KEY POINTS

• Nigeria fights malaria with the Oxford R21 vaccine rollout.
• Security partnerships enhance maritime safety and counterterrorism efforts.
• Environmental policies target single-use plastic reduction and climate goals.

Nigeria is actively tackling critical global challenges with impactful initiatives. From combating malaria to promoting environmental sustainability, the country is contributing to solutions that benefit both its citizens and the world.

Combating Malaria through vaccination

Nigeria has taken significant steps to combat malaria, a disease responsible for over 600,000 deaths annually, with a substantial impact on Nigerian children.

In October 2024, the country launched the Oxford R21 malaria vaccine, developed by Oxford University and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India and Novavax.

Health Minister Muhammad Ali Pate announced the reception of 846,200 doses, with an additional 153,800 doses expected, totaling one million doses.

The vaccine program started its rollout from the states Kebbi and Bayelsa, with plans for a national expansion. The implementation represents Nigeria’s essential step forward in its battle against malaria.

Strengthening security partnerships

In a bid to enhance regional security, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have committed to bolstering maritime security and counterterrorism efforts.

During a meeting in Abuja, the leaders emphasized greater collaboration in intelligence sharing and addressing threats in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Guinea.

This partnership aims to tackle piracy and terrorism, contributing to global security and stability.

Addressing climate change and environmental sustainability

The Nigerian government works to achieve environmental sustainability through its policies meant to decrease plastic pollution.

The government has announced a ban on single-use plastics, set to take effect January 2025. The decision intends to reduce the environmental damage from plastic waste that poses a major problem in the nation.

Efforts are underway to ensure readiness for the ban’s implementation, including public awareness campaigns and the promotion of alternative materials.

Advocating for peace in global conflicts

Nigeria systematically works to support peaceful conflict resolutions on an international stage.

At the Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh, President Bola Tinubu urged parties to establish an immediate ceasefire to find peaceful solutions to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

The leader stressed that sustaining peace in the area demands renewed work focused on a two-state settlement. The diplomatic initiatives show Nigeria’s enthusiastic drive to support worldwide peace together with international stability.

Promoting sustainable energy practices

As part of its effort to match worldwide climate objectives, Nigeria is introducing measures to decrease carbon pollution in its oil and gas sector.

Starting January 2025, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission requires oil license applicants to demonstrate low carbon emissions and the integration of renewable energy programs.

The policy functions as a national and international climate strategy designed to link upstream petroleum operations with the country’s 2060 net-zero carbon emissions goal.

The nation continues to advance numerous initiatives which prove its resolve to tackle pressing world challenges including health, security, environmental sustainability, peace as well as climate changes.