The Enugu State Government has joined the Subnational Methane Action Coalition (SMAC), aligning with more than 180 global regions committed to reducing methane emissions and advancing a net-zero future through climate-focused policies and sustainable development initiatives.
The Enugu State Government has officially joined the Subnational Methane Action Coalition (SMAC), a global alliance of more than 180 states, provinces and regions committed to reducing methane emissions and accelerating the transition to a net-zero future.
The landmark partnership agreement was signed during the ongoing London Climate Action Week in the United Kingdom, with the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, representing Governor Peter Mbah at the ceremony.
Speaking after the signing, Onyia said Enugu’s decision to join the coalition reflects the state’s commitment to addressing climate change while tackling critical environmental and public health challenges associated with waste management and urban development.
According to him, municipal solid waste, particularly unmanaged disposal sites, remains a significant source of methane emissions in rapidly growing cities across Africa.
“Methane reduction is not simply a climate issue. It is also a public health, environmental protection, waste management and urban development issue. More importantly, it presents opportunities for innovation, job creation and improved quality of life,” Onyia said.
He described the state’s admission into the coalition as an important step towards strengthening collaboration with subnational governments worldwide that are committed to confronting one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the modern era.
The SSG noted that under Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, climate action and sustainable development have become integral components of Enugu State’s development strategy.
He highlighted several initiatives already implemented by the government, including the establishment of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the development of climate-related legal and policy frameworks, and the adoption of the Enugu State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan.
Other interventions, he said, include large-scale urban greening and environmental restoration projects, investments in clean transportation through compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, and the construction of Smart Green Schools powered by rooftop solar energy systems across the state’s 260 political wards.
“These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to building a low-carbon and climate-resilient future,” Onyia stated.
Reflecting on Enugu’s historical role as one of Nigeria’s leading coal-producing regions, he said the state understands both the economic opportunities and environmental consequences associated with energy production and industrial development.
“Today, we are committed to writing a new chapter—one in which environmental stewardship, economic development, public health and climate action advance together,” he added.
Onyia assured coalition members that Enugu was joining SMAC not only as a participant but as an active partner willing to learn, collaborate and implement practical climate solutions.
He disclosed that membership of the coalition had already begun yielding benefits through a technical assistance initiative titled ‘From Framework to Action: Piloting Subnational Methane Mitigation in Enugu State’s Waste Sector.’
The programme is expected to support the state in establishing methane emission baselines, strengthening institutional coordination, improving monitoring systems, developing a comprehensive methane action framework, implementing pilot mitigation projects at waste sites and preparing investment-ready climate projects for future expansion.
According to Onyia, the initiative demonstrates that SMAC is more than a platform for climate commitments, serving as a practical mechanism for implementation and measurable environmental impact.
The partnership positions Enugu among a growing network of subnational governments worldwide seeking innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve environmental sustainability and contribute to global climate goals.
Analysts say the move could further enhance the state’s profile in international climate governance while opening access to technical expertise, partnerships and climate finance opportunities needed to support long-term sustainable development.
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