Nigerian climate chief honoured with doctorate

A leading Nigerian climate official has been awarded an honorary doctorate, drawing praise from industry leaders for her work in balancing environmental goals with the country’s oil-dependent economy. Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), was inducted as a Fellow and conferred with the degree by the Africa Institute of Public Administration (AIPA).The recognition comes just five months after she took the helm of Nigeria’s climate agency in October 2025.

‘Strategic and transformative’

In a joint statement, BYD Motors Nig Ltd and the Grassroots Center for Rights & Civic Orientation (GRACO) described the award as a testament to Mrs. Majekodunmi’s “impactful climate governance.”The organisations, which partner with the government to provide sustainable livelihood options, noted that the DG has brought “renewed vigour” to Nigeria’s mitigation and adaptation strategies.

The ‘Just Transition’ challenge

Nigeria faces a complex challenge-meeting global climate targets while remaining heavily reliant on oil revenues. Since her appointment, Mrs Majekodunmi has emerged as a key voice in the “just transition” debate—advocating for a shift to green energy that does not abandon those whose livelihoods depend on the fossil fuel sector. Under her leadership, the NCCC has:

Launched a framework for national carbon markets, secured Nigeria’s participation in the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance (BOGA) Fund Programme, pushed for increased climate financing to support small and medium-sized businesses.

Industry support

Chief Moses Ayom, CEO of BYD Motors Nig Ltd, and GRACO’s Executive Director, Armsfree Ajanaku, said the DG’s focus on climate finance aligns with their mission to promote “climate-smart” opportunities for Nigerians.”These significant strides in providing strategic direction align with the mission of reshaping public administration in Africa for growth,” the statement read.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the economic pressures of climate change, the NCCC’s efforts to bridge the gap between international policy and local economic survival remain under the global spotlight.