The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ozone layer protection and broader climate action, pledging to strengthen policies and adopt cleaner technologies in line with global environmental agreements.
The pledge was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and the 2025 World Ozone Day, themed “From Science to Global Action.” The event brought together policymakers, traditional leaders, development partners, international organisations, and environmental experts, highlighting the importance of science and collective responsibility in tackling environmental challenges.
Delivering his keynote address, Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, described the Vienna Convention of 1985 and the Montreal Protocol of 1987 as landmark achievements in global environmental governance.
He recalled that Nigeria ratified both treaties in 1988 and has since recorded key milestones, including the complete phase-out of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Halons.
“With scientific evidence showing that the ozone layer is on track to recover by 2066, Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda remains committed to strengthening policies, adopting cleaner technologies, and ensuring that future generations inherit a healthier environment,” the minister said.
Lawal also noted that Nigeria has ratified the Kigali Amendment of 2016, which seeks to phase down Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)—potent greenhouse gases linked to global warming. The ministry, he said, is working with industry stakeholders in refrigeration, air-conditioning, foam, aerosol, and fire protection sectors to promote climate-friendly alternatives.
In honour of the late Mrs. Charity Kpabep, a pioneer female refrigeration and air-conditioning trainer in Nigeria, the ministry announced a scholarship programme to encourage more women to participate in technical fields related to climate and environment.
UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Mrs. Elsie Attafuah, commended the country’s leadership in implementing the Montreal Protocol and incorporating ozone protection into its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
“Protecting the ozone layer is not just an environmental imperative but also a public health necessity. Nigeria’s proactive approach shows how ozone action can drive broader climate resilience and sustainable development,” Attafuah said.
She further revealed plans for a Green Innovation Hub in Nasarawa State, developed in partnership with the Federal Government, to focus on sustainable cooling systems, resource-efficient industries, and green technologies.
Goodwill messages came from key partners including UNIDO, UNEP, GIZ, and Nigerian institutions such as NAFDAC, NESREA, and the Nigeria Customs Service, which play crucial roles in enforcing bans on ozone-depleting substances.
Distinguished guests included the Emir of Nasarawa and former Minister of Environment, Mallam Ibrahim Jibril, who was honoured for his contributions to environmental protection. Other stakeholders and award recipients were also recognised for advancing Nigeria’s environmental goals.
Participants at the event called for stronger innovation, partnerships, and public awareness campaigns to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a greener economy and ensure full compliance with global environmental commitments.
