The Senate committee on Ecology and Climate change has thrown its weight behind the Accelerating Pan-Nigerian Plastic Action for a Pollution-Free Africa (APAPPA) Initiative aimed at unlocking $20 billion climate finance investment opportunities for Nigeria.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, Senator Seriake Dickson said the initiative not only reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to the Global Plastic Action Plan but also demonstrates the country’s determination to lead Africa in implementing bold, actionable climate solutions.
Also, the Vice Chairman of the committee, Senator Ireti Kingibe noted that through the initiative, the country has a unique opportunity to transform how plastic waste is being managed and build a circular economy.
She said: “It is a timely and strategic intervention that the initiative not only addresses the environmental crisis but also creates jobs, fosters innovation, and showcases Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development. This I believe, symbolizes a clear path forward for our nation’s ecological and economic prosperity.”
Kingibe added that the project aimed at redefining Nigeria’s approach to plastic pollution and climate finance through innovative and inclusive solutions with a long-term goal to address critical environmental challenges, foster economic empowerment, and position Nigeria as a global leader in climate-smart innovation.
She added: “The APAPPA Initiative, which stands for Accelerating Pan-Nigerian Plastic Action for a Pollution-Free Africa, is a Circular Economy and Climate Change Innovation, Empowerment, and Eco-finance Accelerator designed to combat plastic pollution, mobilize investments, and create a sustainable pathway for Nigeria’s net-zero transition.’’
She stressed that by harnessing the power of community-driven action and innovative financing, APAPPA is on track to catalyse a nationwide movement toward environmental sustainability and economic resilience.
The Lead Climate Finance and Circular Economy Advisor to the APAPPA Initiative, Mr, Wilkinson Agih, said the initiative represents a paradigm shift in how Nigeria addresses climate challenges.
According to him, By integrating innovation, empowerment, and eco-finance, we are not only addressing plastic pollution but also unlocking unprecedented economic opportunities that will redefine Nigeria’s development trajectory.