The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has made a strong case for fair and inclusive access to global climate finance, particularly for vulnerable populations across Africa.
At the inaugural African Conference on Climate Justice held on Wednesday in Abuja, the Commission emphasised the urgent need to restructure international climate funding mechanisms to reflect the realities of communities most affected by climate change, despite contributing the least to its causes.
According to a statement by Maryam Yusuf, Head of Information & Public Relations Unit, RMAFC, the event was held in collaboration with the Centre for African-American Research Studies (CAARS).
With the theme “Strategic Access, Mobilisation, and Equitable Allocation of Global Climate Funds for Vulnerable Populations,” the conference sought to highlight Africa’s urgent need for climate resilience strategies that are not only inclusive but also fairly funded.
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Representing Mohammed Shehu, RMAFC Chairman, Ismail Agaka, Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State, described the event as a milestone in the Commission’s engagement with global issues beyond fiscal matters.
He praised CAARS for recognising RMAFC as a strategic ally in advancing conversations around climate finance and sustainable development.
“While our mandates may differ, energy and climate concerns are shared challenges. Tackling them together ensures faster, more sustainable outcomes,” Agaka said.
He noted that the constitutional amendment moving electricity from Nigeria’s exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list marked a major turning point, enabling states to drive their own power solutions and improve access to climate-related funding.
Shehu further emphasised that global financial support targeted at vulnerable African communities is indispensable if sustainable development goals are to be realised.
He expressed optimism that the conference outcomes would contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s and Africa’s climate action strategies.
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In his keynote address, Nnamdi Nwaodu, Director General of CAARS and Chief Convener of the event, challenged Africa to shift from being a passive recipient to an active architect of global climate finance frameworks.
“We must no longer remain on the sidelines of these critical negotiations. Climate justice means ensuring that those who suffer the most from climate change, yet contribute the least, are placed at the heart of global solutions,” he declared.
Rejecting the repetition of environmental statistics, Nwaodu called for tangible action and policy innovation.
“It’s time to claim our seat at the table and shape a future that reflects the continent’s lived realities,” he stated.
