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Assessing the Role of International Climate Finance in Nigeria’s Clean Energy Transition: A Policy Review and Case-Based Appraisal


Authors : Olugbenga Francis Akomolehin; Oluwaremi Joel Bali

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 12 - December


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yrp3putw

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25dec829

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Abstract : With Nigeria facing increasing energy poverty and the need to shift towards low-carbon development, international climate finance also stands as an important catalyst for clean energy transformation. The paper investigates the contribution of international climate finance to Nigeria’s transition toward clean energy, especially in terms of the effectiveness of governance, policy coherence, and equity. Based on a qualitative research design, the study combines an indepth literature review with case study review of three climate finance funded initiatives: the GCF-supported project of the solar mini-grid, the SEforALL and the REACT Nigeria. Results suggest that while such interventions alleviate access barriers to renewable energy and stimulate community development, long-term potential is constrained by incoherent institutional mandates, weak monitoring systems and partial inclusion of marginalised populations. The paper also finds absence of vertical and horizontal policy coherence, and stresses the urgency of justice-oriented frameworks in shaping climate finance instruments. Utilizing best practice across the globe and lessons from Nigeria, the paper provides strategic policy suggestions for strengthening governance frameworks, mainstreaming energy justice, and fostering strong institutional coordination. In conclusion, the study contributes to a multi-dimensional comprehension of how international climate finance can be more effectively harnessed for a sustainable and inclusive energy transition in Nigeria.

Keywords : Climate Finance, Clean Energy Transition, Nigeria, Governance, Policy Coherence, Energy Justice.

References :

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With Nigeria facing increasing energy poverty and the need to shift towards low-carbon development, international climate finance also stands as an important catalyst for clean energy transformation. The paper investigates the contribution of international climate finance to Nigeria’s transition toward clean energy, especially in terms of the effectiveness of governance, policy coherence, and equity. Based on a qualitative research design, the study combines an indepth literature review with case study review of three climate finance funded initiatives: the GCF-supported project of the solar mini-grid, the SEforALL and the REACT Nigeria. Results suggest that while such interventions alleviate access barriers to renewable energy and stimulate community development, long-term potential is constrained by incoherent institutional mandates, weak monitoring systems and partial inclusion of marginalised populations. The paper also finds absence of vertical and horizontal policy coherence, and stresses the urgency of justice-oriented frameworks in shaping climate finance instruments. Utilizing best practice across the globe and lessons from Nigeria, the paper provides strategic policy suggestions for strengthening governance frameworks, mainstreaming energy justice, and fostering strong institutional coordination. In conclusion, the study contributes to a multi-dimensional comprehension of how international climate finance can be more effectively harnessed for a sustainable and inclusive energy transition in Nigeria.

Keywords : Climate Finance, Clean Energy Transition, Nigeria, Governance, Policy Coherence, Energy Justice.

Paper Submission Last Date
31 - March - 2026

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