Niger State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Swiss-based climate organisation, myclimate, to explore opportunities in international carbon markets and strengthen the state’s response to climate change.

The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, is expected to create opportunities for the state to attract climate finance and develop initiatives capable of addressing environmental challenges, particularly flooding and its impact on agriculture.

Secretary to the Niger State Government (SSG) and head of the state’s delegation to COP31, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, disclosed the development during an interview, describing the agreement as an important step towards expanding the state’s green economy initiative.

Usman explained that the partnership builds on an existing relationship between the Niger State Government and myclimate, which he said had lasted for about two years.

He said the state government decided to formalise and deepen the relationship through the MoU to improve its access to emerging opportunities in the global carbon market and other climate-related programmes.

According to him, the partnership is also part of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s broader green initiative, which has been a major component of his administration’s development agenda.

Highlighting the environmental challenges facing the state, Usman identified flooding and its consequences for agricultural activities as major concerns.

He noted that Niger State’s location and the presence of four hydroelectric dams make it particularly vulnerable to flooding and other water-related disasters.

The SSG also recalled the devastating Mokwa flood disaster, alongside other climate-related challenges affecting farming and agricultural communities across the state, stressing the need for stronger mitigation measures.

Usman said participation in COP31 had provided the state with an opportunity to identify potential funding sources, establish strategic partnerships and explore practical solutions to its environmental challenges.

He further disclosed that the newly signed agreement had identified three thematic areas where Niger State could benefit from carbon market opportunities.

Under the arrangement, myclimate is expected to work with the state government to facilitate access to carbon markets and mobilise opportunities that could support interventions in the identified areas.

The specific three thematic areas were not disclosed, but the partnership is expected to provide a framework for developing climate-related projects capable of attracting international support.

The agreement represents another step in Niger State’s efforts to position itself within the emerging carbon market economy, where projects that reduce or remove greenhouse gas emissions can generate tradable carbon credits under recognised frameworks.