Nigeria begins talks to host COP32 in 2027

Nigeria has begun talks on its bid to host the 32nd edition of the conference of parties (COP) in 2027.

COP meetings are held annually to negotiate new measures and review progress on climate change. 

COP is organised by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). 

Africa is billed to host COP32 in the next two years, after Egypt hosted the event in 2022.

Nigeria’s interest picked up pace following the arrival of Simon Stiell, executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), in Africa’s most populous nation. 

Stiell, who is on a four-day official visit to Nigeria, met with Balarabe Lawal, minister of environment, at his office in Abuja, and discussed efforts to strengthen partnerships and position Nigeria for greater participation in global climate negotiations.

His visit, which comes ahead of COP30 in Belem, Brazil, provides Nigeria the avenue to highlight its readiness to host COP32 in 2027.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the ministry of environment said hosting the UN COP will provide several strategic benefits to Nigeria, including emphasising priority areas in climate action at both continental and national levels.

The ministry added that it will also showcase the country’s commitment to addressing climate change and increase global recognition.

“Minister of @FMEnvng @BalarabeAbbas_ welcomed @UNFCCC Exec. Sec. @simonstiell to discuss Nigeria’s role in global climate action & its bid to host COP 32 in 2027,” the post reads.

“Hosting COP would boost climate leadership, global visibility & economic opportunities.”