News Agency of Nigeria
Stakeholders laud ANI over livelihood support to 450 women in Toungo
Environment

Stakeholders laud ANI over livelihood support to 450 women in Toungo

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By Gabriel Yough

A cross-section of stakeholders on Saturday commended the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation for the launch of a women centre and livelihood support to 450 in Toungo, Adamawa.

Mr David Peter, Deputy Project Manager of ANI Foundation, said the programme was created to empower women and foster community development through the savings and loan groups.

Dr Ibrahim Goni, the Conservator-General (C-G) of the National Parks Service (NPS), said the launch of the Women’s Centre and livelihood support to 450 women reflected the shared vision of the foundation and NPS to empowerment and economic transformation.

Represented by Assistant Conservator-General (ACG) Mohammed Kabir, the C-G said the partnership has brought significant transformation and development to the fortunes of Gashaka Gumti National Park and communities surrounding it.

“You may recall that in October 2023, Gashaka LGA in Taraba hosted one of the largest empowerment events of its kind, serving as a pilot initiative where over 1,000 women were uplifted through a similar economic empowerment event.

“They gained not just skills but the confidence to thrive. Beneficiaries received assets to help support their livelihoods, including four agro-processing machines, 10 hairdressing kits, 20 sewing machines and 20 clippers.

“Additionally, 13 Women’s Savings and Loan Groups (SLGs) were established in Toungo. Each of these initiatives serves as a stepping stone toward economic independence and self-sufficiency for families that would otherwise depend on our dwindling resources.

“It is important to note that, in addition to empowering women and youth groups, our partnership also addresses the needs of pastoralists.

“Currently, over 100,000 cattle have been vaccinated across both sectors of the park, Gashaka and Gumti, ensuring the safeguarding of our households.

“This partnership has also created jobs for our unemployed youths; over 70 rangers have been selected, trained and are currently engaged in protecting our invaluable park resources.

“This effort not only strengthens our conservation initiatives but also allows the participation of the indigenous people in the management of our essential resources,” he said.

Mrs Nedo Kafulto, Adamawa Commissioner for Women’s Affairs, said it was gratifying to see such efforts come to life while noting its tremendous impact on women in particular and society in general.

“It’s an honour to stand before you this morning on behalf of Gov. Umaru Fintri of Adamawa and the First Lady. I commend the ANI Foundation and everyone involved in this lovely initiative,” she said.

Mr Amos Hamman, Conservator of Park, Gashaka Gumti National Park, said the initiative, sponsored by the ANI Foundation and implemented by Roshan Renewables, began with the signing of a partnership agreement with the National Park Service in 2017.

“This programme started when the NPS went into a partnership with ANI in 2017, and the essence was to see that within the support zone of the park, they have something to do that will reflect the importance of the natural resources in the park,” he said.

In his remarks, Dr George Okeyoyin, ANI Foundation’s Senior Strategic Adviser, said the impact of livelihood support in effective conservation could not be overemphasised.

“It is important that we provide alternative means of livelihood for the support communities for them to be able to support the conservation efforts in the Gashaka Gumti National Park, and that is why we are here today.

“I want to acknowledge the role of the NPS and ANI Foundation in this notable programme. It is vital to mention also that the foundation is doing all these so that beneficiaries will support its conservation efforts,” Okeyoyin said.

Mr Happy Amos, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Roshan Renewables, the implementing partner of the scheme, said over N30 million has been saved by the women’s savings and loan groups in Toungo in one year.

“Initially, we didn’t give money to them. We still don’t give them money even at this stage. The arrangement is that we offer them low-interest loans, and it’s usually based on their needs.

“There are some women who only need N200,000 or N100,000. Some women even need just N30,000 to improve and expand their business, and we give them this at zero interest rate,” she said.

Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), lauded the efforts of the foundation towards improving their livelihood, stating that their lives have not remained the same since the coming of ANI.

One of the beneficiaries, Grace Emmanuel, said a lot has changed in her life with the support she got from ANI Foundation.

“I don’t bother about what to eat or how to send my children to school anymore since I got the support from ANI, through which I am able to get loans, produce and sell my products in the community and beyond,” she noted.

Mrs Florence Dauda, another beneficiary, was also full of praises for the foundation, saying its coming was the best thing that has ever happened to the community.

“We used to envy the women at the Gashaka end of the park because of the things we heard ANI was doing there.

“We are now involved, and you can see the array of products we have on ground due to the savings and loan groups through the empowerment initiative,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Peter Amine

Flooding: South-East Govts., NEMA declare zero tolerance for silted drains
Environment

Flooding: South-East Govts., NEMA declare zero tolerance for silted drains

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The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu State Governments have declared zero tolerance for blocked or silted up drains to avert flooding in the zone.

They made the declaration in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) survey on preparations for the 2025 flood predictions in the South-East by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).

NAN reports that NIMET identified 30 states that would likely experience heavy rains and possible flooding.

The Head of Operations NEMA in Enugu, Mrs Ngozi Echeazu, said the agency started early sensitisation and action plans to avert the incidents of flash flood within major metropolis and highly populated areas within the South-East.

She said that the agency had remained proactive knowing that the 2025 Flood Prediction forecasted an early onset of rains in the South-East.

Echeazu, whose office covers NEMA operations in Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu States, noted that the agency had held some engagements with its partners and critical stakeholders on the need to start early on all sensitisation and action-plan.

She said that NEMA had written to state governments, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and council areas on the 2025 Flood Prediction stating the need for all to start preparations to forestall flash flood usually coming with early rains.

According to her, with active collaboration of Enugu SEMA, Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC), NEMA has carried massive sensitisation in major markets in two local governments within Enugu metropolis, whose locations had high population and human activities.

Echeazu noted that during the sensitisation, NEMA and its partners reached out to the market leadership, traders and passers-by on the need to check dumping of refuse in drains and waterways as well as desilt of all drains.

“We are using the NYSC-NEMA Vanguard to reach out to schools and playgrounds and fields to sensitise youths, who are the ones that evacuate their families’ waste, to do it properly and desist from dropping them indiscriminately,” she said.

The operational head noted that the agency’s sensitisation had not been full blown since the awaited logistics support from headquarters was yet to arrive, adding: “We are doing the ones within Enugu to manage cost.”

Corroborating, the Chairman of the Enugu South LGA, Chief Caleb Ani, said that for the past two months, the council had embarked on ‘operation open drainages’.

The chairman said that the council had deployed resources to ensure that major drainages and waterways were opened.

Ani noted that ward councillors and neighbourhood chairmen had been engaged and sensitised on the need to complement what the council had done by desilting drainages and waterways in their areas.

The chairman noted that he had briefed market chairmen and heads that indiscriminate dumping of refuse on the road and on drainages especially in Mayor and Garki Markets would not be tolerated any more.

“We want to ensure that proactive steps are taken to forestall all forms of flooding, be it the initial flash flood or the main flood in the later part of the year as forecast by NIMET,” he said.

In Anambra, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, said the state government has kicked off a statewide campaign codenamed “Operation Clear Your Waterways”.

He said that the whole essence of the statewide campaign was to clear the drainages for free flow of flood water ahead of the rainy season across the communities and cities of the state.

Odimegwu said that the enforcement had already commenced, saying that the campaign was in pursuant to Public Health Law, Drainage Management Policy and Environmental Management, Protection and Administration Law.

He disclosed that the proactive measure initiated was in line with Gov. Charles Soludo’s vision to transform Anambra into a smart mega city.

Odimegwu said that the state already braced up to the challenges hence reasons for the state’s quick response to the 2025 weather prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.

“To prevent potential flooding and associated risks, we have declared a zero-tolerance policy on blocked or silted drains,” he said.

Odimegwu urged residents to evacuate all de-silted debris around their domain warning that offenders would be prosecuted according to the law.

Meanwhile, the Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has blamed incessant flooding at Anor Community in Ivo Local Government Area to abandoned dam project.

Mr Clement Ovuoba, Executive Secretary of the agency, revealed that a section of the uncompleted dam had collapsed thereby causing flooding annually in the area.

According to him, lives, houses, farmlands and outputs are affected during the rainy season.

He explained that during the rainy season, two rivers in the area merge together, finding its way into the dam, overflowing and splitting apart because of the damage.

“Ivo abandoned dam is another place we have serious flooding in the state during rainy season.

“Ngwongwo, Okwe and Amokwe in Anor Community where the dam is situated, have suffered for years now,” Ovuoba said.

He called on the Federal Government to pay attention to the perennial experience and intervene by ensuring completion of the dam project in the area to mitigate flood.

He commended the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) on the Iyiudele drainage project and others in the capital city and stressed the need to channel the Ebonyi River to reduce flooding.

The SEMA official disclosed its readiness against any eventual flooding in the state and announced reactivation of effective response.

He said the reactivation followed the release of seasonal rainfall prediction and warning of heavy rainfall in 30 states, including Ebonyi by NIMET in its weather forecast.

He said that the state had commenced sensitisation campaign through jingles, public lectures on disaster control and advocacy visits to avert any emergency.

He urged those in the affected areas to avoid building on water ways, clean up drainages and utilise other key information and warning to avert flood.

“We have reactivated town hall meetings across the state and reached flood prone places such as Ivo, Ikwo, Izzi, Abakaliki, Afikpo North LGAs to pay attention to warnings.

“The locations are always impacted by flooding,” he said.

He further disclosed reactivation of its temporary Internally Displaced Persons Camps (IDP) across the 13 LGAs in the state as steps taken to avert flooding.

He said that the temporary IDP camps, located across the state would accommodate 2,000 IDPs.

“The camps comprised churches with school dormitories and other school structures. 

“They were not built as permanent camps but improvised to enable affected victims relocate to safety. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

NGO sensitises CAN leaders on building regulations
Environment , General News

NGO sensitises CAN leaders on building regulations

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By Mercy Omoike

 

Thrivescape Initiative, a non-governmental organisation, has sensitised Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leaders, Alimosho Chapter, on compliance with urban planning and building regulations to prevent building collapse and drive zero demolition.

 

Ms Tosin Ayodele, during the “Avoidance is Better than Building Collapse/Demolition” campaign, on Thursday in Lagos, emphasised the importance of bridging knowledge gaps in constructing a building.

 

According to Ayodele, the thrivescape campaign is designed to tackle the root causes of demolition and structural failures.

 

She called for partnership in achieving zero demolition and building collapse to promote livable and sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.

 

Ayodele outlined key factors that led to building demolition to include encroachment into setbacks and rights of way, construction under high-tension power lines, building in flood-prone zones, canals, or other unsafe areas.

 

She noted that development without obtaining physical planning permits, construction on government acquisition lands, non-compliance with approved building plans and poor building maintenance resulted in distressed structures.

 

Ayodele added that use of substandard materials and unqualified personnel, foundational failures, poor structural design and inadequate building maintenance contributed to the menace.

 

She called on the faith leaders to champion the cause of safer buildings by encouraging their congregations to always obtain the necessary development permits.

 

She implored them to engage qualified professionals instead of unlicensed builders, adhere strictly to approved building plan and avoid constructing in unsafe or unauthorised locations, regardless of cost.

 

“Demolitions and collapses are devastating and heart-wrenching.

 

“They are often preventable, and we must treat prevention as a moral and civic duty,” she stated.

 

Ayodele called on CAN leadership to collaborate with Thrivescape Initiative by inviting them to their worship centres to extend this awareness campaign to them.

 

The Chairman, CAN, Alimosho Chapter, Rev. Samuel Adeyemi, commended the initiative, describing it as timely, relevant, and necessary.

 

Adeyemi expressed their commitment to collaborating with Thrivescape Initiative on outreaches and to educate more citizens, with the ultimate goal of eliminating building collapses and demolitions in Lagos State.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Climate Change: Plant trees rather than throw parties- NCF DG
Environment

Climate Change: Plant trees rather than throw parties- NCF DG

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By Wandoo Sombo

The Director- General of Nigeria Conservative Foundation, (NCF),  Mr Joseph Onoja, has called on Nigerians to organise tree planting events to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries rather than throw lavish parties.

 

Onoja made the call on Friday in Abuja at the maiden edition of the Abuja Garden Festival against the backdrop of severe heatwave being experienced across the country.

 

He said that being intentional about tree planting by channelling resources to it would  go a long way to reduce the effects of climate change in the country.

 

“Rather than throwing parties during your anniversaries and birthdays, organise trees planting events.

 

“This is so that we will have trees around us that will be able to play the role we are supposed to play to create more resilience,  especially, in the face of climate change.

 

“In the coastal areas, we have erosions while in the North, we have desertification coming in. So, we need to have trees around us to be able to stop that from happening.”

 

Sen. Ede Dafinone, in a keynote address, said that the Federal Capital Territory had taken some steps to revamp green areas in the city.

 

“The existing trees should be protected, the initiative to plant trees in schools is a laudable initiative.

 

“The green areas must remain green areas. Resident associations, schools, faith based organisations should be encouraged regarding tree planting.

 

“Everyone deserves access to clean green space in the FCT. Planting a tree is a bold step to protect our future and Abuja should lead by example,” he said

 

Also speaking, the facilitators of the event, Mrs Eyamba Nzekwu and Mrs Nana Gbolahan, said the need to protect the environment motivated them to organise the event.

 

Nzekwu said that since Abuja was still being developed as a city with a lot of construction going on, trees were being cut down without replacement.

 

“The onus is on us as residents to improve our well-being by contributing to our environment to start planting trees.

 

“If you have a tree, the tree has a lot of benefits, it provides shade from the elements.

 

”If you have trees around your house and there is severe windstorm, the trees act as a wind breaker to break those winds from getting into your premises to destroy your roofs or your property.

 

“Some trees are even medicinal, a lot of trees are being exported from Africa for their medicinal benefits,” she said.

 

Gbolahan said that if people continue to cut down trees, the effect would be erosion, desertification, excessive heat and even some other plants would die.

 

“We need the trees to provide a protective shield for us, Abuja has been very hot and then, you also have an extreme heat that is affecting our plants in the environment.

 

“We decided to focus on the environment and get more people on board. You don’t just have to get gardeners; you need people that are affected by the climate which is everybody.

 

“This year, our focus is to plant more trees and we are starting this initiative from schools in the FCT,” she said.

 

Gbolahan added that the initiative was to complement the efforts of government as well as to get support from the government in their effort too.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by garden owners, people who sell natural flowers and other natural foods.

 

NAN also reports that seedlings were given to those who attended the event to plant and report the progress at the next festival.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

World Bank pledges disability-inclusive WASH programme in Nigeria
Environment

World Bank pledges disability-inclusive WASH programme in Nigeria

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By Akpan Glory

The World Bank has reiterated its commitment to promoting disability-inclusive access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services in Nigeria through its $700 million Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme.

This reaffirmation came during a roundtable discussion on disability inclusion in WASH sector on Friday in Abuja, in collaboration with sector stakeholders, civil society organisations, and representatives of persons with disabilities.

The meeting was aimed at assessing progress, identifying gaps, and proposing inclusive solutions within the SURWASH implementation framework.

Ms Awa Diagne, the World Bank’s SURWASH Task Team Lead, stressed that the programme is not a one-off intervention but a systemic, performance-based platform designed to strengthen national delivery systems across the country.

“SURWASH is not a project, it is a programme that aims to strengthen national systems to deliver WASH services to everyone, with special consideration for people living with disabilities,” she said.

Diagne explained that SURWASH integrates disability inclusion into its performance-based financing model and supports the development of context-specific policies and guidelines to improve service delivery.

“We are not just financing infrastructure; we are helping states design policies that embed inclusion and resilience from the start, a major focus of the discussion was the importance of inclusive design that goes beyond physical infrastructure.

“Accessibility must go beyond ramps and handrails, it must reflect the full spectrum of disabilities, mobility, visual, hearing, cognitive, and must begin with meaningful engagement of stakeholders from the outset”.

She added that disability inclusion must be viewed not as an add-on, but as an essential part of design, planning, and implementation.

She further called on state-level implementers to take the outcomes of the roundtable back to their respective regions and translate discussions into action.

“We need to be more conscious of who we consult, and what we mean by disability inclusion,” she urged, adding that monitoring, evaluation, and accountability must be strengthened to ensure inclusive outcomes.

Also speaking, Cindy Ikeaka, World Bank Senior Social Development Specialist, noted challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing essential services in Nigeria.

She cited statistics indicating that more than 25 million Nigerians live with disabilities, many of whom are excluded from public services due to inaccessible infrastructure and weak enforcement of inclusion policies.

“We have children with disabilities who cannot go to school simply because the buildings are not designed to accommodate them,” she said.

Ikeaka underscored the need for stronger implementation of Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, passed in 2019.

“While some states have domesticated the law, enforcement remains inconsistent, it is not enough to pass a law, there must be mechanisms to ensure it is enforced,” she said.

She also pointed to other inclusive development efforts by the World Bank, such as the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, which promotes inclusive education, including for girls living with disabilities.

She stressed the importance of participatory engagement in all phases of development programmes.

“A person with a disability understands the barriers better than someone without one. If we want to ensure accessibility in schools, water points, or health centres, we must engage those directly affected.

“Inclusion is not optional but essential to achieving sustainable development and equitable service delivery,” she said.

In his remarks, Mr Abdulhamid Gwaram, SURWASH National Programme Coordinator, reiterated that disability inclusion in Nigeria’s WASH sector is both a development priority and a legal obligation.

He referenced the 2019 disability rights law, which mandates inclusive public services and infrastructure.

“Disability inclusion is not just a moral imperative, it is enshrined in Nigerian law,” he stated.

Gwaram noted that inadequate planning and design continue to limit access to water and sanitation for persons with disabilities, undermining their dignity and well-being.

He explained that the SURWASH framework incorporates inclusive principles to address this gap, but stressed the need to decentralise the initiative.

“We now have partnerships with key stakeholders like the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, but we must take these conversations to the states and local governments to ensure real impact,” he said.

Also contributing, Mr Tony Agwuna, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, called for greater disability inclusion in WASH programming across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

He said inclusive WASH must encompass participation, non-discrimination, gender sensitivity, accessibility, staff training, and effective monitoring.

He recommended the disaggregation of programme data to reflect the experiences of people with disabilities and ensure their inclusion from planning through to implementation.

“All MDAs should institutionalise the needs of people with disabilities in their programmes,” Agwuna added.

“Inclusive WASH is a human rights issue and is central to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that SURWASH programme is being implemented in seven states of Delta, Ekiti, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau and Katsina. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

FG inaugurates River Basin boards, urges innovation, accountability
Environment

FG inaugurates River Basin boards, urges innovation, accountability

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By Akpan Glory

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has inaugurated the newly appointed Governing Boards and Executive Management Teams of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs).

Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja on Friday, Utsev congratulated the appointees and emphasised their role in supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He urged the appointees to prioritise performance, integrity, and innovation by setting clear strategic directions and fostering collaborative, respectful relationships with executive management to achieve results.

The minister emphasised the importance of ethical leadership, adherence to regulations, and a thorough understanding of the River Basin Act and Water Resources Master Plan.

He stressed that effective management of water resources and the expansion of irrigated farming are key to achieving national food security.

“Appointees have been urged to fully understand the ethical rules and regulations guiding public office in order to promote integrity, accountability, and respect in their conduct.

“They are also expected to familiarise themselves with the River Basin Act, the Water Resources Master Plan, and relevant policies to help shape strategic direction and introduce innovative ideas that will transform the sector.

“Furthermore, the Federal Government emphasised the need for a strong commitment to expanding irrigated agriculture across all River Basin Development Authorities, with the goal of supporting all-season farming and enhancing national food production”.

The Minister with the newly appointed Board Chairmen of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities

Utsev also highlighted ongoing initiatives, such as the partial commercialisation of RBDAs and youth empowerment programmes, aimed at boosting food production, creating jobs, and reducing poverty.

He encouraged the new leadership to explore alternative funding sources and public-private partnerships to enhance financial sustainability.

“As a strategic extension of the ministry, you must uphold high standards to deliver on national priorities. Synergy, innovation, and commitment will be crucial to your success,” the minister said.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, described the induction retreat organised for the board members as crucial in repositioning the sector for national development.

Pheelangwah congratulated the appointees and stressed the need for strategic leadership, collaboration, and financial discipline to achieve core mandates in food security, irrigation, clean water access, and rural development.

The Minister with the newly appointed MDs of River Basin Development Authorities .

He noted that the retreat would foster synergy and deepen governance understanding, urging participants to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

Abubakar Malam, Managing Director of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority, responded on behalf of all 12 River Basin Managing Directors and management teams.

He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for their appointments as key actors in the nation’s food security and rural development efforts.

Malam also praised Utsev for his leadership and acknowledged the support of the ministry’s permanent secretary and directors.

He reaffirmed the river basins’ commitment to promoting food security, rural development, and economic empowerment in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, the agencies’ collective role in grassroots transformation through agriculture, infrastructure, and poverty reduction will strengthen the sector.

Malam assured stakeholders that the river basins would work collaboratively to fulfil their mandates and justify the confidence placed in them. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

UNDP trains teachers, pupils on green energy technologies
Environment

UNDP trains teachers, pupils on green energy technologies

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By Abigael Joshua

United Nations Development Programme, Global Environment Facility, Small Grant Programme (UNDP GEF SGP) says it has trained no fewer than 200 teachers and 1000 pupils across Nigeria on green energy technologies.

Mrs Ibironke Olubamise, Coordinator, UNDP GEF SGP, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Abuja on Wednesday.

Olubamise explained that teachers and pupils were trained on green energy technologies and applications, using the Green Energy STEM Portal.

She explained that the Green Energy STEM Portal was an artificial intelligence-based learning management tool for training STEM educators and pupils.

She said that this was with the collaboration of the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council and tested by more than 40 teachers in the state.

“Couple of projects supported by the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme have adopted some digital tools for project implementation to enhance climate and environmental education; and built the capacity of students to address climate change in schools.

“Projects have adopted the use of Canva for creating infographics, social media posts, and presentations on environmental related climate topics for ease of understanding by the students and teachers,” Olubamise said.

According to her students and teachers use videos/YouTube videos during trainings and eco club meetings on how to install simple solar system and others on simple waste recycling techniques.

“They have also used WhatsApp platform to form a group of all the eco club mentors (Matrons/Patrons) where they share climate and environmental information.”

She added that the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme was always very mindful of the youth, women and the physically challenged, when reviewing proposals for possible funding support.

“Thus, any project that specifically targets any or a combination of this group of people will always get more attention and be considered for possible support.

“The programme usually request to know the population (disaggregated) of beneficiaries to be sure the marginalised and vulnerable are not overlooked in project design, support and implementation.

Olubamise said that several projects have thus made efforts to translate into different languages to ensure better understanding and inclusion. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Nigeria’s energy transition should lead Africa’s climate future  – APRI boss
Environment

Nigeria’s energy transition should lead Africa’s climate future  – APRI boss

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By Angela Atabo

Dr Olumide Abimbola, Founder, Africa Policy Research Institute (APRI), on Monday said Nigeria should lead the charge for Africa’s climate future through an equitable, homegrown and economically sound energy transition.

Abimbola stated this ahead of a workshop organised by APR in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat scheduled for Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which is co-hosted by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, will draw stakeholders from across the Global South for peer learning.

“This convening is not just about knowledge-sharing, it is about defining Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa’s climate future and ensuring that our energy transition is equitable, homegrown, and economically sound.

“At the heart of the event is a shared goal to explore how Nigeria can design its own Country Platform for Climate Action (CPCA).

“The CPCA is a coordinated national framework to drive low-emission growth, mobilise climate finance, and ensure a just, inclusive energy transition,” he said.

Abimbola said the insights from the two-day workshop would contribute directly to Nigeria’s forthcoming National Development Plan 2026-2030 and help to mainstream climate priorities across key sectors, including power, transportation, agriculture, industry, and finance.

He said that in the lead-up to the event, APRI had already released a background paper offering practical pathways for Nigeria’s transition.

According to him, the document presents lessons from global case studies, outlining bold, locally relevant strategies for implementing a coordinated, fundable, and inclusive climate framework across policy, infrastructure, and industry.

“The workshop will draw lessons from countries like South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal, which are already implementing Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs),” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

Climate Change: NLC seeks inclusion of critical voices in policy formulation
Environment

Climate Change: NLC seeks inclusion of critical voices in policy formulation

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By Joan Nwagwu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the Federal Government to include critical voices in national climate change policy formulations.

Mr Emmanuel Ugboaja, General Secretary, NLC, made the call at the opening session of the Post COP 29 Review meeting held on Friday in Abuja.

The meeting was organised by the NLC Climate Change, Green Jobs and Just Transition Programme with the support of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Ugboaja, represented by Mr Ismali Bello, Assistant General Secretary, NLC said such critical voices include the trade unions, women, youths, employees of labour and persons with disabilities, among others.

He said that such inclusion would help address the problem of climate injustice happening in the country.

“The truth is that we cannot be complaining of climate injustice at the global arena and be perpetuating the same at the national level through the shutting out of critical voices in the development of national climate change policies for our country.

“I must remind us that as trade unions, we feel a sense of loss at the denial of the key demands made by the working class and even some slips in major wins secured at previous COPs and COP 29.

“This includes the situation of workers and their communities as the epicentre of the Just Transition Work Programme (JTWP).

“In the processes leading up to COP 29 especially the subsidiary bodies meetings, the emphasis on workers and their communities was subsumed under the general blanket of a people centred Just Transition.

“Well, the point is not lost. Even under the canopy of a people-centred Just Transition, we maintain that workers, their families and communities are the major people under consideration,” he said.

He, however, said that climate change was a workplace phenomenon as most of the emissions happen in and around its corridors, adding that workers were also at the frontline of climate change impact and ruin.

He added that this meant that workers, through their trade unions, must be around the driving seat of climate change policy formulations and actions at all levels as its action and associated response measures toll heavily on workers.

“Anything contrary would be an adventure in ghost chasing and grand greenwashing.

“It is on this note that we call for the review of the process for the development of the Just Transition Guidelines for Nigeria,” he said.

Ms Inviolata Chinyagarara, ILO Senior Specialist Workers’ Activities (ACTRAV), in her remarks said that the workshop aimed at enhancing trade union advocacy for and contributing to a just transition and green jobs at local, national and international levels.

She said ACTRAV had been clear on the following key messages which were also a call to action for trade unions; for trade unions to play an effective part in the Just Transition.

According to her, building trade unions’ capacity to navigate uncertainty and change, adapting to changing dynamics in the labour markets and changing needs of workers, and positioning themselves strategically for the future is crucial.

“The voice of workers and their trade unions need to be at the centre of Just Transition and green jobs policy dialogue.

“It is, therefore, crucial for trade unions to build requisite capacities to influence policy makers to develop and consider integrated policy systems.

“This is to ensure policy coherence on how climate and employment goals must go hand in hand. Indeed, this workshop is timely, and it is aimed at scaling up ongoing trade union interventions,” she said.

Similarly, Girzo Adamu, Director, Special Duties and Projects, Ministry of Labour and Employment, said the Federal Government was committed to the achievement of the Just Transition Guidelines.

“I want to assure you that the Just Transition Guidelines is about to be 80 per cent delivered.

“I want to encourage you all not to give up on the demands of labour in the inclusion of Just Transition Guidelines.

“Because we were so touched that labour issues were left behind in Just Transition Guidelines and even the consultant accepted the mistake,” he said.

Dr Peter Tarfa, Consultant on Climate Change, urged the NLC to participate in the development of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, for climate action plans due for 2025.

He said the NDC is the roadmap that every country uses for its climate actions.

On the upcoming Climate Change Conference (COP) in Brazil, Tarfa advised labour to put in place work plans before attending the conference.

He also said that proper research should be done for the agenda setting and negotiations pushed forward, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Ecological footprints: UNIDO tasks manufacturers on sustainability practices
Environment

Ecological footprints: UNIDO tasks manufacturers on sustainability practices

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

The National Programme Officer, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), Dr Reuben Bamidele, has charged manufacturers to embrace sustainable practices to minimise ecological footprints and environmental impact.

Bamidele made the call at the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ikeja Branch 2025, Chief Executive Officers (CEOs)/Managing Directors Forum on Thursday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was themed: “Sustainability of the Manufacturing Sector in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward”.

He observed that sustainability had become a key focus for businesses across various industries, and the manufacturing sector was no exception.

Bamidele noted that manufacturing activities consumed vast amounts of energy and water, generated substantial waste, and contributed to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

He said by embracing sustainable practices, manufacturers could minimise ecological footprint and reduce the impact the sector has on the environment.

He noted that governments and regulatory bodies were attempting to speed up this process by imposing stricter environmental regulations and standards.

According to him, non-compliance can result in hefty fines, legal repercussions, and damage to a company’s reputation.

“While sustainable manufacturing holds tremendous promise, it is not without challenges such as high initial costs, change management, supply chain complexities, regulatory compliance and data.

“However, to improve sustainability outcomes, manufacturers can improve product design based on sustainability goals, go green across all operations, and upskill people for green transition,” he said.

The Director-General, MAN, Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said that for Nigeria to deliver on inclusive growth, manufacturing performance must improve.

He stressed the need for continuous engagement with government and all stakeholders to expose the real situation of the country’s real sector.

Ajayi-Kadir also urged government to prioritise the manufacturing sector.

He saluted the resilience of all manufacturing CEOs for staying the course and projected that they would reap the benefits of renewed economic development in Nigeria.

“MAN is poised to support government policies that would promote manufacturing and we would continue to leverage our access to government to ensure they pay attention to the sector to support its growth,” he said.

The General Manager, Lagos State Wastewater Management, Mr Adefemi Afolabi,  said sewage, which was not really paid attention to, made up a large percentage of waste.

Afolabi urged manufacturers on the importance of abiding to the state’s laws on sewage and other waste products for environmental safety and sustainability.

“We are concerned about waste generated by industries and would continue to engage MAN on sustainable measures on waste disposal and waste management.

“As issues of sanitation have a direct nexus to public health, we would work with the association to create models to monitor and manage waste disposal,” he said.

The Chairman, MAN Ikeja Branch, Mr Robert Ugbaja, noted that the event’s theme spoke directly to the realities industrialists faced in an increasingly dynamic global and local environment.

Ugbaja stressed that sustainability was no longer a buzzword, but an urgent call for manufacturers to embrace.

He expressed manufacturers readiness to embrace insights on global standards, practical interventions, and proper positioning within the sustainable manufacturing framework.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

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