COP 28: Islamic Development Bank commits to humanitarian intervention in Nigeria under Tinubu’s agenda

In line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at mitigating humanitarian crises and reducing poverty in Nigeria, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has pledged its support. The commitment was made by Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, Chairman and Group Chief Executive of the Bank, during a high-level panel meeting at the COP 28 Climate Change Conference in Dubai.

Al Jasser stated that the IsDB’s decision is aligned with the objectives of the “Paris Agreement” and aims to enhance Nigeria’s response to humanitarian crises while addressing climate change adaptation through a fair, inclusive, and just transition conceptual framework and action plan.

Highlighting the impact of climate change on countries, Al Jasser emphasized the need for quick intervention to protect populations and scale up social safety nets. He affirmed the Islamic Development Bank’s readiness to collaborate with stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, civil society, and other development institutions, to harness the potential of the Paris Agreement for sustainable development.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, expressed Nigeria’s commitment to active partnerships and emphasized the importance of translating commitments and policy frameworks into concrete actions. She pointed out that Nigeria, under President Tinubu’s leadership, is deserving of IsDB’s support, especially given laudable programs and interventions related to climate change adaptation, humanitarian response, and poverty alleviation.

The Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund, part of Nigeria’s initiatives, was highlighted by Dr. Edu as a significant effort to reduce the poverty index and address humanitarian challenges resulting from climate-related issues.

Following the high-level meeting, Minister Edu engaged in further discussions with the IsDB technical team to finalize details of the compact agreement between the Nigerian government and the Bank. The meeting also explored new projects and programs that can benefit the country.