Nigeria’s strong reliance on fossil fuels is a key concern in light of its commitment to international climate agreements. While the nation endorses a transition to renewable energy, initiatives like the Dangote Refinery highlight its continued investment in fossil fuels, which poses severe economic and environmental risks. President Tinubu’s administration’s actions do not reflect a genuine commitment to climate action, as Nigeria should prepare for a significant energy transition aligned with global trends and avoid the pitfalls of fossil fuel dependency.
Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels continues unabated amidst an ever-deepening climate crisis. The nation’s commitment to hydrocarbon energy is evident in the enthusiasm surrounding projects like the Dangote Refinery and the government’s simultaneous plans to license more private oil refineries while engaging in new oil exploration initiatives. Such a strategy not only poses substantial economic risks but also severely undermines efforts to combat climate change, which represents an existential threat to Nigeria’s stability. Despite Nigeria’s agreement, alongside 200 other nations at COP28 in Dubai, to transition away from fossil fuels by 2050, the reality paints a divergent picture. While vocal about its climate commitments, Nigeria continues to indulge in fossil fuel dependency, reflecting what some refer to as “both-wayism”—simultaneously espousing climate action while escalating fossil fuel consumption. Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to the dangers of climate change, as evidenced by President Buhari’s remarks at COP26, highlighting current disasters like desertification, flooding, and coastal erosion. Recent catastrophic floods in Maiduguri, which displaced almost 400,000 residents, illustrate the acute realities of climate vulnerabilities exacerbated by inadequate disaster management systems. The relationship between fossil fuel consumption and climate incidents cannot be overstated, yet Nigeria remains steadfast in its pursuit of further fossil fuel exploration under the Petroleum Industry Act of 2018, mandating continued investments in oil extraction. President Bola Tinubu’s statements reflecting on climate disaster in Maiduguri’s aftermath starkly contrast his previous characterization of climate change as a detrimental phenomenon. Although he has established a committee purportedly aimed at addressing climate issues, concrete actions towards mitigating climate impacts have yet to be observed. Fossil fuels remain deeply embedded in Nigeria’s energy framework, and despite global shifts towards renewable energy, the country’s trajectory diverges sharply from that of its international counterparts. Other major polluters like China and the United States are rapidly transitioning towards cleaner energy sources, whereas Nigeria remains focused on its crude oil production while modernizing existing refineries such as the Dangote facility that will exacerbate carbon emissions. As developed nations begin to close traditional refineries and invest in green energy initiatives, Nigeria’s strategy of expanding fossil fuel infrastructure appears increasingly shortsighted. Historical patterns suggest that energy transitions follow a predictable trajectory, moving from wood to coal, then oil and gas, and now towards renewables. Rather than preparing for this impending shift, Nigeria’s current policies risk alienating it from future energy markets that will prioritize clean energy technologies—such as lithium and cobalt production for electric vehicles. The pressing issue remains whether the Dangote Refinery will adapt to produce renewable energy alternatives, reflecting necessary shifts in societal energy consumption patterns. As Nigeria grapples with its fossil fuel dependency, critical questions arise regarding the nation’s long-term economic viability in a world increasingly hostile to crude oil consumption. Ultimately, Nigeria may face two profound challenges: an economic downturn stemming from diminished global crude demand in light of the shift to cleaner energy and potential withdrawal of foreign investment in its fossil fuel initiatives. As developed nations increasingly levy taxes on imports from carbon-intensive countries, Nigeria’s limited diversification in non-oil exports may further entrench its economic vulnerabilities. Should a global movement towards energy transition gain momentum, the future of facilities like the Dangote Refinery could become less certain unless they pivot towards sustainable energy solutions.
The ongoing conversation surrounding Nigeria’s energy policies highlights the nation’s overarching dependence on fossil fuels despite the pressing need for climate action. The enthusiasm for the Dangote Refinery showcases Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its oil-centric economy, even as international agreements call for a reduced reliance on hydrocarbons in favor of renewable energy sources. This dichotomy is critical, as Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters underscores the urgency for a transition to sustainable energy solutions.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s commitment to expanding its fossil fuel industry while espousing climate commitments underscores a profound contradiction, jeopardizing both its economic future and environmental stability. As global energy trends shift towards sustainability, Nigeria risks being left behind due to its entrenched oil dependency. Emphasizing the need to diversify and align with global energy movements will be essential for Nigeria to mitigate potential economic perils and reduce its climate vulnerability.
Original Source: businessday.ng
