Dr. Mea Boykins, Lead Consultant for the North West Climate Summit 2026, has called for stronger partnerships, increased investment and sustained collaboration to translate climate commitments into practical solutions for Northern Nigeria.
Boykins made the call while reflecting on the summit, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, which brought together government officials, global leaders, development partners, private sector executives and other stakeholders to advance discussions on climate action and sustainable development.
She described her role as an opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s climate action efforts, noting that the summit provided a platform for stakeholders to explore innovative solutions to some of the most pressing climate challenges facing the North-West region and the country at large.
“Serving as Lead Consultant for the North West Climate Summit 2026 was both an incredible honour and a meaningful opportunity to contribute to advancing climate action in Nigeria,” she said.
According to her, the summit went beyond bringing influential people together, creating opportunities to build strategic partnerships, mobilise investment and develop practical approaches to climate-related challenges.
“The summit represented more than a gathering of influential voices; it was an opportunity to foster strategic partnerships, mobilise investment, and advance innovative solutions to some of the most pressing climate challenges facing Northern Nigeria,” Boykins added.
In her closing remarks, Boykins expressed appreciation to the dignitaries, government representatives, development partners and other participants who attended the summit, acknowledging their contributions and patience throughout the event.
She particularly thanked the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, who was represented by Hon. Dr. Mariam Masha, as well as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, represented by Hon. Dr. Konla.
She also recognised the Chairman of the Host Committee on Climate Change and Security and convener of the conference, Hon. Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement.
Boykins extended her appreciation to other senior special assistants, presidential aides and advisers, governors from the North-West, ambassadors, heads of state and the summit’s partners for their participation and support.
“I want to thank all of the guests who have been here, especially our esteemed guests,” she said, before offering a “resounding thank you” to participants for their presence, patience and commitment to the gathering.
The Lead Consultant also acknowledged those who remained until the closing session, expressing hope that attendees had received their takeaway lunches as the programme concluded.
The summit featured the participation and support of several government institutions, development organisations, private sector stakeholders and international partners, reflecting the cross-sector collaboration required to advance climate resilience and sustainable development.
The partners included the Federal Ministry of Environment, National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), North West Development Commission (NWDC), Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Rural Electrification Agency (REA), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), Solar Marketplace, Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre (NCIC), Lagos Business School, Georgia House of Representatives, and the Institute of Global Negotiation.
Their participation highlighted the importance of cooperation among government institutions, businesses, academic institutions and international organisations in developing climate solutions, attracting investment and supporting vulnerable communities.
Boykins stressed that the ultimate value of the summit would depend on the actions stakeholders take after the event, rather than the number or status of those who attended.
“The true success of this summit will be measured not by who was in the room, but by what we accomplish together after leaving it,” she said.
She expressed hope that the relationships established and discussions held during the summit would lead to sustained cooperation, increased investment and practical climate initiatives capable of delivering lasting benefits to communities across Northern Nigeria and beyond.