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Energy Commission sets performance standards benchmark for air conditioners in Nigeria

Michael Simire
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Energy Commission sets performance standards benchmark for air conditioners in Nigeria

In a bid to promote energy efficiency in line with the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) in Lagos on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, sought to enhance stakeholder capacity to comply to the newly approved Minimum Energy Performance Standards for Air Conditioners (ACs) in the country.

ECN
A cross section of stakeholders during the training of stakeholders on newly approved minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for Air Conditioners in Nigeria held in Lagos.

In his remark, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General, ECN, the workshop, implemented under the project “Scaling Up Energy-Efficient and Climate- Friendly Cooling in Nigeria NDC Review” is being executed with technical assistance from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and funding from the Clean Cooling Collaborative.

Represented by Dr. Shehu Mustapha, Acting Director and ECN’s Head of Energy Transition Unit, the Director-General noted: “The main objective of the project is to accelerate the transition to energy-efficient and climate-friendly (low-GWP refrigerant) ACs in residential, commercial and public buildings which contribute to meeting Nigeria’s climate targets in our National Determined Contributions (NDCs) in a cost effective and sustainable manner. This is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on enhancing efficiency and fostering the development of renewable energy sources.”

He said one of the key outcomes of the project was the review of the minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for air conditioners.

“The Technical Committee meeting to review the draft MEPS was held in June 2024 and the standards had since been approved by the Federal Government, so it is necessary to communicate the contents of the new standards to all relevant stakeholders, including end-users of air conditioners. Among these stakeholders are manufacturers, importers, and distributors, who play a critical role in bringing the product to the market. To promote compliance with the newly approved MEPS, it is essential to build the capacity of these critical stakeholders,” he stressed.

Lawal Ismaila Ayanda, an engineer and Head Electrical, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in his submission noted that SON developed a standard in compliant with the international body such as ISO and IEC in order to improve the efficiency by phasing out all the dangerous gases and those dangerous refrigerants in the environment.

His words: “There is need for us to domesticate this standard and create awareness for manufacturers, importers, users and all of us to be very much aware the dangers inherent in the old air conditioners which has to do with dangerous gases. Apart from this, old air conditioners consumes so much power while the new ones consume very less power and more efficient, more cooling, and of course environmentally friendly.

“In the course of developing the standard, we engaged members of the Nigerian Association of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Practitioners (NARAP) as part of the stakeholders before coming up with the MEPS which centres around energy management and environmental protection.”

Mr. Etiosa Uyigue, National Coordinator, Nigeria Sustainable Cooling Project, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), while taking a look at the project overview noted that the project under the Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Obsolete RAC Equipment in West Africa otherwise called the AGORA project is going to be referenced to the standards that have been put in place.

He said: “Essentially, we have not done a precise standard for refrigerators yet, but it’s likely going to be that the AGORA project will focus more on the air conditioners than the refrigerators. We already have a revised standard for that. So, beyond that, we are talking about the architect bans of the use of pollution and air conditioning. We have to stop it but the policy we have on that allows you to bring in used air conditioners. And this is not an architect ban yet. But we are also working towards putting an architect ban on the use of used air conditioners and refrigerators. 

“The AGORA project will also be looking at what to do with these used air conditioners. These air conditioners, which are nice and smart. You know, people just go and dump them somewhere. Maybe in the efficient solution, but leave them there. So, it’s also looking at recycling of those products. So, that’s part of what the AGORA project will also be addressing. 

In his submission, Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director, SRADev Nigeria, noted that for a country like Nigeria that suffers from energy poverty to a large extent, we need to key into what we call efficient means of energy supply. 

“We are a nation trying to move towards net zero which covers every component of equipment as far as energy supply is concerned, the workshop is very key, and timely because we are in an era where there’s a kind of synergy happening towards the sector of air conditioners and refrigerators. MEPs is to put in place a standard which says if any importer is going to bring in any air conditioner into this country, it must meet the standard specified in terms of both energy consumption and also in terms of environmental friendliness”.

Dr. Adogame who is also a member of the Technical Committee while baring his mind on the advocacy that birthed the workshop stated that since all this effort started from the first MEP, which is now being reviewed by ECN, not much was known about the MEP sector as far as air conditioner is concerned.

“But it has to be all hands-on deck. We noticed this gap as civil society, and that’s why we came into this space. We partnered with SON to help to support the MEPs development for the lightning sector. We completed that about two years ago. We are beginning to have discussions to see how we can even look at other sectors like motors. But, again, we are using other projects, activities to address the same issue.

“For example, under the Montreal Protocol, which focuses on ozone-depleting substances and HFCs, that is another project we are using to address the issue of awareness raising for MEPs. It’s about standard to efficient system. It’s a win-win for everyone, irrespective of where you’re addressing it from. SON and ECN cannot do it alone. So, we, the NGOs, are approaching air conditioners and refrigerators from the ODS point of view, as well as from the HFC point of view. So, it’s purely a collaborative effort that will help to push the message,” he maintained.

Apart from the awareness that was created among critical stakeholders in the AC sector on the newly approved AC MEPS, ECN in partnership with SON further boost the technical capacity of manufacturers, importers and distributors of ACs to ensure effective compliance with the newly approved AC MEPS.

They also provide a platform for dialogue, clarification, and feedback to facilitate smooth implementation of the newly approved standards as well as strengthening collaboration between SON, ECN and the private sector to support Nigeria’s energy efficiency and climate goals.

By Ajibola Adedoye

Dangote Refinery’s fuel distribution scheme to cut inflation, boost jobs – Experts

Michael Simire
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Dangote Refinery’s fuel distribution scheme to cut inflation, boost jobs – Experts

A recent initiative by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, involving the distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), diesel and other petroleum products to marketers, petrol station operators, manufacturers, telecommunications companies, the aviation sector, and other large-scale users, with free logistics support, has been hailed by experts as a move with the potential to reduce inflation, create thousands of jobs, and lower the cost of petroleum products across Nigeria.

Dangote Refinery
Dangote Refinery

Crucially, the refinery’s plan to deploy 4,000 new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tankers is expected to not only address the country’s long-standing distribution inefficiencies but also reduce the influence of intermediaries and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Dr Abimbola Oyarinu, a university lecturer and public affairs analyst, stated that, if successfully implemented, the policy could significantly reduce the power held by middlemen within the oil and gas distribution chain. He observed that these intermediaries, including tanker drivers, have historically held the sector, and sometimes even the state, to ransom.

“This initiative has the potential to dismantle the dominance of powerful middlemen, who have in the past stalled progress and held entities like the NNPCL hostage,” said Oyarinu. “However, Nigerians will judge it by its impact on fuel prices. If it leads to cheaper petrol at the pump, it will ease inflation considering fuel costs and exchange rates are key inflationary drivers in Nigeria.”

Ibukun Phillips, an energy analyst, described the move as “revolutionary”, stating that it could reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape by improving accessibility and affordability, especially in rural areas.

“Logistics currently account for between 10% and 30% of fuel prices,” she explained. “Eliminating this cost will naturally reduce pump prices. Rural dwellers often pay more for fuel than those in urban areas, despite earning less. This initiative could revive disused filling stations and ensure more equitable distribution.”

Phillips added that the scheme will also generate employment, with at least 8,000 drivers expected to be hired to kickstart the operation.

Speaking on a national television programme, energy expert and co-founder of Dairy Hills, Kelvin Emmanuel, said Dangote’s move to cover logistics costs marks a critical shift that could allow Nigerians to finally benefit from domestic refining. He argued that concerns about the refinery becoming a monopoly are misplaced, pointing instead to systemic inefficiencies that have plagued the sector for decades.

“People have valid concerns,” Emmanuel acknowledged. “But let’s be clear: the real business marketers have been involved in isn’t selling PMS with margins of N5 to N15. Their real gains have come from exploiting arbitrage opportunities, often with substandard imports that don’t meet the sulphur specifications outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).”

He highlighted how logistical and regulatory failings have hampered fuel distribution.

“For instance, I can confirm that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) currently owes independent marketers N1.8 billion in outstanding bridging claims. Whether these claims are valid is another matter – an independent forensic audit would be required to determine that.”

According to Emmanuel, the Dangote Refinery is stepping in to address long-standing gaps in Nigeria’s fuel distribution system. He emphasised that fuel supply across the country remains inconsistent, with only Lagos, a few states in the southwest, and Abuja enjoying relatively stable and fair pump prices

“Dangote is taking on the burden of transportation, storage, and bridging costs that should have been streamlined long ago. This is in response to the resistance from vested interests who have tried to frustrate fair and efficient distribution,” he said.

He further explained that the refinery’s current reliance on road transport is a strategic move to bypass infrastructural and bureaucratic bottlenecks.

“The immediate fix is the deployment of CNG-powered trucks to ensure last-mile delivery while avoiding delays caused by existing structural inefficiencies,” Emmanuel added.

Book launch: GOCOP seeks to sanitise online journalism, set standards

Michael Simire
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Book launch: GOCOP seeks to sanitise online journalism, set standards

The President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Ms. Maureen Chigbo, has stated that the organisation’s primary objective is to sanitise the online media space and establish standards for the industry.

GOCOP
The GOCOP book launch and fundraiser in Abuja

She spoke at the launch of GOCOP’s maiden publication, “Nigeria Media Renaissance: GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing,” and a fundraising event for the GOCOP Media Centre in Abuja on Tuesday, June 17, 2025,

Chigbo emphasised the need for collaboration with stakeholders to achieve this goal.

As a group of professional journalists with over two decades of experience in mainstream media, GOCOP is committed to promoting ethical online publishing practices.

Chigbo noted that the organisation’s members are dedicated to upholding the principles of truth, fairness, and balanced reporting, and have introduced a self-regulatory mechanism to ensure compliance.

To maintain high standards, GOCOP has established several committees, including a Disciplinary Committee/Ombudsman to address public complaints and ensure accountability.

Chigbo stressed that the organisation takes its self-regulation responsibility seriously and is committed to weeding out unprofessional conduct.

The GOCOP President acknowledged the contributions of members, contributors, and supporters, including Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, publisher of PREMIUM TIMES, who wrote the foreword to the book as well as the reviewer, and president, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr Ike Neliaku.

She also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, state governments, institutions, and corporate organizations for their support.

Chigbo appealed for generous donations to strengthen GOCOP and build the Guild’s Media Centre, which will empower members to run their businesses profitably.

She also urged public relations practitioners, advertisers, governments, and civil society organisations to support GOCOP businesses, emphasising the critical role that online media plays in building a society where justice, peace, and individual rights are respected.

By promoting ethical online publishing practices and collaborating with stakeholders, GOCOP aims to establish itself as a leading voice in the online media industry and contribute to the growth and development of the sector.

Brazil auctions Amazon oil blocks amid communities’ protest, climate concern

Michael Simire
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Brazil auctions Amazon oil blocks amid communities’ protest, climate concern

While claiming leadership on the international climate agenda at the pre-COP30 climate conference in Bonn, Germany, the Brazilian government, through the ANP (National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels), held the 5th Cycle of the Permanent Concession Offer on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 — an auction of 172 oil and gas blocks, including 68 in the Brazilian Amazon.

Lula da Silva
Lula da Silva, President of Brazil

The auction reportedly happened without consultation process and free, prior, and informed consent from the region’s Indigenous and traditional communities, in direct violation of ILO Convention 169, to which Brazil is a signatory.

Of the 47 oil blocks offered in the mouth of the Amazon, one of the most environmentally sensitive areas on the planet, 19 were concessioned for oil and gas exploration. A total of 16,312 km² of marine areas in the Amazon were auctioned, distributed across four sectors. Chevron and CNPC acquired nine blocks, while ExxonMobil and Petrobras secured 10 blocks, deepening the oil companies’ push into the Amazon biome.

These blocks were said to have been acquired without the completion of an Environmental Assessment of Sedimentary Area (AAAS). While not mandatory, the lack of this assessment has been repeatedly highlighted by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama) and the country’s Ministry of Environment as a factor that hinders the licensing process in the region.

A detailed AAAS mapping would facilitate both the work of the environmental agency and energy planning, as it would identify areas where oil activities should be avoided due to environmental sensitivity, according to scientists.

The auction also did not comply with the recommendations of Brazil’s Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office, which filed a few days ago an injunction to suspend the auction, citing serious flaws in the process, such as the lack of adequate preliminary studies, failure to consult affected parties, and the risk of irreversible socio-environmental damage.

In addition to violating the rights of local communities and going against the global agreement to transition away from fossil fuels, the government has allegedly disregarded warnings from the global scientific community, which are clear: there is no room for new fossil fuel projects if we are to avoid climate collapse.

The decision, it was gathered, undermines the credibility of the Brazilian government, which advocates for climate commitments on the international stage but continues to expand the fossil fuel frontier domestically – including in the Amazon, the region set to host the world’s most important climate conference this year, COP30.

Indigenous Peoples, traditional communities, and civil society organisations argue that a just energy transition must prioritise highly biodiverse and environmentally sensitive areas such as the Amazon and must be built on a clear plan that does not rely on the expansion of oil and gas or the financing of fossil fuels.

Representatives of civil society organisations and Indigenous Peoples offered the following comments:

Chief Jonas Mura, leader of the Mura People: “If the Great Creator left oil and gas deep underground, out of our reach, it’s because it is not something good – it brings only destruction, pollution, poverty, greed, disease, and conflict. Bringing that rotten, polluting mass up from the depths is bringing everything bad into our territories. We want the Amazon free from oil and gas!”

Gisela Hurtado, senior Amazonia campaigner at Stand.earth: “At the very moment the world gathers in Bonn to advance climate solucions and preparing for the first Cop in the Amazon, the Brazilian government is auctioning the Amazon to the fossil fuel industry. This ‘Leilão da Morte’ – Auction of Death – threatens not only Indigenous territories, but the global climate system itself. It defies the principles of the Paris Agreement and the ambition for the Cop30.

“We stand here to say: there is no climate justice without Indigenous rights, no just transition without keeping fossil fuels in the ground, and no sustainable future if the Amazon becomes a sacrifice zone. The world must demand coherence – words at the COP must match actions at home.”

Ilan Zugman, director of 350.org Latin America and the Caribbean: “Time will tell whether Brazil will have the political courage to align its rhetoric with action and leave a true legacy of climate leadership. This auction, in the very year Brazil is hosting COP30, marks a critical moment in which the government opens the doors to the fossil fuel industry in one of the most sensitive biomes on the planet. Today 19 blocks were concessioned without prior consultation with Indigenous and traditional communities, violating both constitutional and international rights.

“This decision contradicts the environmental protection promises made by a government elected under that very banner, and it undermines the country’s credibility on the global stage. Rather than leading a just energy transition based on Brazil’s vast renewable potential, the government is doubling down on an outdated fossil fuel model – one that jeopardises the future, blocks sustainable development, and repeats the mistakes of the past.”

Carolina Marçal, projects coordinator at Instituto ClimaInfo: “While demanding effective action from wealthy nations on the energy transition, Brazil has just sent a terrible signal to those who care about life and the future of this planet. By auctioning off 19 blocks in the mouth of the Amazon – an environmentally sensitive area critical to the global climate – the country is fueling the climate crisis. Beautiful words and empty agreements will not save the world from the growing wave of extreme weather events. Brazil has everything it needs to lead a just transition – and oil is certainly not part of the future in a world on fire.”

Mauricio Guetta, director of law and public policy at Avaaz: “With the world on the brink of reaching the 1.5°C threshold, the decision to auction off dozens of oil blocks in areas essential to global ecological and climate balance puts Brazil at odds with global efforts to address the climate emergency, undermining its leadership at COP30. The damage to the climate, biodiversity, and Indigenous Peoples and traditional communities will be irreversible.”

Desertification and Drought Day: Nations urged to unlock trillion-dollar land restoration economy 

Michael Simire
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Desertification and Drought Day: Nations urged to unlock trillion-dollar land restoration economy 

If we continue business as usual, land almost the size of South America (16 million square kilometres) will show continued degradation by 2050. Yet, bringing 1.5 billion hectares of land back to health could unlock a trillion-dollar restoration economy, the United Nations noted on this year’s Desertification and Drought Day, urging world’ leaders to step up action.

António Guterres
UN Secretary-General, António Guterres

In his message, United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated: “What’s good for land is good for people and economies. But humanity is degrading land at an alarming rate, costing the global economy nearly $880 billion every year – far more than the investments needed to tackle the problem.” 

“I urge governments, businesses, and communities to answer the call and accelerate action on our shared global commitments on sustainable land use. We must reverse degradation, and boost finance for restoration — including by unlocking private investment,” he declared. 

This call for action was highlighted during this year’s global observance of Desertification and Drought Day in Bogotá, Colombia, held under the theme “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities”.  

UNCCD Executive Secretary, Ibrahim Thiaw, said: “This year’s observance highlights the enormous benefits of reviving our land – benefits we can’t afford to overlook as the global population is set to reach 10 billion by 2050. There is much at stake in curbing the competition over shrinking natural resources: without nutritious food, clean water and raw materials there are no livelihoods; and without them, there can be no economic prosperity, political stability, or lasting peace. A restored land is a land of endless opportunities, and it depends on all of us to unlock them.”

Unlocking global land restoration potential 

According to the latest analysis by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), restoring one billion hectares of degraded land worldwide could generate up to US$1.8 trillion annually, with every dollar invested returning between US$7 and US$30 through improved ecosystem services and livelihoods. Already, the combined effects of land degradation and drought cost the global economy US$ 878 billion each year, three times the figure for official development assistance (ODA) in 2023.

Sub-Saharan Africa, home to 45 per cent of the world’s degraded lands, leads global land restoration commitments with more than 440 million hectares pledged, which could create up to 10 million decent land-based jobs in sustainable agriculture and forestry sectors in vulnerable areas like the Sahel.

Latin America and the Caribbean, which accounts for 14 per cent of the world’s degraded lands, has the second largest restoration target of more than 220 million hectares, showing strong potential and commitment to reviving vast swaths of degraded land.

In Western Asia and Northern Africa, where nearly 90 per cent of land is already degraded and a combination of rising temperatures, water scarcity, and stressed agricultural systems are placing increasing strain on people and ecosystems alike, more than 150 million hectares have been earmarked for restoration.

Land degradation is largely driven by deforestation, unsustainable farming, and urban sprawl; it is further exacerbated by climate change and underpinned by the dual challenges of poverty and overconsumption.

Meeting global land restoration targets requires one billion dollars a day between now and 2030, including a much bigger contribution from the private sector, which currently accounts for only 6% of the global investments to revive the world’s land as the foundation for our societies, economies, and functioning ecosystems.

Colombia puts land at the centre of development

Colombia, which hosted today’s global observance of Desertification and Drought Day on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, is one of the countries putting land at the centre of its development, reconciliation, and climate agenda. Land degradation affects nearly 30 per cent of its territory and more than 40 per cent of its soils are vulnerable to salinisation, directly impacting the livelihoods of one in ten Colombians. Hence the urgency to conserve, sustainably manage, and revive the land.

Today, the country is restoring more than 560,000 hectares of land, expanding agroforestry systems, and advancing land use planning in rural areas. In the past five years, the country has rallied farmers, civil society, and scientists around initiatives to restore critical watersheds, encourage sustainable coffee growing and cattle raising, and improve the quality of productive soils with focus on the Caribbean and Andean regions. 

The Minister of Agriculture of Colombia, Martha Carvajalino, emphasised the country’s integrated approach to land reform and restoration: “In Colombia, we know that equitable land distribution is not enough; we must also heal our land and soils. Around the world, land restoration lays the foundation for food security and employment, underpins climate and biodiversity action; and is essential to cementing peace and democracy. As we host the global observance of Desertification and Drought Day, we reiterate our commitment to prioritizing land and soil restoration in the spirit of ‘land for life’.”

UNCCD Deputy Executive Secretary, Andrea Meza, said: “I commend Colombia for putting healthy lands at the centre of the country’s development, biodiversity, and climate agenda. Restoring the land is not only an environmental necessity, but an environmental justice imperative and a prerequisite for stability and prosperity.” 

The global observance is part of the Global Land Forum, hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Colombia, the Centre for Research and Popular Education/Peace Program (CINEP) as lead for a National Organising Committee of civil society actors, the European Union and the International Land Coalition.  

Second Africa Climate Summit anticipated to drive actionable solutions

Michael Simire
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Second Africa Climate Summit anticipated to drive actionable solutions

Ethiopia’s Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa, has said that the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) will be instrumental to catalyse solutions for a resilient future.

Fitsum Assefa
Ethiopian Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa

The summit is pursuant to the decision adopted at the recent African Union Summit and aims to accelerate global solution and financing.

The summit, organised in collaboration with the African Union Commission, will be held from September 8 to 10, 2025 in Addis Ababa, aiming to catalyze global climate solutions and enhance access to climate financing for Africa’s sustainable development.

In a media briefing on Monday, June 16, 2025, Minister of Planning and Development Fitsum emphasised that Ethiopia’s election to host this summit reflects its longstanding commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development.

“The Government of Ethiopia has long demonstrated its commitment to climate action, which is evidenced by initiatives such as the Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) Strategy, launched in 2011, which has since become a cornerstone of the country’s 10-Year Development Plan,” she emphasised.

The minister also noted that Ethiopia continues to translate its climate commitments into tangible results through nationally recognised flagship initiatives.

According to her, these include the Green Legacy Initiative, which saw over 40 billion tree seedlings planted between 2019 and 2023, and ambitious programmes in renewable energy, e-mobility, climate-smart urban planning, sustainable land management, and watershed development.

She emphasised that the summit would serve as a platform to showcase nature-based solutions, promote climate finance, and explore investment opportunities.

The event is expected to bring together approximately 25,000 participants, including heads of state, global climate leaders, civil society organizations, academics, and private sector representatives.

The summit’s theme, “Green Talks and Green Actions”, underscores its focus on actionable, scalable solutions for climate resilience.

Moses Vilakati, African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment, stressed the urgency of the summit given the continent’s vulnerability to climate impacts.

“Although Africa contributes just 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, it bears the brunt of climate change’s consequences,” he said, adding, “The continent is facing unprecedented threats to food and water security, public health, and critical infrastructure.”

Vilakati noted that Africa requires $250 billion annually to finance climate adaptation and mitigation but currently receives only $30 billion.

He emphasised the need for innovative funding mechanisms and global cooperation to address this massive financing gap.

“The summit will foster high-level dialogue and action to support Africa’s transition toward a climate-resilient and green development pathway,” he stated.

The

UN Ocean Conference: Group seeks African ocean literacy network

Michael Simire
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UN Ocean Conference: Group seeks African ocean literacy network

President of the Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE), Anthony Akpan, who participated in the recently held 2025 UN Ocean Conference, has made a case for the actualisation of a network that will champion public awareness of oceans in Africa.

Anthony Akpan
President of the Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE), Anthony Akpan

In a poster presentation at the conference co-hosted by the Governments of France and Costa Rica and held from June 9 to 13, 2025, in Nice, France, Akpan urged the need for change as a result of consequences of widespread ignorance about the oceans.

The presentation was titled: “Proposal for the Establishment of the African Ocean Literacy Civil Society Action Network: A Key Necessity for Uplifting Voices of Local Actors, Creating Public Awareness and Increasing Ocean Education and Literacy in Africa (OOS2025-75)”.

Akpan said: “In Africa, most of us live our lives unaware of how our day-to-day actions affect the health and sustainability of the ocean and its many resources on which we depend. Nor do the majority of us recognise how the health of the ocean affects our daily lives.

“Most citizens are not aware of the full extent of the medical, economic, social, political, and environmental importance of the ocean and seas. However, what some scholars have called ‘ocean blindness’ can be countered by improving access to accurate and compelling ocean education that strengthens the learner’s connection with the ocean. This is the essence of ocean literacy: an understanding of the ocean’s influence on us and our influence on the ocean.”

According to him, the proposal seeks to address Challenge 10 of the Ocean Decade, which states: “Ensure that the multiple values and services of the ocean for human wellbeing, culture, and sustainable development are widely understood, and identify and overcome barriers to behavior change required for a step change in humanity’s relationship with the ocean.”

The 2025 UN Ocean Conference focused on “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean”. It sought to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14), with three main priorities, to produce an ambitious Nice Ocean Action Plan:

Priority 1: Working towards completion of multilateral processes linked to the ocean

Priority 2: Mobilising finance resources for the SDG14 and supporting the development of a sustainable blue economy

Priority 3: Strengthen and better disseminate knowledge linked to marine sciences to enhance policy-making.

Govt wants online publishers to tackle peddlers of fake news

Michael Simire
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0
Govt wants online publishers to tackle peddlers of fake news

The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) to expose and checkmate the activities of peddlers of fake news in the country.

GOCOP
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris (3rd Left) President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Dr. Ike Neliaku (1st Left) President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Ms Maureen Chigbo (2nd left) former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (4th left) and the Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Ndace (5th left) at the public presentation of “Nigeria Media Renaissance – Perspectives on Online Publishing”, organised by GOCOP in Abuja on Tuesday

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, made the call during his remarks at the book launch and fundraiser for GOCOP Media Centre on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in Abuja.

The 11-chapter book, “Nigeria Media Renaissance, GOCOP Perspectives on Online Publishing”, was collectively written by some members of the Guild.

According to Idris, one of the major challenges of present time, and one that is very relevant to online publishing, is the alarming spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation.

He explained that these are not harmless errors, adding that they were threats to public peace, national security, and democratic governance.

“We have seen how a false report can ignite violence, disrupt markets, or destroy reputations in a matter of minutes.

“I am aware that most peddlers of fake news are not members of GOCOP, but it is an additional responsibility on GOCOP to call them out and say, ‘these are not our members’.

“It is not just enough to say they are not our members and therefore everything goes. I think we have to shape the way online platforms operate in Nigeria.

“To address this, the Federal Government has made significant progress toward the take-off of the UNESCO Category 2 Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute here in Abuja by November 2025.

“Moreso, the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu is committed to a free, responsible, and vibrant press, that aligns with the enduring core values of journalism, truth, fairness, and accountability.

“We want to work with you to raise standards, promote media literacy, strengthen public communication, and tell the Nigerian story in a way that inspires hope and galvanises action,” Idris said.

The minister noted that the digital and online media had a critical role to play in nurturing democracy, describing them as “the gatekeepers of information”.

He emphasised that online media shaped public discourse, influence perceptions, expose wrongs and hold leaders accountable.

“But above all, you have a responsibility to promote truth and to be partners in nation-building.

“It is in this context that I welcome the idea of a Media Renaissance; a conscious effort to reset the tone, ethics, and values that underpin journalism in the digital age.

“A renaissance, meaning rebirth, critically suggests innovation, grounded in reflection. It is not just about doing new things – it is about doing things better,” Idris said.

Also speaking, the President of GOCOP, Ms. Maureen Chigbo, said the event was an opportunity to explain who and what GOCOP was to the world.

“GOCOP is a 120-member group, made up of professional journalists, who have worked in the traditional media, both broadcast and print before transitioning to business owners in the online media community.

“We are determined to entrench professionalism, fight fake news and sanitise the online media space.

“It is à truism that small and profitable businesses are the engine of growth of any economy. We, therefore, call on all stakeholders to support our businesses to grow and serve the country better,” Chigbo said.

Meanwhile, the reviewer of the book, Dr Ike Neliaku, President of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, said the 11-chapter book brought out seven core elements

“They include, evidence-based hideographic of online publishing in Nigeria; it underscores the pioneering efforts of online journalists; it provides and chronicles the development of online journalism.

“Also, it provides insight account of how high power politicking, that characterises public institutions and tends to undermine their independence and autonomy.

“It highlights the far reaching implications of political interference on the activities of public institutions in Nigeria.

“It also provides a clear understanding of what online publishing is and enable readers to understand its distinction with social media platforms and underscores the quality of publishers involve in online publishing,” he said.

Present at the occasion include the Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali M. Ali; the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace, and many others.

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

Govt evolves strategic framework to deal decisively with plastic pollution

Michael Simire
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Govt evolves strategic framework to deal decisively with plastic pollution

The Federal Ministry of Environment has restated its commitment to deal decisively with plastic pollution in order to have a cleaner, greener and more resilient environment.

Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal
Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Minister of Environment

Malam Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, said this on Tuesday, June 17, in Abuja at an event to commemorate the 2025 World Environment Day, usually marked annually on June 5.

He said that the government had evolved a strategic framework – the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management –  to reduce plastic use, promoting recycling, and encouraging innovation in alternatives to single-use plastics.

“As we celebrate World Environment Day, I would like to assure you that the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, is committed to a cleaner, greener, and more resilient environment.

“In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are taking decisive steps to address plastic pollution at all levels.

“The theme, ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’, resonates with a global urgency that cannot be overstated.

“Plastic pollution is not just an environmental issue but also an economic and public health crisis,” Lawal said.

According to him, the ministry has also inaugurated the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, which mandates producers to take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their plastic products, from production to disposal.

“The ministry is collaborating with key stakeholders across government, industry, and civil society to ensure that environmental policies translate into meaningful impact. However, we cannot do this alone.

“The fight against plastic pollution and other environmental challenges must be a people-oriented movement.

“This is a fight for the preservation of our ecosystems, the future of our children, and the survival of our dear planet,” he said.

Lawal said that Nigeria, like many other nations, faces significant challenges in managing plastic waste.

“Our cities and rural communities suffer from the burden of unchecked plastic pollution ranging from sachet water bags littering our streets to microplastics entering our food chain and causing public health concerns.

“Every minute, plastic waste is being dumped into our oceans, rivers, and drainage systems, endangering wildlife and contributing to flooding in our urban centres.

“We are also supporting innovative circular economy models to drive recycling and promote plastic alternatives, especially across government ministries, departments, and agencies,” Lawal assured.

Also, Massandje Toure-Litse, Commissioner, Economic Affairs and Agriculture, ECOWAS Commission, reaffirmed the body’s commitment to a clean, resilient and sustainable environment for future generations.

“Don’t put light plastic in microwave. Plastic is manufactured from oil and plastic contains hydrocarbon.

“When you put light plastic in microwave, this is the driver for cancer.

“The theme of this year: ‘Together we can beat plastic pollution’ resonates deeply with our regional priorities.

“Plastic pollution is not only a global menace concern, but a regional and national crisis,” Toure-Litse said.

According to him, a World Bank report indicates that the region generates nearly eight million metric tonnes of plastic waste every year.

“A figure that is set to rise by 52 per cent in five years time.

“In addition, more than 80 per cent of plastic waste is poorly managed in West Africa, adversely affecting human, animal health, ecosystem and blue economy sector such as fishing and tourism.

“The cost of damage of one tonne of plastic pollution is about 10,000 to 33,000 US dollars.

“There is a growing recognition that plastic pollution is a transboundary problem that requires a coordinated regional response.

“So in this regard, ECOWAS is committed to addressing persistent challenge by adopting a regional regulation,” he said.

The commissioner said that across the region, Ghana and Nigeria were scaling up the Circular Economy Initiative, adding that the ECOWAS Commission would harmonise environmental standards and promote green industrialisation.

Mrs. Alero Balogun, Senior Vice President, Corporate Services, Oando Clean Energy Ltd, urged stakeholders to support a better environment and climate change.

“Let this be the beginning or the continuation of a movement, one that puts people at the centre of plastic, in the right place and purpose behind every partnership,” Balogun said.

Similarly, Mrs. Habiba Abubakar, Managing Director, ZoomLion Nigeria, expressed determination to partner with the ministry of environment in ending plastic pollution in Nigeria and to also turn plastic to wealth.

By Abigael Joshua

Carbon markets could unleash gigatonnes of emissions on Africa, report warns

Michael Simire
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Carbon markets could unleash gigatonnes of emissions on Africa, report warns

Carbon markets could unleash 1.5 to 2.5 gigatonnes of new emissions annually, or more than all of Africa’s current fossil fuel and agricultural emissions combined, a new policy brief by African climate think tank, Power Shift Africa, shows.

Mohamed Adow
Report’s lead author and Director of Power Shift Africa, Mohamed Adow

The brief, titled “Why Carbon Markets Are a Dangerous Distraction for Africa”, is produced in collaboration with a global team of climate experts and scientists, and exposes how uncontrolled carbon market schemes fuel pollution, delay genuine climate solutions, and let wealthy nations off the hook while saddling Africa with lasting harm.

The damning report has been endorsed by 21 African organisations, including the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), Green Faith Africa, and the African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET).

It shows that carbon markets actually lead to further carbon pollution, delay real climate solutions, enable corporate greenwashing, and disproportionately burden Africa while allowing wealthy nations and industries to evade meaningful emission reductions.

Mohamed Adow, Director and Founder of Power Shift Africa, and lead author, said: “Carbon markets are nothing more than a smokescreen for polluters. They allow corporations to keep burning fossil fuels while claiming climate responsibility through offset purchases. This does not reduce emissions but simply shifts the burden onto

Africa, where communities suffer the most from climate change. Instead of relying on financial schemes that serve elite interests, we need direct public investment in clean energy, adaptation, and real emissions reduction strategies.”

Citing recent reports by a growing body of scientific research into the markets, the report argues that carbon markets, especially voluntary ones, act as “pollution permits” by allowing corporations to continue burning fossil fuels under the guise of environmental responsibility. By commodifying avoided or stored carbon, these schemes transfer control over Africa’s land and resources to global and local elites, undermining development while reinforcing inequalities.

The authors cite the European Union Emissions Trading System, which missed early reduction targets, as well as voluntary carbon schemes that have failed to drive meaningful price signals or systemic change. They warn that initiatives such as the African Carbon Markets Initiative (ACMI) could lead to 1.5 to 2.5 gigatonnes of new emissions annually, and that, rather than relying on offset-based mechanisms that perpetuate inequality and greenwashing, African countries should prioritise direct, accountable climate finance solutions.

Suggesting alternative sources of finance, the authors are now calling for increased public funding, debt cancellation, climate reparations, tax justice, and community-led adaptation projects, noting that these will ensure climate action serves the needs of local populations rather than financial intermediaries.

In this regard, the report proposes the establishment of national climate funds governed transparently and inclusively, allowing African nations to retain sovereignty over their climate strategies. It notes that community-led agroecological approaches, for decades the backbone of Africa’s subsistence farming, combined with decentralised renewable energy projects and sustainable land-use models are vital alternatives to the market-driven solutions that have failed to deliver real progress.

Jason Braganza, Executive Director, African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), said: “Wealthy nations and major corporations must take direct responsibility for their emissions rather than outsourcing climate solutions to Africa through carbon trading. These markets do not serve African interests; they entrench inequalities, misallocate resources, and undermine our sovereignty over land and climate finance. Africa must demand climate reparations and debt relief, not false solutions designed to benefit polluters while keeping us locked in cycles of dependency.”

Bridget Mugambe, Programmes Coordinator, Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA), said: “Carbon trading mechanisms are essentially pollution tickets for those who can afford to pay, allowing the biggest polluters to continue emitting while passing the burden onto vulnerable communities. They reinforce power imbalances between the Global North and South, enabling developed nations to buy offsets instead of cutting emissions at the source leaving African countries to bear the devastating costs.

“Worse still, protectionist measures tied to these schemes often infringe on communities’ land access and ownership rights, threatening livelihoods, food sovereignty and deepening injustice. This is climate injustice in its purest form. Africa must strongly reject these false climate solutions and instead demand direct financing for sustainable energy, resilient food systems, and disaster preparedness that serve our people not corporate shareholders.”

Meryne Warrah, Director GreenFaith Africa, said: “Carbon markets are a distraction from the real work of transitioning to clean energy. Africa should not be a carbon sink for industries that refuse to change their business models. We need investments in renewables, decentralised power grids, and green jobs, not speculative offset schemes that do nothing to curb pollution. True climate justice demands an end to emissions, not a market-driven system that only benefits polluters.”

Memory Kachambwa, Executive Director, African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET), sad: “Africa deserves genuine climate solutions, not mechanisms that prolong fossil fuel dependence. Carbon markets offer corporations an escape route to continue polluting  while claiming sustainability. We should be focusing on community-led adaptation, agroecology, and national climate funds that center local needs of frontline indigenous communities and women in particular first. The fight against climate change is about justice, and carbon markets undermine that by allowing the wealthy to shift responsibility onto those least responsible for the crisis.”

Mohamed Adow, Director and Founder of Power Shift Africa, said: “The illusion that carbon markets reduce emissions is dangerous. These schemes allow industries to claim net- zero status while continuing polluting activities. Meanwhile, African nations are left to deal with the environmental consequences. The climate crisis requires urgent systemic change, not financial mechanisms that permit business-as-usual emissions. We need bold action that prioritises local solutions, public climate finance, and equitable policies that serve communities rather than corporate profits.”

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