Egypt has become Africa’s first nation to achieve international quality standards for both medicine and vaccine regulation, marking a milestone in the continent’s push for pharmaceutical independence.
Dr. Jean Kaseya, director general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
The World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded Egypt’s Drug Authority a Maturity Level 3 designation, the second-highest rating for regulatory systems.
The classification recognises Egypt’s ability to ensure drug safety and quality control.
“Egypt’s accomplishment is a source of immense pride – not only for the country but for the entire continent,” said Dr. Jean Kaseya, director general of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Egypt’s pharmaceutical sector produces more than 90% of its medicines domestically and exports to over 100 countries.
However, no African nation has yet achieved the WHO’s highest regulatory rating, Maturity Level 4.
“We are steadfast in our mission to support African countries in achieving ML4 status,” Dr. Kaseya said. “Egypt’s progress powerfully demonstrates what can be achieved through aligned governance, resources, and commitment.”
The WHO evaluation examines more than 250 indicators of regulatory performance.
The certification positions Egypt as a model for other African nations working to strengthen their pharmaceutical oversight.
Africa CDC officials said the achievement advances the African Union’s Agenda 2063 goals for health system independence and demonstrates the importance of investing in regulatory infrastructure.
The first session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Expert Working Group on Adequate Housing for All concluded recently in Nairobi, Kenya, with a call to accelerate global efforts to ensure safe, sustainable, and affordable housing.
UN-Habitat Executive Director, Anacláudia Rossbach, speaks at the first session of the Open-ended Intergovernmental Expert Working Group on Adequate Housing for All. Photo credit: UN-Habitat/Peter Ndolo
Convened under the mandate of Resolution 2/7 on adequate housing for all adopted during the second session of the United Nations Habitat Assembly in 2023, the session brought together over 200 participants, including ministers, ambassadors, and housing experts, to discuss practical solutions to the global housing crisis.
A unified call for action
“It is not possible to transform informal settlements without addressing the challenges of adequate housing together,” said Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat.
Throughout the session, participants stressed that adequate housing must be part of a broader strategy that includes urban planning, infrastructure, social services, and economic opportunities. They noted that addressing informal settlements and tenure insecurity requires a collective, comprehensive response that goes beyond housing alone.
Edna Elena Vega Rangel, President of the United Nations Habitat Assembly, also highlighted the importance of collaboration.
“It is very encouraging to see so many experts from around the world who have come together to join this discussion on adequate housing,” she said.
Her remarks reinforced the session’s focus on global partnerships, with participants highlighting the need for international cooperation and the sharing of best practices to solve the housing crisis.
Key outcomes: collaborative solutions for housing
The session highlighted several takeaways for accelerating progress on adequate housing:
Integrated housing policies: Participants emphasised the need to align housing strategies with broader urban development goals. They agreed that policies should address not only housing but also urban planning, informal settlements, tenure insecurity, and social equity, ensuring that housing is part of a comprehensive approach to urbanisation, infrastructure, and climate resilience.
Innovative financing: A strong focus was placed on scaling up innovative financing models, such as rent-to-own schemes and public-private partnerships. Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme was cited as an example, demonstrating how governments can incentivise low-cost, equitable housing while ensuring sustainability and long-term affordability.
Data-driven solutions: Experts stressed the importance of robust data systems to guide decision-making, identify housing gaps, and monitor progress.
Partnerships for action: The session underscored the importance of collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector. Participants highlighted the role of South-South cooperation and knowledge-sharing, which are key to scaling up successful housing solutions globally and ensuring that they are inclusive and sustainable.
Learning from Mukuru: Kenya’s affordable housing initiative
A major highlight of the session was a field visit to the Mukuru Affordable Housing Project (AHP) in Nairobi, Kenya. Delegates had the opportunity to see firsthand how the project is transforming one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements.
Mukuru, home to over 100,000 people, is part of Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme, aimed at addressing the country’s significant housing gap. The Mukuru AHP features over 13,000 housing units offered under a rent-to-own model, making homeownership accessible to low-income residents.
Delegates toured the site and discussed the innovative financing model and use of an online platform to ensure equitable access to housing. The Mukuru AHP provided an example for other countries seeking to combine affordability, inclusivity, and sustainability in housing delivery.
What lies ahead?
Looking forward, the Open-ended Intergovernmental Expert Working Group will build on the outcomes of the session to develop recommendations for the next United Nations Habitat Assembly. These recommendations will aim to accelerate progress toward achieving adequate housing for all by 2030.
The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved funding worth €28 million to build solar power plants in Gassi and Lamadji, Chad. This is part of the Bank’s Desert to Power programme to increase energy access across Africa.
AfDB President, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina
The funding includes €20 million in direct support, combining a loan and a grant from the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa, plus €8 million in financial guarantees. These guarantees are split equally between the African Development Fund and the Green Climate Fund, which both contribute €4 million each to support this clean energy project.
The project is part Chad’s Desert to Power plan. It will increase power supply by 20% and pave the way for the country’s energy transition from expensive, polluting fuel-based power to clean energy. The project will build two solar power plants in the outskirts of N’Djamena, each able to produce 15-megawatt peak of electricity.
It also includes new power stations, connection lines, and a 6-megawatt-hour battery system to store energy for when the sun isn’t shining. The total project cost is estimated at €41 million. The Bank’s financing is in addition to financing expected from other Development Finance Institutions (DFIs).
Kevin Kariuki, Vice President of the Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth complex at the African Development Bank, said: “The Gassi and Lamadji solar project is a landmark development that underscores Chad’s strong commitment to the transition to renewable energy under the Desert to Power Initiative, and the Bank’s continued commitment to supporting transformative, clean energy projects across the continent. This project not only facilitates the Government of Chad’s efforts to increase access to energy through renewable energy but also drives local economic growth and strengthens the country’s energy security.”
Wale Shonibare, the Bank’s Director of the Energy Financial Solutions, Policy, and Regulations department, added: “As a pioneering solar project in Chad, this initiative exemplifies the scale of renewable energy potential in the Sahel region. It demonstrates how strong partnerships and the Bank’s deployment of its suite of instruments and innovative solutions can advance the energy transition and foster sustainable economic development.”
The solar plants are expected to generate 61 gigawatt-hours of clean, reliable, and affordable energy each year responding to Chad’s energy deficit. This will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 49,000 tons each year, helping Chad meet its climate change commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The project will create 200 jobs during construction, with special opportunities for women and young people and 34 permanent jobs during operation. The project will generate revenue for the national treasury through taxes, reduce fuel subsidies, and improve the country’s balance of payments by reducing energy imports.
Aligned with the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy, the New Deal on Energy for Africa, and its High 5 objective of “Light Up and Power Africa,” the Gassi and Lamadji Solar PV project reinforces Chad’s commitment to increase energy access through renewable energy. It also supports the African Development Bank’s mission to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient energy development across Africa.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) says the old Port Harcourt refinery is fully operational and preparation for Saturday loading operation is currently ongoing.
Port Harcourt Refinery
The NNPC Ltd. Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said this in a statement on Saturday, December 21, 2024, in Abuja.
Soneye advised members of the public to discountenance false media reports that the refinery, which was re-streamed in November, has been shut down.
He described such reports as the figments of the imagination of those who want to create artificial scarcity and rip-off Nigerians.
”The attention of the NNPC Ltd. has been drawn to reports in a section of the media alleging that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery which was re-streamed has been shut down.
“We wish to clarify that such reports are totally false as the refinery is fully operational as verified a few days ago by former Group Managing Directors (GMDs) of NNPC.
“Preparation for the day’s loading operation is currently ongoing,” he said,” the spokesperson said.
The 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) capacity refinery, which attained its mechanical completion in 2023, began its truck-out of petroleum products on Nov. 26, following its rehabilitation.
That signaled the commencement of crude oil processing from the plant and petroleum products delivery to market.
The resumption of the refinery had followed a lot of skepticism and criticism from some critics who alleged that the rehabilitated refinery was a scam.
Amid the controversy, some renowned Nigerians, marketers and society of engineers among others had toured the refinery and confirmed that it is operational.
The refinery, which is the country’s oldest and biggest among the three government-owned refineries and located in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria, began operation in 1965.
Nigeria stands on the brink of energy transformation with the right collaboration and investment strategies.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo
This allows the country to realise its full potential in the global energy market while transitioning towards sustainable practices.
The recent World LNG Summit and Awards in Berlin, Germany, highlighted the country’s potential as a major player in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector.
The theme, “Achieving the Balance Between Energy Security and Decarbonisation”, resonates well with Nigeria’s aspirations, especially under the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, who emphasises positioning natural gas as a cornerstone of the nation’s energy strategy.
Given the country’s status as one of the largest producers of natural gas globally, the summit provided an essential platform to showcase Nigeria’s untapped reserves and foster international collaboration.
Nigeria has the opportunity to enhance its LNG sector through strategic partnerships with global producers, technology innovators, and financial entities.
Such collaborations can facilitate substantial investment in critical infrastructure, expanding LNG export terminals, and enhancing pipeline systems.
Moreover, embracing advancements in LNG research and technology is crucial as the global market pivots toward sustainable energy solutions.
Addressing the issue of natural gas flaring through innovative technologies and financing strategies was also a significant discussion point at the summit.
This approach not only aligns with environmental goals but can also enhance the country’s reputation in the international energy community.
To further solidify its position as a leading LNG exporter, Nigeria must seek favorable global pricing mechanisms and forge mutually beneficial trade agreements.
The summit also presented credible insight into shifting market trends, including the growing demand for LNG in emerging economies and its future role in developed nations’ energy mixes.
Geopolitically, the disruption caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led many European countries to seek alternatives to Russian fossil fuels.
Nigeria’s LNG could play a crucial role in Europe’s energy future as the summit offered Nigerian delegates insight into the exploration of new export routes and secure long-term contracts, strengthening its position in the global market.
The summit provided Nigerian companies, including startups, with the opportunity to showcase their innovations in LNG, through exposure and international attraction.
This will accelerate the growth of the domestic LNG sector, boosting both economic prosperity and Nigeria’s standing in the global energy market.
With its vast reserves, Nigeria’s LNG exports have been facing stiff competition from other major producers like Qatar, Australia, and the United States.
The post-summit gains should now include focus on global LNG market dynamics, including pricing, supply-demand projections and emerging market trends.
By tapping into cutting-edge technologies and participating in discussions on the future of LNG, Nigeria can significantly benefit from the knowledge shared at this global event.
Some experts believe that with its LNG potentials, Nigeria is a force to be reckoned with but for challenges such as infrastructure limitations, funding gaps, and regulatory hurdles remain.
Mr Dumnam Dekor, Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, underscored the importance of revisiting policies for a better support for host communities, especially those impacted by LNG facilities.
He highlighted the need for comprehensive policy reforms to align with global trends and ensure that LNG benefits are equitably distributed.
Mr Hart Godwin, another Nigerian lawmaker, emphasised the importance of increased investment in upstream energy projects, particularly in deep-water gas production.
He called for a regulatory environment conducive to competition and stressed the need to address security challenges, which affect production costs.
Godwin also praised President Tinubu’s executive order on oil and gas reforms, which includes tax incentives to boost Nigeria’s LNG competitiveness.
Abdulmalik Halilu, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in addressing global climate goals.
He stressed that Nigeria must view net-zero ambitions from a continental perspective and adopt regulations that foster cooperation within ECOWAS and Africa as a whole.
On the role of financial institutions in funding LNG projects, Halilu explained that environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria were not meant to limit development but to ensure responsible field development that minimises environmental harm.
He advised Nigerian companies to focus on developing indigenous capabilities in LNG infrastructure, reducing reliance on foreign expertise.
In the same vein, Mr Olajide Bamidele, a Director at the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, emphasised the growing dominance of LNG in global energy markets.
He warned that Nigeria must address the challenges related to competition and climate change.
He called for a national focus on alternative energy sources and strategies to maintain LNG’s position in the market for the next 10 to 20 years.
“As the LNG industry evolves, the summit offers critical insights into the global energy transition.
Nigeria’s participation provides opportunities to modernise its LNG sector, forge strategic partnerships, and tap into technological innovations that will shape the future of global energy.
With its vast reserves and commitment to energy transition, Nigeria is well-positioned to harness the full potential of its LNG industry and become a global LNG powerhouse,” he added.
Dangote Refinery has partnered with MRS Oil and Gas to sell petrol at ₦935 per liter at retail outlets nationwide.
Dangote Refinery
This price reduction follows a decrease in the ex-depot price from ₦970 to ₦899.50 per liter.
Mr. Anthony Echiejina, Head of Media Communications of Dangote Refinery, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, December 21, 2024, in Lagos.
The company said that the new pricing, which had already been implemented in Lagos, would be rolled out nationwide starting from Monday.
It stated that the move followed an earlier reduction on Nov. 24, when the off-depot price of petrol was decreased from ₦990 to ₦970 per litre.
Mr Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Ltd., commended President Bola Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira-for-crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy.
He said that the deal had contributed to the reduction of petroleum product prices.
“To ensure that this price reduction reaches the end consumer, we have partnered with MRS to sell petrol at ₦935 per litre through its retail outlets nationwide,” Dangote noted.
He also urged other oil marketers, including NNPC Retail, to join in the effort so that Nigerians could benefit from high-quality petrol at lower prices.
“The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to deliver high-quality petrol at more affordable prices.
“Our goal is to ensure that all Nigerians have access to high-quality petroleum products that are not only good for their vehicles but also for their health and their wallets,” the president added.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC), under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, in September, approved the sale of crude to local refineries in naira and the corresponding purchase of petroleum products in naira.
The move, which took effect on Oct. 1, has reduced pressure on the dollar and helped stabilise the local currency.
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, 2024 has marked a significant juncture in the global climate action movement. This article reviews the pivotal events, initiatives, and outcomes that defined climate action throughout the year, highlighting successes, challenges, and a roadmap for the future.
Olumide Idowu, Founder/ED, ICCDI Africa
Global Climate Agreements and Initiatives: In 2024, nations worldwide reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement, with many countries updating their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reflect more ambitious climate targets. Notably, the United Nations held the Climate Action Summit in New York, where over 100 countries announced enhanced commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, aiming to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
A historic agreement was reached between major economies, including the United States, the European Union, and China, to phase out coal-fired power plants by 2035. This is a significant step toward accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources. This collaborative effort underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing a crisis that transcends borders.
Innovations in Renewable Energy: 2024 has been a landmark year for renewable energy advancements. The global solar and wind energy capacity has surpassed 3,000 gigawatts, with many countries investing heavily in infrastructure to harness these resources. Innovations in battery technology have also made headlines, with several companies unveiling breakthroughs that promise to increase energy storage efficiency and reduce costs.
Furthermore, floating solar farms and offshore wind projects have gained traction, particularly in regions previously reliant on fossil fuels. These developments contribute to cleaner energy, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in local communities.
Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability: Corporate involvement in climate action has reached new heights in 2024. Major corporations across various sectors, from technology to finance, have embraced sustainability as a core component of their business strategies. Many have committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, with interim targets for 2025 and 2030.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become more prominent, influencing investor decisions and corporate policies. Consumers increasingly favour businesses prioritising sustainability, prompting companies to adopt greener practices, such as reducing waste, utilising sustainable materials, and improving supply chain transparency.
Grassroots Movements and Youth Activism: The youth climate movement remained powerful in 2024, with young activists organising global strikes and awareness campaigns. The impact of grassroots movements was evident as they successfully advocated for climate legislation in several countries, with youth-led organisations influencing local, national, and global policy decisions.
The rise of digital activism has also played a crucial role in mobilising communities and raising awareness. Social media campaigns have brought attention to climate issues, making it easier for individuals to engage, share information, and rally support for climate initiatives.
Challenges and Setbacks: Despite progress in various areas, 2024 also revealed significant challenges. Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, continued to wreak havoc across the globe. From wildfires in Australia to floods in South Asia, the urgency of climate action was amplified by the visible impacts of a warming planet.
Additionally, political resistance in some regions hindered the implementation of crucial climate policies. Misinformation and scepticism surrounding climate science persisted, creating divisions that complicated efforts to achieve consensus on climate action.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2025 and Beyond: As 2024 approaches, the focus shifts toward 2025, a critical year for climate action. The next round of climate negotiations at COP30 will allow countries to reassess their commitments and collaborate on innovative solutions to combat climate change.
Emphasising adaptation and resilience will also be vital, as nations must invest in infrastructure that can withstand climate impacts. Building partnerships between governments, businesses, and communities will be essential to fostering a holistic approach to climate action.
In conclusion, 2024 has been a defining chapter in the ongoing struggle against climate change. With significant advancements in renewable energy, corporate responsibility, and grassroots activism, there is a growing momentum towards meaningful climate action. However, the remaining challenges underscore the necessity for continued commitment and collaboration.
As the world looks towards 2025, the actions taken today will shape the future of our planet for generations to come. The path forward is fraught with challenges, but the collective determination to combat climate change offers hope for a sustainable and equitable future.
Nigeria – Africa’s most populous nation – ranks 145 on the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index 2024 released on Friday, December 20.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria at UNGA 2023
With Sweden emerging as number 1 (of the top 5 spots, 4 are Scandinavian), Northern European countries dominate the top 20 rankings, and Asian nations (South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and China) lead the Intellectual Capital Index – the basis of innovation.
First published in 2012, the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index (GSCI) measures sustainable competitiveness based on 216 quantitative indicators derived from international organisations (World Bank, IMF, various UN Agencies).
The indicators are grouped into six foundations of competitiveness of a nation-economy: Natural Capital Index, Resource Capital Index, Social Capital Index, Intellectual Capital & Innovation Index, Economic Sustainability, and Governance Performance Index.
Sustainable competitiveness is the ability to generate and sustain inclusive wealth without diminishing the future capability of sustaining or increasing current wealth levels.
Key insights from the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index 2024 indicate:
China is ranked 28, excelling in Intellectual Capital but lags in Natural Capital and Resource Efficiency, albeit with encouraging signs of efficiency improvements;
The US is ranked 35, performing comparatively poor in resource efficiency and social capital, reflecting a decline that could potentially undermine the global status of the US in the future;
Germany ranks 9, France 8, and the UK 14 while of the emerging economies Brazil ranks 52 and India 90;
Some of the least developed nations have a considerable higher GSCI ranking than their GDP would suggest (e.g. Vietnam, Colombia, Peru, Nepal, Bhutan, Bolivia, …);
Countries savaged by violent conflicts (Sudan, Yemen, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, Afghanistan) are at the bottom of the GSCI;
The global gap to a perfect sustainable competitive World is 56.1. We are far from an inclusive and circular society that lives in equilibrium with the natural environment;
Tribalism, distracting cultural wars, struggles for perceived personal power, and armed conflict are complicating (if not preventing) the implementation of simple, efficient, profitable and readily available solution;
There is immense untapped potential. Policies geared to maximise efficiency improvements could lead to significant positive developments throughout all dimensions;
Asian nations (South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and China) lead the Intellectual Capital Index – the basis of innovation;
The Social Capital Index ranking is headed by Northern European (Scandinavian) countries, the result of economic growth combined with a commonly accepted social consensus.
A new material being developed by Teesside University academics could play a major role in reducing carbon in the atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of traditional carbon dioxide removal technologies.
Dr Humbul Suleman, the project lead and a Senior Lecturer in Teesside University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies
The material, which is being developed in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Edinburgh, has the potential to capture 3.5–5 million tonnes of CO2 in the UK and nearly 30 million tonnes of CO2 globally per year by 2030, at a cost of around £100 per tonne CO2 – considerably less than current direct air capture (DAC) technologies.
Known as CalyChar, the new material is an advanced form of hydrochar, a charcoal-like material formed by using heat and water to treat organic/bio waste in a process known as hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC).
By combining hydrochar with materials like amino acids and metal oxides to create CalyChar the researchers aim to overcome the material’s traditional limitations in CO2 capture.
In doing so, they aim to create a functionalised material that can directly capture CO2 for years once carbonised, and permanently store it as a stable carbonate.
The project will also explore the environmental impact of adding carbonised material to soils and wetlands, with expert support from the Tees River Trust, a river habitat conservation body in North East England.
Additionally, CalyChar could be used in bio-concrete and bio-cement, offering long-term carbon storage while creating jobs and driving growth in construction and agriculture.
As the urgency to limit global warming to 2°C intensifies, removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere is more crucial than ever and was emphasised as essential in the press statements from this year’s COP29 climate change conference.
Dr Humbul Suleman, the project lead and a Senior Lecturer in Teesside University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies, said: “CalyChar represents an exciting step forward in our efforts to combat climate change. By enhancing the ability of hydrochar to capture CO2, we can develop a more cost-effective and long-lasting solution for reducing carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere.”
Professor Ondřej Mašek from the UK Biochar Research Centre at the University of Edinburgh’s School of GeoSciences said: “The integration of advanced materials like CalyChar into climate solutions is vital if we are to meet ambitious net-zero targets.
“At the University of Edinburgh, we are excited to apply our expertise in biochar technology to help optimise the carbon capture potential of this material. Together with Teesside University, we are exploring ways to accelerate its deployment in real-world applications, from soil enrichment to sustainable construction.”
The project has been funded by the CO2RE The Greenhouse Gas Removal Hub’s Pathfinders III scheme, part of UKRI’s effort to drive a major step towards achieving net zero emissions, and to benefit from the £400 billion future global market in greenhouse gas removal.
Paul Rouse, the fund manager, said: “With technological synergy at its core, the project aims for amplified capabilities, drive sustainable innovation, and positively support the UK’s climate goals. As the world faces the growing challenge of climate change, initiatives like CalyChar offer hope for a cleaner, greener future.”
A coalition of Niger Delta groups has described Shell UK’s planned sale of its Nigerian subsidiary without consulting host communities as unhealthy and unacceptable.
Protesters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
The women’s position was presented by Mrs. Emem Okon of Kebetkache Women Development and Resource Centre during a protest in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Friday, December 20, 2024.
Okon led the coalition of no fewer than 15 Niger Delta-based women groups to protest the planned sale of Shell’s onshore assets without adequate remediation arrangements.
She said it was unhealthy, unethical and unacceptable for the company to make such decision without consulting the communities, saying, “They can’t leave behind a polluted environment”
“We are here to protest international oil companies’ divestments from onshore assets in the Niger Delta region, leaving behind a devastated environment.
“The toxics from oil spills and hydrocarbon pollution in the region have adversely affected our environment and even the fertility of our men,” she said.
Okon urged the Federal Government to take steps towards making oil companies to remediate their operational host communities before considering requests for divestment.
Also speaking during the protest, Dise Ogbise-Goddy of Do Foundation, said it would be unjust for Shell UK to carry out the divestment plan without restoring the Niger Delta ecosystem.
She said that Niger Delta communities had been hugely polluted and environmentally devastated due the operations of the company.
According to her, the severe impact of oil exploration activities on agriculture, fishing and hunting has adversely affected the health of Niger Delta people.
“There is need for appropriate consultation with all stakeholders. We urge the Federal Government not to approve the request by Shell UK.
“The planned sale of oil assets in Nigeria should not be allowed until all polluted farmlands in the Niger Delta have been cleaned and restored.
“We are worried about the swiftness of some of these divestments without clear cut guidelines to resolve pollution issues in the region.
“Part of our worries is that the reputations of the new corporations acquiring the international oil companies are unknown to the people of the region,” she said.
