Lagos State Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy.

Climate finance is changing—and so is the role of financial institutions.

Joining virtually from the Commonwealth Secretariat, Mr. Aurelius Nkonde and Mr. Knollis Delle explored how banks, development finance institutions and other financial organisations are becoming increasingly important in mobilising climate investment.

Their session encouraged participants to look beyond government-led financing and recognise the growing opportunities for local financial institutions to connect climate projects with capital.

Their presentation offered a broader perspective on where climate finance is headed and why institutional readiness matters now more than ever.

Behind every successful climate finance transaction is the right financial structure.

At the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic 2026, Dr. Jubril Adeojo unpacked the financial models that help move climate projects from ideas to investments.

Participants explored practical instruments including blended finance, sustainability-linked financing, green commercial paper and climate special purpose vehicles, while gaining a better understanding of how financial institutions can support climate investment through the right financing structures.

We appreciate Dr. Adeojo for breaking down complex concepts into practical insights participants can apply within their institutions.

The Climate Finance Leadership and Recognition Night marked the official close of the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic 2026.

The evening was graced by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, alongside commissioners, special advisers, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, financial institutions, private sector leaders and other distinguished guests.

Beyond celebrating the successful conclusion of the two-day Clinic, the evening recognised 20 organisations and individuals whose work continues to advance sustainability and climate action. It also featured the launch of the Climate Defence & Catalytic Fund (CDCF) and the Eco-Label Certification System—two initiatives designed to strengthen Lagos State’s climate finance ecosystem.

Here are some moments from the Climate Finance Leadership and Recognition Night.

One of the biggest takeaways from Day Two came from the participants themselves.

Several professionals from banks, insurance companies, pension funds, development finance institutions and regulatory agencies admitted that the sessions had changed the way they think about climate finance. For some, it was a reminder that climate finance goes far beyond environmental sustainability. For others, it was an opportunity to see how it connects directly with finance, investment, risk management, product development and long-term institutional planning.

As the day progressed, the questions became more practical. Participants wanted to know where the opportunities are, how institutions can prepare, what investors are looking for and how they can begin applying what they had learnt within their own organisations.

Sessions on climate capital, blended finance, green financial instruments and institutional action planning gave participants practical tools to begin answering those questions, making it clear that climate finance is no longer a niche conversation but one that cuts across every part of the financial ecosystem.

Here are some moments from the final day of the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic 2026.

One of the highlights of Day One was learning from experts who brought different perspectives to climate finance readiness.

From the speakers who led each session to the keynote speakers, goodwill speakers and our moderator, every contribution added to the learning experience.

Swipe through to meet the people who made Day One possible:

• Convener: Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi

• Technical Speakers: Dr. Adebola Odunsi, Mr. Emmanuel Ilaboya, Mr. Abiola Oshunniyi, Mr. Adégbóyèga Adébàjò, Mr. Aurelius Nkonde, Mr. Knollis Delle

• Moderator: Mrs. Funmilayo “FF” Falola

• Keynote Speakers: Mr. Akintayo Sanwo-Olu, Prof. Anthony Nyong

• Goodwill Speakers: Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi Shelleng, Mrs. Nnenna Anyim Okoro

What is climate finance without inclusion?

The conversations at the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic were strengthened by women bringing experience, leadership and perspective from across government, finance, development, consulting, sustainability, innovation, academia, the private sector and beyond.

Their questions challenged assumptions. Their contributions expanded the conversations. Their expertise helped shape the discussions throughout Day One.

Swipe through to see some of the remarkable women who joined us at the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic 2026.

Day One | Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic 2026

The first day of the Climate Finance Preparedness Clinic set the tone for two days of practical learning and honest conversations about climate finance readiness in Nigeria and across Africa.

From the opening session, participants engaged directly with the speakers, asking questions, sharing perspectives and examining what it takes to build institutions that are ready to access and manage climate finance. The exchanges reflected a growing interest in moving beyond the conversation to understanding the practical requirements for climate finance.

In her opening remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, reaffirmed the importance of equipping institutions with the knowledge and capacity needed to participate confidently in the climate finance space.

Throughout the day, speakers explored the policies, institutional frameworks and practical considerations that influence climate finance readiness, giving participants useful insights they can apply within their own organisations.

The Clinic continues tomorrow with another full day of learning, experience sharing and practical discussions.

Here are a few moments from Day One.