The Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Mr Simon Stiell, has urged cooperation among nations to get humanity back on track and the need to meet the Paris agreement goal.
The Paris agreement’s central aim is to strengthen the global response to the threats of climate change by keeping a global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degree Celsius.
The 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) kicks off today and will climax on December 12 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, being a key speaker during the conference.
Steill said all world leaders and stakeholders would be held accountable in ensuring that countries are guided “by the North star of keeping 1.5°C within reach.
“Over 160 world leaders are headed to Dubai, because only cooperation between nations can get humanity back in this race.
“But COP28 cannot be just a photo-op. Leaders must deliver, the message is clear.
“And as leaders leave Dubai after the opening summit, their message to their negotiators must be equally clear: don’t come home without a deal that will make a real difference.
“The reality is that without much more finance flowing to developing countries, a renewables revolution will remain a mirage in the desert. COP28 must turn it into a reality,” he said.
Before departing for COP28, President Tinubu said at the presentation of the 2024 Appropriation Bill to the joint session of the Parliament on Wednesday: “I have directed relevant government agencies to diligently work towards securing substantial funding commitments that will bolster Nigeria’s energy transition.”
This is in furtherance to President Tinubu’s commitment in reinforcing a future where energy is a driver of environmental stewardship.
He added: “As we approach COP 28 climate summit, a pivotal moment for global climate action, we seize this opportunity to attract international partnerships and investments that align with our national goals.
” I call upon our representatives to engage proactively to showcase the strides we have made in the quest to create an enabling environment for sustainable energy projects.
“Together, we will strive for Nigeria to emerge from COP 28 with tangible commitments, reinforcing our dedication to a future where energy is not only a catalyst for development but also a driver of environmental stewardship.”
Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President, said countries must prioritize people’s lives and livelihoods through the reduction of emissions.
He said: “We don’t have any time to waste. At COP28, every country and every company will be held to account, guided by the North star of keeping 1.5°C within reach.
“All parties should be prepared to deliver a high-ambition decision in response to the global stocktake that reduces emissions while protecting people, lives and livelihoods.”
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