The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in December 2025 commenced the Nigerian Content Research, Innovation and Technology Challenge 2025/2026 with a call on interested individuals, research institutions, academia, oil and gas industry suppliers, and members of the public with research innovations, to submit proposals for evaluation and admission into the NCDMB Technology Innovation and Incubation Centre (TIIC), Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The competition, which seeks to identify and develop new technologies to address specific challenges in the oil and gas industry and its linkage sectors, requires that proposals be in line with approved thematic areas and priority industry challenge, namely, Geological and Geophysical Studies, Local Materials Substitution Studies, Technology Development Studies, Health, Safety and Environmental Studies, Engineering Studies, and Renewable Energy.
Felix Omatsola Ogbe, head of the NCDMB
For Geological and Geophysical Studies, proposals have to focus on developing solutions related to exploration, big data, and real time logging data processing, while those for Local Materials Substitution Studies have to concentrate on sustainable materials for environmental remediation, materials for development of cryogenic technology for liquefied natural gas (LNG), refinery, and other applications, as well as local materials for ultra-high temperature pressure cementing.
For Technology Development Studies, the NCDMB requires innovation on denationalisation technology, application of Internet of Things to exploration and production, and condensate refining technology, while proposals for HSE Studies are expected to deal with carbon capture utilisation and storage technology to reduce greenhouse emission, depollution and produced water management system, and hydrogen production techniques to enhance carbon dioxide capture.
In respect of Engineering Studies, proposals are expected for developing technology solutions for enhanced oil recovery, refinery units technology to improve efficiency, laboratory analytical equipment for experiment and materials testing, and drilling technology, instrumentation, and control systems.
For Renewable Energy, proposals are expected from solar energy technologies, wind energy solutions, and energy storage systems, such as battery technologies, hydrogen storage, thermal storage, and molten salts.
The proposals, which should not be more than 1,500 words and to be submitted via email address (info@tiic.com.ng) not later than a month from the date of publication, are required to be in the following format: 1. Company/institution name 2. Thematic area 3. Title of innovation 4. Description of innovation 5. Objective, vision, mission 6. Team structure 7. Funding model and budget estimate 8. Marketing plan 9. Risk analysis.
At the first stage of the competition, the top 30 proposals will be selected and the teams assigned mentors to guide them towards developing a compelling demo and presentation. Proposals will be reduced to 10 at the second stage, and further reduced to five on the final day of the competition where the winners will be determined.
According to the Board, “the innovators will present their business pitches/demos to corporate venture capitalists to invest, drive innovation, and expand market reach, while helping emerging business grow.”
Prizes will be awarded to the top five winners of the competition in the form of cash, mentorship opportunities, and media coverage, while the top 10 participants will be onboarded into the TIIC at the Nigerian Content Tower for guidance and further development of their innovation to commercialisation.
The Lagos-based firm of Natural Eco Capital Limited (NEC) has disclosed that it played a central role in the actualisation of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Apart from preparing the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the project, NEC disclosed in a statement that it obtained all required national regulatory approvals.
“Most notably the key approval from the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv), thereby ensuring full legal compliance. The statutory disclosure process, managed transparently, promoted stakeholder engagement and accountability.
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
“By delivering regulator-approved ESIAs, NEC established the indispensable legal and technical foundation upon which lenders could confidently conduct due diligence and advance financing discussions,” the firm stated.
Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of NEC, explained: “Our mandate was to protect the project from regulatory risk and provide the legal foundation for financing. By securing approvals for both Section 1 and Section 2, we ensured the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway could move forward with confidence.”
He added that, after NEC secured regulatory approvals, Sky Kapital led the lender-focused aspects of the project.
“Sky Kapital adapted the project’s management plans to meet international lender frameworks, including the IFC Performance Standards. Their work aligned regulatory compliance with lender requirements, ensuring the project remains bankable and meets global safeguards. This approach enhances credibility, reduces risk, and accelerates financing discussions.
“This partnership ensures the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is fully compliant with Nigerian law and aligned with international lender criteria, making it a secure and attractive investment. Congratulations to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Works, and Hitech Construction Company on achieving this milestone,” disclosed Itua.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has welcomed the $1.26 billion funding agreement for the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, calling it a transformative investment to address transport challenges, improve connectivity, and drive economic growth through new business and job opportunities along the corridor.
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, spanning over 700 km, is among West Africa’s most ambitious road projects. It is expected to facilitate regional trade and ease the movement of goods and people. The new funding is for Section 2 (47.5 km–104 km), a segment that has been politically sensitive and subject to public scrutiny.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly probe the allegations that over N128 billion of public funds are missing or diverted from the Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) Plc., Abuja.”
The allegations are documented in the latest annual report published by the Auditor-General on September 9, 2025.
SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing or diverted public funds should be fully recovered and remitted to the treasury.”
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu
SERAP urged him to “use any recovered diverted funds to fund the deficit in the 2026 budget and to ease Nigeria’s crippling debt crisis.”
In the letter dated January 3, 2026, and signed by SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Nigerians continue to pay the price for the widespread and grand corruption in the power sector. There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for these grave allegations.”
SERAP said, “Tackling corruption in the power sector would go a long way in addressing the persistent breakdown of transmission lines in the country, and improving access of Nigerians to regular and uninterrupted electricity supply.”
According to SERAP, “These allegations suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anticorruption legislation and international anticorruption obligations.”
The letter reads in part: “According to the recently published 2022 audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Federal Ministry of Power failed to account for over N4.4 billion [N4,404,647,938.53] ‘transferred to Mambilla, Zungeru and Kashimbilla project accounts by the Ministry.
“There was ‘no evidence of how the funds were expended.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“The Ministry also paid over N95 billion [N95,415,183,701.83] to ‘some contractors for various projects.’ But ‘there was no document on the payments, and no evidence that the projects existed and were executed.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered.
“The Ministry paid over N33 million (N33,557,959.00) ‘for foreign travels’, but ‘without any approvals.’ The money ‘was paid as estacode, flight tickets, visa fees and other allowances to enable the minister and his aides to attend the World Utilities Congress at Abu Dhabi and Huawei innovation land exhibition in Dubai.
“The travels ‘were never approved by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation or the Head of Civil Service.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“The Ministry failed to account for over N230 million [N230,795,255.27] being ‘expenditure on the GIGMIS platform.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“The Ministry also paid over N282 million (N282,672,576.53) as ‘non-personal advances to various staff of the ministry for the procurement of goods and services.’ But the ‘payments were beyond the statutory threshold of N200,000.00.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered.
“The Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc., (NBET) Abuja also ‘irregularly awarded contracts for over N427 million (N427,491,866.16). There was ‘no evidence of advert placements in the procurement journal’.”
“The Auditor-General fears ‘the contracts may have been awarded to incompetent contractors’, resulting in ‘loss of government funds.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“NBET ‘irregularly transferred over N7 billion [N7,620,840,000.00] into purported sub-accounts of unnamed beneficiaries.’ There was also ‘no authority for such payment, contrary to the Financial Regulations.’”
“NBET claimed it paid over N9.3 billion [N9,336,986,697.17] to Egbin Power PLC ‘as outstanding payment on GenCos for Power Sector Reform Programme.’ But there ‘was no document to authenticate the genuineness of the transactions.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered.
“NBET paid over N8 billion (N8,027,355,487.20) ‘to some beneficiaries’ but ‘without entering the transaction into the payment vouchers register and the vote book.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted and misapplied.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“NBET also reportedly ‘awarded contracts of over N420 million [N420,665,525.65] to eleven ineligible consultants.’ The payments ‘were for various consultancy services such as technical support on power plant capacity testing of 5 power plants.’ But there was ‘no evidence that the services paid for were rendered.’
“The ‘engagement of the consultants also failed to meet due process as required by the Procurement Act.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.
“NBET also failed to account for ‘payments of over N45 million [N45,851,647.92] as contingency, logistics and security charges for six contracts.’ The payments were ‘made without any application from the contractors and without any approval.
“There was ‘no breakdown of the expenditure’. The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted’ or the payments ‘may be for work not done.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.”
“NBET spent over N61 million [N61,775,659.75] from the capital vote on consultancy services but without any provision made for it in the approved capital budget of the company.’ The ‘payments were also made without any approval for virement.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted’ or ‘may have been misapplied.’ He wants the money refunded to the treasury.
“NBET also ‘irregularly awarded contract of over N39 million [N39,661,081.83] for the supply and installation of a video conferencing solution to the NBET office.’ But ‘there was no evidence of any work done.
“The same contract ‘was re-awarded to another contractor without any open competitive bidding, such as advertisement, quotations, and financial bid evaluation.’ There was also ‘no evidence that any job was completed.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted’ or the payments ‘may be for work not done.’
“NBET ‘paid over N49 million (N49,995,000.00) for the supply of three units of Toyota Corolla, 2019 model’, but the contract was awarded without any approval.’ There was ‘no Bureau of Public Procurement approval, minutes of tenders board approvals and technical and financial evaluation reports.’”
“NBET also ‘paid over N8 million (N8,744,186.05) as legal fees to a legal practitioner.’ But the payment was ‘without the approval of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation.’ The Auditor-General wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.”
“NBET also ‘irregularly paid over N8.9 million [N8,928,000.00] for the professional development program of five officers working in the organization.’ The payment ‘was made as reimbursement of the balance of the course fee.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered.
“NBET also spent over N1 billion (N1,100,279,895.20) ‘as extra-budgetary spending’, but without any approval from the Minister of Finance and the National Assembly.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been misappropriated and misapplied.’ He wants the money refunded and remitted to the treasury.
“NBET also ‘paid over N110 million (N110,556,502.00) to companies and retail supermarkets for staff to pick items and promotion packages for Easter and Salah between 2021 and 2022.’ The payments ‘were made without any document.’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution imposes clear responsibility on your government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution.”
“Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’
“Section 16(2) further provides that, ‘the material resources of the nation are harnessed and distributed as best as possible to serve the common good.’
“Article 26 of the UN Convention against Corruption which Nigeria has ratified requires your government to ensure ‘effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions’ including criminal and non-criminal sanctions, in cases of grand corruption.
“Article 26 complements the more general requirement of article 30, paragraph 1, that sanctions must take into account the gravity of the corruption allegations.”
As we enter a new year, the questions that fill our markets, our homes, and our places of work are clear and urgent. They are questions about the price of food, about security in our communities, and about the direction in which our country is headed. It is the duty of this office, the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, to speak to these questions directly, clearly, and with respect for every Nigerian bearing the weight of this moment.
The last 31 months have been a period of foundational, often difficult, transformation. Our bold reforms, beginning with the necessary but painful decisions on subsidies and exchange rates, were engineered to break a cycle of economic stagnation and secure a future of sustainable prosperity. This path was never promised to be easy, but it was promised to be honest and purposeful.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris
Today, the first green shoots of that promised stability are visible. December 2025 marked the 13th consecutive month of expansion in business activity. Multinational firms are re-evaluating Nigeria with serious intent. Our GDP is growing, inflation is declining, and our external reserves are strengthening. These are not mere statistics for reports; they are the essential groundwork upon which lasting improvement in everyday life is built.
However, a nation is not governed by indices alone. A nation is governed through trust, forged in the clear communication of both struggle and progress. My role is to be a steady voice for this administration, to explain our ambitions and our actions.
Upon this emerging macroeconomic stability, we have prioritised layering direct interventions that touch lives. The student loan programme (NELFUND) is opening doors. The Presidential CNG initiative is aimed at reducing transport costs. Programmes like LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows, and the 3MTT are designed to put skills and opportunity directly into the hands of our youth. In agriculture, a historic recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and new mechanisation programs are deployed to combat food insecurity at its root.
We are also pushing ambitious infrastructure. The Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway, the AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail lines, to unite our economy and reduce the costs embedded in our geography.
In security, a new architecture is being rolled out. We are investing heavily in recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation to finally turn the tide against terrorism and banditry. The recent rescue of our abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states, respectively, is a testament to this relentless focus, and we remain steadfast until every Nigerian feels safe.
I acknowledge the fatigue that comes with endurance. The anxiety over prices, the worry for loved ones, and the desire for quicker results are all valid feelings; they are the human context of governance. This administration hears you. Our resolve is to accelerate the pace at which these reforms translate into tangible, widespread relief.
This is why in 2026, our “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity” is critical. It is a commitment to double down on what is working, to solidify gains, and to ensure that the shared prosperity we speak of becomes a lived reality for more Nigerians, faster.
But nation-building is a covenant. We, in government, commit to lead with clarity, to deploy resources with integrity, and to communicate with constancy. We commit to face the people, to account for our stewardship, and to explain our path. In return, the civic strength of our nation, our collective will to pay taxes, to protect public goods, to engage constructively, and to reject the divisive pull of mischaracterisation and disinformation is what will ultimately secure our shared future.
This office, under my watch, shall be accountable and purposeful. It will remain a responsible, accessible, and truthful channel between the government and you, the people. We will explain, we will defend, we will listen, and we will report. You will continually and sustainably see and hear from this ministry, a clear voice of accountability for the government’s whole agenda.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has never been one to be fazed by problems or challenges. His approach has consistently been calm and decisive – turning difficulties into opportunities to do things better and more efficiently. Our recent engagements as a government with the United States bear witness to this approach. Under the President’s leadership, we turned a tense period into an opportunity to deepen bilateral relations with the US and to ramp up our anti-insurgency efforts.
But even as we acknowledge the gains we have made, we do not seek to live in the past. Our eyes are firmly focused on what lies ahead and on how tomorrow must improve on today. For us, every moment in the present is an opportunity to double down on what is working, so that we can reap the full benefits of reform.
The journey ahead demands our collective patience and our shared resolve. The easy politics of division and noise will persist, but the hard work of building a Nigeria that works for all must prevail. We have laid a new foundation. Now, we must build the house together.
I wish every Nigerian a peaceful and productive year ahead.
By Mohammed Idris (fnipr), Minister of Information and National Orientation
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to supply information regarding the emergency $3 billion “crude-for-cash” loan obtained by the company from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to the applicant, HEDA Resource Centre.
Delivering judgment in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1631/2023, brought on behalf of HEDA by Barr. Seidu Mohammed, Justice Emeka Nwite ruled in favour of HEDA’s request for an order of mandamus, directing NNPC Limited to provide detailed information about the loan.
Specifically, the Court ordered NNPC Limited to disclose the anticipated benefits of the $3 billion crude oil loan to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited and the Nigerian economy as a whole, as well as the potential economic implications of the loan, encompassing both short-term and long-term effects on the Nigerian economy.
Bayo Ojulari, GCEO, National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited
The Court further ordered clarification on the specific oil grades or categories used in negotiating the loan exchange; the exchange rate applied under the terms of the agreement for crude oil repayment; and the quality of the oil being sold or used as collateral for the loan.
The Court held that the information sought is simple and harmless, and that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited has no valid reason to deny HEDA access to the information under the Freedom of Information Act.
“The Court does not agree that the disclosure of this simple information has the effect of harming any third-party interest in any way or affecting any contractual negotiation, most especially when there is nothing before the Court to show the harm it would cause.
“Moreover, Section 15(4) of the FOI Act, assuming without conceding that disclosure has the capacity to harm any third-party interest, gives this Court the power to weigh the harm against the public interest.
“The Court is of the view that, due to the nature of the transaction which has great economic impact on Nigerians, and the fact that the oil sector is the major backbone of the Nigerian economy, the Court cannot, in all honesty, decline the request of the applicant.”
Reacting to the judgment, HEDA’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described the decision as a major win for transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector of Nigeria.
“The judgement marks another milestone in HEDA’s demand for financial and projects transparency in the NNPC Limited.It also sets a precedent for public access to information on government projects and loan agreements. We expect the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited to comply fully with the Court’s order and provide the required information in a timely manner.”
HEDA also calls on all stakeholders, including the media and civil society organisations, to join in demanding accountability from public institutions and to support the fight against corruption and financial recklessness.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged flood-affected communities to adopt improved environmental practices and disaster risk reduction, describing it as a new national response paradigm.
Mrs. Zubaida Umar, NEMA Director-General, gave the charge on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, while distributing relief materials to victims in Ogoja and Yala Local Government Areas, Cross River.
Represented by Mr. Victor Akpakpan, Head of Relief and Rehabilitation, Uyo Operations Office, Umar said prevention and preparedness must guide community responses to recurring climate-related disasters.
Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar
She said, “Responsible waste disposal, drainage maintenance and early warnings will reduce losses and save lives when floods strike our communities.”
Umar sympathised with affected residents, explaining that the intervention aimed to cushion flood impacts recorded earlier this year and support recovery across the devastated communities.
Beneficiaries were seen departing distribution centres with assorted food items, expressing relief as assistance reached households struggling after months of displacement and livelihood disruption.
Mr. Godwin Offiono, representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, thanked the Federal Government and NEMA, saying the support was “deeply appreciated by our people.”
Offiono said the constituency suffered severe flooding during the rainy season, destroying homes, roads and farmlands, and worsening food insecurity for vulnerable rural families.
He added, “The assistance is timely, but sustained support is essential to rebuild livelihoods and strengthen resilience against future floods.”
Speaking for beneficiaries, Mrs. Igbang Ebiamu commended the Federal Government, NEMA and Cross River Government for the relief, describing it as “a lifeline.”
Ebiamu appealed for additional assistance from all tiers of government, noting that many victims still require shelter, seeds and tools to restart farming.
Items distributed included 300 bags each of rice and garri, 150 cartons of spaghetti, vegetable oil, tomato paste, seasoning and iodised salt.
The Nigerian Infectious Diseases Society (NIDS) has called for strengthened intersectoral collaboration to improve prevention, detection and control of infectious diseases following resolutions reached at its 16th Annual General Meeting and Conference.
The recommendation is contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the NIDS conference in Kaduna and made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday, January 2, 2026, by the society’s President, Dr Mahmood Dalhat.
The communiqué said the conference theme was “Resilient Health Systems in a Changing World,” focusing on confronting emerging and endemic infectious disease threats in Nigeria amid global, environmental and socioeconomic challenges.
Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare
It listed subthemes including reimagining infectious disease control, global health financing constraints, advancing HIV care with long-acting antiretrovirals, driving vaccine self-reliance through manufacturing, and examining climate change impacts on disease re-emergence.
The conference emphasised urgent intersectoral collaboration among NIDS, government agencies, development partners, academia and the private sector to better position Nigeria for effective prevention, detection and response to infectious disease threats.
It highlighted artificial intelligence as a critical tool for closing gaps in data science, research and development for vaccines and medicines, healthcare planning, surveillance, and evidence-based decision making nationwide systems capacity.
The communique recommended increased domestic funding for surveillance, laboratory strengthening, outbreak preparedness, workforce development, decentralised healthcare delivery, strategic purchasing, and improved governance and coordination at national and subnational levels across Nigeria.
It urged adoption of innovative financing, including public–private partnerships and health security trust funds, to expand local manufacturing of vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics while reducing donor dependence through sustainable budgetary commitments.
The conference called for sustained investment in biotechnology, regulatory reforms, faster approvals, phased rollout of long-acting antiretroviral therapies, equitable access strategies, and strengthened One Health and antimicrobial resistance action plan implementation.
It also advocated climate-sensitive surveillance, stronger interministerial coordination, stakeholder engagement, and partnerships with donors and research institutions, appreciating Kaduna State’s support and reaffirming NIDS commitment to infectious prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Mr. Dayo Alebiosu, says the state’s waterfront agenda is driven by law, vision and effective planning.
Alebiosu said on Friday, January 2, 2026, that the agenda was not driven by political considerations or personal connections.
He spoke with journalists on Lagos State waterfront development, regulation and planning.
Mr. Ekundayo Alebiosu, Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure and Development
The official said that competence and intent, rather than sentiments or politics, had guided government decisions in the sector.
“Waterfront is a technical space. Our focus is on law, planning and development.
“It is not about politics or where anyone comes from,” he said.
He cautioned against attempts to politicise professional appointments and policy decisions.
Alebiosu, a former member of the Federal House of Representatives, said there were opportunities across the state and they should be approached with vision rather than suspicion.
“There is water in Kosofe. If development can happen in Ilashe, it can happen elsewhere,” he said.
The commissioner said that areas such as Ilashe transformed through deliberate planning and investment.
Alebiosu said he focused on long-term impact.
“The mind is the most fertile ground in the world; whatever you drop there will grow,” he said.
The commissioner emphasised the need to separate humanitarian interventions from political interests.
“We must also separate issues of governance from political interests. “I prefer quiet humanitarian interventions to public display.
“Why would you come to me privately for help and then I turn around to publicise it? That does not make sense to me,” he said.
According to him, the state now adopts an evidence-based approach to assistance.
“We now raise funds collectively, engage directly and ask for proof that the need is real,” he said.
Alebiosu urged constructive criticisms and discouraged deliberate provocation and destructive criticisms.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Lagos State Government to lawful waterfront development, responsible governance and interventions driven by intent, accountability and long-term value.
President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, has unveiled a plaque renaming the University of Gambia’s School of Agriculture and Environmental Services as Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Services. The historic occasion recognised and immortalised Adesina’s name, leadership, contributions to Africa, and his visionary role in the transformation of agriculture and food security on the continent.
Adesina, whose tenure as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group (2015 to 2025), was reportedly marked by strategic development gains across the continent, pioneered a transformative High 5 programme to Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, Industrialise Africa and Improve the quality of life of the people of Africa.
Historical recognition for Akinwumi Adesina: University of Gambia re-names Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in his honour
According to the Bank’s data, the programme impacted on the lives of over 535 million people.
Under his leadership, AfDB’s capital rose from $93 billion to $318 billion, said to be the highest in the history of the Bank. The institution won several global accolades including the most transparent financial institution in the world, and best multilateral development bank in the world, while maintaining its AAA credit rating by global credit rating agencies.
Under Adesina’s leadership, AfDB launched the Feed Africa strategy to transform agricultural sector and food production, which provided food security for over 104 million people.
In The Gambia, fulfilling a decades old dream since independence in the 60s, the Bank under Adesina’s leadership financed a now iconic and historic landmark bridge connecting The Gambia and Senegal. The new bridge seamlessly cuts travel time between both countries by hours and boosts trade and regional integration.
The decision of the Government of The Gambia and the University of The Gambia was communicated in a letter dated November 27, 2025, by the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, who said, “Your tenure as President of the African Development Bank has been transformative, driving economic growth, poverty reduction and sustainable development across Africa. Your leadership in launching the Feed Africa Strategy and the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative has revolutionised agricultural productivity and food security, empowering millions of smallholder farmers and enhancing climate resilience.”
The citation adds, “Beyond your tenure at the African Development Bank, your pioneering reforms as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture laid a foundation for modernising the agricultural sector, boosting food production, and creating economic opportunities. Your tireless advocacy for leveraging agriculture as a catalyst for industrialisation, job creation, and youth empowerment continues to inspire policies across the continent.”
Recognising Adesina’s exceptional leadership, and his belief in the transformative power of Africa talent and ingenuity, the University said, “By naming our School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in your honour, we seek to immortalise your legacy and inspire our students to emulate your vision, determination, and passion for Africa’s development This decision reflects our profound appreciation for your exceptional leadership and enduring belief in the transformative power of African talent and ingenuity,”
In a letter of appreciation to President Barrow, Adesina said: “It is with great humility and a deep sense of gratitude that I write this letter to express to you my immense appreciation of the exceptional honor you have conferred on me, with the renaming of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the University of The Gambia as ‘Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences’.
“It is a rare honor which immortalises my name in recognition of my leadership in supporting the transformation of agriculture in Africa. It is an exceptional honour. I wish to convey to you, Your Excellency, my most profound gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for this exceptional honour. I look forward to visiting The Gambia soon to witness this monumental development which will remain ever green in my memory.”
Adesina also expressed his deep and appreciation gratitude to the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, the Chairman and members of the Governing Council, the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of the School of Agriculture, of University of The Gambia.
In 2023, President Adama Barrow awarded Dr. Akinwumi Adesina the country’s highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic in recognition of his leadership and immense contributions to The Gambia and Africa.
The year 2025 has emerged as a pivotal milestone for the African water and sanitation community. Throughout this year, we have resolutely pursued AMCOW’s mission, which is to “provide political leadership, strategic guidance and advocacy for the provision, use and management of water resources for sustainable social and economic development and the preservation of African ecosystems”.
True to this mission and mandate, AMCOW, in close collaboration with the African Union Commission, has led the process of developing the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy.
You will recall that at the beginning of the new millennium, we set out our ambition for “an Africa where water resources are used equitably and sustainably for socio-economic development, poverty reduction, regional cooperation and environmental protection by 2025”.
Dr. Cheikh Tidiane Dieye, Minister of Hydraulics and Sanitation, Republic of Senegal, and AMCOW President
I am delighted that, in this pivotal year, the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy was adopted at the 14th Session of the AMCOW General Assembly, held on 29 September in Dakar, Senegal. This Vision and Policy – that of a resilient Africa, secure in terms of water and equipped with safe sanitation for all– is not merely an aspiration. They constitute a genuine roadmap for the next 38 years, with the overall objective of ensuring water security as part of the implementation of Agenda 2063, the Africa we want.
They position water as an essential catalyst for the achievement of Agenda 2063, from poverty eradication, food security and industrialisation to climate resilience and regional integration.
The new Africa Water Vision will be our compass, our collective voice and our shared commitment to future generations. It will also serve as Africa’s common position and contribution to the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, with a view to accelerating the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6).
I am particularly pleased that the document entitled “Africa Water Vision and Policy 2063” is the result of a long consultative process led by Member States. This approach aligns with the priorities defined at the beginning of Senegal’s two-year term as President of AMCOW. As recalled during the handover of the AMCOW presidency on March 3, 2025, one of our major ambitions was to reach a consensus on the development and adoption of a common and ambitious Africa Water Vision and Policy post-2025.
This approach was also in line with the decisions of the 13th AMCOW General Assembly, held in the Arab Republic of Egypt in June 2023, which entrusted the AMCOW Secretariat with conducting a multi-level dialogue process with a view to adopting the new Vision.
The sub-regional consultation meetings, organised by the AMCOW Vice-Presidents in each of the sub-regions, on the sidelines of our institution’s statutory meetings, played a decisive role in this consultative process. In this regard, allow me to commend the leadership and support of my colleagues and AMCOW Vice-Presidents:
Jumaa Hamidu Aweso, Minister of Water and Irrigation of the United Republic of Tanzania, hosted the meeting of the East Africa Sub-Regional Ministerial Committee from March 4 to 7, 2025, in Dar Es Salaam;
Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, hosted the West African Member States from March 18 to 20 in Abuja;
Dr. Anxious Jongwe Masuka, Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development of the Republic of Zimbabwe, convened the Southern Africa sub-regional meeting from March 24 to 26 in Harare;
José Juan Ndong Tom Mekina, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Fisheries and Environment of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, convened the Central African Member States to a virtual meeting on April 2 and 3, 2025; and
Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water of the Kingdom of Morocco, convened the Member States of North Africa on April 8 and 10 in Rabat.
We also express our deep gratitude to the authorities of the Republic of Zambia for hosting the Third Pan-African Conference on Implementation and Partnership (PANAFCON-3), held from May 27 to 29 in Lusaka. PANAFCON-3 provided an inclusive platform for broad consultations with all stakeholders to review the initial draft Vision and Policy Framework for the post-2025 period, aimed at ensuring water security and access to sanitation for an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa.
We extend our sincere thanks to Collins Nzovu, Member of Parliament and Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation of the Republic of Zambia, for his visionary leadership and mobilisation in convening and conducting PANAFCON-3.
Another major milestone was the African Union Summit on Investment in the Water Sector, held from August 13 to 15, 2025, in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, during which AMCOW organised an awareness-raising session on the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy. We deeply appreciate the leadership of Pemmy Majodna, Member of Parliament and Minister of Water and Sanitation of the Republic of South Africa, who was able to mobilise and unite political leaders around this strategic agenda during the Summit.
The development of the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy would not have been possible without the decisive leadership of the African Union Commission. In this regard, allow me to express my gratitude to my brother and visionary leader, Mr. Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Economy, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE) of the African Union Commission.
We also extend our thanks to the reference group and sherpas appointed by the African Union Commission who worked, on the one hand, to build a broad political consensus around the fundamental principles of the Africa Water Vision and Policy and, on the other hand, to ensure sustained dialogue and active engagement of all stakeholders.
We also welcome the continued support and valuable collaboration of the African Development Bank, through the African Water Facility (AWF); the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA); the Gates Foundation (GF); the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, through GIZ; the Global Environment Facility (GEF), through the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Water Management Institute (IWMI); the African Network of Civil Society Organisations on Water and Sanitation (ANEW); the AUDA-NEPAD Network of Centres of Excellence on Water; WaterAid; the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR); and all our implementing partners.
At the end of the year, we also had the honour of taking part in several high-level continental events. These included the eight edition of Cairo Water Week, held from October 12 to 16 in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, and the 19th World Water Congress, organised by the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) from December 1 to 5 in Marrakesh, Kingdom of Morocco.
As we approach the end of 2025, we look forward to 2026 with renewed commitment. We express our gratitude to our Heads of State and Government for adopting the theme “Ensuring sustainable availability of water and safe sanitation systems to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063” as the theme of the African Union for the year 2026. This strategic choice aims to strengthen water security in order to realise Africa’s aspirations to expand its economic opportunities.
The 39th ordinary session of the Assembly, scheduled for February 2026, will be mainly devoted to the adoption of the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy as a continental tool for implementing Agenda 2063.
In accordance with the decision of the African Union (Assembly/AU/Dec.912(XXXVIII)), the Republic of Senegal also notes the opportunity offered by the vertical links between the African Union’s 2026 theme framework and the 2026 United Nations Water Conference to accelerate the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 on water and sanitation.
As co-organiser of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, Senegal also intends to place the Africa Water Vision and Policy at the heart of global discussions on the actions to be taken to give new impetus to the implementation of Africa’s commitments on water and sanitation.
As we commemorate the AU theme for 2026, we seek to:
develop a first detailed implementation plan for the Africa Water Vision and Policy for the period 2026-2033.
formulate the first implementation plan 2026-2033 for the Africa Water Vision and Policy (FIP 2026-33) and mobilise the necessary efforts to implement this Vision by 2063;
organise, on the sidelines of the 2026 Annual Meeting of the African Development Bank, an international conference on financing the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy;
ensure the dissemination and awareness-raising of the Africa Water Vision 2063 and Policy at major events, including:
12th Ordinary Session of the African Regional Forum for Sustainable Development on the theme: Water and Development – UNECA
Africa Water & Sanitation Systems Leadership Symposium Kigali 2026
Regional preparatory processes towards the 11th World Water Forum
In conclusion, allow me to reaffirm my full commitment to working in collaboration with all Member States, partner institutions and all stakeholders in the water and sanitation sector.
Only through collective action, based on determination and solidarity, can we make water and sanitation a political and socio-economic priority, serving inclusive growth and sustainable prosperity for our continent in 2026 and beyond.
By Dr. Cheikh Tidiane Dieye, Minister of Hydraulics and Sanitation, Republic of Senegal, and AMCOW President
