RismadarVoice Reporters
June 5, 2026
The Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Svein Baera, has called on Nigerian businesses and government institutions to accelerate the transition from diesel-powered generators to solar energy as part of efforts to combat climate change and environmental pollution.
Baera appealed on Friday in Abuja during a World Environment Day event themed “Because There’s No Planet B,” organised in partnership with renowned Nigerian artist Nike Davies-Okundaye.
The ambassador described climate change, pollution and environmental degradation as global challenges that require collective action from governments, businesses and citizens.
According to him, excessive plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions continue to threaten the planet, making it necessary for countries to work together in reducing environmental harm and promoting sustainable development.
He identified solar energy as a practical and cleaner alternative to the diesel generators widely used across Nigeria, noting that the country has abundant sunlight that can support large-scale renewable energy adoption.
Baera disclosed that Norwegian companies are already supporting Nigeria’s energy transition by providing solar technology and clean energy solutions to businesses, helping them reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
He also highlighted Norway’s Energy for Development programme, which focuses on transferring technical expertise to Nigeria to help reduce emissions, particularly within the oil and gas sector.
The envoy stressed the importance of stronger international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges and called on both Norwegian and Nigerian private sector operators to invest more aggressively in renewable energy technologies.
Beyond government and corporate action, Baera urged individuals to adopt environmentally responsible habits, including proper waste disposal and efforts to reduce pollution in their communities.
Speaking at the event, Nike Davies-Okundaye encouraged Nigerians to embrace recycling and creative entrepreneurship as tools for environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.
She explained that materials commonly regarded as waste, including plastic bottles, textiles, tea bags and fruit peels, can be transformed into valuable products such as artworks, fashion items and household decorations.
According to her, recycling creates employment opportunities across multiple sectors, benefiting waste collectors, artisans, transporters and creative entrepreneurs.
Okundaye-Davies also challenged young Nigerians and media organisations to promote indigenous creativity and innovation, noting that recycled art and locally produced materials have gained increasing international recognition.
She expressed confidence that greater awareness of environmental issues and recycling opportunities would strengthen Nigeria’s growing circular economy while contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
