NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Local value addition essential for mining sector dev. – Minister

Local value addition essential for mining sector dev. – Minister

223 total views today

By Vivian Emoni

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, says that strong support by international community for local value addition in the mining sector will promote economic development in the industry.

Alake said this in a statement issued by Mr Segun Tomori, the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, at the opening session of the ongoing Future Minerals Forum (FMF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The forum is titled “Why the Super Region? Should the Super Region Have Its Own Critical Minerals Strategy?”.

He said as the world strives to achieve net-zero environmental impact in all processes of mining operations, emphasis should shift to local value addition, as against the age-long practice of carting away raw mineral resources.

According to him, “for us in Nigeria, and most of Africa, the idea of a super region is quite significant in order to harness the mosaic, distinctive mineral resources that are within the confines of our super regions.

“And this, consequently achieves a sustainable energy mix for the world. We have prioritised the development of our critical minerals and rare earth metals.

“So the idea of inclusivity in a super region entails collaborative efforts, not only in the area of investments but technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and, more importantly, for us in Africa, local value addition.

“In Africa, we know we need a lot of infrastructural development.

“That is why the significance of the super region can not be overemphasised. The onus falls on us all to map out strategies of creating concrete alliances and integration of our economic interests.

“For instance, it is a known fact that Africa holds a significant percentage of critical minerals, which are now in demand as the world transitions to green energy.

“Therefore, the continent can no longer be given the shorter end of the stick,” he said.

The minister said the strategy of inclusivity in the super region should ensure that the practice of exploitation through mere extraction of mineral resources gives way.

He said that the effort was to focus strong commitment in developing the mining industry value chain that would culminate in processing minerals into finished products.

He said that the process would, however, herald economic development for countries in the continent. (NAN)) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Vincent Obi

Transforming lives through sustainable water solutions

Transforming lives through sustainable water solutions

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By Tosin Kolade, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In the heart of Ogun, communities like Lisa, Latoro, Mayungbo, Ijagun, Gbadamo, Ewu Ode, and Ewu Oloja in Sagamu Local Government Area face a daily struggle for potable water.

Women in Latoro carry empty jerry cans and buckets to distant wells; while in Mayungbo, children gather around a village pump at sunset, hoping for a sip.

In spite of these challenges, resilience prevails as villagers support one another through the water scarcity peril.

Community elders share memories of when water flowed freely, inspiring hope for a better tomorrow.

Yet, these communities stand at the crossroads of progress and retrogression.

As NGOs and local initiatives strive to bring sustainable solutions, the residents of Latoro and Mayungbo yearn for a future where every child will simply turn on a tap for and their water needs are met.

According to Amos Adigun, a community member, many people relied on water from different sources, usually not hygienic.

“For some of us, we walk long distances to fetch from rivers and streams; we do not have options, because we must use water”, he told News Agency of Nigeria.

The lack of potable water, a pervasive issue, becomes a catalyst for unity, inspiring the affected communities to script a narrative of change, perhaps one drop at a time.

Their stories echo beyond the landscapes of Ogun to many parts of the country.

They are reminders that the pursuit of clean water is not just a necessity; but a collective journey towards a brighter, inclusive and healthier future.

These challenges were addressed when the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation unveiled the Sagamu Water-Health Centre in Ogun State on May 26, 2023, in a stride towards achieving nationwide water accessibility.

The transformative project was initiated under the Partnership for Expanded Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) phase II implementation programme.

This initiative, part of a nationwide effort, signifies the government’s commitment to providing clean water in rural areas.

The Sagamu Water Supply Project, known as “Sustainable Drinking Water Solutions,” serves the daily needs of 20,000 people, marking a critical infrastructure milestone and a beacon of hope for Ogun communities.

The PEWASH initiative launched 15 years ago has led to the construction of 3,321 facilities, serving an estimated population of about 5,262,189 people across 19 states of the federation.

Mrs Jummai Wakaso, PEWASH National Coordinator, said the Water-Health Centres are strategically located in five local government areas, including Shagamu.

According to her, these centers operate in collaboration with local communities under the innovative waterprenuer scheme.

Wakaso gave details of the project to involve borehole construction, purification systems installation, dispensing points, pre-treatment units, multimedia, activated carbon filters, and reverse osmosis.

The Water-Health Centres go beyond being water sources; they aim to be community hubs for health and well-being.

The Sagamu Water-Health Centre not only symbolises the government’s commitment, but also stands as a beacon of hope for a healthier, sustainable future.

It reminds everyone that the pursuit of clean water is a collective journey, echoing across Ogun and beyond, promising a brighter, hydrated future for communities.

The Federal Government had urged its contractors implementing the PEWASH programme to adhere to standards and specifications for the benefit of the rural populace.

Dr Nicholas Madu, Director, Water Supply and Support Services, Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, said the federal government would not tolerate sharp practices and shoddy projects.

According to him, the programme is an opportunity to improve access to potable water supply for rural communities.

According to UNICEF Chief of WASH, Dr Jane Bevan, ensuring access to clean water isn’t just a necessity—it’s a lifeline for children and vulnerable families, shaping their well-being and future.

She said the journey to better access to water and sanitation conditions becomes a vital narrative for positive change.

The National Coordinator of Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN), Mr Attah Benson, urged the federal government to prioritise Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programmes to address water and environment-borne diseases.

Expressing concern over the nation’s WASH situation, Benson emphasised the urgency of addressing open defecation.

He called for collaboration between the Ministry of Humanitarian and Disaster Management and other stakeholders to raise awareness and mitigate the problem.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, recently expressed commitment to implement President Bola Tinubu administration’s blueprint for the water and sanitation sector.

Emphasising the pivotal role this sector plays in societal well-being, Utsev highlighted the need for improvement in alignment with sustainable development goals.

Utsev outlined Tinubu’s plans to address poverty and inequality within the sector through a shared value approach.

This approach, he said, would contribute significantly to the overall development goals of the administration.

Alhaji Bello Goronyo, the Minister of State in the ministry, echoed the enthusiasm, acknowledging the indispensable role of water in sustaining life, productivity, and well-being.

Recognising water as a fundamental element that impacts various aspects of human life, Goronyo emphasised its importance in driving rapid development.

He affirmed a collaborative effort between him and Utsev, aimed at pooling their wealth of experience to accelerate the development of the water and sanitation sector.

As Nigeria charts its course towards enhanced water and sanitation facilities, the collaboration among all stakeholders stands as a beacon of hope for improved living conditions.

Experts say it is also a step closer to achieving broader sustainable developmental targets. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

Christmas celebration: Environment expert says food waste attracts global warming

Christmas celebration: Environment expert says food waste attracts global warming

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By Abigael Joshua

Mr Michael David, Climate and Environmental Advocate Team Lead for Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) has warned that food wastes especially at Christmas contribute to global warming.

David said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.

“For the uninitiated, excess amounts of greenhouse gases such as methane, carbon dioxide (CO2) and chlorofluorocarbons absorb infrared radiation and heat up the earth’s atmosphere, causing global warming and climate change.

“In addition to money being wasted, discarded food has a negative impact on our environment as it contributes to global warming.

“Despite this situation, food waste at festivities is very alarming at Christmas as many of the food prepared will never be eaten,” he said.

David urged Nigerians to consider the energy and natural resources expended in processing, transporting, storing, and cooking food.

“Food waste that ends up in landfills produces a large amount of methane; a more powerful greenhouse gas than even CO2.

“Food waste also represents a great waste of fresh water and groundwater resources with agriculture accounting for 70 per cent of the water used throughout the world, the food packaging of many food products is excessive.

“There is a growing awareness that the packaging is environmentally unfriendly because it is non-biodegradable and invariably just gets thrown away and lands up on our landfills or on our streets as litter,” he said.

David also gave some tips on how to prevent food waste.

“Don’t throw away good food, feed someone else. You will feel a great joy when you share with others.

“Many of us don’t give a thought to the quantity of food we waste daily, weekly, monthly and yearly with an increased tons of food waste during festivities including Christmas.

“Food waste in this context refers to food left over on your plate; too much food prepared and not used all generally land up in the dustbin/dumpsite,” he said.

David added that food wastage is actually an unfair attitude, particularly in a nation where there are children who spend days with empty stomach. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Razak Owolabi

Environmental sustainability: National Park reassures commitment to wildlife conservation

Environmental sustainability: National Park reassures commitment to wildlife conservation

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By Abigael Joshua

The National Park Service (NPS) says it is committed to wildlife conservation in the country in order to ensure environmental sustainability.

Dr Ibrahim Goni, Conservator-General(C-G), NPS, gave this assurance at the presentation of the 2023 scorecard of the service on Friday in Abuja.

“The National Park Service remains committed to the protection of Nigeria’s national parks, wildlife conservation, and environmental sustainability.

“The policy thrust of the service is to provide security, manage, regulate the use of the diverse and unique natural resources within the national parks in the country.

“Globally, National Parks are managed by the highest legally competent authority of a country for national and regional security and well-being just as in Nigeria.’’

He said that NPS collaborated with relevant stakeholders to combat wildlife trafficking in Nigeria and that seizures had been.

According to him, efforts are being made to release live animals back into the wild.

“The Nigerian Customs Service recently confiscated 81 parrots among other bird species, galagos (bush babies) which were handed over to the National Park Service for rehabilitation and reintroduction to the wild.

“Additionally, the National Park Service has developed a policy document on combating wildlife and forest crime in Nigeria in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime.

“In addition, they play immense roles in medicine, research, education, agriculture, tourism, spiritualism and are critical components in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals seven (affordable and clean energy) and 13 (climate action).’’

According to him, the service currently manages seven national parks spread across the different ecological and geopolitical zones in the country.

“These parks include Chad Basin National Park (Borno and Yobe States), Cross River National Park (Cross River State), Gashaka Gumti National Park (Taraba and Adamawa States) Kainji Lake National Park (Niger and Kwara States).

“Others are Kamuku National Park (Kaduna State), Okomu National Park (Edo State) and Old Oyo National Park (Oyo State).

“Additionally, in November, 2020, the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, approved the establishment of 10 additional National Parks.

“These Parks includes Allawa National Park in Niger State, Apoi and Edumenum National Parks in Bayelsa State, Falgore National Park in Kano State and Hadejia Wetlands National Park in Jigawa State.

“Others are, Kampe National Park in Kwara State, Kogo National Park in Katsina State, Marhai National Park in Nasarawa, Oba Hills National Park in Osun State and Pandam National Park in Plateau State.’’

He said that the National Assembly had concurred with the Presidential Proclamation Order establishing the 10 new National Parks and they had been recently gazetted by the Federal Ministry of Justice .

Goni said that the parks would take over soon in batches.

The conservator-general said that within the period under review, a total of 646 arrests were made across various national parks.

“The breakdown of the arrests is as follows: 44 hunters, 222 grazers, 131 loggers, and 249 others.

“These arrests were made in all the national parks, with Gashaka-Gumti recording the highest number of arrests.

“In relation to banditry incidents, 37 suspects were apprehended in connection with mining/banditry in Old Oyo National Park, while in Kainji Lake National Park, three suspected bandits were arrested while five others were neutralised.’’

He said that four victims were rescued during the operations while various items such as motorcycles, phones, and machetes were recovered.

“The breakdown of the prosecution cases is as follows: 161 convictions, 215 fines, 119 warnings and discharges, and 151 cases pending.

“Cross River and Gashaka-Gumti National Parks recorded the highest number of convictions.’’

Goni said that the total revenue generated for the service from January till date is N83.2 million only.

“Several capital projects have been implemented in various national parks, leading to positive impacts on park infrastructure, equipment, and facilities.’’

He said that the projects included the construction and furnishing of Rangers Barracks, renovation and furnishing of Head Offices, procurement of patrol equipment, and provision of solar power plants.

“The National Park Service has prioritised training, conferences, and workshops for its personnel.

“A total of 260 training events were conducted during the specified period, with 80 trainings, 55 conferences and 128 workshops,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

FG deeply concerned over illegal killing of wildlife–Minister

FG deeply concerned over illegal killing of wildlife–Minister

217 total views today

By Abigael Joshua

Dr Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Environment, says the Federal Government is worried over illegal killing of elephants and other wildlife species across the country.

Salako, who briefed newsmen on Friday in Abuja, condemned the recent incident in Borno.

“We are deeply concerned about the recent illegal killings of elephants and other wildlife species across the country- the killing of two elephants by the military in Kala Balge, Borno at the instance of a Local Government Chairman.

“Also, the killing of another elephant by a professor from the University of Ibadan, Oyo State; the government will not condone any such dastardly act by any persons or communities involved.

“The ministry also received similar unpleasant information on the killing of two booted eagles that migrated all the way from Europe but met their deaths in both Kebbi and Sokoto States.”

The minister said that efforts were being made by the ministry to retrieve the transmitters attached to the birds and return them to researchers in Europe.

“As a ministry committed to environmental conservation and the protection of wildlife, we strongly condemn such actions that undermine the fragile balance of our ecosystem.

“The public should be aware that Nigeria is signatory to international conventions particularly the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

“The National Focal Point/Management Authority, the Scientific and the Enforcement Authorities of CITES are all domiciled in this Ministry.

“The Ministry of Environment is determined to protect and preserve Nigeria’s Wildlife and the natural ecosystems.’’

Salako said that elephants and eagles were categorised as endangered species; hence, the hunting, capturing, possessing, trading or killing of the wild species were offences liable to prosecution according to the CITES regulations.

“The brutal killings of these wildlife not only reflect a blatant disregard for the importance of wildlife preservation but also highlights the urgent need for enhanced awareness and sensitisation of the public regarding the protection of our natural heritage.

“Furthermore, the ministry will ensure the sensitisation of security personnel deployed in environmentally sensitive areas across the country.

“Such initiatives will focus on creating awareness about the significance of wildlife conservation, emphasising the importance of non-lethal methods in conflict resolution, and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.’’

According to him, the incident in Kala Balge LGA serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stronger legislation and effective enforcement measures to safeguard our precious wildlife.

“The ministry will work closely with all stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and wildlife conservation organisations to strengthen and implement robust policies that protect our already fragile ecosystem and natural heritage.

“We firmly believe that by taking immediate action, we can prevent such tragic incidents from recurring and foster a culture of respect and coexistence between humans and wildlife.

“We extend our willingness to collaborate and provide expertise to develop sustainable strategies that ensure the long-term welfare of our environment.

“This is in line with the renewed hope agenda and the eight presidential priorities anchored on sustainable use of Nigeria’s natural resources,” Salako said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

FG renews commitment to restoring degraded lands

FG renews commitment to restoring degraded lands

224 total views today

By Abigael Joshua

The Federal Government says it is committed to restoring more degraded lands for environmental sustainability in the country.

Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, gave this assurance at the Stakeholders’ Engagement of the Federal and States Steering/Technical Committees by Agro-Climate Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the programme was organised by ACReSAL, Federal Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Food Security and Water Resources and Sanitation in conjunction with the World Bank.

The minister, who is also the chairman of the Steering Committee, expressed satisfaction that the collaboration would restore degraded lands in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Lawal said that there were seven million lands that were degraded; hence the need for collaboration between relevant stakeholders to enable ACReSAL to make progress in the restoration of degraded lands.

“We need to emphasise on the collaboration between the federal and state government and I hope this collaboration will be extended to the local government,’’ he said.

He expressed worries over the dryness of Lake Chad and charged ACReSAL on its recovery as Lake Chad was just a micro level of what used to be there.

On his part, Mr Taimur Samad, World Bank Operations Manager, said that the ACReSAL project was an ambitious and transformational engagement to restore degraded lands.

“Globally the World Bank has continued to deepen its commitment to climate change, resilience, adaptation and mitigation,’’ he said.

Samad urged the 19 states and the FCT to ensure renewed commitments to the implementation of the projects.

More so, Mr Abdulhamid Umar, National Project Coordinator for ACReSAL said that the project was driven by three ministries namely the ministries of Environment, Water Resources and Sanitation and Agriculture and Food Security.

According to him, ACReSAL project is being implemented in 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Mr Lawrence Adigwe , the Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, said that ACReSAL had been a success story on land restoration in the 19 northern states and the FCT.

He assured the ministry’s commitment towards ACReSAL’s project and urged the 19 northern states and the FCT to be more efficient in securing the environment.

Highlights of the event were awards presentation to some of the states for performance in the area of implementation progress, best disbursement, land reclamation and support to beneficiaries amongst others.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Water Minister unveils 3 initiatives for agric. revolution, food security

Water Minister unveils 3 initiatives for agric. revolution, food security

219 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has unveiled three strategic initiatives to reposition the nation’s agricultural sector and promote food security for all.

Utsev, in a statement in Abuja, reviewed his 2-day familiarisation tour of the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority.

He emphasised his commitment to infusing innovative measures into flagship projects and programmes of the River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs).

The proposed initiatives are the Water for Expanded Irrigated Agriculture Programme (WEIRPRO), Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO), and River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA).

They are all geared towards revolutionising Nigeria’s irrigated agricultural landscape, enhancing food security, creating jobs, and propelling economic growth.

Utsev underscored the strategic commitment to innovative water resources management, promoting Integrated Water Resources Management and environmental sustainability.

The minister harped on cultivating partnerships with state governments and communities, transitioning from traditional farming methods to scientific approaches ensuring year-round farming, more frequent cropping cycles, and higher crop yields.

During the tour, the minister engaged with the Tor Tiv, Prof James Iorza Ayatse.

He sought royal blessings from the traditional ruler and discussed federal intervention projects, including water supply, dams, irrigation, sanitation, flood, and erosion control projects.

Addressing the Open Defecation-Free campaign, the minister highlighted the role of traditional rulers and sought assistance from the Tor Tiv in spreading the campaign message for a healthier environment.

In response, the Tor Tiv welcomed the minister and expressed appreciation for the president’s decision on his appointment.

He stressed on the strategic importance of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.

Ayatse called on the Federal Government to construct more dams in Benue to boost food production.

According to him, when more dams are constructed, agricultural activities in the state will become all-year round for food security.

He urged the minister to liaise with the traditional institution in the state to identify areas in dire need of potable water and for the construction of dams for irrigation farming and other purposes.

The Tor Tiv assured the minister of guidance and commended his courage, decorating him with the complete regalia of a distinguished son of Tiv land.

The minister inaugurated the Lessel Dam, flagged off the Gajir/Abunde farming activity and Soil and GIS laboratories, inspected a rice mill, and distributed water pumps to representatives of Mbaku Community and farmers of Lower Benue, Markurdi farms.

Utsev was accompanied on the visit by the Director River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, Mr John Ochigbo, the Managing Director of Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority, Mohammed Adra, Directors from the Ministry, and eminent personalities from Benue State. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Group advocates good sanitation practices for increased life expectancy

Group advocates good sanitation practices for increased life expectancy

190 total views today

By Abigael Joshua

Clean-up Nigeria (CUN), a Non- Governmental Organisation, has called on all stakeholders to imbibe good sanitation practices in order to increase life expectancy.

Mr Ene Baba-Owoh, National Coordinator, CUN, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja shortly after the public presentation on State of the Nigeria Environment, Stone Pro -Max 2023 in Akwa Ibom.

NAN reports that Stone Pro is a five year-project circus review of the Nigerian environment from 2018 to 2022.

“We recommend that the government at all levels, individuals and communities, as a matter of urgency, be encouraged in their best interest to step up their knowledge, attitude and practice of hygiene and sanitation.

“This will improve their living conditions in order to increase their average life expectancy in Nigeria.

“Let’s note that in 2018, life expectancy in Nigeria was 44 years and presently it has dropped to 40 years due to multiple factors.

“We equally urge Nigerians, among other things, to embrace strong personal hygiene and good sanitation habits and to dispose of their waste at the right places.’’

Baba- Owoh recommended that the funds allocated for sanitation and waste management be stepped up by at least 200 per cent by states, local government councils based on the present value of the naira.

“Employers of labour should improve the living condition and wages of sanitation workers; in view of the unsanitary conditions that they are exposed to, they should be equipped with (PPE) personal protection equipment and given proper Medicare.

“In 2018, sanitation workers living condition stood at 22 per cent, and 26 per cent in 2023.

“The informal sector engaged in waste recycling and reuse industry stood at 31 per cent in 2018 and 37 per cent in 2023.’’

According to him, since 2018 to 2023, the dangers of open defecation has gradually reduced from 32 per cent in 2018 to 24 per cent in 2023 which can be attributed to the federal and states intensive campaign in addition to partnership considerations with NGO’s and private sectors nationwide.

“Please be reminded that CUN remains a front line International NGO with social and economic consultative status with the UN since 1994.

“It is worthy of note that cleanliness performance index ratings of all states/towns in Nigeria is an Integral aspect of the annual state of the Nigeria environment (Stone) study report held in conjunction with our International project partners.’’

Baba-Owoh commended the government and people of Akwa Ibom for emerging the five times overall cleanest state in Nigeria under the five- year project review circus in Nigeria, tagged STONE Pro Max 2023.

He noted that the state merged with a cumulative score of 72 per cent while the second and third positions were Ebonyi with 50 per cent and FCT with 47 per cent respectively.

“We, in Nigeria, need practical actions on environmental matters to drive home the processes of the just concluded COP28 and more.

“We remain grateful to them for the endless support.

“Our gratitude therefore goes to the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), Canada, keep America Beautiful (KAB) USA; DSZ, Germany, SUEZ Foundation, France and Clean-Up the world, Australia,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Commission urges persons with disabilities to embrace sports for improved mental health

Commission urges persons with disabilities to embrace sports for improved mental health

169 total views today

By Ahmed Ubandoma

Dr James Lalu, the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), has emphasised the importance of sporting activities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to enhance their mental health.

The encouragement came during a meeting in Abuja, where Lalu commended Bronze Medalist Charles Akoh for his victory in the Draught game at the Federal Public Service Games (FEPSGA) held in Minna, Niger.

Lalu highlighted the need for PWDs to actively engage in various sports, citing the positive impact on muscle strength and mental well-being.

He stressed that regular exercise contributes to improved cardiovascular health, providing individuals with more energy for daily tasks.

Acknowledging Akoh’s achievement, Lalu expressed pride in his role as a representative and ambassador for the 35.5 million Nigerians with disabilities.

He encouraged Akoh to maintain his dedication, serving as inspiration for others within the disability community.

In response, Akoh, a member of the commission’s Department of Planning, Research, and Statistics, expressed gratitude for the commission’s unwavering support during the tournament.

He pledged to redouble his efforts, setting his sights on securing a gold medal in the 2024 games with proper equipment.

FEPSGA is an annual sporting event for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Nigerian federal government, serves as a platform for fostering unity, fitness, and stress relief among participating entities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

 

Plastics pollution: Nestle Nigeria introduces new 50% recycled PET bottles

Plastics pollution: Nestle Nigeria introduces new 50% recycled PET bottles

560 total views today

 

By Ginika Okoye
Nestle Nigeria, has introduced new bottles including 50 per cent recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (rPET), to reduce the use of virgin plastics in its packaging.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nestle is one of the largest food and beverage company in Africa,

Speaking at the official presentation of the new Nestle Pure Life bottles in Abuja on Wednesday, Mr Wassim Elhusseini, the Managing Director of the company, said they had been working with partners to recover as much plastics as they sold.

According to him, in 2021, we started on the step by teaming up with ALEF, a recycling company to achieve our objective of cutting virgin plastic in our packaging by a third by 2025.

He commended the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) for ensuring compliance to the highest standards.

“Today, we are very proud to be the first to achieve this milestone of 50 per cent rPET inclusion in our water bottles in Nigeria.

“Thanks to the resilience of our team working with ALEF to produce food grade PET in Nigeria.

“Nestlé Nigeria has been at the forefront of efforts to develop well-functioning collection, sorting and recycling systems for PET in Nigeria.

“We have also been at the front from introducing innovative bottles to collaborating with other stakeholders for increased collection while building an eco-system for recycling.

“ALEF was instrumental to achieving the 50 per cent rPET in Nestlé Pure Life bottles,” he said.

The Category and Marketing Manager, Nestlé Waters, Ms Joy Abdulahi-Johnson said the company was taking steps to minimise the impact of their production process on the environment.

Mr Wissam Ramlawi, the Managing Director of ALEF Recycling Company said they worked with regulators and suppliers to achieve the desired food-grade quality standards for rPET.

“This has been a long, rigorous journey for us, working with Nestlé’s technical and quality assurance teams to comply with their demanding standards and procedures.”

L-R: Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, Assistant Director (Food & Beverage/Plastic Waste Control) Inspection & Enforcement Department, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA; Mrs Joy Abdullahi-Johnson, Category and Marketing Manager, Nestlé Waters; Mrs Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Nestlé Nigeria; Mr Wissam Ramwali, Managing Director, Alef Recycling Company; Mr Francis C Onuorah, Director, Chemical and No- Petrochemicals, Industrial Development Department, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment; Mr Olawale Alao, Factory Manager, Nestlé Abaji Factory; and Mr Eugene Atte, Packaging Manager, Nestlé Central and West Africa Region

 

Mr Francis Onuorah, the Director, Chemical and non-Petrochemical Industrial Development Department, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, said that quality was key to the new rPET project to ensure sustainability.

Onuorah who represented the Minister, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, said that awareness was also required to realise the project.

“We have trainings for plastics pickers known as ‘baba-mbolas’ to create awareness in the plastic value chain.

“We will continue to encourage Nigerian on that value chain,” he said.

Mr Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, the Assistant Director, Plastics Waste Control in NESREA, said the agency was not against plastics but plastics pollution.

Nwabuisiaku said that Nestle was a member of food and beverage alliance.

“We are calling on others to do same, that is why Nestle is using technology, innovation to improve what they are doing.

“Nigeria has the market and this is the new normal,” he said.

The new bottles have some graphics on the label different from the old ones. (NAN)

Edited by Ese E Eniola Williams

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