Hon. Sam Ifeanyi Onuigbo, sponsor of Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021, has been honoured with a Fellowship of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria (FSESN). This recognition is for his contributions to climate change advocacy and action. Onuigbo, President of GLOBE Legislators International, received the honour at the 43rd National Solar Energy Forum/Conference (NASEF 2026). The event brought together prominent Nigerians and international stakeholders.
The fellowship acknowledges Onuigbo's efforts in promoting climate action in Nigeria, across Africa, and globally. In a letter of appreciation, Onuigbo described the recognition as an acknowledgement of his contributions to climate action. He highlighted his role in sponsoring the Climate Change Act 2021. This legislation established a legal and institutional framework for climate governance in Nigeria.
The Climate Change Act 2021 provides critical safeguards for climate action across various sectors of the economy. It advances the country’s commitment to climate resilience, low-carbon development, and the transition to net-zero emissions. The Act recognises the importance of clean and renewable energy in achieving these objectives. It reinforces the need for increased investment in and adoption of solar power to address Nigeria’s energy challenges.
Onuigbo said the fellowship was not merely a recognition of past contributions but also a call to greater responsibility in advancing climate action and clean energy development. He pledged to deepen his engagement with the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria and support initiatives that would expand solar energy adoption. This includes strengthening climate governance and unlocking the environmental, economic, and social benefits of the clean energy transition.
Onuigbo reaffirmed his commitment to translating climate legislation into practical action. He aims to accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition and advance the pathway to net-zero emissions. Solar power is central to this transition, with its potential to extend electricity access to underserved and unserved communities. It can also stimulate green industrialisation, create jobs, and reduce carbon emissions.
The shift to clean energy should be viewed not only as an environmental necessity but also as an economic opportunity and a responsibility to future generations. Onuigbo added that he is deeply honoured by this recognition and encouraged to do even more in the pursuit of a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world. The fellowship highlights the connection between climate legislation and renewable energy adoption.
Onuigbo reiterated the need to turn Nigeria’s climate commitments into tangible benefits through wider access to clean energy and sustainable development. The recognition places renewed emphasis on renewable energy sources, including solar power, as part of efforts to advance sustainable development and reduce carbon emissions in Nigeria. This development is crucial as Nigeria continues to grapple with energy access challenges.
Key points
- Hon. Sam Ifeanyi Onuigbo receives Fellowship of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria for his contributions to climate change advocacy and action
- The fellowship aims to advance climate action and clean energy development in Nigeria
- Onuigbo reaffirms commitment to translating climate legislation into practical action and accelerating Nigeria’s energy transition
