Global financial flows supporting clean energy initiatives in developing countries, including Nigeria, have climbed to $21.57 billion, according to the newly released UNFCCC Yearbook of Global Climate Action 2025, titled “Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action.”
The report indicates a notable rise from $12.14 billion in 2015, reflecting increasing international investor confidence in renewable energy, climate-resilient development, and sustainable infrastructure projects across the Global South.
However, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) cautioned that despite the growth in funding, access remains uneven, with the majority of clean energy financing concentrated in a limited number of developing economies.
In its assessment, the UNFCCC stated:
“Financial flows to developing countries for clean energy reached USD 21.57 billion, up from USD 12.14 billion in 2015, but remain concentrated in a few countries. Universal access by 2030 requires not just technology deployment but equitable distribution of capital and capacity.”
The report underscores a critical challenge facing many African and low-income nations: while global financing for clean energy is rising, barriers to access — including limited credit guarantees, weak institutional capacity, and high perceived investment risks — continue to slow adoption.
For Nigeria and other emerging markets, the findings highlight both progress and urgency. The increased funding signals growing recognition of their role in the global clean energy transition, yet the concentration of capital suggests that policy reforms, stronger public-private partnerships, and targeted financing instruments will be necessary to ensure broader and more equitable impact.
The Yearbook will serve as a reference point for ongoing climate finance negotiations ahead of key global climate forums scheduled for 2026.
