NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Nigeria issues N50bn Green bond to boost climate finance
Economy/Business , Environment

Nigeria issues N50bn Green bond to boost climate finance

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By Olawunmi Ashafa

Dr Patience Oniha, Director-General of the DMO, says Nigeria is taking a significant step in tackling climate change with the issuance of a N50 billion Sovereign Green Bond.

Oniha said this at an investors meeting for the Series III Sovereign Green Bond issuance on Monday in Lagos.

She said that the initiative aimed to fund environmentally sustainable projects and reinforce the nation’s commitment to the Paris Agreement.

According to her, the offer is a continuation of Nigeria’s climate financing journey following earlier issuances in 2017 and 2019 that raised N25.69 billion.

She said that the five-year Green Bond would provide funding for projects aligned with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“Today is about sensitising investors. This is the amount, this is the tenor, and very importantly, this is what we intend to do with the funds.

“We must give institutional investors an opportunity to ask questions, reflect, and begin their internal approval processes. This is not just fundraising; it is about our national commitment to sustainability,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the five-year bond, targeted at institutional investors with a minimum investment of N10 million, will be listed on the FMDQ platform.

Oniha explained that while the bond market in Nigeria is well-developed, price discovery would remain guided by market expectations.

Also, Dr Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Director, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, emphasised the urgency and purpose behind Nigeria’s green financing drive.

“Climate change is not a distant threat, it is here, and it is threatening humanity and biodiversity.

“The impact is evident in shifting weather patterns, extreme heat, disappearing Harmattan, rising floods, and desert encroachment.

“Nigeria is shrinking geographically, and we have no planet B. What we do today is a debt or gift to the next generation,” she said.

Abiola-Awe described the Green Bond initiative as part of Nigeria’s broader framework for delivering on global climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

She said that Nigeria was committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 20 per cent unconditionally, and up to 47 per cent with international support.

“These bonds are not just financial tools. They are part of a homegrown, innovative solution to climate finance.

“Through initiatives like the 2021-2030 Climate Change Policy, Energy Transition Plan, afforestation strategies, and renewable energy projects, we are building real capacity to mitigate climate impacts.

“The preparation for the issuance of this sovereign green bond underscores Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to environmental and climate action goals and initiatives, aligning perfectly with Mr President’s renewable energy agenda.” Abiola-Awe said.

She cited examples of projects supported by previous green bond issuances across various sectors including agriculture, energy, and transport.

“These projects, many of which were initiated with the first issue in 2019, demonstrate our progressive movement in mitigating climate change within Nigeria.

“I strongly believe, as the D-G has emphasised, that we are on a progressive path towards achieving a great deal in mitigating climate change here in Nigeria.”

She said that the proceeds from previous green bond issuances funded critical projects, including energising education initiatives in Nigerian universities.

“That project improved internet access, increased study hours, and ultimately raised academic performance.

“It is not always what you see on paper, the impact is multidimensional.

The Federal Ministry of Environment, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, has provided the policy and institutional frameworks for these issuances, which aim to support sectors such as agriculture, energy, transport, and forestry.

She said, “Our progress so far, and this third issuance, reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to consistent and sustainable financing for climate action.

“The time to act was yesterday, but what we are doing today is one of the biggest contributions we can make.”

The event also acknowledged Nigeria’s legal and transaction advisors on the Green Bond.

The Private Debt Market Makers (PDMMs) were encouraged to support the new issuance with confidence, especially with the successful repayment of earlier bonds.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Nigeria making steady economic progress amid reforms – DMO D-G
Economy/Business

Nigeria making steady economic progress amid reforms – DMO D-G

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By Olawunmi Ashafa

Dr Patience Oniha, Director-General, Debt Management Office (DMO), says Nigeria is on a steady path of economic recovery, driven by fiscal reforms, improved credit ratings, and targeted investments in infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Oniha said this at an investors meeting for the Series III Sovereign Green Bond issuance on Monday in Lagos.

She said that Nigeria had recorded notable improvements in its macroeconomic fundamentals, including stabilising inflation, gradual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, and a rebound in crude oil production.

According to her, global credit rating agencies, including Moody’s and Fitch, had upgraded Nigeria’s outlook, reflecting growing investor confidence in the country’s economic trajectory.

“We have seen improvements in our ratings. There is clearly a difference from where we were before.

“This suggests that the reforms are working, even if the results are gradual,” she said.

On inflation, Oniha said that while it initially spiked to 30 per cent, it has since stabilised between 23 per cent and 24 per cent.

“That stabilisation is an indication that the economy is responding to monetary and fiscal policies,” she said.

She stressed the importance of GDP growth and infrastructure investments.

“We have seen post-COVID growth, though we acknowledge it should be higher.

“That is why there is a strong focus on infrastructure through the three-year National Development Plan.

“It is private sector-led, and once infrastructure improves, growth will accelerate,” she said.

She highlighted the recovery in oil production, noting that Nigeria had increased output from below one million barrels per day to between 1.5 and 1.6 million barrels.

She said that reforms in the oil sector, which include the unbundling of the NNPC into a limited liability company, were yielding results.

Turning attention to Nigeria’s growing commitment to climate financing, Oniha announced plans to issue a N50 billion Sovereign Green Bond.

According to her, the bond, which follows earlier issuances in 2017 and 2019 totaling about N25.69 billion, is part of the country’s broader strategy to tackle climate change and support environmental sustainability.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

IBPLC unveils Kickstart initiative to drive economic growth 
General News

IBPLC unveils Kickstart initiative to drive economic growth 

94 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), has called on young Nigerian entrepreneurs to take advantage of its 2025 Kickstart initiative, to increase their contributions to economic growth.

According to IBPLC, the initiative aligns with the fact that a youth-driven enterprise will shape Nigeria’s future.

Dr Peter Bamkole, Chairman, Advisory Board, International Breweries Foundation, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of the company, made the call on Saturday in Lagos.

The Kickstart is the company’s corporate social investment programme, designed to identify, train, mentor and fund young Nigerian entrepreneurs, between the ages of 18 and 35.

The initiative targets priority sectors, driving growth and innovation, including retail, agriculture (rice, maize and sorghum) renewable energy, circular packaging, recycling and other viable micro and small-scale businesses.

Bamkole said the call for applications for Kickstart 2025, reaffirmed the company’s long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable economic development in the country.

“We believe Nigeria’s economic transformation lies with its young entrepreneurs and Kickstart continues to make a meaningful impact by reducing unemployment and promoting inclusive growth.

“We are looking for passionate, resilient individuals ready to grow their businesses, whether in agriculture, recycling, retail, or renewable energy.

“This is a chance to access the knowledge, network, and funding needed to succeed,” he said.

Mrs Temitope Oguntokun, Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director, IBPLC, said the programme represented the company’s unwavering commitment to building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nigeria.

Oguntokun said that by investing in the ideas and energy of the youth, the company was sowing seeds of long-term prosperity.

She noted that over the years, IBPLC had seen beneficiaries grow from small startups to employers of labour, hence the excitement to welcome the next generation of changemakers in 2025.

The corporate affairs director said the 2025 edition was structured as a comprehensive entrepreneurial journey from selection to receiving startup grants.

According to her, the process begins with a competitive application and screening phase, followed by virtual training in core entrepreneurship courses.

She said the training would be delivered in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University.

“Participants will then advance to an intensive business bootcamp, delivered with the support of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

“The programme culminates in the Pitch-Fest, a pitching competition, where finalists will present their ideas and its sustainability to a panel of seasoned business experts for a chance to win grant funding and ongoing support.

“Beyond funding, kickstart offers mentorship opportunities and access to a vibrant alumni network, ensuring that participants have the tools, guidance and community needed to sustain and grow their businesses,” she said.

Oguntokun stated that applicants must be running a business, either registered or unregistered; operational for no more than three years, or have a strong, viable business idea that aligns with the programme’s focus sectors.

She said the programme also gave opportunities for persons living with disabilities to participate.

Oguntokun disclosed that Kickstart has trained more than 1,700 aspiring entrepreneurs, with 425 business owners who received seed capital and mentorship in the last 10 years. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Oluwafunke Ishola

Father’s Day: Cleric urges fathers to be good mentors
Religious

Father’s Day: Cleric urges fathers to be good mentors

89 total views today

By Taiye Agbaje

Pastor Alex Ogundipe of Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, Daki-Biyu District, Kubwa, Abuja, on Sunday, urged fathers to be good mentors to their children.

Ogundipe, who is the senior pastor of the church, gave the advice while giving exhortation to fathers as the world celebrates this year’s International Father’s Day.

He said the essence of the day is to call the attention of the fathers to their responsibilities.

Enumerating the roles of a good father, the clergyman said a father must be a good mentor to his child or children.

“If a father fails to be a mentor, his child or children may end up taking advice from bad friends or become wayward through social media, which may in turn be detrimental to the society,” he said.

Citing from Genesis 18:19, he said a good father would mentor his children to know God, command and teach them in the way of God.

“He will provide for his household and love his household,” he said, citing the Book of Timothy 5:8.

He said the secret of success in a family lies in the readiness of a father to love and provide for his household.

Pastor Nathaniel Ayankanmi, who delivered the sermon titled: “The Father: God’s Steward,” also urged the fathers to be good mentors to their children.

Citing from Philippians 4:9 and Joshua 24:15, Ayankanmi urged the fathers to always be ready to pass the ordinance of God to their children.

“Be a good example of God’s proof and be obedient to God’s words,” he said.

The cleric, who gave three ways to be a steward of God, said, “the fathers must be pure, must be kingdom-intended and must not love the world.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Father’s Day is celebrated across the globe on the third Sunday of June of every year.

It is an opportunity for every child to thank the man who has always been there to support them and help them prosper in life.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday
General News

Tinubu pays tribute to Abdulsalami Abubakar on 83rd birthday

113 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday paid tribute to Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd.) on his 83rd birthday.

In the tribute personally written by Tinubu, he saluted Abubakar for his service to Nigeria, both in uniform and in retirement.

He commended his commitment to peace, stability, and good governance across the African continent.

“Gen. Abubakar’s legacy, particularly his role in leading Nigeria through a peaceful transition to democratic rule in 1999, remains a watershed moment in the nation’s history.

“His selfless act of handing over power paved the way for Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and strengthened the principle of constitutional democracy.

“As Chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abubakar has continued to play a significant role in promoting dialogue, defusing tension, and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria,” the President wrote.

He said Abubakar’s voice of moderation, reason, and statesmanship was deeply valued at a time where unity and leadership were more critical than ever.

Tinubu described Abubakar as a patriot of uncommon integrity whose service inspired generations of Nigerians in public life.

“As he marks another year of life, Nigeria honours his sacrifices, wisdom, and unyielding devotion to the peace and unity of our great nation.

“I wish the former Head of State continued strength, good health, and divine grace in the years ahead,” Tinubu said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection
Science & Tech

BPP, NDPC partner to strengthen data protection

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

Dr Adebowale Adedokun, Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), has reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to data protection in Nigeria.

He disclosed this in a statement on Saturday by Zira Nagga, Head of Public Relations, BPP, following a courtesy visit by a delegation from the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

Adedokun stressed that data protection is vital to Nigeria’s economy and development, particularly in areas such as demography, health, education, and other key sectors.

He emphasised that no country should leave its data unprotected, as it plays a crucial role in future planning and national development.

“Data governs the world. It is essential to technological progress and must be protected for a country or business to be taken seriously,” he said.

Adedokun described the visit, aimed at fostering partnership on data policy implementation and protection, as timely and aligned with national goals.

He said the BPP would collaborate closely with the NDPC to boost data development, capacity building, and enhance the procurement system.

“The BPP will support compliance as part of the ‘Nigeria First’ Policy, although it is not a core procurement eligibility requirement,” he explained.

He suggested a hybrid training model to help build strong capacity in data protection, privacy awareness, and policy understanding.

According to him, a dynamic training approach will reduce logistics costs and improve public confidence in data safety and privacy.

Dr Vincent Olatunji, NDPC CEO and Pioneer National Commissioner, praised Adedokun and the BPP for supporting data protection initiatives.

He said the partnership supports President Bola Tinubu’s vision and will strengthen data privacy across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“The collaboration will create awareness and train BPP staff to ensure a firm grasp of data protection principles and policies,” he stated.

Olatunji said the NDPC would establish a working group to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding beneficial to both institutions.

He added that President Tinubu signed the NDPC into law on 12 June 2023 to uphold citizens’ rights and protect national and business data.

Olatunji also noted that strict legal measures were in place to enforce data protection and ensure full compliance nationwide.

Both agencies agreed to form a team to sign the MoU and focus on capacity building and data management in procurement and beyond. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation
Environment

GreenHubAfrica to empower 50,000 youths on climate-smart innovation

111 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

The GreenHubAfrica Foundation, an NGO, has unveiled a Climate Action SuperHeroes (CASH) Youth Network, a digital-first platform, to train and empower 50,000 young change makers on climate-smart innovation and circular-economy enterprises.

GreenHubAfrica, which promotes environmental sustainability, inaugurated the network on Saturday in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2025 World Environment Day and Exhibition popularly known as WEDex.

Mr Henry Bassey, Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, identified the vision and mission of the foundation as a greener and more sustainable continent.

Bassey said waste management value chain had huge employment and empowerment opportunities adding that youth engagement in the sector had huge economic benefits.

He said the organisation’s 2024 CASH school outreach topped performers list as participants continued to demonstrate the knowledge they acquired through the programme.

Bassey said WEDex, which started as a virtual event in 2020 due to restrictions of COVID-19 lockdown, had become a movement.

He identified 2025 edition of WEDex as another milestone after five years of COVID-19 devastation.

Bassey said WEDex had grown to become a highly sought after platform with annual events on the platforms including webinars, podcasts and outcome capture sessions resulting in documented blueprint to climate action from the young and old.

“In 1972, the United Nations designated June 5 as World Environment Day, marking the start of a global movement to raise awareness and accelerate action for the protection of our environment.

“WEDex 2025 stands not merely as an event, but a movement—a bold expression of action and accountability.

“What once began as a webinar series during lockdown has matured into a one-day, high-level engagement that merges conversation with consequence.

“The platform will focus on unpacking thought leadership Ideas to deliver solutions that overcome complex environmental challenges, through practical reforms,” he said.

Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, President, Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), identified plastic pollution as the second municipal solid waste challenge regarding waste management in the country.

Okobia said that waste management was a crisis that required the concerted efforts of all and sundry to put a stop to plastic waste.

The president, who identified the private sector as key in ending plastic waste in the country, urged the government to give the sector the opportunity and enabling environment to thrive.

“So, if we must put a stop to plastic pollution, we must look at where the gaps are; if you separate your waste, you separate your recycled waste from your biodegradable, who evacuates them?

“Where are they evacuating them to? Is it the recycling facility? Or is there a landfill site? That is the challenge; so, we should not just go on to speak about plastic pollution.

“We should look at how we can cover those gaps, and make it work; those in the government, private sector and civil society groups, we must come together,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Environment Day is commemorated annually on June 5.

The theme for 2025 is “Beat Plastic Pollution”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland
General News

Rep member, Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland

112 total views today

By Abiodun Lawal

Hon. Gboyega Isiaka, House of Representatives member, representing Yewa North/ Imeko Afon Federal constituency was on Saturday, installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland by Yewa Muslim Community Organisation.

In his acceptance speech at the turbarning and conferment ceremony held in Imeko Afon, Isiaka expressed gratitude to the League of Imams and Alfas of Yewaland for counting him worthy of the noble responsibility.

He noted that the title was rich in spiritual significance and historical depth.

The lawmaker pledged to lead by example in faith, to support the Ummah in truth and to recommit himself to the advancement of Islam in the region.

According to him, the essence of faith is service to Allah, describing Islam as a complete and beautiful way of life, whose principles are based on truth, justice, compassion, and accountability.

“If we claim to be faithful, we must also be useful. That is the foundation upon which I embrace this role.

“Today, as I accept the title of Seriki Adinni of Yewaland, I do so with the full consciousness that titles may decorate a person, but it is service that dignifies the title,” he said.

Isiaka, the Chairman, House Committee on National Planning and Economic Development, stated that religion plays a crucial role in national growth and development, adding that religion should unite and not divide us.

“We must ensure that we continue to preach unity through religion. We are united by the fact that we want development as a country.

“We are united by the fact that we want progress. We are united by the fact that we want a greater Nigeria. Whichever religion you practice is your choice,” he said.

In his remarks, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun explained that the recognition of Isiaka by Yewa Muslims community was timely and richly deserving.

Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele , opined that the newly installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland exemplifies humility, integrity and discipline.

“He has remained a dignify ambassador of Imeko, Yewaland and of Ogun West grounded, principle and always committed to the progress of his people.

“As the Seriki Adinni , I have no doubt that he will bring qualities to strengthen unity and spiritual growth of the Yewa Muslim community, ” he said.

Dignitaries at the event included members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers and Islamic religious leaders. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yetunde Fatungase

DEPOWA President urges military wives to stay active, stress-free
Health

DEPOWA President urges military wives to stay active, stress-free

88 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Mrs Oghogho Musa, President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), has urged wives of military and police personnel to remain active and avoid stress to stay healthy.

Musa made the call during the DEPOWA monthly aerobics for health titled, “Dance to De-Stress”, on Saturday in Abuja.

She said the women must continue to undertake any physical activity that would help them to be active and keep them away from stress and other diseases.

“That is why we are dancing to distress. If you cannot run or walk, you can dance to keep active.

“So I want to encourage every one of you to keep this in mind because you can play music at home to keep being active.

“When you dance, you are actually sweating and having fun, keeping fit, and at the same time burning those unnecessary fats in the body, and keeping healthy and active at the same time.

“Please, let us keep dancing and keep being active. Being active cannot be over-exercised because it will do you and your body a lot of good.

“And remember, when you do this, you are investing into the future. The Lord will keep you strong, healthy, to keep being active,” she said.

DEPOWA President said the exercise was necessary for military wives because of the responsibility of keeping the home front and others owing to the constant absence of their husbands.

Dr Juliet Ango, Consultant Public Health Physician and Chairperson, Health and Sports Committee of DEPOWA, said that stress was actually the phenomenon that people often underrated or looked down on.

Ango said that stress had a direct impact on mental and physical health, adding that people could come down with hypertension and so many other issues that had to do with their physical health as a result of stress.

She urged the women to be intentional in the effort to de-stress, by taking time to unwind, engage in exercise or sports. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Yakubu Uba

Expert urges men on preventive care against prostate cancer risks
Health

Expert urges men on preventive care against prostate cancer risks

136 total views today

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Dr Sandra Nnamani, a public health expert, has urged men on preventive measures and active surveillance to mitigate prostate cancer risks and other health concerns.

Nnamani, Assistant General Manager,  Anchor HMO International Company Ltd., said this at the CWAY water Ltd., Men’s Day event on Friday in Lagos.

The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm.

The health expert listed its symptoms to include trouble urinating, decreased force in the stream of urine, blood in urine and semen and abdominal pain.

She stated that in advanced cases, symptoms such as bone pain, weight loss, and erectile dysfunction among others presented themselves.

Nnamani stated that prostate cancer risk factors for men were old age, black race, family history, obesity and smoking.

She, however, said the disease could be managed by active surveillance.

According to her, with this approach, men get screenings, scans and biopsies every one to three years to monitor cancer development and growth.

“Active surveillance works best if the cancer is only in the prostate, slow-growing and not causing symptoms.

“Other processes to address same may be radiotherapy, immunotherapy, brachytherapy and prostatectomy,” she said.

Nnamani noted that to support prostate cancer prevention, men must embrace annual checks provided by their companies in collaboration with their Health Maintenance Organisations.

She added that men must get regular prostate screening, quit smoking, choose a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

“Beyond the everyday hustle and bills, men must begin to take care of themselves and take advantage of the medical insurance their workplaces provide.

“It is also important for men to maintain
a healthy weight and talk to their doctors about increased risk of prostate cancer,” she said.

Mr Francis Chukwuemezie, Senior Human Resource Manager, Cway water, said the event was to amplify awareness for men’s health and to encourage more men to get invested in their health outcomes.

Chukwuemezie noted that the average Nigerian man was so carried away with working hard to provide for the home front that they forget to look after themselves in doing so.

He expressed hope that with the charge at the event, more men would begin to pay attention to their health and not wait for the inevitable before taking action.

“The essence is to celebrate men and bring to notice the importance of men checking themselves as men can get carried away with the core responsibility of providing for the family and forget to check themselves.

“At Cway, the effort of every man is celebrated and we have set the day aside to talk, take care of ourselves and ensure that we eliminate completely diseases that are preventable,” he said.

Mr Gordian Azolum, Senior Factory Manager, Cway water, noted that the maiden event by the company showed that men’s health which before now was not very openly discussed had now gained awareness.

Azolum said the topic on prostate was very enlightening as some men may be suffering without their knowledge, saying the onset of the disease maybe with without symptoms.

He also restated the company’s commitment to not just work environment safety but the health safety of its member of staff.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

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