Former member of the House of Representatives, Sam Onuigbo, has described Nigeria’s participation in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week as a critical step toward advancing the country’s international relationships.
Onuigbo, who represents the South-East geopolitical zone on the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission, stated that the country’s participation will also accelerate the country’s sustainable development and boost climate action agenda.
PUNCH Online had reported that President Bola Tinuhu, on Tuesday, attended and spoke at the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
On the sidelines of the conference, the Nigerian Government also concluded a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE to deepen trade and cooperation in renewable energy, infrastructure, logistics and digital trade.
However, speaking with journalists on Wednesday, Onuigbo said ADSW, one of the world’s leading sustainability platforms, offers Nigeria a strategic opportunity to align its national priorities with global climate solutions while attracting investment into green sectors of the economy.
“Nigeria’s presence at the conference signals our readiness to transition to a greener economy while addressing energy poverty, unemployment, and climate vulnerability.
“ADSW 2026 goes beyond being a routine international conference. It s a strategic space where climate ambition meets real investment, innovation, and action,” he said.
The former lawmaker, who sponsored Nigeria’s Climate Change Act of 2021, noted that Nigeria’s participation has been strengthened by the physical presence and addressses of the President at the forum in both 2025 and 2026.
Onuigbo commended the President for reaffirming Nigeria’s openness to global partnerships and commitment to a green and inclusive transition.
He said, “It is heartwarming that the President, in his speech, mentioned Nigeria’s readiness to partner with the rest of the world and extended an open invitation to investors.
“He also signalled Nigeria’s firm commitment to aligning climate action with energy access, economic goals, and social development.”
He further praised the President for announcing that Nigeria would co-host Investopia with the United Arab Emirates in Lagos in February, describing the move as a boost to efforts aimed at attracting global investors and accelerating sustainable investment inflows into the country.
“As Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, Nigeria’s development choices have far-reaching implications for the continent.
“Participation at ADSW allows Nigeria to clearly present its climate challenges, ranging from flooding and desertification to energy access gaps, while contributing African perspectives to global policy conversations,” he said.
He also highlighted the investment potential associated with the event, noting that ADSW attracts global financiers, development partners, and technology providers focused on renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, water security, and green infrastructure.
“Nigeria’s engagement creates direct pathways for funding solar and wind energy projects, waste-to-energy initiatives, and sustainable transport systems.
“At a time when Nigeria is pushing for an energy transition that leaves no one behind, ADSW provides access to investors seeking bankable green projects in emerging markets.”
According to him, Nigeria stands to gain additional benefits through the exposure of policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and youth delegates to global best practices in clean technology, climate resilience, artificial intelligence, and sustainable urban development.
“These insights are vital for strengthening local institutions and improving policy implementation back home,” he added.
Onuigbo said Nigeria’s participation also reinforces its commitment to meeting international climate obligations, including its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, noting that active engagement at ADSW enhances the country’s credibility and access to climate finance and technical support.
He stressed the importance of showcasing Nigerian innovation on the global stage, saying the country has a growing community of climate-focused startups and innovators.
“ADSW gives them visibility, partnerships, and the opportunity to scale their solutions beyond our borders,” he said.
Describing Nigeria’s participation in ADSW 2026 as a message of hope and responsibility, Onuigbo said it demonstrates the country’s seriousness about sustainability and underscores the central role of climate action in securing the future of young Nigerians.
“This is a step in the right direction for a resilient and inclusive Nigeria,” he added.
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