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Assessing 25 years of Nigeria’s Space development

Michael Simire
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Assessing 25 years of Nigeria’s Space development

Space technology, which involves activities in outer space, dates back to 1957.

Nigeria’s space programme, launched in November 1999 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, aimed to tackle humanitarian challenges, disaster management, and socio-economic development.

NigComSat-1R
NigComSat-1R satellite launch

To achieve this goal, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) was established.

Shortly after, the National Space Policy was approved in 2000, followed by a 25-year roadmap in 2005.

This roadmap resulted in the launch of six satellites: NigeriaSat-1, NigComSat-1, NigeriaSat-2, NigeriaSat-X, NigComSat-1R, and Nigeria EduSat-1 between 2003 and 2017.

Thus, making Nigeria the first African country to successfully launch satellites into space.

Prof. Spencer Onuh, a space engineer, recently emphasised the importance of initiating Nigeria’s space programme at the time, which enabled the training of scientists and engineers in developed countries.

According to Onuh, the space programme has created huge employment opportunities and positioned Nigeria as a contributor to the Disaster Monitoring Constellation, which the UN occasionally activates.

However, Onuh noted that funding remains a major global challenge for space programmes.

In Nigeria’s case, he argued that policy derailment also contributed to stagnation.

“The challenge is not just money; it is policy derailment, the roadmap was developed, but the government lost focus, the commitment present at the beginning was not sustained.

“We derailed after the launch of NigeriaSat-2 and NigeriaSat-X in 2011. Up to that point, we were following the roadmap.

“The programme to have an astronaut in space would have been concluded by 2020. The space policy included the Assembly, Integration, and Testing Laboratory (AITL) facility. You cannot manufacture satellites without an AITL facility.

“When we started the national space programme, the goal was for Nigeria to design, manufacture, and launch satellites within the country. For now, we can design, but we cannot fully manufacture or launch”.

He further stressed that relying on annual budget allocations is insufficient because a space programme is a critical national infrastructure.

Onuh also noted that Nigeria loses over two billion dollars annually due to capital flight related to imagery and data acquisition.

In addition, many of the satellites have outlived their lifespan and have been deorbited.

Similarly, Prof. Augustine Chukwude, an executive member of the Astronomy Society of Nigeria (ASN), explained that NASRDA’s establishment consolidated existing space education initiatives at universities such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

Chukwude underscored the importance of understanding basic space science and concepts such as the space environment and traffic management for successful satellite operations.

“If you want to launch a satellite, you need to go through basic space science. You must understand the space environment where the satellite will be deployed.

“With many countries launching objects into space, space traffic management is crucial to avoid collisions.”

He also pointed out that space research products are among the most expensive globally, and countries often rely on internal capacity development.

“No nation will sell you such knowledge, no matter what you pay. Nations must start with short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans, using available resources to hire experts when needed.”

Chukwude emphasised the need for NASRDA to strengthen its partnerships with universities to enhance space research and develop actionable policy documents.

Using the Department of Astrophysics and Astronomy at UNN as an example, he noted that many young scientists trained abroad do not return due to the lack of functional research facilities in Nigeria.

“Most of our young people leave because when they return after completing their Masters or PhD programmes, there are no facilities to work with.

“Currently, the country does not have any major functional observatory equipment, whether optical or radio telescopes.

“For example, during my PhD, I used a 25-metre radio telescope in South Africa in 2002, that equipment is now obsolete, yet Nigeria still lacks comparable facilities”.

Retired Brig.-Gen. Michael Agu, pioneer Chairman, Nigeria Institution of Space Engineers (NISEng), outlined the space industry’s scope, covering infrastructure, products, services, economy, and workforce.

Agu praised NASRDA for its progress in space infrastructure and workforce development but stressed the need for greater government support to advance space products and services.

“I know NASRDA has the requisite manpower to roll out space products, including satellites. They have all the necessary building blocks to take the industry to the next level.”

He commended NASRDA’s leadership for maintaining a system where Director-Generals emerge from within, ensuring continuity and familiarity with space-related activities.

However, Ms. Yinka Fagbero, Founder of the Astronomy Without Borders Foundation, attributed Nigeria’s sluggish growth in the space sector to the government being its sole operator.

“Space programmes are capital-intensive. Without adequate funding, even the best ideas cannot be translated into tangible projects.

“We should be launching satellites annually or every other year. Before one satellite expires, another should already be in place. There must be continuity.”

Dr Anne Agi, President of Learn Space Foundation, noted that in spite producing new space scientists, Nigeria still relies on foreign expertise and infrastructure.

“The National Space Policy aimed for indigenous satellite design and launch, but this vision has not yet been fully realised.

“Complex regulatory frameworks and inefficiencies in policy implementation have hindered progress.

“There is also limited public awareness about the benefits of space technology, which affects support for space initiatives.

“Space science is still viewed as a niche field with minimal recognition of its contributions to national development,” Agi said.

Experts have outlined several recommendations to reposition the space sector, emphasising collaboration, innovation, and strategic investments.

To begin with, they stressed the importance of fostering strong Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to attract funding and enhance the sector’s growth.

In addition, they called for greater collaboration among space-related institutions to maximise resources and expertise.

As part of the proposed interventions, they highlighted the need to establish an AITL alongside other critical initiatives to advance the industry.

Focusing on regulatory reforms, Agi underscored the importance of simplifying regulations to encourage private sector participation and drive innovation.

She also recommended the commercialisation of NASRDA’s research outputs, which could translate scientific advancements into practical applications that benefit society.

Furthermore, Agi emphasised the urgency of developing local expertise and infrastructure, expanding educational programmes, strengthening international collaborations, and raising public awareness.

“We must increase outreach efforts to highlight the benefits of space science and garner greater public and governmental support,” she said.

In a similar vein, Onuh advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of the space programme, citing the urgent need to replace Nigeria’s ageing satellites.

He also stated out that monitoring weather, particularly cloud cover, should be prioritised.

Additionally, he emphasised the need for a new meteorological satellite and the replacement of communication satellites nearing deorbit.

“The government must commit to revolutionising the space programme for the country’s benefit,” he added.

Chukwude, however, proposed a robust space development strategy focusing on foundational initiatives such as basic space science education and the promotion of space-related fields like astronomy.

He urged NASRDA to secure government support for the installation of a 30-metre telescope, arguing that it would significantly enhance Nigeria’s global standing.

“With such a telescope, Nigeria could link up with Europe and Asia, enabling high-resolution global observations,” he added.

By addressing these key areas, the experts believe Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its space sector and position itself as a leader on the global stage.

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

UN responds to cyclone in Mozambique, earthquake in Vanuatu

Michael Simire
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UN responds to cyclone in Mozambique, earthquake in Vanuatu

Humanitarians have continued to assess the impact of Tropical Cyclone Chido in Mozambique and to support affected families.

Stéphane Dujarric
UN Spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric

The storm struck over the weekend, affecting at least 184,000 people. According to authorities, some 45 people have been killed and a further 500 injured, primarily in Cabo Delgado province.

More than 35,000 homes were destroyed or severely damaged. Almost 50 health centres and nearly 150 schools were also damaged and are no longer functioning.

UN Spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, told journalists in New York on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, that the UN and its partners had been mobilising support for the most affected families in Mecufi district in Cabo Delgado.

“They have reached 2,000 families with food, shelter and other essential supplies.

“Mobile medical teams are being deployed across the most impacted districts to deliver essential health services.

“Efforts are also underway to combat waterborne diseases by distributing chlorine and water purification materials, as well as providing information on cholera prevention,” he said.

Mobile teams have also been deployed to support unaccompanied or children who have been separated from their families, he added.

Tropical Cyclone Chido hit Mozambique after pummeling the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte on December 14, resulting in “catastrophic consequences” for the population, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) said on Tuesday.

Chido had wind speeds of more than 200 kilometres per hour, and gusts of more than 225 kilometres per hour, which were accompanied by torrential rainfall and dangerous waves reaching more than five metres in height.

It was the strongest storm to hit Mayotte – an archipelago located between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique – in at least 90 years, according to the French meteorological services, Météo-France.

Thousands are feared dead and French President Emmanuel Macron has declared a national mourning period.

WMO said Chido took an unusual track as the storm skirted Madagascar which would potentially have weakened it.

The tropical cyclone subsequently made landfall over Mozambique on December 15 before weakening, bringing heavy rainfall there and in neighbouring Malawi.

The UN is also responding to the earthquake that struck the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu on Tuesday, killing nine people and injuring more than 200 others, according to authorities.

Humanitarians said the situation remains concerning, and a state of emergency has been declared for seven days.

Dujarric said the Government has requested international assistance to complement the national response, and the UN and partners are mobilising resources.

UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, is deploying response teams to the area, which includes a UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team

“According to local authorities, damage is extensive and includes hospitals, residential and public buildings, roads, water reservoirs and gas pipes. Many communities have been cut off,” he said.

He listed the immediate needs to include medical supplies and repair to medical structures, mobile medical teams, search and rescue teams with heavy machinery for clearing as well as safe drinking water.

By Cecilia Ologunagba

ACReSal project critical to addressing land degradation, food insecurity – Minister

Michael Simire
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ACReSal project critical to addressing land degradation, food insecurity – Minister

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, says the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project is crucial in addressing land degradation, food insecurity, among others.

ACReSAL
Dignitaries at the Endorsement and Validation of the First Phase of the Developed Strategic Catchment Management Plan (SCMP) by ACReSAL Stakeholders

Lawal spoke on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Abuja at the Endorsement and Validation of the First Phase of the Developed Strategic Catchment Management Plan (SCMP) by ACReSAL Stakeholders.

ACReSAL is a World Bank-financed project which aims to address climate change and land degradation in Nigeria’s northern states.

The minister said that ACReSAL project is environmentally friendly with focus on three issues–food security, water supply and the environment.

“The project seeks to address land degradation, water shed, food security and all related issues to community development

“This participatory approach ensures that our plans are not only technically sound but also socially acceptable and environmentally just.’’

Lawal said it was the first time Nigeria would develop a Strategic Catchment Management Plans (SCMP) of that magnitude starting with the Hadeija Jama’are which was selected first with the promise to restore the Nguru wetland.

“The SCMP would also create the platform and structure into which another set of 200 micro catchment management plans from the 19 participating states and the FCT will dovetail into,” he said.

The strategic action plan is set to be developed and implemented across six Nguru/riparian states of Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Plateau and Yobe.

On his part, Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, said that water was crucial in an era defined by rapid change, climate fluctuations, population shifts or technological advancements.

“These efforts not only safeguard our environment but also support our local economy by ensuring sustainable practices that can benefit agricultural, recreational and tourism activities.

“The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation hereby wishes to endorse this SCMP of Hadejia-Jama’are with enthusiasm and a shared determination to protect and enhance our natural heritage,” he said.

Sen. Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, said that the 19 northern states and the FCT, home to Nigeria’s most vulnerable semi-arid regions, had been direct beneficiaries of ACReSAL’s initiatives.

“This gathering is a testament to our shared commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity, combating desertification and fostering resilience in the face of climate change.

“Since the inception of ACReSAL, it has become a cornerstone in the ministry’s efforts to bolster the agricultural sector against climate-related challenges across communities,” Abdullahi said.

Malam Muhammad Yahaya Chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum said that SCMP played a crucial role in preventing and mitigating the effects of water scarcity, drought, and general land degradation.

“We are committed to ensuring the effective implementation of this integrated and participatory plan as the operating framework for projects across the participating states,” Yahaya said.

Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa commended the ACReSAL Project for its exceptional collaborative approach.

“The project’s focus on livelihood impact has been well-received,” he said.

He affirmed Jigawa ‘s acceptance of the SCMP endorsed by the ministers.

According to Namadi, the ACReSAL project’s success is linked to its effective leadership which enables it to positively impact the lives of the people.

By Abigael Joshua

Okomu oil firm partners foundation to foster peace with host communities

Michael Simire
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Okomu oil firm partners foundation to foster peace with host communities

Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc (OOPC) has partnered with the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) to promote peace and development in its host communities.

Okomu Oil Palm
Okomu Oil Palm Plantation

The partnership, which was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is to strengthen OOPC’s relationships with its neighbouring communities and promote sustainable development.

The PIND is a non-profit organisation that promotes peace and equitable economic growth in the Niger Delta region.

The company’s Managing Director, Dr Graham Hefer, said on Thursday, December 19, 2024, that the partnership was a significant step towards fostering peace and development in the company’s host communities.

“We recognise the importance of maintaining good relationships with our host communities.

“Our partnership with PIND is a demonstration of our commitment to promoting peace and development in these communities,” Dr Hefer said.

The managing director said the company, which had its footprint in over 29 communities in the state, had over time engaged these communities through the company’s corporate social responsibility programme (CSR).

According to him, the partnership is aimed to further cement the existing relationships, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, conflict prevention and resolution, community stabilisation, among others.

Hefer said the step was meant to further foster acceptable and sustainable social impact returns to both the communities and the company in future.

The OOPC boss asserted that the reputation of PIND as a credible NGO was what spurred the company to enter into the agreement, while expressing his optimism that this will benefit all parties involved.

On his part, PIND’s Programme Director, Dr Effiong Essien, commended the oil palm firm for its commitment to community development.

“We are excited to partner with OOPC to promote peace and development in its host communities. We look forward to working together to achieve this goal,” Essien said.

By Usman Aliyu

Nigeria, UNIDO partner to reduce carbon emissions in industries

Michael Simire
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Nigeria, UNIDO partner to reduce carbon emissions in industries

The  Federal Government is collaborating with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), to reduce carbon emissions in industries in Nigeria.

Oluyomi Banjo
UNIDO Regional Office Hub Environment Expert, Oluyomi Banjo

Mr. Oluyomi Banjo, National Programme Coordinator – Environment and Energy UNIDO sub-regional for Nigeria and ECOWAS, stated this at a Phase two workshop for media stakeholders on Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Abuja.

The workshop was organised by the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) under the Nigeria Resource Efficiency and Cleaner Production (RECP), and Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) Project.

Banjo said that, globally, industries accounted for one-third of total energy consumption and for almost 40 per cent of worldwide Carbon (CO2) emissions.

“The International Energy Agency (IEA) has emphasised that industries will need to reduce their current direct emissions globally by about 24 per cent in comparison to 2007 levels.

“The need to reduce energy consumption, environmental degradation, and resource depletion by industries in emerging economies is especially evident.

“This is so because  global growth in industrial production since 1990 has been dominated by emerging economies like India and China.

“Both of which accounted for over 80 per cent of increased industrial production during this period,” he said.

He said that the outcome of the RECP-IEE project was targeted at industries to develop an expert base for Nigeria, which could also be exported to other countries in Africa and beyond.

“This project will address to a good extent the questions on how industries can improve their efficiency, increase profitability, operate at international best standards, comply with regulations and maintain improved relationship with policy makers,” he said.

According to Banjo, a pilot financing RECP-IEE scheme is being executed through the Bank of Industry in Nigeria.

“We hope to support not less than 70 industries across five sectors of food and beverage, wood and furniture, steel and metals, textiles and garment and petrochemicals.

“We will develop the capacity of the Organised Private Sector and develop not less than 300 Nigerian RECP-IEE experts,” he said.

He said that UNIDO had implemented industrial energy efficiency in over 18 countries around the world and had also implemented resource efficiency and cleaner production in over 60 countries.

Banjo said that UNIDO would continue to ensure that the project was effectively implemented and delivered to the Nigerian people.

He congratulated the media for the important role they play for the development of economic, industrial and environmental sustainability that would be further enhanced by the training.

“We will continue to prioritise the media sector and their role towards inclusive and sustainable industrial development in Nigeria,” he said.

In a presentation, an IEE expert, Mr Owoeye Olakunle, ECOwatt Nigeria Ltd., said that the principal aim of the project was to support industries to aligned their operations with RECP- IEE methodologies.

He said that this would facilitate efficient use of energy and resources and helped to minimised environmental impact, energy consumption and production cost while maximising profitability.

Olakunle said the project also aimed to improve enterprise environment performance under RECP best practices within selected small, medium and large-scale industries enterprises in Nigeria.

By Doris Esa

The GMO debate in Nigeria: Concerns over safety, regulations

Michael Simire
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The GMO debate in Nigeria: Concerns over safety, regulations

A nationwide rally against Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria has brought to the fore the concerns of experts over the potential health and environmental risks associated with the introduction of the organisms into the country’s food system.

GMOs
Campaign rally against Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

The rally, led by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) in collaboration with the GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance and civil society organisations, took place on Friday, December 13, 2024, in major cities across the country.

According to the conveners of the rally, the outing is aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of GMOs and to pressure the government to reconsider its decision to approve genetically modified foods in the country.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes GMOs as organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

The alteration, according to the international health agency, involves the use of biotechnology to introduce genes from one species into the DNA of another species, creating a new organism with desired traits.

Therefore, genetically modified foods are foods that have been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

At the heart of the controversy is the claim by proponents of GMOs that they can help address food insecurity in Nigeria.

They assert that crops can be engineered to be more resistant to pests and diseases, reducing losses and increasing yields.

One of the proponents of GMOs is Kabiru Ibrahim, the National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria.

Therefore, the advantage is that it would even take farmers out of poverty.

“Any country in the world that you see has food security, as a matter of fact, they also do GMO. Nigeria will attain food security if it embraces GM crops.

“The way out of poverty and to get into food security for Nigeria is through GM crops.

“This is why Brazil is now a developed country. Most of what comes out of Brazil, in terms of corn, beans, and all that, are all GM,” Ibrahim said.

However, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of HOMEF, argues that Nigeria does not need GMOs to address food insecurity.

The design of the GM crops, he maintains, does not support local economic growth but promotes dependency on corporate seed supply.

Bassey cites the example of the National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN), which reported no significant increase in yields after introducing GM cotton seeds four years ago.

Instead, he says, the yield per hectare remained the same, and farmers noted that no other plant could germinate on the farmlands where the GM seeds were planted, even after four years.

This, Bassey argues, confirms concerns about loss of biodiversity and soil degradation due to the release of genetic material into the soil.

On his part, Ifeanyi Nwankwere, National Co-coordinator of the GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance, says “GMOs approved in Nigeria are not currently being labelled.

“The country’s socio-economic context does not allow for effective labelling, considering how food is sold in cups and basins in open market where majority of the people shop from,” he said.

Nwankwere said the biosafety regulatory system in Nigeria was not designed to ensure safety with regard to GMOs.

For instance, he alleged, the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) Act had fundamental flaws, including the lack of provision on the precautionary principle, inadequate provision on public participation in decision making and others.

Similarly, Mariann Bassey-Orovwuje, Deputy Director at Environmental Rights Action, cautions that several other countries, including Russia, Mexico, Uganda, and up to 23 more, have placed bans on GMOs, citing the recent ban of GMO corn in Mexico.

“The courts highlighted the threats of the GMO variety to the country’s rich diversity of corn, stating that the genetically engineered corn posed the risk of imminent harm to the environment,” she said.

Experts also argue that the introduction of GMOs in Nigeria poses serious health risks.

According to a recent report by an Iranian researcher, GMO soybean caused significant damage to internal organs such as the liver and kidney in rats.

More so, as noted Joyce by Brown, Director of Programmes at HOMEF, there is no evidence that the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has conducted medium or long-term feeding tests to ascertain the safety of GMOs approved for use in Nigeria.

She bemoaned the presence of more than 50 imported packaged food products, containing GM ingredients in Nigeria.

These products, according to her, are abundant in market shelves across the country in different brands including cereals, vegetable oils, spices, ice-creams, and cake mixes amongst others

In Benin, where Agho Omobude, Coordinator of the Edo Civil Society Organisations (EDOCSO) led others on a march to Edo House of Assembly, state office of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and the Government House.

At those placed petitions were submitted, particularly in respect of the recent approval of 14 genetically modified foods in the country.

Omobude advocated legislations that would outlaw the sale of genetically modified foods in the state aa well as the country. He raises concerns over some super markets in the state which are reportedly selling the products without providing the customers with information about them.

All in all, the campaign against GMOs in Nigeria is not just about health and environmental risks; it is also about the economic implications of introducing GMOs into the country’s food system.

As argued by Bassey, the promotion of GMOs is driven by the interests of multinational corporations, which are more concerned with profits than with the welfare of Nigerians.

The demands of the campaign are clear, a ban on GMOs, including products brought in for food and food processing, as well as packaged processed foods.

The coalition also demands the nullification of all permits granted for GMOs, as they are not backed by adequate and certified risk assessments.

Furthermore, the experts call for an investment in agroecology, which ensures food security and food sovereignty while strengthening the Nigerian economy.

Inarguably, the foundation of a nation’s sovereignty lies in its ability to produce and control its own food. Without this, sovereignty is merely a theoretical concept.

Anti-GMOs insist that its introduction into the country’s food system poses significant risks to human health, the environment, and the economy.

It is imperative that the government takes a cautious approach and considers the concerns of experts and civil society organisations before making any decisions about GMOs.

By Usman Aliyu, News Agency of Nigeria

Nigeria’s Amanda Amaeshi named UK Changemaker 2024

Michael Simire
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Nigeria’s Amanda Amaeshi named UK Changemaker 2024

Miss Amanda Amaeshi, an award-winning activist and campaigner, has been named My Life My Say’s “Changemaker of the Year” for 2024.

Amanda Amaeshi
Miss Amanda Amaeshi, NIgerian award-winning activist and campaigner, named My Life My Say’s “Changemaker of the Year” 2024

Amaeshi, a final-year LLB Law student at University College London (UCL), has consistently used her voice to influence policy and advocate for social justice.

A statement made available on Wednesday, December 18, by Prof. Kenneth Amaeshi, father of Amanda, said the award, decided by public vote, was announced at My Life My Say’s “Next Generation Conference”.

According to him, the event held on Nov. 22, 2024, at the Barbican Centre in London.

The conference – an annual highlight of the youth-led, non-partisan charity’s activities – brought together hundreds of young people alongside renowned speakers, activists, and politicians to explore innovative solutions to some of society’s biggest challenges.

According to Amaeshi, a native of Amaimo community in Ikeduru area of Imo State, the young writer, specialising in gender equality, anti-racism, and youth voice, emerged winner at the end of the contest,

“Amanda emerged the winner from a shortlist of inspiring changemakers, including youth leader, Yahye Abdi; social enterprise founder, Abdirahman Ahmed; TV personality, Georgia Harrison; climate activist, Clover Hogan, and artist, Jordan Stephens,” he stated.

Recalling her journey of Advocacy and Activism from the cradle, he said Amanda had always shown keen interest in addressing social issues.

“In 2017, she won the Young Reporters for the Environment competition for her writing on food waste solutions in Scotland.

“Her advocacy journey gained momentum when she became a Year of Young People 2018 ambassador, advocating for youth participation in politics and young people’s rights – issues important to young people across Scotland.

“As a member of Girlguiding’s National Advocate Panel, Amanda spoke out on issues affecting girls and young women in the UK.

“She engaged audiences of CEOs, politicians, and decision-makers through speeches, blogs, and live radio interviews.

“Today, Amanda remains a Young Spokesperson for Girlguiding Scotland and serves on Scotland’s First Minister’s National Advisory Council on Women and Girls (NACWG), engaging in collaborative intersectional policy scrutiny.

“She is equally providing the much-needed youth voice to ensure that NACWG’s work in holding the Scottish Government to account is helpful for girls and young women,” he said.

Amaeshi, the Chief Economic Adviser to Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, further said that Amanda’s guest articles for Scottish newspaper – The National, also amplified her advocacy.

She challenged societal norms through her fresh perspective, and inspiring readers to engage in collective action against injustices.

“Amanda also works closely with organisations including the Young Women’s Movement Scotland, Intercultural Youth Scotland, and the National Youth Agency in England – showing her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive and intersectional practices across various sectors.

“Amanda was named on the Young Women’s Movement’s 30 Under 30 list in 2020, featured in the WOW Foundation’s Young Leaders Directory in 2022, and was honoured as the Glasgow Times Young Scotswoman of the Year for 2020,” he said.

At the Next Generation Conference, Amanda, while accepting the award, the statement added, reflected on the broader impact of her work.

Amanda said she was hugely grateful to not only all those who voted for her, but everyone who had supported her throughout her advocacy journey so far.

Amaeshi added that Amanda was determined to use her platform to motivate others to make a difference, encouraging everyone to contribute in their own way to creating a better world.

By Francis Onyeukwu

Govt reiterates commitment to tackle nation’s energy challenge

Michael Simire
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0
Govt reiterates commitment to tackle nation’s energy challenge

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to tackle the nation’s energy challenge.

Adebayo Adelabu
Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu

Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, stated this on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in Abuja at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) workshop on “Energising Partnerships for Sustainable Energy Access and Innovation”.

The theme of workshop is: “Powering partnership for sustainable energy access and Innovation”.

Adelabu, who was represented by Dr Owolabi Sunday, Director, Renewable and Rural Power Access in the ministry, assured that Nigerians would soon see light at the end of the tunnel.

“As we speak, the nation continues to grapple with peculiar on-grid energy challenges.

“We are able to openly speak about these challenges because, since we assumed office, the ministry has been hard at work, day-by-day, tackling these challenges and converting them into opportunities for growth,” he said.

The minister said that the REA, as an implementing agency of the Federal Government, and ASolar, a player in the private sector, have come together to ensure the success of the workshop.

“We must harp on the concept of collaboration in every sense of the word and activate new opportunities to drive change in the sector.

“The dichotomy between on-grid and off-grid solutions should no longer be seen as a division but as complementary components of a holistic energy strategy,” he said.

Adelabu said that the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme would soon kick-off

“Our partners at the World Bank have committed $750 million to this groundbreaking project and we are certain that over 13 million Nigerians will be impacted through the DARES.

“As part of the implementation of the Federal Government’s REF and as part of the REA’s forward-leaning approach to solution-based energy access initiatives.

“I am happy to witness the activation of the e-H.E.A.R.T., a key initiative targeted as sustainably energising healthcare institutions, education, agriculture, rural communities are transportation,” he said.

Adelabu said that the innovative and impactful initiatives would continue to enable the country to scale up energy access.

He said that beyond that there was a need to sustain the close-knit collaboration between the public and private sector players, financiers, innovators and development finance institutions.

“Unlike many nations that focus solely on carbon emission reduction for environmental sustainability, we face the dual imperative of expanding energy access while transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

“This dual challenge has shaped our approach. It demands that we prioritize decentralized solutions, which are faster to deploy and more adaptable to the realities of unserved and underserved areas,” Adelabu added.

The minister said that the Federal Government’s commitment to universal energy access by 2030, in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), has sparked a paradigm shift.

He said that the team at the REA has been working hard to deliver decentralised renewable energy projects, while charting a new course for the delivery of utility-scale renewable energy infrastructure nationwide.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of REA, Mr Abba Aliyu, said that the agency was desirous of changing the narrative about the electricity challenge in the country.

Aliyu noted that for the first time in the history of Nigeria, the entire electricity value chain has been liberalised and the subnational and the private sectors have been given the opportunity to play a key role in providing electrification in the country.

He said that President Bola Tinubu had approved the request of $750 million distributed access to renewable energy scale of funding.

“The private sector waiting has ended; this is a reality. The private sector should utilise this opportunity, go to these communities, start deploying this infrastructure and come back to REA and benefit from capital grant and subsidy based on the predetermined framework that was approved.

“The Rural Electrification Fund have deployed over 124 mini-grids across the country.

“And among the 124, the one that gladdens my heart is a mini-grid that the REF deployed in a community within the Abuja metropolitan area, among others,” he said.

Aliyu urged the state government, sub-national, to be ready to make use of the Electrification Act and take advantage of these different opportunities being created on that President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said that the framework has been established, and states need to create the enabling environment for the private sector to invest.

By Nana Musa

25 winners emerge at 2024 oil licensing bid round

Michael Simire
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25 winners emerge at 2024 oil licensing bid round

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) says 25 oil bidders emerged at the 2024 oil licensing bid round.

Oil bid
Dignitaries at the licensing round commercial bid conference in Lagos

Chief Executive of NUPRC, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, announced the winners at the licensing round commercial bid conference held in Lagos on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

The winners that emerged after a competitive bidding are: Sifax and Royal Gate Consortium, and Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd., both won the bids for PPL 300-DO and PPL 302-DO respectively, having emerged as the sole bidders in the categories.

For PPL 303-DO, two bidders, MRS Oil and Gas Company Ltd., and NNPC Exploration and Production Ltd., qualified and had a tie in the bidding, but MRS Oil and Gas emerged the winner.

In PPL 304-DO, Homeland Integrated Offshore Services Ltd. edged out Sifax and Royal Gate Consortium to emerge the winner. Hamilcar Oil and Gas Consortium won the bid for PPL 305-DO ahead of NNPC E&P.

BISWAL Oil and Gas Ltd. won in the PPL 306-DO bid, beating NNPC E&P Ltd.

Petroli Energy Marketing and Supply Ltd. won the PPL 269, Sahara Deepwater Resources Ltd. won PPL 270, while Sahara Deepwater also won the PPL 271 Licence.

Totalenergies, with a 126 points, emerged winner in the PPL 2000/2001, beating Star Deepwater Petroleum Ltd. that scored 125 points.

For PPLs 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006, BISWAL Oil and Gas; First E & P Development Company; Dewayles International Ltd.; Applefield Oil and Gas Ltd. and First E&P Development Company Ltd., respectively won the licences having being the sole bidders in their respective categories.

Similarly, PPLs 2007, 2008 and 3007 went to R28 Holdings Ltd., Tulcan Energy E & P Company Ltd. and Oceangate Engineering Oil and Gas Ltd.

Broron Energy Ltd. won PPL 2009, while PPLs 3011, 3012, 3015, 3016 and 3017, were all won by sole bidders including: R28 Holdings,Tulcan Energy E &P Company Ltd., Panout Oil and Gas, Hakilat Oil and Gas Consortium Ltd., and Applefield Oil and Gas respectively.

Komolafe also announced that there would be another oil licensing bid round in 2025.

According to him, the commission decided to make licensing rounds an annual exercise to boost oil production.

“While we are proud of our recent achievements as industry stakeholders, we must remain mindful of the challenges ahead.

“Declined production levels and failed global competition demand strategic action. Interestingly, the Petroleum Industry Act has given us a unique opportunity to transform the industry, attract investments and position Nigeria as a forefronter.

“To this end, I am pleased to announce that the NUPRC will launch another licensing round in the year 2025.

“Building on the lessons learned from this year’s round, the 2025 exercise will focus on discovered and undeveloped fields, fallow assets and prioritise natural gas development to support Nigeria’s commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goals,” he added.

Komolafe said the regulator’s commitment had been to restore investors’ confidence in the industry.

According to him, NUPRC has done so diligently by ensuring that its activities are in alignment with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act.

“What we are doing here today is not a matter of discretion by the commission or the statutory provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act.

“The statutory provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act provide that the commission should conduct licensing rounds.

“The law did not make it annual, but to ensure that we grow, preserve and optimise our hydrocarbon resources, as I said, we are committed to annual licensing rounds. And that’s why I said that after this (2024) exercise, we will commence another one in 2025,” he emphasised.

The NUPRC boss added that the commission had started the recovery of idle assets based on the “drill or drop” provision of the Petroleum Industry Act.

“There is a provision in the Petroleum Industry Act that speaks to ‘drill or drop’. So, we have been having engagements with the industry to ensure that unexplored areas and resources are harvested back into the basket; and we have done this.

“We intend to rebuild those idle assets because a lot of our assets remain idle and that is not the intent of the Petroleum Industry Act.

“So, as a commission and as a regulator, we have started activating the drill or drop provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, which is intended to ensure that our assets do not just remain idle.

“So, we are harvesting them into the basket, and we will ensure that they go for bidding to interested bidders in the next licensing round,” he stated.

By Yunus Yusuf

Customs announces zero import duty on gas utilisation equipment

Michael Simire
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Customs announces zero import duty on gas utilisation equipment

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a zero-import duty on machinery, equipment, and spare parts for gas utilisation in the country.

Russia gas supply
Gas pipelines

This initiative is part of the Presidential Gas for Growth Initiative, which aims to foster the development of the nation’s gas sector.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by NCS Spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, in Abuja.

The Presidential Gas for Growth Initiative was conceived to leverage Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources to boost economic growth, create jobs, and reduce energy poverty.

Maiwada explained that this move aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s investment climate and increasing domestic gas utilisation.

“Pursuant to Part 1, Section 5 of the Customs and Excise Tariff Act, machinery, equipment, and spare parts imported for Nigerian gas utilisation are now subject to a zero per cent import duty rate.

“The exemption applies to all equipment related to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) imported into Nigeria.

“In addition, several items have been zero-rated for Value Added Tax (VAT), including feed gas for all processed gas, CNG, imported LPG, CNG equipment components, conversion and installation services, LPG equipment components, and all infrastructure related to CNG, LPG, and the Presidential CNG Initiative.”

However, Maiwada stated that importers seeking to benefit from these incentives must obtain an Import Duty Exemption Certificate (IDEC) from the Federal Ministry of Finance and a letter of support from the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy.

He also announced the exemption of import duty and VAT on LPG imported into Nigeria under specific Harmonised System (HS) codes, including HS Codes 2711.12.00.00, 2711.13.00.00, and 2711.19.00.00.

According to him, this exemption is expected to reduce the cost of importing LPG, making it more affordable for businesses and consumers.

Maiwada further stated that all Debit Notes issued to petroleum marketers who imported LPG using these codes from August 26, 2019, to the present would be withdrawn by the NCS, in line with previous approvals.

He emphasised that these measures were designed to reduce the cost of living, strengthen energy security, and accelerate Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy sources.

“The NCS, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, is committed to the effective implementation of these incentives and urges all stakeholders to ensure strict and prompt compliance,” he said.

By Martha Agas

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