Nigeria Loses 2027 COP32 Hosting Bid to Ethiopia

Ethiopia has secured the right to host the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32) in 2027, outpacing Nigeria in a tight African bid decided last week.Richard Muyingi, chair of the African Group of Negotiators (AGN), confirmed the endorsement to TheCable, stating Ethiopia’s resubmitted expression of interest clinched the deal during AGN deliberations.“The matter was discussed by the African group in a meeting last week, and Ethiopia was confirmed as the host of COP32,” Muyingi said.Africa’s turn in the COP rotation is officially 2032, but the continent secured an early slot for 2027. COP31 remains contested between Turkey and Australia.Nigeria had aggressively pursued the bid since March, boosted by a visit from UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell. The environment ministry touted strategic gains, including spotlighting national and continental climate priorities.Ethiopia countered with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s pledge at the second Africa Climate Summit, highlighting the nation’s infrastructure, connectivity, and proven hosting of major events like African Union summits.Insiders told TheCable Nigeria faltered by failing to resubmit its interest when prompted at the AGN meeting, despite West Africa never having hosted a COP. Past hosts include Morocco (2001, 2016), Egypt (2022), Kenya (2006), and South Africa (2011).Mohamed Adow, director of Power Shift Africa, hailed the outcome: “Africa is the front line of the climate crisis. It’s great news to bring the world here to see that firsthand.”Adow praised Ethiopia’s track record, billions of trees planted under the Green Legacy initiative and heavy investments in hydropower, wind, and geothermal energy.“As host, Ethiopia can amplify African demands for adaptation finance, renewable access, and climate justice while showcasing the continent’s shift from vulnerability to resilience,” he said.

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