The National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) has validated the Just Transition Guidelines and Action Plan (JT-GAP) to support Nigeria’s shift to a low-carbon economy.

This is contained in a statement by Chukwumerije Okereke, lead consultant on the JT-GAP, on Wednesday in Lagos.

The validation ceremony, held on October 6 and 7 at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre in Abuja, marked a significant step toward an equitable energy transition.

The JT-GAP was developed by the Centre for Climate Change and Development (CCCD), Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ebonyi State, with support from ILO, UNDP, and UNIDO.

The two-day event opened with a technical session, where experts from government, academia, and international bodies reviewed the draft document.

Emmanuel Oladipo, representing Mr Okereke, presented the main findings, while Austine Okoh explored gender inclusion, youth empowerment, and social equity.

Stakeholders present included representatives of ministries, agencies, civil society groups, labour unions, women and youth bodies, and the private sector.

NCCC director-general Tenioye Majekodunmi described the JT-GAP as “a comprehensive, evidence-based document reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to a fair energy transition.”

She said the plan aligned with the nationally determined contributions (NDCs), the energy transition plan (ETP), and Nigeria’s net-zero emissions goal.

“The Just Transition is not merely environmental; it is a people-centred vision ensuring economic growth, social justice, and sustainability advance together,” she said.

Ms Majekodunmi urged all stakeholders to take ownership of the plan and ensure its effective implementation across relevant sectors.

Lead consultant, Ms Okereke, said the JT-GAP offered clear guidance on aligning Nigeria’s climate ambitions with its development priorities.

“Our report shows how Nigeria can unlock green growth and innovation while ensuring climate action does not undermine jobs and livelihoods,” he said.

He added that proper implementation would safeguard workers, women, youth, and vulnerable groups from the adverse effects of transition.

Participants included representatives from the presidency, the National Assembly, state governments, development partners, labour unions, and youth advocates.

They praised the inclusiveness of the process and the quality of the document, describing it as a milestone in Nigeria’s climate policy framework.

According to NCCC, the JT-GAP will guide the integration of social equity, decent work, and community well-being into Nigeria’s sustainable low-carbon transition.

(NAN)