Imagine a world where leaders from across the globe unite to combat one of humanity’s greatest threats—climate change. That’s the dramatic backdrop as Vice President Kashim Shettima wraps up a pivotal international mission. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Nigeria truly stepping up as Africa’s climate champion, or is this just diplomatic talk? Dive in to discover the full story and see if you agree.
PICTURES: Shettima heads back to Abuja from Brazil following the UN climate summit
Vice President Kashim Shettima leaving Brazil. Photo: X/Kashim Shettima
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has just flown out of Belém, Brazil, en route to Abuja, wrapping up his role in representing President Bola Tinubu at the 30th Session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference. This trip to the South American nation brought an end to a whirlwind of top-tier meetings all centered on advancing worldwide efforts against climate change and fostering sustainable development.
Held in Belém, the vibrant capital of Pará State deep in the Brazilian Amazon, the conference ran from November 6 to November 7. As a beginner to these global talks, think of COP30 as a massive gathering where countries share ideas and pledges to protect our planet, much like a family meeting to discuss cleaning up a shared home before it gets too messy.
The event was orchestrated by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, teaming up with the United Nations and various international collaborators, highlighting Brazil’s own vast rainforests as a key player in the discussion. And this is the part most people miss: Shettima wasn’t just there as an observer; he took the stage at the Leaders’ Climate Summit. There, amidst fellow world leaders, aid organizations, and top business figures, he delivered Nigeria’s powerful message entitled “The Rational Soul of Nature.”
In his speech, Shettima boldly pledged Nigeria’s dedication to spearheading climate initiatives not only in Africa but around the world, emphasizing that the continent’s voice matters in these global conversations.
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Delving deeper into his address, the Vice President spotlighted Nigeria’s active projects and redoubled promises to confront environmental hurdles head-on. He portrayed the nation’s climate strategy as more than lofty goals—it’s a serious, binding pledge to safeguard the Earth for our children and grandchildren, perhaps akin to parents setting rules to ensure a better future for their kids.
Shettima also stood in for Tinubu during a specialized side event of COP30 called “Climate and Nature: Forests and Oceans,” where he once again shared Nigeria’s statement, “The Rational Soul of Nature.” In this segment, he passionately called on international allies to acknowledge nature’s true worth as an economic asset. To clarify for newcomers, this means seeing forests and oceans not just as pretty landscapes, but as vital resources that boost economies through tourism, agriculture, and more— and then directing substantial, fair, and accessible funds toward conserving and rejuvenating them.
Now, here’s the controversial twist: While leaders like Shettima talk big about commitments and funding, skeptics argue that rich nations often promise aid but fall short, leaving poorer countries like Nigeria to bear the brunt of climate disasters. Is this genuine global partnership, or a case of unequal burdens? What do you think—does Nigeria’s leadership inspire real action, or is it overshadowed by unmet pledges from wealthier partners? Share your thoughts in the comments below; we’d love to hear if you side with optimism or doubt!
The Vice President is slated to arrive back home on Sunday.
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