Nigeria’s Duality: Embracing Fossil Fuels amid Climate Commitments
Nigeria remains deeply invested in fossil fuels, as evidenced by the construction of the Dangote Refinery and new private licensing efforts. Despite international commitments to reduce fossil fuel reliance and enhance renewable energy sources made at COP climate summits, the country continues to witness devastating impacts from climate change. This contradictory approach, characterized as ‘both-wayism,’ poses serious challenges to Nigeria’s stability and future economic viability.
Nigeria is currently facing a profound dilemma regarding its reliance on fossil fuels amidst the urgent climate crisis. This article highlights the country’s paradoxical stance, as it continues to invest heavily in oil and gas while professing commitments to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy. The government’s enthusiasm for new private oil refineries, particularly the Dangote Refinery, starkly contrasts with its obligations made during international climate summits, where it pledged to move away from fossil fuel dependence by 2050. The failure to implement substantial changes undermines Nigeria’s future prospects in a world increasingly shifting towards cleaner energy sources. Recent climate events, such as the devastating floods in Maiduguri, underscore the immediate impacts of climate change on Nigeria, raising questions about the government’s preparedness for natural disasters exacerbated by environmental degradation. Contradictory statements by political leaders display a lack of clarity and commitment to addressing these challenges adequately. While President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged the need to tackle climate change, actions taken thus far remain superficial and lack the transformative measures necessary to effect genuine change. Despite its claims, Nigeria is entrenched in fossil fuel consumption, holding an estimated 11.8 million petrol-powered vehicles on its roads, while globally, more nations pivot away from traditional hydrocarbons. The pursuit of continued oil exploration, as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act, sets the stage for increased carbon emissions, further entrenching the nation’s dependency and hindering potential progress towards renewables. This attitude is in stark contrast with that of other major economies, like China and Brazil, which are swiftly advancing their energy transitions. Globally, many developed nations are dismantling oil refineries, shifting towards green energy solutions, while Nigeria remains committed to expanding its refining capabilities. This raises critical questions about the nation’s readiness for a future where fossil fuels may no longer hold economic viability. The reliance on existing refineries, combined with a lack of strategic investment in renewable technologies, puts Nigeria’s economy at risk of falling behind in an evolving global market.
The context of Nigeria’s energy policies reveals a country at a crossroads. Historically dependent on oil and gas exports, it now faces existential threats from climate change that disproportionately affect its economy and environment. Major climate summits, such as COP26 and COP28, have set ambitious targets for reducing fossil fuel dependency and enhancing renewable energy capacities. However, Nigeria’s continued investments in oil exploration and refinery expansions depict a troubling trend of ‘both-wayism,’ where it claims commitment to climate action while reinforcing its fossil fuel framework. Recent climate-related disasters have further highlighted the need for a drastic shift in policies to prioritize sustainable practices and long-term resilience.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s continued commitment to fossil fuels amid the global energy transition represents a significant self-harm that jeopardizes its economic and environmental future. The country’s reliance on oil refineries and the pursuit of new hydrocarbon exploration contradict its international obligations to address climate change. As other nations embrace renewable technologies and move away from fossil fuels, Nigeria must urgently reassess its energy strategies to mitigate risks and align with the global movement towards sustainability. Failure to adapt could result in economic isolation and greater vulnerability to climate disasters.
Original Source: businessday.ng
