As the world gets ready for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil (November 10–21, 2025), Nigeria and other African countries are being encouraged to stop asking for climate funding and start focusing on building their own green economy.
Professor George Nwangwu, head of the Global Centre for Law, Business and Economy (GCLBE) and organizer of the Africa Climate Forum, told reporters that Nigeria should use COP30 to attract investors to its green economy. He believes this is better than asking for grants, which might not always be used properly.
Nwangwu, a law professor at Nile University, said no European or American country will give Africa money for climate issues without expecting something in return. He advised African countries to promote their green economy potential instead of begging for funds.
Expert Advice to the Federal Government:He explained that real change takes time and effort. It’s important to keep encouraging the government to do the right thing and help shape better policies. It won’t be easy, but it’s necessary to keep working toward this goal. These are small steps, but they matter.
He said progress is happening, even if it’s slow. Both government and private businesses need to play their part. The government must make things easier for businesses, and in turn, businesses must show where the real opportunities are in the green economy.
He added that the process to get climate financing is not simple. People need to be educated on how to access it. There’s a lack of information and training. Filling this gap is important so that even private companies can get the funds they need and act.
Bridging the Gap in Green Economy Funding:He said rich countries (the global North) are naturally focused on their own goals and are giving less foreign aid. Instead of constantly asking for help, Africa should invite investments into its green economy. The continent has great opportunities that can attract money, not just charity.
Even if aid comes, it will never be enough to fully support Africa’s green economy revolution. That’s why Africa should promote itself as an investment destination. Investors want returns, and that’s okay — it’s about mutual benefit. Most money in rich countries comes from private companies, and they want value for what they invest in.
Areas of Focus for Green Economy Investment
Africa has a lot of sunlight, yet it doesn’t produce solar panels — it imports them. Why not make them in Africa and keep the value in the continent? Africa has the minerals needed for green tech like batteries, so they should be processed locally instead of being exported. Other countries, like China, attract factories because they offer cheaper labor and good business conditions — Africa can do the same.
Opinion Ahead of COP30:Nwangwu said Nigeria needs to stop begging for climate funds and change its message. Africa should show its resources and business opportunities and invite investment, not aid. This way, Africa can grow its own capacity over time.
He also said African governments should support African-made products. For example, Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency should be required to buy local products, even if they’re a bit more expensive. This would help build up local industries and reduce imports.
2025 Africa Climate Forum:
The upcoming Africa Climate Forum, to be held in Abuja in October, will focus on this new approach — promoting Africa as a place to invest in green business, instead of just asking for help. The Forum is growing into a movement.
The Forum will have three parts: a main discussion session (plenary), a marketplace or exhibition space, and a “Deal Room” where people can showcase their innovations related to energy and climate change. The discussions will focus on how Africa can respond to climate issues in a united way, while taking advantage of global trends.
He said Africa must prepare with clear projects and use climate change not just as a challenge, but as a chance to grow. The exhibition space will let businesses show what they’re working on — like electric vehicles, solar panels, and other green innovations.
He concluded that the last Forum was called “Africa from Dependency to Leadership”, which is the direction Africa needs to go. The goal is for Africa to stop depending on aid and become a leader in green economy efforts.
