President Bola Tinubu’s absence at the COP28 podium surprised many, but Foreign Minister Tuggar insists it’s a sign of Nigeria’s new approach: done with “fancy speeches,” ready for real action.
“We’re tired of repeating pledges,” Tuggar declared. “Enough is enough. Nigeria wants concrete action, not empty promises.”
This action-oriented shift explains Tinubu’s strategic silence. He chose to ditch the speech and prioritize “more productive engagements” behind closed doors.
Tuggar hinted at these engagements: holding developed nations accountable for their emissions and leading negotiations to secure “loss and damage” compensation for developing countries hit hardest by climate change.
“This focus on action aligns perfectly with our 4D foreign policy,” Tuggar explained. “Development and migration, both heavily impacted by climate change, are our top priorities.”
So, while Tinubu didn’t grace the COP28 stage, Nigeria’s message is clear: they’re done talking, ready to act, and holding others accountable for the climate crisis.
