Maryam Aminu
The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), in collaboration with the Center for African-American Research Studies (CAARS), hosted the First African Conference on Climate Justice at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.
Themed “Strategic Access, Mobilisation, and Equitable Allocation of Global Climate Funds for Vulnerable Populations,” the historic gathering brought together policymakers, scholars, traditional leaders, civil society actors, and international development experts to shape Africa’s agenda in global climate finance.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State, Hon. Ismail Mohammed Agaka, described the conference as a landmark moment for the continent. “While RMAFC’s mandate differs from that of CAARS, both energy and climate challenges are common concerns. Our collective efforts ensure better and timely results,” he said.
Dr. Shehu applauded CAARS for recognizing RMAFC as a strategic ally in the evolving discourse on climate funding. He emphasized that the partnership would unfold through the series of thought-provoking presentations and technical engagements during the conference.
The Chairman also noted that equitable energy financing for Africa’s vulnerable communities is critical for sustainable development.
Reflecting on recent constitutional reforms that moved electricity from the exclusive to the concurrent legislative list, Dr. Shehu noted the significance of empowering subnational governments to generate and distribute power. “This shift positions Nigeria to better attract and utilize global climate finance at both national and local levels,” he said.
In a keynote address, Prof. Nnamdi Nwaodu, Director General of CAARS and Chief Convener of the conference, called for a rebalancing of the global climate narrative. “Africa must move from the margins to the centre of climate finance conversations. Climate justice means ensuring that those who contribute least to the crisis do not suffer the most,” he asserted.
Prof. Nwaodu challenged delegates to move beyond statistics toward action, urging them to design frameworks that reflect the continent’s realities.
The conference featured robust academic and technical discussions, including high-level presentations from notable experts such as:
Prof. Ignatius Onimawo, former Vice Chancellor, Ambrose Alli University, who presented on climate adaptation, governance, and resilience in Africa;
Arc. Steve Nwaiwu, Principal Consultant at Delish Nature & Wellness Africa, who spoke on “Nature, Wellness, and Green Infrastructure for Urban Africa”;
HRH Eze Dr. Okechukwu Izim, traditional ruler and Head of Political Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, who delivered dual papers on “Cultural Reflections on Environmental Justice” and “Climate Policy and African Political Economy”;
Dr. Nwarieji Felistas, Director, Center for Circular Economy Technology Education, who was also in attendance.
A dynamic panel session moderated by civil society leaders and youth climate advocates explored practical pathways for community resilience and aligning global climate funds with local needs.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen Africa’s voice in global climate negotiations and advance climate justice frameworks that prioritize equity, access, and resilience for vulnerable populations.
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