Unlocking NDC 3.0: How Niger’s Environment Commissioner Advocates for Practical and Accessible Financing for States

The recent National Stakeholders’ Workshop on Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) highlighted a pressing demand for accessible climate financing. Hon. Yakubu Kolo, the Niger State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, emphasized that state governments should play a key role in both designing and implementing these initiatives.

Held on August 27, 2025, in Abuja, the workshop gathered a diverse group of participants, including government officials, development partners, civil society, and private sector representatives. This collaboration is crucial for preparing Nigeria’s draft NDC 3.0 for approval and submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Kolo praised the inclusive process behind NDC 3.0, which allowed states to contribute their views. However, he urged that these contributions must be reflected in the final document, rather than just collected as a formality. “Collecting input without including it undermines the process,” he said.

He stressed that the NDC needs concrete goals that show real leadership. The focus should be on creating robust adaptation strategies and ensuring that financing mechanisms are practical for state governments. “As the September deadline approaches, we must ensure that our ambitions match our capacity to implement them,” he added.

Kolo’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that subnational governments are at the forefront of addressing climate change impacts. Their local insights are vital for making national policies effective. “Anything less would betray our people’s hopes and squander our opportunity to lead Africa toward a climate-resilient future,” he concluded.

Recent data from the UN shows that climate financing in developing nations is critical. In 2021, only about 9% of the funds pledged by developed nations were being disbursed effectively. This highlights the importance of accessible financing for local and state governments to drive real change.

Engaging communities and local governments is essential, as shown in various studies. For instance, a 2023 report by the Global Institute for Sustainable Development found that projects with local input are 50% more likely to succeed.

The workshop included representatives from organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Their involvement reinforces the importance of collaboration in tackling climate issues.

As Nigeria aligns its climate targets with community engagement, it sets a precedent for other nations facing similar challenges, proving that grassroots involvement is not just an option but a necessity.



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