The Federal Government has reaffirmed that the green economy, climate ambition, climate action, and decarbonisation remain pivotal elements in Nigeria’s energy transition strategy, emphasizing the nation’s dedication to meeting its net zero objectives.
Olamide Fagbuji, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Technology and Operations, made these remarks in Abuja during the inaugural African SDG Film Festival. The event was hosted by Chanja Datti Recycling Company Ltd in celebration of its 10th anniversary.
Fagbuji acknowledged the significant hurdles Nigeria faces on its climate journey but highlighted the crucial role of targeted communication and advocacy in galvanizing both domestic support and international collaboration.
He pointed out that film and storytelling serve as powerful mediums to convey Nigeria’s climate goals through the authentic voices of its citizens.
“Central to Nigeria’s climate change and energy transition plan are the green economy, climate ambition, climate action, and decarbonisation. It is essential to engage in highly strategic communication and advocacy to inform audiences locally and globally that Nigeria is prepared to take decisive climate action,” he explained.
Fagbuji further elaborated that leveraging film enables youth, grassroots groups, and regional stakeholders to share their unique perspectives on the journey toward net zero, underscoring the adage that “a picture is worth a thousand words.”
Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, underscored the necessity of a just transition, stressing that Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels makes it vital to reinvest revenues from this sector into renewable energy development.
Leenknegt also commended Chanja Datti for its decade-long commitment, noting the company’s instrumental role in assisting the Belgian Embassy in Abuja to implement circular economy initiatives, including waste segregation and recycling.
He described the film festival as a timely initiative that raises awareness about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially with only five years remaining until the 2030 target date.
“Congratulations to Chanja Datti on their 10-year milestone. Their impactful work caught our attention during an EU-organized circular economy event. They guided us through adopting circular economy practices at our embassy here in Abuja,” the Ambassador remarked.
“By 2024, we became the first EU member state embassy in Nigeria to implement waste sorting. This shift required a cultural change among our staff, from the deputy ambassador to the cleaning personnel, all of whom had to be educated on the new procedures. Chanja Datti made this transformation possible,” he added.
“This film festival on the SDGs, initiated by Chanja Datti, is a commendable effort. With just five years left until the 2030 Agenda deadline, it is crucial to continue raising public awareness about the 17 SDGs, their targets, and the collective actions needed,” the envoy concluded.
Gabriel Onyebuolise, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Chanja Datti, shared that the festival was inspired by the company’s founder and CEO, Olufunto Boroffice, who envisioned using film as a catalyst for awareness and collaboration on climate action and the SDGs.
“Our focus is on people, the planet, and partnerships before profit. To inspire meaningful action, we must foster awareness, spark dialogue, and empower individuals to lead change. Storytelling and film provide a powerful platform to unite us in this mission,” Onyebuolise stated.
The festival showcased a diverse array of films, animations, and documentaries addressing climate change, sustainable development, and gender equality. Attendees included creatives, development partners, and members of the diplomatic corps, all contributing to a vibrant dialogue on these critical issues.
