Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for urgent, practical action to combat climate change, warning that the global crisis cannot be resolved through rhetoric or conference-room declarations.
Speaking on Friday in Addis Ababa at the official launch of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), Shettima praised the East African nation for taking bold steps to address environmental degradation and climate risks.
“We have long accepted that climate change is not a problem to be solved in a conference room. It is a danger we must arrest with practical actions — with each nation rising to the occasion and responding to the unique ecological challenges they face,” Shettima said.
The Vice President is in Ethiopia on an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. His remarks were contained in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.
Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative aims to plant 20 billion tree seedlings over four years — a plan designed to combat deforestation, improve biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The programme has already established more than 20,000 nurseries and created hundreds of thousands of green jobs.
Shettima said Ethiopia’s efforts were an “inspiring blueprint” for other nations and reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the initiative.
“Ethiopia and Nigeria are the two most populous countries in Africa. This distinction means we have the largest stake in Africa’s future. More of our people are exposed to the perils of climate change, and we also face the highest cost of inaction.
“This is why we are not mere spectators in this fight. We are partners. We are participants. And we are prepared to play our part to keep Africa green,” he said.
Shettima noted that Nigeria’s commitment to climate action has been consistent — including pledges made at the COP summits — and lauded Ethiopia for setting an example that “illuminates the path for the world.”
In his remarks, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said African countries must take ownership of their environmental future and rely less on foreign aid.
“This year’s theme is ‘Rise by Planting’ and aligns with our vision to shock the world with what is possible through local initiative. We didn’t receive any aid to achieve our 20 billion tree target,” he said.
Ahmed expressed gratitude to Nigeria for embracing the initiative and described Vice President Shettima’s presence as a powerful symbol of African solidarity.
“With its population and rising economy, Nigeria can significantly elevate climate awareness and galvanize collective African action,” he added.
He also hinted at Ethiopia’s ambition to drive the climate agenda globally, noting the country’s upcoming hosting of a UN Climate Summit.
Earlier in the day, Shettima toured Ethiopia’s Unity Park, the Science Museum, and the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum — all highlighting the country’s rich history and commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability.
