The Association of Sustainability Professionals of Nigeria (ASPN) held its second induction ceremony in Lagos on Thursday, 24 February 2022.
The induction ceremony which was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry – with the theme ‘COP26 and Nigeria’s Net-zero Commitment’ – presented the inductees to the Association of sustainability practitioners.
In her opening remark, the ASPN Vice President, Ini Abimbola, commended the institute on its journey hitherto. She stated “although the concept of sustainability is relatively new, it cannot be overemphasised. From transitioning as an association to a recognised institute, ASPN through its members has been able to show concerns for social equity and economic development.”
Speaking at the event, Dr Sharon Ikeazor, Federal Minister of State for Environment of Nigeria, ably represented by Mrs Iniobong Abiola Awe, Director, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, shed light on the effect and consequences of climate change in Nigeria. As a result, the government has put certain measures in place such as the implementation of a Climate Change Act to avert these effects. She commended the support of ASPN in assisting sustainability adherence in Nigeria and further announced that the Ministry of Environment and its supporting agencies have developed an adaptation plan with strategic partnerships across the nation.
Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, a globally recognised scholar on climate governance and international development and the keynote speaker during this event spoke on Nigeria’s climate commitments and implementation readiness: analysing the facts and implications of the COP26 and Nigeria’s net-zero commitments. According to Professor Okereke; the nation faces a risk if the country does not constructively engage in green transition ( i.e. boost the economy through green technology, create a sustainable industry, transport, and cut pollution). Nigeria must move with the world into a greener economy with the national responsibility for all to come together and tackle this climate change by adopting measurable actions.
In conclusion, although Nigeria has made efforts such as the establishment of the Climate Change Act, joining 141 other countries to sign ‘the Glasgow leaders declaration on forest and land use’ as well as joining 100 other world leaders to commit to a 30% reduction of methane emission etc, there is still a lot of implementation, monitoring and capability building left to do. It is therefore a welcomed idea for active participation by organisations, NGOs, and sustainability professionals to strategically help Nigeria to achieve her ‘’COP26 and net-zero emission’’ commitment. The ASPN platform will always provide easy access to resources required to build capacity and improve the practice and profession of sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria.