President Bola Tinubu is set to outline Nigeria’s position on global climate change and sustainability at the ongoing Sustainability Summit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, announced on Monday.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Tuggar said the president will engage world leaders on Nigeria’s climate priorities and sustainable development goals, emphasizing that effective climate action must be paired with long-term sustainability.
“It’s not just about averting climate change, but doing it in a way that is sustainable,” the minister stated.
Invited by UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Tinubu is expected to deliver a formal presentation before global leaders at the annual summit, clarifying Nigeria’s focus on climate deliverables and reinforcing the country’s commitment to international climate discourse.
Beyond climate advocacy, Tuggar revealed that the president will leverage the summit to strengthen economic ties between Nigeria and the UAE, including the signing of key bilateral agreements with the Emirati government and prospective investors.
Nigeria aims to use the platform to address gaps in project preparation and secure international funding for well-defined climate and sustainability initiatives.
“This presents an opportunity to showcase identified projects and source funding from countries and organizations in attendance,” Tuggar said, noting that Nigeria’s participation in last year’s summit had already led to new partnerships, which this year’s engagement seeks to deepen.
As part of the visit, Tinubu is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is expected to be signed.
Tuggar explained that the agreement would protect investments for both Nigerian and UAE investors, boost investor confidence, and safeguard the interests of Nigerian businesses operating in Dubai and other parts of the UAE.
“For us, it is essential that the dignity of Nigerians is upheld and that Nigerians are respected wherever they go to invest or visit,” Tuggar emphasized.
Tinubu’s participation at the Abu Dhabi summit positions Nigeria to play a stronger role in global climate advocacy while simultaneously advancing economic and investment partnerships with international stakeholders.
About the Author
