Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Belém, Brazil, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30).

The global summit, convened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, will hold from November 6 to 7 in the city of Belém, capital of the state of Pará, in the Amazon region. This year’s theme, “Climate Action and Implementation,” focuses on adaptation, forests, biodiversity, and climate justice.

During the summit, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the leaders’ plenary, participate in the launch of the Tropical Forest Forever Fund, and join a roundtable on Climate and Nature chaired by President Lula. He will also attend a reception for Heads of Delegation hosted by the Brazilian President.

On the second day, the Vice President will engage in high-level discussions on energy transition and the review of the Paris Agreement, with emphasis on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and climate financing.

On the sidelines, Shettima is expected to hold bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s participation in the carbon markets — a move projected to unlock between $2.5 billion and $3 billion annually in carbon finance over the next decade.

Following COP30, the Vice President will proceed to Brasília for a reciprocal visit to his Brazilian counterpart, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, who paid a three-day visit to Nigeria in June. Both leaders are expected to deepen cooperation in defence, agricultural technology, energy, and cultural exchange — areas already covered under earlier Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

Vice President Shettima is expected back in Nigeria after the conclusion of his engagements in Brazil.