Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021: A pathway to net-zero carbon emission, energy security and sustainability

The global push for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 requires countries to adopt sustainable energy sources, address energy poverty and promote energy security. Nigeria is grappling with an energy crisis, and the recently enacted Climate Change Act 2021 offers the prospect of addressing this while advancing energy sustainability. The study evaluates the Act’s potential in promoting energy security and global net-zero carbon emissions. Nigeria faces challenges in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and combating climate change, prompting countries to take domestic and international measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Through doctrinal legal research and conceptual analysis, the study examines Nigeria’s Climate Change Act, proposing solutions to enhance its commitment to global net-zero carbon emissions. It conducts a comparative legal analysis of climate change frameworks in Kenya, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, providing insights and suggesting reforms to Nigeria’s Act for Energy Security. While the existing laws are adequate, weak enforcement by regulatory agencies and a lack of political will hinder compliance. Public awareness regarding individual contributions to climate change is also lacking. The study recommends increased funding for regulatory institutions and proactive public awareness. Complying with the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goal 13 is vital for a sustainable energy future.