Minister Urges Global Cooperation on Climate Change Solutions at UNGA

Emmanuel Kwada

Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji has called for urgent global cooperation to tackle climate change and promote sustainable development.

He said this at the 8th United Nations General Assembly High-Level Side Event on Social Business, Youth, and Technology in New York, United States of America.

His remarks came as world leaders convened for the 79th United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the critical role of innovation in shaping a sustainable future.

This is according to a statement on Monday by Director of Media and Corporate Communications at
National Space Research and Development Agency, Dr. Felix Ale

Nnaji emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “Nigeria is committed to working closely with international partners to develop innovative solutions that promote sustainable development.”

He urged nations to join forces in addressing climate challenges, underscoring that “the necessity of global solutions for global challenges” is more pressing than ever.

The event featured notable figures, including Nobel Peace Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus and Hon. Mark Stephen Brown, Prime Minister of the Cook Islands.

Discussions focused on the intersection of social business, youth, and technology in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in combating issues like climate change and unemployment.

Aligning with Professor Yunus’s “Three Zeros” vision—zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero net carbon emissions—Nnaji reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing access to clean energy.

He noted, “Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and increasing access to clean energy is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change while promoting inclusive economic growth.”

This commitment includes adopting methanol as a renewable energy source, in line with SDGs 7 and 13.

Highlighting the innovative spirit of Nigeria’s youth, Nnaji showcased how young entrepreneurs in agriculture, healthcare, and financial services are leveraging mobile technology and AI to create impactful solutions.

He stressed the importance of nurturing this talent, saying, “The youth are at the forefront of driving innovation and shaping our future.”

With the COP29 climate summit approaching, the Minister’s call for enhanced international cooperation resonated strongly.

He expressed optimism that, through collective action, “we can achieve a future of zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero carbon emissions.”

Nnaji’s address not only showcased Nigeria’s proactive stance in addressing climate change but also positioned the nation as a leader in fostering innovative solutions to global challenges.

His vision for leveraging technology and social entrepreneurship aims to create a more inclusive and sustainable global economy, inspiring other nations to follow suit.

As the world grapples with pressing environmental issues, Minister Nnaji’s rallying cry for global unity serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of collaboration in building a better future for all.