Enugu State has strengthened its international climate action profile with its admission into the Under2 Coalition, a global network of subnational governments committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable, climate-resilient development.
The development marks another milestone in Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s efforts to position the state as a destination for green investment and sustainable economic transformation.
Enugu’s membership was formalised on October 27, 2026, through the signing of the Coalition’s Global Climate Leadership Memorandum of Understanding by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.
The Under2 Coalition, coordinated by the international non-profit organisation Climate Group, brings together states and regional governments working towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Membership is expected to provide Enugu with opportunities for international technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships and access to climate finance.
At the ongoing COP31 climate conference, the state is also positioning its development initiatives, including the New Enugu City Smart City Project, as part of its broader commitment to sustainable urban development.
The smart city project is designed to incorporate digital infrastructure such as CCTV surveillance, fibre-optic connectivity and smart traffic control systems to improve security, mobility and the management of urban services.
The state government has said the integration of these technologies into the city’s infrastructure from the early stages of development would support efficient urban management and create opportunities for technology-driven businesses and public services.
Enugu’s admission into the Under2 Coalition was facilitated by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, who has been instrumental in connecting the state to international climate networks and development opportunities.
The state has also recorded other climate-related initiatives, including joining the Subnational Methane Action Coalition, developing a State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan, and establishing the Climate and Development Investment Platform to coordinate climate investments.
Another major initiative is the proposed 100-megawatt distributed solar energy programme, estimated at about $200 million, which is expected to expand electricity access, attract investment and create employment opportunities.
The Under2 Coalition membership is expected to strengthen Enugu’s engagement with international climate institutions, development partners and investors, while providing a platform to showcase projects capable of attracting green financing.
The development further reflects the state government’s ambition to integrate climate action, clean energy, modern infrastructure and economic growth into its long-term development strategy.