Prof. Ihendinihu Applauds Sam Onuigbo’s Visionary Leadership in Advancing Nigeria’s Climate Governance

Following the approval of the operationalisation of the Climate Change Fund by President Bola Tinubu, a Professor of Accounting and Taxation at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, John Uzoma Ihendinihu has commended former lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo for his outstanding contributions to climate governance in Nigeria, describing him as a visionary leader whose efforts continue to shape national policy on environmental sustainability.

In a message titled “Message of Commendation to Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo,” Prof. Ihendinihu praised Onuigbo for laying the groundwork for Nigeria’s ongoing progress in climate action through his sponsorship of the Climate Change Act 2021 — the country’s first comprehensive legal framework addressing climate change.

He noted that the recent approval of the National Carbon Market Framework, the activation of the Climate Change Fund, and the restoration of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) to the federal budget by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration were direct outcomes of the strong policy foundation Onuigbo helped establish.

His words ” Your foresight continues to speak for you, unlocking opportunities for Nigeria to attract billions in carbon finance, create jobs, foster innovation and strengthen our global competitiveness ahead of COP30 and beyond ”

Prof. Ihendinihu also recalled Onuigbo’s induction into the National Assembly Most Valuable Parliamentarian (MVP) Hall of Fame, describing it as a well-deserved honour that reflects the lasting impact of his service to the country.

Born in Abia State, Sam Onuigbo represented the Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, where he chaired the Committee on Climate Change.

During his tenure, he championed legislative and policy reforms that brought environmental issues to the forefront of Nigeria’s development agenda. His sponsorship of the Climate Change Bill, which was signed into law in 2021, remains one of the most significant environmental milestones in the nation’s history.