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AfDB approves over $30m to protect Beninese farmers from climate shocks, food insecurity

Michael Simire
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AfDB approves over $30m to protect Beninese farmers from climate shocks, food insecurity

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved $30.25 million in financing for a climate protection and agricultural sector resilience programme in Benin. Thanks to this approval, Beninese farmers, particularly those in northern Benin, will no longer have to fear losing their entire harvest during devastating droughts or sudden floods.

Robert Masumbuko
Robert Masumbuko, African Development Bank Benin Country Manage

This initiative will protect 150,000 smallholder farmers against climate shocks in a country where agriculture employs seven out of 10 people but remains at the mercy of an increasingly unpredictable climate. The situation is particularly critical in the departments of Alibori and Atakora, where one in four farmers suffers from food insecurity, well above the national average.

These northern regions face a double burden of climate challenges and spillover effects from Sahel instability, creating additional pressures through forced displacement and border closures with Niger. Climate projections indicate alarming future risks, with cotton production and maize yields expected to drop by 22% and 6.3% respectively, with potential economic losses estimated at approximately 201 billion CFA francs.

“This investment represents our commitment to strengthening climate resilience in Benin’s agricultural sector while responding to the urgent needs of vulnerable farming communities,” said Robert Masumbuko, African Development Bank Country Representative in Benin. “By introducing innovative risk management tools and strengthening local capacities, we are helping farmers adapt to climate change while preventing conflicts and promoting social cohesion in fragile border areas.”

The project strengthens the Beninese government’s efforts to establish agricultural insurance, whose pilot phase is managed by Benin’s National Fund for Agricultural Development (FNDA).

It introduces innovative climate risk transfer mechanisms, including sovereign insurance coverage against droughts and floods via the African Risk Capacity, and agricultural micro- insurance for smallholders. These tools will improve farmers’ risk profiles with financial institutions, facilitating better access to credit and investment opportunities.

Beyond insurance mechanisms, the initiative will strengthen institutional capacities for climate disaster management, deploy early warning systems with agrometeorological equipment, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices. The programme specifically targets 30% youth participation and ensures 30% female representation among the 150,000 direct beneficiaries. Furthermore, special attention is given to social cohesion activities to support peaceful integration of displaced populations in host communities.

The financing comes from multiple sources: $20 million from the “prevention” envelope of the Transition Support Facility, $5 million from the African Development Fund, $3 million from the ADRiFi multi-donor trust fund, and approximately $2.44 million in national counterpart contributions for insurance premiums.

The project aligns with Benin’s National Development Plan 2018-2025 and its National Adaptation Plan 2022-2027, supporting the country’s agricultural transformation objectives while strengthening climate change resilience through innovative instruments such as insurance. Strategic partnerships with the World Food Programme, the World Bank, and bilateral donors such as Swiss and Luxembourg cooperations ensure comprehensive support for sustainable agricultural development, including the establishment of agricultural insurance in Benin.

For Benin’s farming families, this financing represents hope for protected harvests, stable incomes, and a safer future for their children. For northern Benin communities, this project is a guarantee of stability and social cohesion in a strategic region of West Africa, and finally, for the Beninese state, the project ensures financial resilience against increasingly recurrent disaster risks.

The African Development Bank Group says it remains committed to supporting Africa’s agricultural transformation through innovative climate adaptation solutions that protect vulnerable communities while promoting sustainable development and regional stability.

From legacy to leadership: AMCEN@40 seeks to spark a greener Africa

Michael Simire
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From legacy to leadership: AMCEN@40 seeks to spark a greener Africa

In a historic gathering marking the 40th anniversary of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN), African Heads of State, Ministers of Environment, and global partners convened in Nairobi under the auspices of Libya’s presidency to adopt a High-Level Political Declaration (HLPD). This milestone declaration reaffirms Africa’s collective resolve to tackle escalating environmental challenges ranging from climate change and biodiversity loss to pollution and land degradation while celebrating four decades of continental leadership in environmental governance.

AMCEN
Deliberations at AMCEN 2025

The declaration set the tone for a transformative future rooted in sustainability, resilience, and inclusive development. More than 1,500 delegates, including environment ministers from all of Africa’s 54 countries, civil society, private sector actors, youth, and development partners participated in the week-long conference.

“The African Ministerial Conference on the Environment must remain at the forefront of shaping the ‘Africa We Want’ through bold, visionary, and action-oriented leadership, Kenya is proud to walk this journey with you, advocating for environmental justice that recognises our unique development needs and circumstances. Let us not only speak with one voice but act with one resolve. The next forty years must be about delivery, not deliberation,” the ministers declared. 

President William Ruto had earlier in the week, on Wednesday, made an unscheduled visit to meet with AMCEN delegates, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to environmental leadership and calling for greater African unity in tackling climate change

Ministers adopted the Tripoli Declaration on Environmental Action in Africa, a bold and forward-looking roadmap outlining key priorities for 2025–2027. The Declaration calls for urgent regional action on drought, biodiversity loss, plastic and chemical pollution, as well as integration of circular and blue economy approaches anchored in science, cooperation, and environmental justice. The final text of the Tripoli Declaration will be ready in a month. 

Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment of the African Union Commission (AUC), reflected on the enduring legacy of AMCEN:

“As we celebrate 40 years of AMCEN, we acknowledge its role in helping Africa speak with one voice and shape policies. Over the years, AMCEN has reinforced our shared commitment to resilience and sustainable development. But as we celebrate, we must also look ahead. The road is long, and we must face the realities and challenges we know too well – rapid population growth, the weaponisation of natural resources, and climate change. We must bridge coordination gaps between AMCEN and other bodies. AMCEN’s journey is far from complete; in fact, it is just beginning.”

The High-Level Political Declaration reaffirmed AMCEN’s role as the principal forum for Africa’s environmental agenda; committed to stable and predictable financing for AMCEN’s Trust Fund and UNEP’s Environment Fund and called for a regional multi-stakeholder forum on chemicals and waste management. It also pledged to combat climate change through national and regional action plans; called for a legally binding protocol on drought under the UNCCD and; reaffirmed rejection of solar geoengineering.

The Ministers also adopted the Africa Ocean Governance Strategy and called for national blue economy strategies; established an African Groups of Negotiators on Oceans and Wetlands; urged ratification of the BBNJ Agreement and extended the Africa Decade of Seas and Oceans (2026–2035) and reaffirmed commitment to biodiversity conservation and implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Framework.

The ministers welcomed the creation of two more Africa Group of Negotiators on oceans and wetlands.  Ministers also supported Nairobi as host of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution, strengthening Africa’s visibility in global environmental governance. The Declaration endorsed convening the next AMCEN as a joint session with African Finance Ministers, linking environmental imperatives with economic planning and budgeting.

Outgoing AMCEN President, Dr. Fitsum Assefa Adela, Minister of Planning and Development of Ethiopia, emphasised the need for AMCEN to evolve from dialogue to delivery: “This milestone marks not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of a more ambitious phase. AMCEN must now become the platform for transformative action, not just declarations.”

Incoming AMCEN President, Dr. Ibrahim A. Munir, Minister of Environment of the State of Libya, pledged to uphold and accelerate AMCEN’s implementation agenda: “Libya is honoured to host this 20th session and assume AMCEN’s presidency at such a critical moment. We must now move from commitments to concrete delivery across all sectors and regions.”

Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), lauded AMCEN’s enduring role in shaping Africa’s environmental destiny: “UNEP stands ready to provide technical and policy support to help turn these important conversations into actions that deliver impact where it is most needed. That’s why the theme of UNEA-7, to be held here in Nairobi in December, is “Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet.”

From Reflection to Action

The session was preceded by a Regional Consultative Meeting of Major Groups and Stakeholders from July 10 to 13. The voices of civil society, Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, and academia were reflected in the declaration, which emphasised policy coherence, environmental data systems, and integrated planning between environment and finance ministries.

David Munene, Regional Facilitator of the Africa Major Groups and Stakeholders, urged ministers to maintain momentum beyond Nairobi:

“Beyond today, AMCEN must be bold in achieving its environmental targets, strengthening the link between coordination and implementation in Africa.” He further urged, “AMCEN to elevate the role of MGS Africa, civil society and academia in a youth and gender-inclusive manner.”

Africa Major Groups and Stakeholders, called for urgent halting and reversing biodiversity loss and restoration, a legally binding instrument covering the full life cycle of plastics, mercury pollution elimination, an ambitious Global Goal on Adaptation with clear indicators and requisite means of implementation, and meaningful stakeholder engagement. 

The newly launched AMCEN@40 Anniversary Report was unveiled to honour the body’s legacy, which includes the creation of the Bamako Convention and Africa’s collective voice in global negotiations, including the Paris Agreement, UNCBD, and future COPs.

With a renewed sense of purpose, strong political backing, and united action, AMCEN enters its fifth decade poised to support Africa’s just, green, and resilient future.

13% derivation: Niger Delta leader hails Nwoko’s push for direct allocation to host communities

Michael Simire
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13% derivation: Niger Delta leader hails Nwoko’s push for direct allocation to host communities

The Bolowei (Traditional Prime Minister) of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, Dr Wellington Okirika, has commended Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta) for his bold stance on the proper implementation of the 13 per cent derivation fund.

Ned Nwoko
Senator Ned Nwoko

Okirika, a renowned Niger Delta elder statesman, described Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, as a true patriot and fearless advocate of equity for the oil-producing region.

This is contained in a statement from the Ned Nwoko Media Directorate and made available in Abuja on Friday, July 25, 2025.

According to the statement, the elder statesman also known as “Mr. 13 per cent Derivation Fund” due to his long-standing activism for host communities, expressed his appreciation during a meeting with the lawmaker.

He said his confidence in Nwoko’s leadership prompted him to take the 30-year injustice allegedly perpetuated by some governors in the region directly to the lawmaker.

“You proved to me that you are a true leader by your actions towards the deliberate act of unpatriotism done against the people of the Niger Delta region,” he said.

Okirika, who is the founding Executive Chairman of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and a founding father of the Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), described the Delta North Senator as “one of the best leaders in Nigeria who hate oppression and is very vocal”.

He expressed optimism that the lawmaker’s intervention would mark a turning point in the legal and legislative redress of what he termed a long-standing economic injustice to the host communities.

According to him, communities in Delta Central and Delta South Senatorial Zones “are closely following your activities at the National Assembly and are impressed by your dedication and unique commitment to issues of national and regional significance.”

“We believe the governors will hear from you shortly and the Niger Delta region will never forget you as you take the motion for an act to urgently commence the legal implementation of the 13 per cent derivation fund to reflect the legislative compliance of Section 162(2).

“This section mandates the Federal Government to pay the 13 per cent directly to host communities,” Okirika added.

By Deborah Coker

50% of renewable energy skilled labour needs unmet in Nigeria – Rep. Ogene

Michael Simire
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50% of renewable energy skilled labour needs unmet in Nigeria – Rep. Ogene

The House of Representatives committee on Renewable Energy has said that Nigeria has 50 per cent unmet needs in the renewable energy skilled labour sector.

Afam Ogene
Chairman, House Committee on Renewable Energy, Rep. Afam Ogene

The Chairman, House Committee on Renewable Energy, Rep. Afam Ogene, said this during the Africa Policy Dialogue (APD) workshop, with theme: “Green jobs and low carbon transition,” in Abuja on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

Ogene said that the unmet needs had impeded employment of quality technicians and employees in the sector.

“Today, nearly 50 per cent of skilled labour needs in Nigeria’s renewable sector remain unmet.

“Employers across the country consistently report difficulty hiring qualified technicians, engineers and system operators,” he said.

He also affirmed the gap in local equipment manufacturing, saying that most of the equipment used in renewable energy power generation were imported.

According to him, this has the potential to cause loss of green job opportunities.

Ogene, however, said that this development was not as a result of shortage of raw resources for local manufacturers, but because of the skill gaps and inadequate policies to ensure knowledge transfer.

He explained that the gap was not just a workforce problem, but a policy issue.

The lawmaker noted that China, through its green job programme, backed by government policies and funding, had recorded over seven million green jobs.

He called on academic institutions in Nigeria to align with the energy transition demands.

Ogene, who reiterated the legislature’s commitment to improved renewable energy delivery, said that lawmakers recognised the importance of crafting effective green jobs legislation for women and youths.

This, he said, required meticulous work to ensure alignment with existing laws and potency in achieving the goals.

“With my team of experienced colleagues, expert legal advisors and skilled legislative drafters, we’re confident in delivering a comprehensive and impactful law the nation will be proud of,” he said.

The Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, said that the dialogue was in accordance with the role of the 10th Assembly, which aligned with the broader oversight and legislative responsibility.

Abbas, represented by the Deputy Minority Whip, Rep. George Ozodinobi, expressed the national assembly’s commitment to investigating policy gaps and proposing solutions that were meaningful, realistic and impactful in addressing the challenge.

“Let me sincerely thank the honourable chairman and members of the committee on renewable energy for their diligence, foresight and relentless efforts in championing this important cause.

“As a responsible People’s House, we are fully aware of the strategic importance of green energy, not just because of its environmental significance but also due to its immense economic potential,” he said.

Tajudeen said that the loud and urgent call for a just energy transition in Nigeria was a reflection of a dual reality, that is, the vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and the untapped renewable energy potential.

He restated the determination of the parliament to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in creating jobs to improve energy access, from preserving the ecosystems to reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

The speaker stated that the legislative agenda placed strong emphasis on energy transition as a key pillar in tackling unemployment and environmental degradation.

According to him, Nigeria is at a critical juncture where bold and deliberate policy choices can determine the expected leap into a sustainable future or remain stalled by outdated systems.

He called for an urgent action to tap into the renewable energy as a way forward in tackling youth unemployment and under-employment.

Also speaking, a representative of INCLUDE Knowledge platform, Ms Victoria Manya, expressed the platform ‘s belief in not just transition but increasing renewable energy skills in Africa.

Manya, however, warned that the low-carbon transition risked becoming the handmaiden of fossil fuel interests – delivering decarbonisation targets on paper.

“What we must do is reclaim the transition – not only as a climate imperative—but as a generational opportunity to rewrite our social contract.

“In Nigeria, the data is clear: too many young people are unemployed or underemployed, and too many women are shut out of emerging green sectors.

“A just transition must not only ask how we reduce emissions – but who gets the new jobs, who trains the workforce and who shapes the policies,” she said.

Manya said that Nigeria stood at the same global threshold with bigger renewable energy nations, with a unique opportunity to lead Africa in embedding labour justice into climate action.

By Ikenna Osuoha

Group urges govt to use data-driven policies for climate action

Michael Simire
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Group urges govt to use data-driven policies for climate action

The Media Awareness and Justice Initiative (MAJI), a non-governmental organisation, has called on the government to leverage data in developing policies, enforcing regulations, and raising awareness on the impact of climate change. The call was made during a stakeholders’ consultation forum organised by MAJI for civil society organisations and environmentalists in Port Harcourt on Friday, July 25, 2025.

Balarabe Lawal
Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment

MAJI’s Executive Coordinator, Mr. Onyekachi Okoro, emphasised the importance of the forum’s theme, “Strengthening Data for Climate Action in Nigeria.”

Okoro stressed the critical role of data-driven decision-making in addressing climate challenges.

According to him, MAJI plans to collect relevant data and develop a baseline document to serve as a reference point for tracking progress.

“This baseline document will be used to engage stakeholders, build capacity, and provide technical training to improve environmental governance across the country,” he said.

He expressed concern over the poor air quality in Port Harcourt, describing it as a major health threat due to the cumulative impact of fossil fuel production, artisanal refining, and gas flaring.

Okoro also cited additional concerns such as emissions from vehicular movement and heavy machinery, which he said posed a significant risk to public health.

He urged the government to prioritise the protection of lives and livelihoods by using available data to shape effective climate policies and enforce environmental regulations.

Okoro also stressed the need for sustained public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of climate change and the importance of environmental protection.

He reaffirmed MAJI’s commitment to promoting climate justice and encouraging the use of green energy solutions. such as solar and other renewable sources, to reduce environmental impact.

Also speaking, Mr. Steve Obodoekwe, an environmentalist from the Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development, highlighted the dangers of poor air quality in the Niger Delta region.

Obodoekwe noted that while issues like land and water pollution received considerable attention, “air pollution is often overlooked, despite its severe and silent toll on human health.”

He commended MAJI for its continued efforts in advocating for clean air in Rivers, and the wider Niger Delta region.

By Precious Akutamadu

African CSOs unite to share Global South priorities ahead of INC-5.2

Michael Simire
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African CSOs unite to share Global South priorities ahead of INC-5.2

GAIA Africa hosted an online media briefing for African journalists ahead of the resumed fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) on the Global Plastics Treaty. Held on July 24, 2025, the session emphasised the critical role of journalists in amplifying the key priorities of African civil society, urging governments to adopt an ambitious position against plastic pollution, and unpacking the treaty’s regional implications.

Merrisa Naidoo
Merrisa Naidoo, GAIA Africa’s Plastics Programme Manager

Africa has played a leading role in the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, beginning with the adoption of AMCEN Decision 19/2 – a landmark mandate by African ministers that firmly established the continent’s priorities. This decision solidified the African Group of Negotiators’ (AGN) common position, committing the region to advocate for a legally binding global treaty that addresses plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle – from production to disposal – while safeguarding human health and the environment.

Since then, Africa has consistently demonstrated unity, leadership, and moral authority on the international stage, gaining global recognition and respect. As the negotiations advance, this momentum must not waver. Leaders must now carry this spirit forward into INC-5.2 with renewed determination, upholding their commitments and acting with the courage, integrity, and ambition this moment demands.

Merrisa Naidoo, GAIA Africa’s Plastics Programme Manager and a leading coordinator of the region’s engagement in the Global Plastics Treaty process since INC-1, delivered a timely briefing on the treaty’s progress and the continent’s priorities ahead of INC-5.2 this August. She underscored that while the science is clear and global support for a bold, binding treaty to end plastic pollution is stronger than ever, the process is being held back by a lack of good faith and political will.

“Now, more than ever, we need courageous leadership,” Naidoo stressed. “We have the evidence. We have the momentum. What we’re missing is the commitment to act.”

Civil society members from across Africa, who actively advocate for a strong Global Plastics Treaty, shared their expectations ahead of the upcoming negotiations. Drawing on diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, these speakers highlighted critical issues, including the elimination of toxic chemicals in plastics, the establishment of a robust and equitable financial mechanism, and, most urgently, the need to reduce plastic production at the source.

Their powerful interventions represented voices from South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya, demonstrating a united continental call for an ambitious treaty that puts people and the planet before profit. When it comes to the African people, unity can be seen from south to north, from east to west.

Eskedar Awgichew of EcoJustice Ethiopia shared his perspective, stating, “in my country, Ethiopia, we are witnessing a growing surge in petrochemical infrastructure linked to plastic production. Yet local communities face a serious gap in environmental oversight and public health protection. This is where harm begins, and where justice must be rooted”. 

Mohamed Kamal of the Greenish Foundation, Egypt, emphasised: “We need African negotiators to connect with the pollution we face on the ground and recognise that waste management alone is not enough to solve the problem, and we have to tackle it at the source, at production.”

Rico Euripidou of groundWork in South Africa stated, “There are an alarming 16000 chemicals found in plastics, and we need a Plastics Treaty that eliminates the most harmful toxic chemicals in plastics.”

This was further emphasised by Dorothy Otieno of CEJAD Kenya, citing that “research conducted in Africa has revealed the presence of toxic chemicals in children’s toys and the food chain.” She underscored that this treaty is fundamentally an African treaty, and as a net importer of plastics, the continent stands to benefit significantly from the elimination of toxic chemicals in plastics.

Nadine Wahab of Sustainable Network Egypt powerfully called out that we are at a stage of the negotiations where we must prioritise effective, inclusive, and transparent decision-making. “We need to restore trust in multilateralism. The INC must not fall into the traps we’ve seen in other environmental processes, particularly the climate negotiations, where procedural ambiguity and politicisation have hindered ambition.”  

“Many African countries are burdened by substantial debt, and there is an urgent need for the Plastics Treaty to establish a dedicated Multilateral Fund (MLF) to support effective implementation across the continent,” said Jacob Johnson Attakpah from GAYO Ghana. 

Finally, Sarah Onuoha of SRADeV Nigeria highlighted the critical importance of the human rights impacts that plastic pollution has, stating: “We must recognise that plastic pollution directly impacts livelihoods. In the Nigerian context, journalists have a key role to play in advocating for environmental justice and promoting solutions that alleviate poverty while supporting national development efforts.”

With INC-5.2 on the horizon, speakers urged the Global South to stand united and approach the negotiations with determination and urgency. The road ahead may be challenging, but Africa’s message is resolute: we will not back down, nor will we settle for anything less than a treaty that delivers real solutions to end plastic pollution.

Adopt right strategies to end open defecation in Lagos, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu charges stakeholders

Michael Simire
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Adopt right strategies to end open defecation in Lagos, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu charges stakeholders

Wife of Lagos Governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has charged community leaders, religious bodies, health officials and other stakeholders to adopt the right strategies in the campaign against open defecation so as to put the state on the right track in its attempt towards becoming the cleanest in Nigeria.

WaterAid
Dignitaries at the flag-off of Open Defecation Free and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign in Lagos

Mrs. Sanwo-Olu made the call on Thursday, July 24, 2025, during the flag-off of Open Defecation Free and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign organised by Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources in collaboration with Lagos Waste Forum and WaterAid Nigeria.

Represented by Mrs. Victoria Olowu, Wife of Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Mineral Resources, Sanwo-Olu, noted that “open defecation can lead to environmental degradation, which affects our water sources and pollutes our shared spaces. The campaign against open defecation is necessary because it aims at fostering a healthier, more dignified and environmentally responsible society.

“Apart from the negative environmental impacts, open defecation strips us of our dignity, endangers our health, and undermines our aspirations for a cleaner, smarter and safer Lagos,” she said.

Sanwo-Olu however urged the public to intensify awareness campaigns on the use of clean, safe, and accessible public toilets in markets, motor parks, schools, public institutions, and in every community.

In her remarks, Evelyn Mere, Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, opined that the practice of open defecation constitutes a challenge to public health, derogates from our dignity as humans, and endangers our well-being as a people. “Therefore, to be labelled as the nation with the highest number of people practicing it, is a slight on our collective pride.”

Mere, who was represented by Kolawole Banwo, WaterAid Nigeria’s Head of Advocacy and Communication, further stated: “There are several contributory factors to this common but unacceptable practice. These, among others, range from lack of access to safe, inclusive, and decent toilets, cultural beliefs, lack of awareness and poor social orientation.

“It will therefore require the combination of the collective efforts of multiple stakeholders to effectively address it. These will be by ensuring the availability of functional and hygienic toilets for households in public places, in institutions, as well as an effective behavioural change campaign. These, if complemented by the strict enforcement of relevant laws and imposition of appropriate sanctions on defaulters, will culminate in putting an end to this unhealthy practice.

“At WaterAid Nigeria, we believe that clean water, decent toilets, and good hygiene are not luxuries, but basic human rights. We have therefore provided and are still providing safe, inclusive, gender responsive toilets in selected schools, primary healthcare centres and public places, as our contribution to ending this menace in the state.”

She called on all stakeholders, especially the good people of Lagos to join in the ‘Open Defecation Free and Hygiene Behaviour Change Campaign’.

Mrs. Chizoba Opara, National Coordinator, Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign (CNC), in her submission stated that the campaign signified a renewed commitment to improving public health, protecting the environment and restoring dignity to every Lagos resident.

Opara, who represented the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, said that the Use the Toilet campaign, which was launched in 2019 with Executive Order 009, had made tremendous progress in ending open defecation in the country.

Dr. Hassan Sanuth, Director of Sanitation Service, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, noted: “Nigeria faces a significant challenge with open defecation, ranking first globally in this practice. An alarming 48 million Nigerians (WASHNORM 2021) still practice open defecation, leading to severe consequences. The nation loses an estimated 1.3% of its GDP annually (N455 billion) due to poor sanitation. Tragically, over 100,000 children under five die each year from water and sanitation-related diseases. 

“In Lagos State, the situation is dire: 75% of Lagosians lack access to safely managed sanitation and 65% lack adequate hygiene services. In October 2024, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported that Lagos State accounted for 43% of all suspected cholera cases nationwide, highlighting the urgent need for action” he submitted. 

To protect public health and enhance the dignity and safety of Lagosians, particularly women and girls, the Director of Sanitation Service advocated for massive sensitization programme about the dangers of open defecation across all communities across Lagos’ IBILE divisions. The should be an improved WASH infrastructure in public places in order to promote good sanitation and hygiene practices.”

Highpoint of the event was the decoration of the First Lady as the Clean Lagos Ambassador and signing of the Open Defecation Free Commitment Accord by Chairmen of Local Government Areas and Local Community Development Areas in Ikorodu Division.

By Ajibola Adedoye

ICJ and states’ climate change obligations: African youth implications

Michael Simire
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ICJ and states’ climate change obligations: African youth implications

The UN’s main judicial organ, the International Court of Justice (ICJ), resolves state disputes and issues legal advice. The ICJ has recently prioritised climate change, generating concerns regarding governments’ legal responsibility to minimise its impacts. African young, who are most sensitive to climate change and may alter their communities and beyond, are affected by this changing legal landscape.

ICJ Courtroom
ICJ Courtroom

One of the ICJ’s major climate change initiatives is advising small island governments on the legal effects of climate change under international law. This investigation may clarify states’ climate mitigation and adaptation duties. The ICJ’s findings might make African countries liable for climate action, as they are disproportionately affected by climate calamities.

The ICJ’s focus on state commitments allows African youth to fight for improved climate policy. Young people throughout the continent are already facing climate change-related droughts, floods, and food poverty. African youth may demand that their governments solve these issues by interacting with the ICJ’s interpretations of international law, supporting a sustainable future.

The ICJ’s findings may further bolster the idea that nations must safeguard citizens’ rights and well-being from climate change. This legal framework might enable African youth to hold their governments accountable for climate failure and encourage them to switch to renewable energy and sustainable agriculture. Advocacy may transform national policies and behaviours.

The ICJ’s focus on state duties may also boost climate change cooperation. Given the global character of this issue, the ICJ’s interpretations may inspire African governments to engage on regional climate efforts. Youth from various nations may develop coalitions to promote shared renewable energy and water management practices, promoting regional unity.

Legal ramifications from ICJ verdicts might improve financing for African climate adaptation and mitigation programs. Countries that meet their climate obligations may attract international financial help. This allows African adolescents to participate in sustainable development and climate resilience projects.

The ICJ’s climate duties may also spur continental educational changes. Governments may include climate education in school curricula as they recognise its relevance. Young people would learn how to advocate for climate change and solve local environmental issues with this transition.
African adolescents also have intriguing legal options from ICJ verdicts. Young campaigners may oppose climate-changing governments and companies using international law. They can explicitly relate climate change to human rights, notably the right to a healthy environment, by suing for environmental destruction.

The ICJ’s framing of climate change as a human rights issue may further increase climate victims’ voices. African youth can support policies that prioritise vulnerable and marginalised groups. Equity and inclusion are essential to climate solutions that address climate-exacerbated imbalances.

ICJ’s involvement in establishing state climate change duties affects African youth. African youth can use legal interpretations to fight for their rights and the environment. They may promote responsibility, collaboration, and sustainable practices in their communities through activism and international legal frameworks, making their communities more climate-resilient.

African youth can guarantee their views are heard in global climate and human rights discussions by leading the climate movement. The ICJ’s interpretations encourage young people to envisage and contribute for a sustainable and equitable future for themselves and future generations.

By Olumide Idowu and Shittu Ismaila

Nnaji calls for realistic gas pricing, cost-reflective tariffs

Michael Simire
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Nnaji calls for realistic gas pricing, cost-reflective tariffs

Chairman of Geometric Power, Barth Nnaji, has urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to reconcile the gap between the regulated $2.42  per MMBTU domestic gas price for power generation and the prevailing market rate of $2.70 to $9, advocating a more realistic tariff framework that aligns with actual gas procurement costs for electricity Generation Companies (GenCos).

Prof. Barth Nnaji
Prof. Barth Nnaji

He made this known in his opening remark at the Orient News Nigeria 2025 Conference on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Lagos.  

He noted that while the official domestic gas price for power generation was formerly pegged at $2.42 per MMBtu, the NMDPRA revised this down to $2.13/MMBtu effective April 1, 2025. 

However, in reality, GenCos often source gas from the open market where prices range from $2.70 to as high as $9/MMBtu, depending on supply constraints and contract terms.

“Because most electricity is generated using gas, and GenCos depend heavily on sourcing this gas from the open market, the disparity between the regulated and actual prices continues to strain the sector,” Nnaji said.

He warned that the pricing gap is worsening liquidity challenges in the power sector, contributing significantly to the ₦1.1 trillion electricity subsidy recorded in the first half of 2025 and the growing trillion-naira debt owed to GenCos by the federal government.

According to him, “The gas-to-power benchmark being below market realities places an unsustainable burden on power producers.”

He also emphasised the need for more cost-reflective electricity tariffs, explaining that the current pricing structure fails to cover the operational and maintenance costs of GenCos, particularly as many critical inputs are imported.

“The energy charge component of the power tariff must be able to cover the cost of maintaining the assets. If operators can’t recover expenses for operations and maintenance, which are often dollar-denominated, there will be recurring system failures,” Nnaji said.

“The regulator must continue to adjust the tariff in line with actual industry costs to ensure sustainability.”

Prof. Barth Nnaji expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s inability to fully harness its vast natural gas reserves for electricity generation, despite having over 200 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven reserves.

 Nnaji said, “It’s quite perplexing. We are a gas-rich country, yet we struggle to supply enough gas to our power plants.

“NLNG, with its Train-7, is not operating at full capacity due to feedgas constraints. It’s a contradiction that many find hard to understand,” he said.

He further emphasised that while Nigeria previously exported coal and had a functioning mining industry, the country abruptly abandoned these alternatives without adequate transition planning.

Speaking on the future of Nigeria’s energy mix, Nnaji said that while hydro and solar power have a role to play, gas-fired power plants will remain the dominant source of electricity for the next one to two decades.

“Hydro power has its limits in Nigeria due to seasonal variability and geopolitical concerns, particularly as it depends on stable relationships with northern communities and neighbouring countries,” he said.

He further emphasised that Nigeria is not investing adequately in gas production and pipeline transportation infrastructure, calling for greater private sector involvement.

“Nigeria has all the capacity it needs. Government should remain an enabler, but the private sector must take the lead. If we don’t produce enough gas, even promising initiatives like CNG adoption will not take off,” he stated.

Nnaji noted that most gas-fired power plants in Nigeria suffer from erratic operations due to inconsistent gas pressure and supply, an unacceptable situation for a nation with abundant gas resources.

He argued that with sufficient gas supply, Nigeria could stabilize its economy and expand into industrial processing such as petrochemicals, creating a diversified energy ecosystem.

Commenting on the plan by the MainPower Electricity Distribution Ltd to charge Band A customers N160 per kilowatt-hour, down from the previous N209, following a directive by the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC), effective from August 1, 2025, 

Enugu State under Band A tariff classification are set to enjoy reduced billing rates from next month, as the state electricity regulator slashed prices by nearly 24 per cent

Nnaji cautioned that states must be financially prepared to bear the burden of subsidy if they are to manage electricity supply effectively.

He warned that once states take over electricity regulation and distribution under the Electricity Act, they must be ready to subsidize electricity directly or risk service breakdowns.

He questioned assumptions behind the current tariff framework, where DisCos are expected to supply power to consumers at ₦45/kWh, based on a presumed federal subsidy through NBET to GenCos.

“There’s a belief that the federal government subsidizes power purchases, but in reality, that subsidy isn’t always there. This has contributed to the over ₦5.2 trillion debt owed to GenCos,” he said.

Nnaji also raised concerns about the contentious application of ATC&C losses (Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection losses), which influence cost-reflective tariffs and remittance obligations.

“Some DisCos remit as little as 30 percent of the power they receive, while others remit up to 60 percent. These discrepancies affect liquidity across the market,” he noted.

He stressed the need for enforceable Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and the resolution of issues like vandalism and operational disruptions that hinder gas supply and power offtake.

“Without a consistent gas supply and proper market design, we can’t expect PPAs to deliver,” he said.

Nigeria inaugurates working group on national carbon budget

Michael Simire
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Nigeria inaugurates working group on national carbon budget

The Federal Government has inaugurated a Technical Working Group to develop a National Carbon Budget for Nigeria.

Carbon Budget
The minister with other delegates at the inauguration of a Technical Working Group to develop a National Carbon Budget for Nigeria

The initiative is part of efforts to address climate change and meet international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in Abuja during a Stakeholders’ Engagement towards the Development of the Carbon Budget.

“Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture in addressing the climate challenges that threaten our environment, economy, and social fabric,” Lawal said.

He emphasised that the move reflects Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling its climate obligations while aligning national policies with sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental preservation.

According to the minister, the development of a carbon budget is not merely a technical exercise but a national imperative that requires input from all sectors of society.

He said members of the technical group were drawn from the energy, transport, agriculture, water resources, financial sectors, civil society organisations, academia, youth, and women-led climate groups, among others.

“Nigeria is committed to addressing climate change through ambitious emission reduction targets as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the implementation of relevant legislation,” he said.

Lawal noted that government agencies would provide strategic oversight, while civil society organisations would serve as advocates and watchdogs to ensure transparency and inclusiveness.

He added that the private sector would play a key role in innovation and sustainable practices, while academia and development partners would provide technical insights, funding, and capacity building.

“A well-structured carbon budget will help Nigeria monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions effectively, contribute to global mitigation targets, protect ecosystems, and enhance resilience against climate impacts such as flooding, drought, and desertification,” he said.

Earlier, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, a Professor of Global Climate and Environmental Governance, said carbon budget is the total amount of greenhouse gases a country can emit within a specified period to remain within a temperature target.

“Scientists have shown that the bulk of the rise in global greenhouse gas emissions stems from human activity,” he said.

Mr. Kenneth Kwujeh, Director of Planning and Projects at the Ministry of Budget and National Planning, said a carbon budget aligns economic planning with climate goals.

He added that developing a succession plan for Nigeria’s carbon budget between 2026 and 2030 is essential for long-term economic growth.

Ms. Yasmin Mohammed, Special Assistant to the President on Energy Transition, called for alignment across ministries, departments, and agencies to make the carbon budget a reality.

On his part, Mr. Kunle Olusile, National Project Coordinator for the UN Industrial Development Organisation, assured of the organisation’s support towards the carbon budget initiative.

By Abigael Joshua

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