The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), in collaboration with the Department of Climate Change (DCC), Federal Ministry of Environment, has announced October 14, 2025 as the official release date for the second edition of the Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking.
The ranking—popularly known as the Climate Governance Scorecard—evaluates all 36 Nigerian states across five thematic areas: Climate Institutions and Governance, Climate Policy and Action Plan, Climate Project Implementation, Climate Budget and Finance, and Online Visibility.
Ahead of the launch, the Subnational Governance Performance Ranking Expert Review Panel convened on September 29, 2025 for its final session to authenticate and validate the results.
Raising the Bar on Accountability
Building on the success of the maiden edition released in 2024, this year’s process introduced significant improvements, including the establishment of a Review and Quality Assurance Panel of national and international experts to ensure transparency, integrity, and accountability.
In his address, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, President of SPP, expressed optimism about the progress made:
“I am pleased with the progress the ranking has made in strengthening subnational climate action.
“The strong cooperation of state governments and the extensive feedback we received from the first edition demonstrate growing political will.
” I am confident this initiative will continue to elevate the standard of climate governance at the state level.”
Expert Voices Call for Action
Chairman of the Review Panel, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba, described the ranking as a critical shift towards implementation:
“This is the most beautiful thing that has happened to climate change efforts in a long while. It is a shift from roundtable gatherings to practical implementation.
” I must commend the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Society for Planet and Prosperity for sustaining this initiative into its second year.”
Other members of the panel emphasized inclusivity and accountability.
Dr. Priscilia Achakpa, Global President, Women Environment Programme (WEP), and Ms. Gbemisola Akosa, Executive Director, C21st, urged recognition of states prioritizing gender and climate change, recommending special mentions for such states.
Mr. Olumide Idowu, Executive Director, International Climate Change Development Initiative, highlighted the role of youth:
“Youths must be integrated in climate action in practical ways. They bring innovative ideas and will bear the brunt of climate impacts in the future.”
Driving Subnational Climate Action
The 2024 maiden edition placed Lagos, Gombe, and Ebonyi States as the top three performers, with Borno and Ekiti tied in fourth place.
This year’s ranking process began with a national workshop on June 24, 2025, bringing together state climate change officers, directors, and focal persons to review the updated methodology.
The 2025 Scorecard enjoys funding support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) under its Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) programme, following initial support from the European Climate Foundation (ECF).
High-Level Launch Event
The launch event will take place in Abuja with the Honourable Minister of Environment, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), state governors, commissioners, NGOs, international partners, and development agencies expected in attendance.
About the Expert Panel
The Review Panel is composed of eminent scholars and practitioners, including:
Prof. Chinedu Nwajiuba (Chair), Prof. Olukayode Oladipo, Prof. Daniel Gwary, Dr. Eugene Itua, Mrs. Halima Bawa, Dr. Priscilia Achakpa, Mr. Olumide Idowu, Mr. Amara Nwankpa, Mr. Eghose Omoigui, and Ms. Gbemisola Akosa.
The ranking is expected to inspire healthy competition among states, attract partnerships for technical support and capacity building, and ultimately accelerate Nigeria’s climate action in line with the Paris Agreement goals.