In response to the controversy surrounding the number of Nigerian delegates at the COP28 Climate Summit in Dubai, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a statement on Monday clarified that the Federal Government only funded 422 of the 1,411 registered delegates. The remaining delegates were sponsored by state governments, private entities, and non-governmental organizations.
The minister’s statement clarifies the issue surrounding the large number of Nigerian delegates, which had sparked controversy on social media. President Bola Tinubu had previously departed for Dubai on November 29, 2023, to attend the summit, which is scheduled to conclude on December 12, 2023.
The controversy stemmed from the perception that the government’s decision to send a large delegation was insensitive to the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, particularly following the removal of fuel subsidies in mid-2023.
Idris’ statement emphasizes that the overall Nigerian delegation comprises a mix of government-sponsored and non-government-sponsored participants. The government-funded delegation consists of 422 individuals from various ministries, agencies, and parastatals.
The minister also stresses Nigeria’s significant stake in climate action, given its status as Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, as well as its vulnerability to climate change impacts.
He highlights the opportunities presented by the conference for investment and partnerships, citing the signing of an agreement between Nigeria and Germany to accelerate the implementation of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) for improved electricity supply.
President Tinubu also hosted a high-level meeting with stakeholders and investors to discuss the Nigeria Carbon Market and the Electric Buses Rollout Programme. He unveiled the Nigeria Carbon Market Activation Plan, emphasizing the country’s commitment to climate action.
Idris concludes by reaffirming that President Tinubu and other government officials are not on a frivolous trip but are actively engaged in pursuing critical climate action initiatives on behalf of Nigeria.