Nigeria’s ongoing reliance on fossil fuels, despite its commitments to climate action, poses substantial risks to economic and environmental stability. The establishment of new refineries, notably the Dangote Refinery, reflects a contrast to global trends towards renewable energy. Nigeria’s historical and current choices make it increasingly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and decarbonization efforts in other nations, highlighting the urgent need for a shift towards sustainable energy practices.
Nigeria’s commitment to fossil fuels stands in stark contrast to its pledges towards climate action. Despite having agreed at COP28 to transition away from fossil energy by 2050, the country continues to promote oil exploration and the establishment of new refineries, such as the highly anticipated Dangote Refinery. This fossil fuel dependency not only jeopardizes Nigeria’s future economic stability but also exacerbates its vulnerability to climate change, as evidenced by recent devastating floods and extreme weather events. President Bola Tinubu’s ambiguous stance on climate change—previously dismissing its significance yet subsequently acknowledging the impacts on Nigeria—highlights this contradiction. Furthermore, Nigeria’s reliance on refined petroleum products persists, with millions of petrol-powered vehicles contributing significantly to carbon emissions. In contrast, nations like China and Brazil are forging ahead with renewable energy strategies, further isolating Nigeria on the global stage. As developed countries begin to phase out their oil refineries, Nigeria’s strategy remains entrenched in fossil fuel production and consumption. This misalignment raises the risk of economic decline in light of a global shift towards cleaner energy and demonstrates the urgent need for Nigeria to realign its energy policies to prevent long-term economic detriment and environmental catastrophe.
Nigeria, as a petrostate, faces existential threats due to its heavy reliance on oil and gas exports. The nation has pledged its commitment to climate action but simultaneously continues to invest in fossil fuel infrastructure. This contradiction is evident in the recent excitement surrounding the establishment of private refineries amid calls for renewable energy transition. The fate of Nigeria’s economy is intricately linked to the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, making the country vulnerable to climate change impacts and economic instability. The established pathways for transitioning to renewable energy are being actively pursued by other nations, leaving Nigeria at severe risk if it does not adapt accordingly.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s ongoing pursuit of fossil fuel expansion contradicts its stated climate commitments and poses significant risks to both its economy and environment. The urgency for a comprehensive energy transition towards sustainable practices is paramount, as failure to recognize and adapt to this global shift may lead Nigeria down an unsustainable path. The examples set by other nations showcase the need for innovation in energy production and consumption, which Nigeria must urgently embrace to secure its future stability and environmental health.
Original Source: businessday.ng
