Nigeria, African Group to demand drought management pact at COP17

Nigeria, alongside other African nations under the African Group of Negotiators, is set to advocate for a legally binding instrument on drought management at the upcoming 17th session of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP17) in Mongolia. Etim William, Director of the Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought Management Department of Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Environment, stated that this is a key African position that Nigeria strongly supports.

William, who also serves as Nigeria's UNCCD focal point, explained that the proposed instrument would establish a protocol for managing drought. Beyond drought management, Nigeria will also push for increased financial support to address national needs and fund its National Adaptation Plan. The country aims to achieve "land degradation neutrality" through enhanced support and partnerships.

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Nigeria, alongside other African countries, wants to push for a legally binding instrument on drought management. This is an African position, and Nigeria supports that position.

The UNCCD COP17, themed "Restoring Land. Restoring Hope," will convene in Ulaanbaanatar, Mongolia, from August 17 to 28. The conference is expected to gather delegates from 197 Parties, government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, scientists, and various community groups. Discussions will center on practical, investable solutions for desertification, land degradation, and drought, emphasizing how land restoration can mitigate instability, reduce displacement, and bolster human and national security in vulnerable areas. Nigeria anticipates sending at least 60 delegates to the conference.

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Land is our most vital infrastructure, underpinning food security, water, livelihoods and stability. When land fails, insecurity rises, through lost livelihoods, forced displacement and increased competition over scarce resources.