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Over four million girls still at risk of female genital mutilation – UN

Michael Simire
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Over four million girls still at risk of female genital mutilation – UN

In 2026 alone, an estimated 4.5 million girls – many under the age of five – are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM). Currently, more than 230 million girls and women are living with its lifelong consequences.

On Friday, February 6, 2026,, on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, the UNFPA Executive Director, UNICEF Executive Director, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN Women Executive Director, WHO Director-General, and UNESCO Director-General in a joint statement reaffirmed their commitment to end female genital mutilation for every girl and every woman at risk, and to continue working to ensure those subjected to this harmful practice have access to quality and appropriate services.

Female genital mutilation (FGM)
The UN agencies say they are building movements to end female genital mutilation (FGM)

Female genital mutilation is described as a violation of human rights and cannot be justified on any grounds. It compromises girls’ and women’s physical and mental health and can lead to serious, lifelong complications, with treatment costs estimated at about US$ 1.4 billion every year.

Interventions aimed at ending female genital mutilation over the last three decades are having an impact, with nearly two-thirds of the population in countries where it is prevalent expressing support for its elimination. After decades of slow change, progress against female genital mutilation is accelerating: half of all gains since 1990 were achieved in the past decade reducing the number of girls subjected to FGM from one in two to one in three.

“We need to build on this momentum and speed up progress to meet the Sustainable Development Goal target of ending female genital mutilation by 2030,” said the UN bodies, adding:

“We know what works. Health education, engaging religious and community leaders, parents and health workers and the use of traditional and social media are effective strategies to end the practice. We must invest in community-led movements – including grassroots and youth networks – and strengthen education through both formal and community-based approaches. We need to amplify prevention messages by involving trusted opinion leaders, including health workers. And we must support survivors by ensuring they have access to comprehensive, context-tailored health care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.”

According to them, every dollar invested in ending female genital mutilation yields a tenfold return. An investment of $2.8 billion can prevent 20 million cases and generate $28 billion in investment returns.

They added: “As we approach 2030, gains achieved over decades are at risk as global investment and support wane. Funding cuts and declining international investment in health, education, and child protection programmes are already constraining efforts to prevent female genital mutilation and support survivors.

“Further, the growing systematic pushback on efforts to end female genital mutilation, compounded by dangerous arguments that it is acceptable when carried out by doctors or health workers, adds more hurdles to elimination efforts. Without adequate and predictable financing, community outreach programmes risk being scaled back, frontline services weakened, and progress reversed – placing millions more girls at risk at a critical moment in the push to meet the 2030 target.

“Today we reaffirm our commitment and efforts with local and global public and private partners, including survivors, to end female genital mutilation once and for all.”

‘Communication is key’ – Expert urges strategic plan for Nigeria’s 3m bopd oil production target

Michael Simire
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‘Communication is key’ – Expert urges strategic plan for Nigeria’s 3m bopd oil production target

An energy communication researcher, Dr. Adeola Yusuf, has called on President Bola Tinubu to demand strategic communication plans from oil producers and contractors, detailing phase-by-phase progress on the 3 million barrels oil production target set for 2030.

Yusuf, who doubles as the Team Lead of Platforms Africa, made this call during a plenary session at the just concluded Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026, attended by Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Patience Oyekunle, as well as captains of industry.

Speaking on “Impact of Storytelling in Attracting Investment in Nigeria and Africa’s Energy Transformation,” Dr. Yusuf declared that research has shown that policies and projects with phase-by-phase strategic communication have better success rates compared to those without proper communication.

Adeola Yusuf
Energy communications researcher and Team Lead of Platforms Africa, Dr Adeola Yusuf (in white), speaking during a panel discussion session at NIES 2026 in Abuja

He emphasised that Nigeria’s current per capita oil production will still be above the projected output in 2030, even if the target is met, highlighting the need for strategic communication to achieve the goal.

Yusuf called on oil producers who have been given the task and contracts to raise Nigeria’s oil production to 3 million barrels per day by 2030 to work hard to deliver on the mandate given to them by President Bola Tinubu.

“The Honourable Minister, you have been working hard on the mandate and I urged you, sir, to adopt and demand contractors and producers to adopt strategic communication on the phase by phase development on the task.

“Our president and all of us cannot, as a country, fail to meet up with the oil output target set for 2030. The simple reason for this is that the current per capital oil production by Nigeria at the moment will still be above the per capital output by the country in 2030 even if the target is met. We can now imagine how the scenery will be if we don’t work hard to meet the target.

“With the current production of 1.6 million barrels daily as of today when the country’s population stands at around 200 million, the per capita oil production is 0.008 barrel per person compared to 0.007 barrel per person by 2030 when the country’s population is envisaged to hit 401 million people.

“As huge as the 3 million barrels daily production target looks, it is still going to be below the current production of 1.6 million barrels daily in terms of per capita production and this is a major reason we can not still lag behind the target set by Mr. President, which is being rigorously pursued by the Honourable Minister,” he said.

Discussing the outcome of his research work conducted on the Press Coverage of the Presidential Accent to Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) – now an act – between 2018 and 2021, Yusuf disclosed that findings showed that progress on the bill was better communicated in the media in 2021 after passage and during the presidential accent to the bill in August 2021.

President Muhammadu Buhari, on August 16, 2021, signed the PIB 2021 into law, following its passage by the National Assembly in July 2021, ending a long wait since the early 2000s.

“However, progress on the bill was earlier poorly communicated after passage in 2018 and the subsequent Withholding of presidential accent to it in the same year was also met with official silence.

“The highlight of poor communication from the then policy makers as shown in the press coverage in 2018 showed that even when the president officially communicated to the National Assembly that he had declined accent to the bill, the whole nation and global investors were kept in the dark that such has happened. 

“On June 8, the Senate sent to the president for final assent into law the harmonised draft Bill earlier approved by the House of Representatives in January of the year.

“The decision was conveyed in separate presidential communications delivered to the leadership of the two Chambers of the National Assembly on July 29, 2018. The news, first reported by Platforms Africa and The Cable online, was later confirmed one month after by the aide to the president on Legislative matters, Senator Ita Enang, on August 29, 2018. He unambiguously declared that the letter of accent decline was sent to the National Assembly exactly on July 29, 2018,” Yusuf said. 

“This, compared to what we later experienced in 2021 showed the power of strategic communication in policy formation and actualisation.

“Therefore, for Nigeria to meet its 3 million barrels daily production target in 2030, there should be a deliberate communication – both internally and externally – by those saddled with the responsibility about progress on the target,” Yusuf concluded.

Having the Executive Seretary, Petroleum Trust and Development Fund (PTDF), Ahmed Galadima Aminu, as lead speaker, the panel also featured Dr. Samuel Erhigare Onoji, Principal/CE, PI; Ms. Sophia Mbakwe, Executive President, Busines Services, NNPC; and Dr. Yetunde Aladeltan, National Chairman, NPetE / Associate Professor, University of Abuja as panelists.

Other panelists and speakers at the plenary session moderated by Communications Manager, Chevron, Dr. Victor Anyaegbudike, were Ms. Tolu Olanrewaju, Senior Advisor, Upstream Commercial & Business Development, Chevron Nigeria/Mid Afica; Ms. Joy Osomiambe-0, Regional Manager Africa, World Energy Council; Dr Amina Danmadami, Senior Manager NMDPRA; and Mrs. Tolulope Longe, President, Women in Energy, 0l and Gas (WEOG).

World Wetlands Day: Oyo advised to curb indiscriminate vegetation clearance

Michael Simire
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World Wetlands Day: Oyo advised to curb indiscriminate vegetation clearance

The Oyo State Government has been advised to curb indiscriminate vegetation clearance, as the world celebrates World Wetlands Day.

Prof. Ismail Abdulazeez, Head of Department, Forestry Extension, Rural Learning and Land Use, University of Ibadan (UI), advised in an interview in Ibadan, the state capital, on Friday February 6, 2026.

World Wetlands Day, which reminds humanity of the benefits of nature, is commemorated every Feb. 2.

Seyi Makinde
Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State

The day is an international moment to recognise and raise awareness about some of the planet’s most vital ecosystems: freshwater and coastal wetlands. 

Abdulazeez identifies wetlands as the most threatened ecosystem, prompting the United Nations Organisation to observe a special day.

According to the don, forestry is at the centre of nature, while any activity that undermines its tranquillity may spell doom for society.

“Wetlands are among the world’s most diverse and productive environments; cradles of biological diversity that provide the water and productivity upon which countless species of plants and animals depend for survival.

“In areas where there is forest or vegetation, any waterbody in such places is normally an all-year-round thing.

“When it rains, the vegetation would conserve much of that water for the dry period.

“That is the difference between when it rains in the southern and northern parts of the country, where a lot of the vegetation has already been lost.

“When it rains, the waterbodies easily get filled up, and there is erosion; within an hour or two, the water dries up.

“The essence of vegetation is to stock up a lot of these waterbodies and ensure that water is available all year round.

“That is why in areas where you have vegetation, water does not easily dry up because water does not go directly into the waterbodies.

“Rather, it serves as a kind of buffer that later supplies water to the waterbodies when the rain must have stopped,” he said.

The environmental health enthusiast also stressed the importance of water, not only for human use but also in food production.

According to him, no matter how nutritious a land is, it requires water to be useful, as water makes the nutrients in the soil available for the plants.

Abdulazeez noted that Nigerian soil must be well protected if continuous agricultural production is intended.

He stated that the idea of selling, clearing vegetation, and converting almost every land into housing estates was alien to Nigerian society.

“The idea is not working in the advanced countries, where they claimed to have brought it from.

“Going by the countries I have visited, there is a limit to how much you can develop your personally owned land.

“You cannot develop more than 40 per cent of the land in the countryside, while you are only allowed 60 to 65 per cent in the city area, let alone embarking on indiscriminate clearance of vegetation for whatever development.

“I’m not saying that the government should not generate revenue, but it should be done such that we balance nature with our quest for money.

“Otherwise, the consequences might be deadly,” the forestry expert remarked.

Meanwhile, an Ibadan-based legal practitioner, Mr. Dapo Olakulehin, accused the government of making the laws, only to break them in the name of overriding public interest.

“A lawyer in this state actually instituted a legal action against the Oyo State Government when they were clearing the vegetation in Agodi Gardens, but nothing came out of it.

“I still feel pained about the demolition and conversion of the Trans Amusement Park to a housing estate, because I grew up going there in those days.

“At the same time, development is good.

“It’s a two-way issue.

“As much as it is great not to tamper with nature, climate and environmental issues, it is also good to develop society,” Olakulehin said.

However, Mr. Waheed Akintayo, Chairman, House Committee on Information in the Oyo State House of Assembly, posited that the state has laws against indiscriminate clearing of vegetation.

Akintayo reasserted the Gov. Seyi Makinde-led administration’s interest in the well-being of the state’s residents, explaining it would not embark on anything that would harm them.

“Makinde did not destroy the vegetation in Agodi Gardens, but only tried to clear the part that has become a jungle and a hideout for criminally minded people.

“The governor acted to protect the residents from evil. Agodi Gardens is still intact; nobody can go into our forest to cut trees.

“In fact, there is a department that is currently working with the ministries of agriculture and environment to monitor the activities of those cutting trees or timber for sale.

“Any of them that is authorised knows that he must replant another tree in place of the cut ones,” the assembly member said.

By Olawale Akinremi

SRADeV decries absence of ‘Poison Centres’ for urgent intervention

Michael Simire
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SRADeV decries absence of ‘Poison Centres’ for urgent intervention

Despite the rising incidence of chemical poisoning, accidental toxic exposures, and the recent tragic snakebite fatality in Abuja, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADeV Nigeria) has expressed concern over Nigeria’s continued failure to establish and activate functional Poison Centres and emergency case management intervention facilities across the country.

Nigeria, a nation of over 200 million people, currently has only one chemicals Poison Centre on record located within the Raw Materials and Research Development Council, Abuja, which itself remains largely unrecognised, under-resourced, and inaccessible to the general public.

Leslie Adogame
Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director of SRADeV Nigeria

According to SRADeV, this alarming gap in emergency public health infrastructure significantly worsens outcomes in poisoning cases from chemicals, food and other fatal poisoning where quick intervention often determine survival.

“It is very unfortunate that to date, Nigeria has only one ‘unrecognised’ poison centre and located very remote to the National hospital, Abuja or any medical facility. This is a mis-normal, unacceptable, and far below global public health standards for a country that have ratified and domesticated many international Chemical Conventions,” said Dr. Leslie Adogame, an environmental health expert and Executive Director, SRADeV Nigeria.

According to him, the lack of multiple, decentralised poison centres in Nigeria is not just a systemic oversight, it is a public health failure that continues to cost lives.

He stressed that, in emergency poisoning cases, uncertainty, delayed referrals, and lack of expert toxicological guidance can turn survivable incidents into fatal ones.

“Poison centres are globally recognised as first-line emergency response hubs for incidents involving chemical exposure, pesticide poisoning, drug overdoses, snake envenomation, and industrial accidents. Their absence at both federal and sub-national levels leaves healthcare providers, first responders, and citizens without timely guidance, referral pathways, or lifesaving information during emergencies.

“The recent snakebite incident occurring within an urban area of Abuja further underscores the urgency of this crisis. Poorly maintained environments, inadequate waste management, overgrown surroundings, and lack of routine fumigation have increased human exposure to venomous animals and toxic hazards even in cities presumed to be safer.”

Victor Fabunmi, Senior Public Health Officer, SRADeV Nigeria, submitted: “If snake envenomation can result in death within an urban setting, the situation in rural and peri-urban communities where access to emergency care is even more limited should deeply concern policymakers.”

SRADeV Nigeria also emphasised the critical need for public awareness and preparedness.

“Citizens must be equipped with clear, accessible information on what to do, where to go, and toll-free call details during poisoning or envenomation emergencies. Without public education and visible response systems, panic, misinformation, and delayed care will continue to worsen outcomes,” suggested the group..

SRADeV Nigeria therefore called on the Federal Government, State Governments, and relevant health and environmental authorities to take immediate and coordinated action to:

  • Establish at least one functional poison centresat every state of the Federation.
  • Integrate real-time poison emergency response systems into primary healthcare and emergency services
  • Invest in public awareness campaigns on poisoning prevention and response.
  • Improve urban and rural environmental management, including fumigation and sanitation across the Federation.

“This is not a new problem, it is a long-standing gap that requires urgent political will, investment, and accountability, as citizens lives depend on it,” said Dr Adogame.

Science-based risk assessment cornerstone of Nigeria’s approach to GMOs – NBMA DG

Michael Simire
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Science-based risk assessment cornerstone of Nigeria’s approach to GMOs – NBMA DG

Effective communication, transparency, and science-based risk assessments are the cornerstones of Nigeria’s approach to Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

Mr. Bello Bawa Bwari, the Director-General (D-G) of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), gave the assurance during a media interaction in Abuja on Friday, February 6, 2026.

“Where there is communication, you reduce conflict. Effective communication is key, effective engagement with stakeholders is paramount and key to making Nigeria better.”

Bello Bawa Bwari
Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), Bello Bawa Bwari

Bwari said anti GMO’s critics keep participants and practitioners on their toes.

“We value them and we expect that their criticisms, suggestions and recommendations will make our operations in the entire spectrum better.

“Where we are not doing so well, we will hear from them, where we can advance explanations, we will advance explanations. Where they are not doing well, we will tell them. We will not run away from doing that.

“But I want to assure you that we are bold enough to face anybody who is not fact-based,” DG said.

He reassured that sometime before the end of the second quarter of 2026 there will be a retreat where all stakeholders would be invited.

“And also, the impact we are bringing is going to be measurable by the end of 2026. And going forward, what we do by the end of 2026 will form the basis of our five-year plan.

“There’s a five-year plan which will start at the end of 2026. So, I enjoin you the media to please report what you know as a matter of fact, not as a matter of opinion.

“We all have different opinions, but some of our opinions are not facts. From the quality of what I see on papers, reportage, I think largely I’m impressed with what the press is doing in Nigeria so far,” he said.

Bwari stated that Nigerians deserve to understand what NBMA regulates, why they regulate it, and how decisions are made.

“Part of my focus going forward will be strengthening engagement with the media, researchers, policymakers, and the public because regulation works best when it is understood.

“We are not promoters of any technology, and we are not opponents of innovation. We are regulators.

“But at its core, biosafety is about prevention, caution, and preparedness. It is about ensuring that innovation does not outpace safety, and that national development never compromises public health or environmental integrity.”

The DG promised to imbibe to uphold the law without fear or favour, communicate more clearly with the public and ensure that every regulatory decision is transparent, evidence-based, and accountable

“NBMA is not an advocacy agency. Our duty is to assess risks, enforce safeguards, and ensure compliance with national and international biosafety standards. I also want to emphasise that public trust matters.”

Bwari further urged the media to help Nigerians understand biosafety and biosecurity in a better way.

By Abigael Joshua

Sam Onuigbo: Blue Economy, a gateway to economic diversification, climate resilience

Michael Simire
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Sam Onuigbo: Blue Economy, a gateway to economic diversification, climate resilience

Goodwill Message presented by Rep. Sir Sam Onuigbo, Member (South East), Governing Board; Chairman, Committee on Security, Climate Change and Special Interventions, North East Development Commission (NEDC), at the book launch of “Blue Economy: Gateway to a Sustainable Future” written By Dr. Chika Ethel Chukwudi, on Thursday, February 5, 2026, in Abuja

I am delighted to extend my warm regards and hearty congratulations to Dr. Chika Ethel Chukwudi on the formal unveiling of her seminal work, “Blue Economy: Gateway to a Sustainable Future.” This publication comes at a defining moment in Nigeria’s developmental journey, when sustainability is no longer aspirational, but foundational to our economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and inter-generational prosperity.

Sam Onuigbo
Rep. Sam Onuigbo

As the sponsor of Nigeria’s Climate Change Act, 2021 – the legal fulcrum for coordinated, cross-sectoral climate action involving public institutions, the private sector, civil society, and development partners – I remain deeply conscious that Nigeria’s future hinges on how effectively climate action is embedded on all sectors of the economy.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made this clear when he stated, “The fight against climate change is not merely an environmental necessity but a global economic opportunity.” It is within this robust legal, policy, and institutional framework that the blue economy finds its strongest expression as a catalyst for sustainable growth.

As a futuristic legal framework, the Climate Change Act acknowledges the importance of nature-based solutions by clearly providing for it in Section 27 thus: “The Council shall adopt and promote nature- based solutions to reducing GHG emissions and mitigating climate change issues in Nigeria”.

Interestingly, President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated commendable resolve in implementing the Climate Change Act as a guiding light for national climate action. A key initiative that stands out among these is the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. The ministry is strategically designed to enhance the country’s ocean resources while promoting sustainable economic growth by maximizing Nigeria’s 853 kilometres of coastline and an expansive maritime area of 46,000 square kilometres.

The Ministry aims at sustainable use of ocean, sea, coastal, and inland water resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation, while preserving the health of aquatic ecosystems. It reflects a deliberate policy shift toward recognising marine and aquatic resources as central to sustainable national development.

Through this dedicated ministry, the government created a focused framework for managing and developing sectors, such as maritime transport, fisheries, aquaculture, coastal tourism, offshore energy, and inland waterways in a coordinated and sustainable development programme.

The Climate Change Act 2021, particularly with its emphasis on nature-based solutions, as well as integrating Natural Capital Accounting, is a forerunner in the establishment of the ministry. By recognising ecosystems, such as mangroves, wetlands, oceans, and coastal habitats as essential tools for climate mitigation and adaptation, the Act underscored the need for institutional structures capable of managing these natural assets sustainably. In Section 29(1), the Act stipulates that the Council shall collaborate with and equip the National Bureau of Statistics for developing Nigeria’s Natural Capital Accounts.

Other remarkable initiatives of the current administration include:

  1. The National Carbon Market Activation Policy (NCMAP) which aims at generating $2.5–$3 billion annually by 2030 in line with Section 4(i) and (j) of the Act;
  2. The National Carbon Registry to strengthen emissions reporting and transparency; the Operationalisation of the Climate Change Fund as stipulated in Section 15 of the Act;
  3. The Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions; the updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) targeting a 32% emissions reduction by 2035;
  4. The Climate-Resilient Livelihoods Empowerment Programme, a 10-year $250 million intervention;
  5. Nigeria’s engagement at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (2026) to unlock $25–$30 billion in green finance;
  6. Participation in the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit to electrify 300 million Africans by 2030; and,
  7. Engagement on climate-induced mobility through the Rabat Process.

The blue economy therefore represents far more than the sustainable use of marine and aquatic resources – it is a gateway to economic diversification, climate resilience, job creation, and long-term national competitiveness.

Dr. Chukwudi’s work speaks powerfully to these imperatives, offering timely insights that will enrich policy formulation, guide industry practice, and advance academic and professional discourse.

I, therefore, wholeheartedly enjoin this august gathering and others who could not attend in-person to purchase this seminal work and enrich their knowledge. I commend her thought leadership and applaud the organisers and stakeholders for this laudable initiative, which further strengthens Nigeria’s climate and sustainability architecture.

At this juncture, let me plead with Nigerians and policy makers to ensure that they mainstream climate actions in all their development plans. On this note, I wish to call on the Federal Ministry of Education to explore avenues to implement Section 26 of the Act, which mandates the integration of climate change into the various disciplines and subjects across all educational levels.

British High Commission welcomes 99 Nigerian graduates of Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship Programmes

Michael Simire
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British High Commission welcomes 99 Nigerian graduates of Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship Programmes

In Abuja and Lagos, the British High Commission held Welcome Home Ceremonies to celebrate 99 Nigerians who have recently completed their studies in the United Kingdom through the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships pursuing a wide range of master’s degree, PhD, and fellowship programmes.

Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to individuals from all backgrounds who demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills required to create positive change. The Chevening scholars who have completed their studies are 30 in total, while the Commonwealth scholars and fellows are 69.

British High Commission
Some of the graduates

At both events, the scholars and fellows shared their academic journeys and experiences, and their preparedness to use the skills and knowledge developed during their studies to contribute to Nigeria’s development. Additionally, they were celebrated for their exceptional academic achievements, received their completion certificates, and were officially inducted into the Chevening and Commonwealth alumni community in Nigeria.

Speaking at the reception, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Gill Lever (OBE), said: “We take great pride in welcoming back our Commonwealth and Chevening Scholars. Congratulations to each and every one of them for successfully completing their studies, many with distinctions.  I’m so happy that talented Nigerians have had the opportunity to study in the UK, returning with additional knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in their home country.

“I encourage them to aim for excellence in their future endeavours.  I know they will be great ambassadors for the UK in Nigeria and make the most of the networking and knowledge sharing that being a Commonwealth or Chevening scholar presents. Keep in touch everyone!”

British Council was represented at the welcome event by Mr. Chikodi Onyemerela, Director of Programmes, British Council Nigeria. During his remarks, Chikodi congratulated the scholars for successfully completing their master’s and PhD programmes in the UK. He urged the scholars to be good Ambassadors of their institutions in Nigeria and urged them to apply the knowledge, skills and network that they have acquired in the UK to address challenges facing Nigeria in various sectors while maintaining ties with their UK institutions.

Chevening Scholar, Nankur Pontip Ramdur, who studied Terrorism, International Crime and Global Security at Coventry University, UK, said: “I understand that peace and security are at the heart of every nation’s development and success; hence, I look forward to contributing to a safer Nigeria. I plan to continue outreach to schools and communities with my team, teaching responses and safe practices regarding sexual and gender-based violence.

“I am also currently writing a book to broaden the impact of this initiative in Nigeria and subsequently across the globe. I have so much more to meaningfully contribute to my country, and I am glad Chevening has propelled me towards achieving my dreams!”

Commonwealth Scholar, Chimdi Ekwueme, who studied Health Policy, Planning and Finance at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK, said: “Studying in the UK has deepened my Nigerian perspective by allowing me to situate my local experience within wider international conversations and gaining practical insights I can apply at home.”

‘Restoring Land, Restoring Hope’ announced as theme for landmark UN land conference

Michael Simire
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‘Restoring Land, Restoring Hope’ announced as theme for landmark UN land conference

Mongolia and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) on Thursday, February 5, announced the theme of the 17th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the UNCCD as preparations intensify for the landmark global conference on desertification, land degradation and drought taking place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from August 17 to 28, 2026.

The theme – “Restoring Land, Restoring Hope” – was announced during high-level meetings between UNCCD and Mongolia’s leadership to advance UNCCD COP17 preparations. 

Yasmine Fouad
UNCCD Executive Secretary, Yasmine Fouad

“Land is our most vital infrastructure – underpinning food security, water, livelihoods and stability. When land fails, insecurity rises – through lost livelihoods, forced displacement and increased competition over scarce resources. With UNCCD COP17, Mongolia is offering the world a powerful message: Restoring Land, Restoring Hope is not only an environmental agenda, but a development and resilience priority.

“As drought intensifies and land degradation accelerates, the conference must drive practical, investable solutions – from restoring degraded land and soils to strengthening the land–water nexus – so that communities can thrive,” said UNCCD Executive Secretary, Yasmine Fouad. 

“Mongolia is fully aware of the responsibility that comes with hosting UNCCD COP17, and we are committed to ensuring that the Conference delivers concrete, action-oriented and lasting outcomes. As a country whose development, livelihoods and cultural heritage are deeply connected to the land, we firmly believe that land restoration is a fundamental pillar of peace, sustainable development and inclusive socio-economic growth.

“Hosting COP17 in 2026, during the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, offers a unique opportunity to elevate rangelands and pastoralist livelihoods from awareness to implementation and investment, and to strengthen global cooperation in addressing desertification, land degradation and drought,” noted the Prime Minister of Mongolia, Mr. Gombojavyn Zandanshatar. 

As the first of the three Rio Conventions’ COPs taking place in 2026-on land, biodiversity and climate change, UNCCD COP17 aims to catalyse collective action to protect land-based livelihoods and strengthen resilience through a people-centered approach.

COP17 is expected to bring together delegates from UNCCD’s 197 Parties, alongside leaders from government, business and civil society, as well as scientists, youth, Indigenous Peoples, pastoralists and smallholder farmers, to forge solutions to the interconnected challenges of desertification, land degradation and drought, recognising that restoring land is also essential to reducing instability, preventing displacement, and strengthening human and national security in vulnerable regions.

Land degradation is already affecting up to 40 per cent of the world’s land, with far-reaching impacts on food production, water availability, livelihoods, and economic stability. COP17 offers a pivotal moment for countries and partners to strengthen implementation and mobilise greater investment in drought resilience and sustainable land management.

With a vast territory of 1.56 million square kilometers, Mongolia is among the countries most affected by desertification and land degradation, with nearly 77 per cent of its land already degraded. Hosting UNCCD COP17 in Ulaanbaatar will place international focus on land restoration priorities, including approaches that safeguard livelihoods, food security and ecosystems in dryland regions.

COP17 is taking place during the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, declared by the United Nations General Assembly and championed by Mongolia. This presents a major opportunity to accelerate action on the sustainable management, restoration and conservation of rangelands, while spotlighting the needs of pastoralist communities who depend directly on these ecosystems for their livelihoods.

Rangelands cover more than half of the Earth’s land surface, support the direct livelihoods of around 500 million people and provide one-sixth of the world’s nutrition needs, yet remain among the planet’s most overlooked and increasingly degraded ecosystems.

During the two-week conference, participants will engage in a high-level segment including ministerial dialogues, alongside multistakeholder forums and thematic discussions on science–policy integration, innovation and solutions, tools and technologies, and financing. In addition to formal negotiations, COP17 is expected to catalyze collective action on rangelands, resilience and water, as well as food systems and soil health.

In preparation for COP17, Mongolia has launched national initiatives linking land restoration with livelihoods and rural development, including the President-led “Billion Trees” National Campaign, initiated in 2021 and aiming to plant one billion trees by 2030. Mongolia has also expanded public engagement and youth participation through national dialogues and outreach activities, including the “Youth4Land” National Forum.

Through the Mongolia Business Council, the COP17 Presidency has been engaging the country’s private sector in support of UNCCD’s Business 4 Land Initiative that aims to accelerate private sector action for sustainable land management.

“Mongolia’s initiatives illustrate the kind of integrated land restoration and resilience approaches UNCCD COP17 seeks to advance. It aims to deliver stronger political momentum and practical outcomes – helping countries mobilise resources and strengthen partnerships to scale up land restoration and build resilience where it is needed most,” concluded Executive Secretary Fouad.

EcoImpact Alliance calls for traditional knowledge to protect wetlands

Michael Simire
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EcoImpact Alliance calls for traditional knowledge to protect wetlands

EcoImpact Alliance Initiative has urged blending traditional knowledge with modern methods to protect wetlands, marking World Wetlands Day 2026 in Kogi State.

The event, with the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”, gathered stakeholders to examine wetlands’ roles in climate resilience, biodiversity and livelihoods.

The Lead Expert, Mr. Owoleke Oluwafemi, delivered a keynote on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Lokoja, highlighting Nigeria’s diverse wetlands, including the Niger Delta.

EcoImpact Alliance
The Lead Expert, Mr Owoleke Oluwafemi, Kogi State Polytechnic, delivering his keynote lecture at the ECOIMPACT ALLIANCE INITIATIVE programme, to Commemorate World Wetlands Day, in Lokoja

Oluwafemi stressed indigenous conservation practices, citing fishing calendars and protection of sacred rivers as effective traditional tools.

“This theme highlights the cultural wisdom that sustained wetlands long before modern conservation approaches,” Oluwafemi said.

He noted Nigeria has 11 Ramsar Sites covering 1.07 million hectares, including the Niger Delta, Africa’s largest wetland system.

“These ecosystems support millions through fishing, farming, grazing and culture. The Hadejia-Nguru wetlands alone supported 1.5 million people,” he added.

Oluwafemi urged stakeholders to protect wetlands, document traditional knowledge, empower communities, and engage youths and schools in conservation.

The Founder, Mr. Ipinyomi Tafa, reaffirmed EcoImpact Alliance’s commitment to awareness, education and practical climate action.

Tafa called for collaboration among governments, stakeholders and citizens to safeguard wetlands vital to climate resilience, food security and biodiversity.

Environmental consultant, Mr. Salami Onaopemipo, advocated synergy between traditional and modern approaches to conservation.

“How you treat the environment is how the environment treats you back,” Onaopemipo said, urging stronger government commitment.

Project Lead, Mr. Joel Temitope, highlighted innovative initiatives promoting sustainable wetland use and conservation.

He urged governments to enforce laws against encroachment and integrate wetland protection into national and local land-use planning.

The event aimed to raise awareness and mobilise action to protect wetlands essential for human well-being and biodiversity.

Stakeholders praised the initiative, urging increased publicity to deepen public awareness of wetlands.

The World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 2.

By Stephen Adeleye

How to get involved in UN World Wildlife Day 2026 – CITES

Michael Simire
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How to get involved in UN World Wildlife Day 2026 – CITES

The countdown is officially on: in just one month, the world will come together to celebrate United Nations World Wildlife Day 2026 and the incredible diversity of wild fauna and flora that sustains our planet.

This year’s theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” shines a spotlight on the extraordinary plants that have supported human well‑being for centuries. It also invites us all to learn from the communities, experts and knowledge‑holders working to conserve these species and the cultural traditions surrounding them.

Ms. Ivonne Higuero CITES
CITES Secretary-General, Ivonne Higuero

As the world approaches March 3, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) says there are several ways to take part in this year’s global celebration:

  1. Organise and register your satellite celebration activity or event on the World Wildlife Day website and share with the world how you plan to celebrate in your community.
  2. Download, use and share the Official WWD2026 Poster, designed by the Official Poster Contest Winner, Ms. Hannah Payet, and promote the theme at your event, with a virtual background, or on social media.
  3. Submit your film to the Jackson Wild Film Showcase, deadline extended to February 11, to share your powerful stories about wildlife and the people conserving it.
  4. Use the WWD2026 Social Media Kit, which contains ready-made social media assets to support your outreach leading up to or on the Day.
  5. Join the United Nations Celebration Event, to be livestreamed on the World Wildlife Day YouTube channel on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

“As the global celebration draws near, World Wildlife Day 2026 will invite us to rediscover the richness of medicinal and aromatic plants – plants that represent cultural heritage, and support livelihoods – hold immense value for human and planetary health. The celebration will recognise the traditional knowledge behind their use, the communities conserving these species, and our shared responsibility to ensure their conservation for future generations,” submitted CITES.

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