Nigeria's Onuigbo to Lead GLOBE International
Nigeria is poised for a major milestone in global climate diplomacy as former House of Representatives member and sponsor of the Climate Change Act 2021, Rt. Hon. Sir Sam Onuigbo, prepares to assume the presidency of GLOBE International during the 2026 London Climate Action Week in the United Kingdom. Onuigbo will become the first African to lead the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment (GLOBE International), a non-partisan network of lawmakers dedicated to advancing sustainable development and environmental governance worldwide.
Inaugural Nigeria Climate Investment Summit
His emergence comes as climate leaders, lawmakers, investors and development partners gather in London for a week-long series of events, including the inaugural Nigeria Climate Investment Summit scheduled to hold at the Mansion House, City of London, from June 23 to 26. As convener of the summit, Onuigbo is expected to deliver a keynote address outlining the objectives of the gathering and Nigeria’s growing role in climate action and green investment.
GLOBE International's History and Significance
Founded in 1991 by former United States Vice-President Al Gore, former US Secretary of State John Kerry and legislators from Europe, Russia and Japan, GLOBE International has played a prominent role in shaping global conversations on climate change, environmental sustainability and energy transition. According to an official invitation signed by GLOBE Legislators Chief Executive, Malini Mehra FRSA, Onuigbo will formally take over from Argentine parliamentarian, Deputy MC Juan Carlos Villalonga, during activities marking the organisation’s 35th anniversary at the London Climate Action Week.
Endorsement of Nigeria's Climate Progress
The transition is being viewed as a significant endorsement of Nigeria’s progress in climate governance, particularly following the enactment of the Climate Change Act 2021, widely regarded as a landmark piece of legislation in the country’s environmental policy framework. Since sponsoring the legislation, Onuigbo has remained a leading advocate of climate action, environmental sustainability and energy transition initiatives both within Nigeria and internationally.
Onuigbo's Recognitions
His contributions have earned him several recognitions, including being named among the Top 30 Global Climate Action Leaders by the New York-based Business Insider in 2023. He was also inducted into the National Assembly Most Valuable Parliamentarian Hall of Fame for the 2019–2023 period and honoured as a Worthy Ambassador of the House of Representatives by the 10th National Assembly.
Inaugural Address at UK Parliament
Mehra disclosed that beyond participating in the London Climate Action Week, which runs from June 20 to 28, Onuigbo will deliver his inaugural presidential address during GLOBE’s 35th Anniversary Reception at the UK Parliament on June 24. Currently serving as GLOBE Legislators’ Vice-President for Africa, Onuigbo will also oversee the organisation’s transition as it relocates its headquarters to Nairobi, Kenya.
UK Parliament Hosts Climate Leaders
The anniversary reception, to be hosted at the House of Commons by former UK Minister for Climate Change and former GLOBE President, Rt. Hon. Graham Stuart MP, will bring together lawmakers and climate stakeholders from across the world. Under the theme, “Building Political Resilience and Public Consensus for Climate Action at a Time of Severe Domestic and Geopolitical Challenges,” discussions will focus on strengthening international climate cooperation, accelerating investment and innovation for net-zero economies, enhancing climate resilience, regenerating nature and oceans, and mobilising society-wide climate action.
London Climate Action Week Events
Organisers said London Climate Action Week has become one of the most influential events on the global climate diplomacy calendar, attracting ministers, parliamentarians, business leaders, investors, local governments, academics and civil society groups. This year’s edition is expected to surpass the more than 700 climate-related events held across London in 2025, with major summits dedicated to climate investment, innovation, sustainable cities, energy technology and net-zero implementation. Activities will be hosted at some of London’s most iconic venues, including the UK Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Kew Gardens, Guildhall, Mansion House and the Globe Theatre.
