The Federal Government has restated its commitment to safeguarding the environment and to protect the Ozone to enhance clean environment and address climate change.
The Minister of Environment, Malam Balerebe Lawal, stated this at the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention and 2025 Ozone Day on Wednesday in Abuja.
The celebration with the theme: “From Science to Global Action “, was organised by the ministry with support from UNDP, UNIDO and many others.
“Today, scientific evidence shows that the ozone layer is almost back to its recovery, and we hope that by 2066, it would be back to its formal position.
“Nigeria signed the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol in 1988 and had since made key phase out target including the CFC and their lots.
“We have also rectified the Kigali agreement and will soon commence the implementation of this plan,” he said.
Speaking further, the environment minister noted that economic environment under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu has been very supportive in all our efforts.
“Nigeria is determined under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President to meet new obligations and safeguard our environment.
“We also remain committed to promoting gender equity and skill acquisition with the view to enhancing sustainable environmental welfare in Nigeria in line with Renewed Hope Agenda,” Lawal said.
He said that Nigeria owed the world a duty to save the ozone layer by strengthening policies, adopting cleaner technology and building strong partnerships.
“We also need to ensure that future generations inherit a safer and healthier environment,” Lawal said.
The minister further explained that the ozone was not for government, UNDP and other organisations alone, adding that it is for everyone on the earth.
Speaking, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Mrs Elsie Attafuah said that the day does not only celebrate global achievements but remind everyone of power of global cooperation.
According to her, the theme of the celebration speaks to the hearts of entire nations to protect the planet while advancing human development.
“It draws our attention to importance of both national and global efforts to save the ozone layer while recognising the critical role this adventure plays in slowing the pace of global warming.
“The three strategic reflections that guides UNDP partnership with Nigeria include, progress through partnership; climate health synergy and innovation for greener future,” Attafuah said.
Alhaji Ibrahim Jibril, the former minister of state for environment, said that the day was a reminder of the remarkable achievements of the international community under the Montreal Protocol.
Jibril, who is the 13th Emir of Nasarawa Emirate, said that as a nation, Nigeria had played an active role in global effort.
“I am proud to have contributed during my tenure as the former minister of environment in adopting the historical event and amendment in 2016,” he said.
Jibril was also applauded by the ministry for his contributions to achieving a safer environment. (NAN)