Abuja: Calls for a just transition to a green economy took centre stage at the African SDG Film Festival in Abuja, as Nigeria stepped up its climate action agenda. The festival, hosted by Chanja Datti Recycling Company Ltd to commemorate its 10th anniversary, spotlighted the power of film and storytelling in advancing environmental sustainability, gender equality, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to Voice of Nigeria, the festival also aims to maximise the impact of research, innovation and storytelling to increase awareness and ultimately improve lives and opportunities in the developing world. Speaking at the event, the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Pieter Leenknegt, stated that a ‘just transition’ is necessary for Nigeria because its economy is heavily dependent on fossil fuels. He emphasized the importance of using fossil fuel earnings to facilitate the transition and highlighted international support possibilities.
The Ambassador also commended Chanja Datti for its environmental work, including helping the Belgian Embassy in Abuja implement a waste-sorting program. He praised the company for guiding the embassy towards a circular economy and noted the cultural changes required to implement such programs successfully.
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Technology and Operations, Mr Olamide Fagbuji, noted that a green economy, climate ambition, and decarbonisation are key to Nigeria’s climate change energy transition plan. He stressed the need for strategic communication and advocacy to show that Nigeria is ready for climate action and highlighted the role of film in conveying these messages.
In an interview with journalists, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Chanja Datti Ltd., Mr Gabriel Onyebuolise, said the film festival is a dream and vision of Olufunto Boroffice, founder and CEO of Chanja Datti. He emphasized the festival’s goal of promoting awareness, driving conversations, and fostering collaboration related to the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on social impact and partnerships.