissions data, set reduction targets, and outline their decarbonisation strategy.

Section 32(a) of the Nigerian Climate Change Act, already sets the target for National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) “to develop regulations requiring both private and public entities to report annually on greenhouse gas reductions and climate responsibilities” – this is where strategic institutional approach I advocated for becomes highly imperative.

Emission reduction reporting plays a vital role for organizations of all sizes in meeting the objectives established by the Paris Agreement.

Through the systematic measurement and disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions, organizations are able to pinpoint critical areas for enhancement, establish reduction targets, and monitor their progress over time.

Transparent reporting as demonstrated by SPP promotes accountability and motivates companies to embrace more sustainable practices.

Additionally, it allows governments and stakeholders to evaluate overall advancements towards both national and international climate objectives. Collaborative initiatives in emission reporting can result in innovative solutions and technologies, ultimately aiding in a substantial decrease in emissions and assisting in the mitigation of climate change effects.

**Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo is a renowned Climate Change Expert and Consultant

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) has convened a high level meeting with State Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change, under the auspices of the “Conference of Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change”.

This initiative continues SPP’s commitment to strengthening subnational climate governance by building technical capacity, fostering collaboration, and elevating the voices of state‑level policymakers to the global stage.

In his welcome address, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, President of SPP, represented by Mr. Gboyega Olorunfemi, Project Lead at SPP, thanked the Commissioners for their time and commitment to improving climate action in their states.

Okereke observed that, over the years, SPP’s engagements have revealed persistent gaps in subnational climate governance, stating that these gaps can only be closed by empowering local decision‑makers with technical expertise, visibility, and access to funding.

“Through our collaborative work, we have identified key constraints limiting your ability to deliver effective climate governance.

“This is why SPP has decided to support and collaborate with you in closing these gaps, and to ensure that your states can attract climate finance, design robust policies, and participate meaningfully in national and international forums,” he said.

Okereke explained that SPP will strengthen the Conference’s secretariat by deploying a dedicated technical expert to ensure more effective coordination of climate action in their states.

He encouraged the Commissioners to collaborate and share best practices among themselves, instead of working in silos.

In her opening remark, Chief Mrs. Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ekiti State and Chairperson of the Conference of Commissioners on NEWMAP Project, thanked SPP for their efforts at amplifying subnational voices.

“Today marks the culmination of several discussions and follow-ups, and I am glad that we are making progress as a team.

“This is a great opportunity for us to enhance our productivity leveraging the technical expertise of SPP, and I urge my dear colleagues to be fully committed as we work to support our state Governors to achieve our respective climate and environmental goals,” she said.

Participants took turns to express gratitude for this opportunity, and also made suggestions on how the initiative can be improved.

In his contribution, Dr. Olly Owens, Technical Advisor on Forestry Management and Climate Change to the Governor of Ekiti State, agreed that working in silos has watered down the efforts of subnational governments and development partners’

Owens urged SPP to spearhead the integration and concentration of these efforts for more impacts.

“It will be good to help all of the states link together to access opportunities. So, anything that SPP can do to ensure that everybody works together to leverage these opportunities is highly welcome.

“Also, the voice of the subnational is not being considered. What we find when we try to join up with initiatives such as the COP is that so much of the processes and UN architecture are designed for national governments.

“And there is lack of ways which we can directly interact with it, which is a problem in a federal system. Any way you can assist to improve subnational participation at the international stage will also be welcomed,” he stated.

Dr. Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner of Environment, Anambra State, also emphasized the importance of working together rather than in silos stressing that the platform would be beneficial in bringing states up to speed on available options and capacities, with the potential to help weaker states develop quicker.

“I believe that this platform will go a long way in bringing states up to speed on available options and capacities, with the potential to help weaker states develop more quickly. Anambra State is very happy about this and is committed to helping achieve this,” he said.

Prof. Sam Ugwu, Commissioner for Environment, Enugu State expressed satisfaction with the strategic alignment between SPP and the Conference of Commissioners, and emphasized the need for support from SPP to advance climate change policies across all states of the federation.

“I am particularly interested in the issue of climate funding. Earlier this year, we launched our climate policy, and the next step is to ensure that it is implemented. We need this coordination from your organisation to support our efforts,” he said.

Hon Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, Hon Commissioner for Environment for Abia State, represented by Mr Chris Ike, Director Climate Change, recognised the importance of climate finance at the subnational, stating that poor financing for climate action remains abysmally low and look forward to the support from SPP to prioritise the facilitation of access to climate finance.

Hon Aishat Barde, Hon Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Taraba State acknowledge the support of SPP in facilitating funding for the development of the first of its kind Climate Change Policy and Action Plan for the state.

Barde added that Taraba State is ready for the official launch and is committed to working closely with the SPP team and her partners in driving climate action.

Rt. Hon Chukwu Victor Uzoma, The Hon Commissioner for Environment Ebonyi, commended the coordinating Commissioner and SPP, pledging his willingness to open up Ebonyi for collaboration and development.

Over the years, SPP has championed several projects to bolster subnational climate governance through Mapping of climate impact, action and policy at the state level, to publishing the first Climate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking for Nigeria’s 36 states.

The society has also mobilized funds for the development of climate change policy and action plans in Enugu and Taraba States, and providing platforms and delivering capacity building for Commissioners of Environment and climate‑desk officers.

*Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, Communication Specialist, SPP and

*Elochukwu Anieze, Senior Policy Analyst, SPP*

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP)inaugurated a Review Panel on July 8, 2025, to review the methodology and scoring matrix for the forthcoming second edition of the Climate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking of Nigeria’s 36 states

The Review Panel was carefully invited to provide advisory on the methodology and scoring matrix with a view to improving it and ensuring transparency and objectivity in the overall evaluation process.

During the virtual Inauguration session of the Review panel, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke welcomed the distinguished experts and expressed gratitude for their willingness to contribute their time and expertise in service of the collective goal of improving climate action, especially at the subnational level.

He emphasised the need to continually strengthen the ranking process to better reflect what states are doing to tackle climate change and to inspire greater climate ambition.

Prof. Okereke added that there is need to enhance and improve the process to ensure that it delivers its core objective of accurately shining a spotlight on what states are doing to combat climate change and to motivate them to do more.

“There is a growing consensus that in contexts where legislation may be weak, tools like climate governance rankings can help stimulate accountability and progress,” he said.

“I am delighted that you have accepted to be part of this expert review panel. In a political environment where legislation is not strong, one way to improve climate governance is through climate governance ranking. While no one tool is sufficient, the subnational ranking has gained traction and credibility following the success of the inaugural ranking, helping to stimulate accountability and progress. Your contributions as experts will be critical to ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness,” he added.

Dr. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, the Director, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, reiterated the commitment and support of the Federal Ministry of Environment to the Climate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking of Nigeria’s 36 states, and re-assured that states are better empowered to drive climate action, while encouraging other relevant stakeholders and experts to be part of the process of empowering subnational governments.

“I appreciate the SPP team for their commitment to the success of this subnational ranking. Following the success of the first ranking, we have seen a number of states share best practices to ensure that climate policies are enacted and implemented in their states,” she added.

Participants commended the progress in climate change initiatives at the subnational level, while emphasising the importance of measuring governance commitment and tracking implementation impacts.

Dr. Priscilla Achakpa highlighted the need for states to prioritise climate change governance and expressed appreciation for the platform, which she noted has set a precedent for subnational climate action in Nigeria.

Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba lauded the initiative as a welcome development in improving climate governance at the subnational level, stating that what cannot be measured cannot be improved.

In her contribution, Mrs. Halima Bawa noted that while projects undertaken at the subnational level such as solar panel installations are important, she emphasised the need to prioritise nature-based solutions, especially forest conservation and reforestation.

Other participants acknowledged the progress made at the subnational level, highlighting the importance of evaluating governance frameworks and tracking the impact of their climate actions and policies.

Dr Eugene Itua commended the efforts of the SPP and DCC team from the first edition and kickstarting the second edition.

The panel’s recommendations are expected to inform the revised framework for the upcoming edition of the ranking, which will build on the success of the inaugural report to deepen climate ambition and implementation at the state level.

The expert review panel is composed of Prof. Chinedu Nwajiuba, Chair of the Board, West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL); Prof. Olukayode Oladipo, Adjunct Professor, UNILAG; Prof. Daniel Gwary, University of Maiduguri; Dr.Eugene Itua, CEO, Natural Ecocapital; Mrs Halima Bawa, Director, National Council Climate Change Secretariat; Dr. Pricilia Achakpa, Global President of the Women Environment Programme (WEP); Mr. Olumide Idowu, Executive Director, International Climate Change Development Initiative; Mr. Amara Nwankpa, Director General (Acting) Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation; Mr. Eghose Omoigui and Madam Gbemisola Akosa, Executive Director Centre For 21st Century Issues (C21st).

By Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, Communication Specialist, SPP