On Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari urged urgent action from developed nations in particular to combat the effects of climate change in Africa.
On the eve of the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27), Buhari made the call while being represented by Nigeria’s Minister of the Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, in Sharm el-Sheikh.
He said, “Without a doubt, we are at a critical time with respect to the world’s climate future and our actions today and over the next few decades will determine the fate of future generations and the planet.
“This year, we have witnessed disastrous extreme weather events from terrifying wildfires in the United States, to unprecedented heat waves in India, Pakistan, and Europe, to intense floods in my country, Nigeria.
“For developing nations, particularly in Africa who, despite contributing the least to both historical and current emissions, are facing climate impacts to a disproportionate degree, the case for accelerated climate action is even more pressing.
“We need to see urgent and decisive climate action from the countries most responsible for the emissions that cause climate change.
“We cannot afford any more delays; our people and nations are on the line. The blame game should stop, affirmative and positive commitment to address these challenges must begin now.”