Introduction: A New Generation for a New Climate Era

As climate change accelerates globally, Nigeria is stepping up efforts not just to meet its environmental obligations, but to ensure the country’s youth are at the center of the green transition. With over 60% of its population under the age of 25, Nigeria is advocating for youth inclusion in climate policy, while pushing for the creation of green jobs to facilitate a just transition away from fossil fuels.

At various international and national climate forums, Nigerian officials have emphasized that the country’s fight against climate change cannot succeed without harnessing the energy, innovation, and commitment of its youth.

Government’s New Focus: Youth + Climate = Future

Nigeria’s commitment to youth participation in climate action was underscored at the recent African Climate Summit and COP28, where representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) called for inclusive policies. Key proposals include:

• Green skill training programs for youth in solar energy, climate-smart agriculture, recycling, and sustainable transportation.

• Youth representation in policy-making bodies on climate and energy transition.

• Promotion of climate entrepreneurship through seed grants, innovation hubs, and tech accelerators.

The government has made clear that this approach isn’t symbolic it’s strategic. According to Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, “Our youth are not just victims of climate change. They are the vanguard of climate solutions.”

A Just Transition: Moving Beyond Fossil Fuels

Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has long depended on fossil fuels for revenue. But the country is now grappling with how to balance economic realities with environmental responsibilities. As global pressure mounts to phase out oil and gas, the Nigerian government is prioritizing a “just transition” a concept that ensures vulnerable communities and youth are not left behind as economies decarbonize.

In 2021, Nigeria launched its Energy Transition Plan (ETP) with support from international partners, which targets net-zero emissions by 2060. The ETP explicitly highlights the importance of inclusive job creation, projecting the creation of up to 840,000 new green jobs in the coming decades.

Youth Voices Take Center Stage

Local and international climate groups such as Nigeria Youth Climate Network, SustyVibes, and Fridays for Future Nigeria have been instrumental in pushing for youth inclusion. These groups are calling for:

• Transparent and accessible climate financing for young innovators.

• Climate education integration into national school curricula.

• Representation of youth at global climate negotiations.

In a recent town hall held in Lagos, young climate advocate Jennifer Ugwueke stated, “We want a seat at the table—not just for visibility, but to shape the policies that will impact our future.”

Challenges on the Road Ahead

Despite progress, several obstacles remain. Limited funding, bureaucratic delays, and inadequate infrastructure still hinder Nigeria’s green economy push. Moreover, fossil fuel interests continue to wield political and economic influence.

However, experts agree that investing in youth is not optional it is essential. According to a 2023 report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), integrating young people into climate jobs can double employment opportunities while accelerating environmental recovery.

Conclusion: Youth as the Climate Compass

Nigeria’s climate future will largely depend on how well it integrates its most valuable demographic asset—its youth into the transition process. By aligning climate action with economic opportunity, Nigeria is not only tackling a global crisis but also rewriting its own development story.

From creating green jobs to amplifying young voices in policy spaces, the country is slowly but surely laying the foundation for a sustainable, youth-powered future.

References:

• Federal Ministry of Environment (Nigeria)

• Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan 2021

• International Labour Organization (ILO)

• National Council on Climate Change (NCCC)

• African Climate Summit 2023

• Youth climate advocacy groups in Nigeria

Last Updated on June 14, 2025 by kingstar