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Tag: Sam Onuigbo

  • ‘Nigeria’s carbon market can generate $3.8b’

    ‘Nigeria’s carbon market can generate $3.8b’

    Nigeria’s champion of Climate Change, Sam Onuigbo has said that the country’s carbon market has the potential of generating more than $3.8 billion in revenue.

    He disclosed that the unveiling of Nigeria’s Carbon Market Framework, which was hailed by stakeholders at the recent Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) in the United Arab Emirates, as a positive indicator in Nigeria’s climate action agenda, was a direct outcome of President Bola Tinubu’s determined effort to ensure that the country was well positioned as a key player in the emerging world green economy.

    Onuigbo, who spoke to some journalists after returning from the week-long Climate Change event, noted that right from his inaugural speech at the Eagle Square on May 29, 2023, the President has made it a point of duty to propel the country on the path of energy transition and climate sustainability.

    He said successes recorded by Nigeria during the ADSW should be attributed to President Tinubu’s incremental initiatives in energy transition.

    Onuigbo, who is also a member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), therefore urged international investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s huge market, adding that with the leadership shown by President Tinubu, the country would achieve great heights and attain financial prosperity in the emerging global energy economy.

    According to the former chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change, by aligning the country’s climate action with energy access, Nigeria would achieve a great economic goal and social development.

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    He therefore extolled President Tinubu’s exploits in attracting the hosting of Investopia in Lagos State next month alongside the United Arab Emirates as co-host, stressing that that event would further enhance the country’s efforts to attract global investors and accelerate sustainable investment inflows into the country.

    While noting how the President attended many high-level committee meetings on the side of the lines of the ADSW, Onuigbo who sponsored Nigeria’s landmark legislation, the Climate Change Act 2021, praised the President’s consistent attendance on such strategic global meetings on Climate action.

    “You will recall that while taking over as Nigeria’s leader on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu invited domestic and foreign investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s huge market assuring that the investors and foreign business will easily repatriate their dividends and profits home.

    “And, barely one week after taking office, the President signed into law the Electricity Act, where he promised speedy actions in energy renewal to ensure that the sector creates job opportunities for the youths,” he stated.

  • Onuigbo urges govs to implement financial autonomy for area councils 

    Onuigbo urges govs to implement financial autonomy for area councils 

    …backs Tinubu’s directive on govs to hands off LG funds 

    The member representing South East on the Governing Board of North East Development Commission (NEDC), Sam Onuigbo urged governors to implement financial autonomy for local councils in their states. 

    Onuigbo, a former House of Representatives member, said the directive by President Bola Tinubu on the fiscal autonomy for councils was a welcome development.

    He said that the low-level democratic benefits in the 774 councils in the past 26 years of fourth republic followed the undue interference by state chief executives in the running of grass roots governance.

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Onuigbo said he was very happy to hear the President’s passionate declarations in the presence of state governors and party men.

    He said, “What this means is that governors who have been tampering with Local Government funds should be prepared to show where the money went. Mr President is determined and from my understanding of the tone and tenor of his statement, some governors will go down for seizing Local Government money through various means.

    “I think this is a wonderful opportunity for me personally and the Nigerian people to continue to commend Mr. President for remaining dogged, determined, resolute in trying to resolve this issue.

    “Over the years, I have said over and over again that unless the Local Government system is freed from the clutches of governors to directly access the resources accruing to them constitutionally, we will not be able to achieve the much-needed development at the grassroots.

    “This is because, in the first place, when you allocate resources from the Ministry of Finance based on the constitution and in line with Supreme Court judgment, and these resources do not get to the local government, It becomes a huge problem with many ramifications.”

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    Onuigbo attributed the insecurity and unemployment at the grassroots to the unhealthy control of local governments’ funds.

    He said that if council officials are allowed to superintend over their finances, they would productively engage the youths and stop them from going into anti-social vices, especially violent crimes.

    Onuigbo added, “If we resolve the issue of governors’ unconstitutional control of resources accruing to the local government as the Supreme Court and President Tinubu have said, I assure you that that will help to stamp out insecurity, because council chairmen should and do know those who are capable of causing problems in their jurisdiction and easily rein them in with people in with those resources.

    “But, the situation, where in most of the states, the Council chairmen do not see the money and they are constrained by the dubious process that threw them up, they become helpless. This is why I continue to thank the President for standing very strong on this matter over the years, because since he mounted the saddle and the Attorney General of the Federation went to court on the matter, this administration has been saying that the Local Government councils deserve the full worth of their money.”

  • Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road: Ex-lawmaker counters Ubani

    Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road: Ex-lawmaker counters Ubani

    Former member of the House of Representatives, Sir Sam Onuigbo, has debunked claims by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, that the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene Road project has been abandoned, describing the allegations as “false, misleading, and deliberately sensational.”

    Onuigbo represented Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency from 2015 to 2023 and currently represents the people of the South East on the Board of North East Development Commission (NEDC).

    At a press conference in Abuja, Onuigbo addressed what he termed “spurious allegations” raised in a petition by Ubani to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, dated April 7, 2025.

    He insisted that work on the strategic road project was ongoing, contrary to the picture of abandonment painted by Ubani.

    “I wish to state that contrary to Ubani’s false claim that the project has been abandoned, the reality on ground is that construction is in progress,” Onuigbo said.

    He provided details of the progress made, noting that since June 2023—shortly after the Tinubu administration assumed office—8.42 kilometers of failed road sections have been rehabilitated, while 4.47 kilometers of concrete work and drains have also been completed.

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    He added that between January and March 2025 alone, 880 meters of asphalt binder course, 3.22 kilometers of wearing course, and 1.53 kilometers of concrete drains have been executed.

    Onuigbo further recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC), under President Tinubu’s leadership, approved an additional N14.37 billion for the project on February 3, 2025, a move he said signified the administration’s commitment to its completion.

    He accused Ubani of intentionally ignoring these facts and pursuing a narrative aimed at undermining the credibility of the Tinubu-led government and its flagship ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.

    “To describe this vital artery as a ‘death trap’ and ‘nearly impassable’ is not just an exaggeration but a calculated distortion. This is designed to provoke undue alarm rather than foster constructive dialogue,” Onuigbo said.

    The former lawmaker noted that this was not the first time Ubani had made similar claims, pointing out that in 2021 and again in 2023, the lawyer had issued petitions claiming abandonment of the same road project, claims which, Onuigbo said, were found to be untrue.

    He questioned Ubani’s motives, noting that despite being a Labour Party chieftain and an appointee of the Abia State Government, he also holds a position as Senior Special Adviser to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio of the APC.

    “It beggars belief that such a senior lawyer could draw stipends from an APC-controlled government while making bold efforts to de-market the party at home,” Onuigbo said.

    He emphasized that the contractor, Hartland Construction Company, has remained on site and continues to work, albeit facing challenges typical of large-scale federal infrastructure projects. These include logistical constraints, environmental barriers, and funding delays.

    Onuigbo praised the intervention by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in supporting the road’s development, describing it as a “testament to the Tinubu administration’s resolve” to complete the project.

  • Climate change: Onuigbo lauds Tinubu’s leadership, clear actions

    Climate change: Onuigbo lauds Tinubu’s leadership, clear actions

    The Chairman, Committee on Security, Climate Change and Special Interventions, North East Development Commission, Hon Sam Onuigbo, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership in tackling climate change.

    The sponsor of Nigeria‘s Climate Change Act gave the commendation during the launch of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Implementation Framework in Abuja.

    Onuigbo, who is also the member(South East) Governing Board of the Commission, said the President has activated the Climate Change Act through his speeches, pronouncements, and clear actions.

    “The good news today is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has comprehensively activated the Climate Change Act through his speeches, pronouncements, and clear actions.

    “His leadership in tackling climate change and also in recognising the opportunities that abound is worthy of recognition, commendation, and emulation. Therefore, achieving this strategic milestone is a sure path towards attaining our 2050-2070 net-zero target as provided in the Act,” he said.

    He expressed pleasure to be part of the launch, which be described as an important ceremony.

    “I am happy because what we started on a small scale, when there was little or no awareness, is truly moving in the right direction in a gradual but steady manner.

    “Right away, I would like to congratulate the Director-General and the leadership of the  National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), the Federal Ministry of Environment,  NDC Partnership, and other facilitators–local and international. 

    “Today’s event is unique for many reasons, prominent among which is to recall that the Honourable Minister of Environment unveiled the Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) during COP28 in December,  2023 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

    “That landmark event at the global stage was followed by several other activities in Nigeria, including the high-level presentation and socialisation of the LT-LEDS on May 8, 2024.

    “Today, as a humble public servant of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the sponsor of the Climate Change Act,  I am grateful to God that we now have a clear pathway towards attaining Section 1 of the Act which is aimed at “…achieving low greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, inclusive green growth and sustainable economic development.” 

    “According to Jane Bevan of UNICEF,  Nigeria ranks among the top countries where children are badly impacted by climate change. In the Act, we prioritised women, youths, and children. Accordingly, Section 26 clearly provides “for the integration of climate change into the various disciplines and subjects across all educational levels.”

    *Again, I congratulate everyone present in this hall and other Nigerians on this important achievement. I, therefore,  respectfully urge all hands to be on deck for us to work together in a productive way and arrive at our destination,” Hon Onuigbo said.

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    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen George Akume, said the NDC implementation framework is not merely a collection of words and ambitious assumptions but a testament to their collective vision, shared values, and unwavering commitment to the Paris Agreement.

    He said it also marked efforts towards fostering a sustainable future for generations to come.

    “As we gather here, we are reminded that the commitments made under the Paris Agreement are not just promises on paper; they are pledges that require substantial resources and unwavering dedication to translate into real, impactful actions. 

    “The framework which is a national tool designed to ensure coordination, transparency, and resource mobilization, raises awareness through 19 outcomes, 146 outputs, and 293 key performance indicators, presents a central platform for stakeholders to find Nigeria’s climate action priorities, support needs, and ongoing progress to catalyze and align for support.

    “Therefore, it is on this premise that I address you today on an issue that stands at the forefront of our collective fight against climate change: the mobilization of finance for the effective implementation of our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

    “The latest reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underscore the urgency of our mission. The window to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is rapidly closing. 

    “The impacts of climate change are already manifesting in unprecedented ways: more frequent and severe weather events, rising sea levels, and disrupted ecosystems. Climate change knows no borders and so these changes threaten not only the environment but also the socio-economic fabric of communities worldwide.

    “Our NDC Implementation Framework is not just a document; it is a roadmap for transformative action. It lays out the strategies, policies, and measures that will guide our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience, and foster sustainable development. This framework is built on the pillars of inclusivity, innovation, and integrity, ensuring that every sector of our society is engaged and empowered to contribute to our climate goals,” he said.

    The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, described it as a pivotal moment in the nation’s commitment towards tackling the threat of climate change and fostering sustainable development.

    His words, “Scientific Assessment Reports and documentations reveals the urgent need to accelerate efforts towards climate change mitigation and adaptation. Adapting to the adverse impacts of climate change in warmer future will be more challenging; especially for the developing countries.

    “The NDC-IF is designed to provide a robust and comprehensive Framework for implementing our climate goals. It will guide our efforts across various sectors, ensuring that our actions are coordinated, effective, and inclusive.This framework is not just a strategic plan; it is a call to action for all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and every citizen who is passionate about securing a sustainable future.

    “Our journey toward a low-carbon, resilient economy requires collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication. The NDC-IF will facilitate partnerships, mobilize resources, and promote best practices to accelerate our progress. By working together, we can create a cleaner environment, foster green growth, build resilient communities and create a precedent that would provide the lead in meeting other national development challenges. Therefore, we call upon Partners for much more collective support to march our Government’s ambitious target to achieve the Paris Agreement.

    “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to NDC Partnership and its members, everyone who has contributed to the development of this framework. Your expertise, commitment, and hard work have been instrumental in bringing us to this milestone. I also want to thank all of you here today for your presence and your ongoing support.

    “As we launch the NDC-IF, it is time to reaffirm our commitment to our climate goals and our determination to make a lasting positive impact. Together, we can achieve our vision of a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

    The Director, Country Engagement, NDC Partnership, Ms. Mariana Panuncio Feldman, said the NDC Implementation Framework translates Nigeria’s 2030 climate commitment into an actionable plan, encompassing the mitigation and adaptation actions to be taken by seven major sectors of the Nigerian economy.

    They are agriculture, forestry and land use, water, energy, transport, waste and industry, as well as critical cross-cutting enabling actions including in the development of MRV systems, the integration of gender considerations and the institutionalization of more effective collaboration mechanisms. 

    She said the Government’s ongoing effort to align the government’s net-zero 2060 pledge, the NDC targets, the Energy Transition Plan, and the national economic development agenda will further consolidate an integrated approach towards climate and development. 

    “Second, the NDC Implementation Framework has adopted a dynamic results-based approach to the coordination of climate action.  

    “Its 19 outcomes, 151 outputs and 301 indicators are organized in such a way that MDAs, as well as national and international partners working to deliver on Nigeria’s climate objectives will be able to access the framework online, and identify the areas in which they can advance implementation and provide support.  

    “On going interventions, New opportunities and contributions are being captured into the framework in a dynamic manner, so that progress towards achieving Nigeria’s objectives can be tracked and reported on over time and remaining gaps prioritized for further support. 

    “If both MDAs and partners contribute to keeping this system up to date, this tool will be instrumental in building a collective understanding of contributions and progress towards the delivery of Nigeria’s NDC.

    “Third, the NDC Implementation Framework can serve as a powerful national blueprint for investment on climate-development action in the country.  

    “The actions prioritized in this framework have been costed out. The full implementation of the NDC has been estimated at USD$ 189 Billion, and while considerable funding has been mobilized, a very significant funding gap remains.  

    “The effort is massive, and Nigeria cannot meet this challenge alone. The alignment of domestic finance with the country’s own climate and development priorities, and the mobilization of coordinated international support are therefore critical to support Nigeria in delivering its climate targets. 

    “This approach is directly aligned with what the NDC Partnership has sought to do – to mobilize coordinated international support for our member countries and match their ambitious commitments to climate action. 

    The NDC Partnership is an international coalition comprised of more than 220 members, including 123 countries – 109 developing and 19 developed – and nearly 100 international institutions, working together to deliver ambitious climate action to achieve the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.   

    “We are country-driven, with our central focus being to address member countries’ requests with a tailored package of expertise, technical assistance, and financial support from member governments and institutions,” she said.