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Oman: TotalEnergies, OQEP break ground at Marsa LNG

Michael Simire
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Oman: TotalEnergies, OQEP break ground at Marsa LNG

Under the patronage of Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy & Minerals of the Sultanate of Oman, Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, and Ahmed Al Azkawi, OQ Exploration and Production CEO, celebrated the ground-breaking of the Marsa LNG plant, in the port of Sohar, northern Oman, one year after the Final Investment Decision.

TotalEnergies
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies (right), with Oman and OQEP officials celebrate the ground-breaking of the Marsa LNG plant

The 1 million ton per year (Mt/y) liquefaction plant is being built by Marsa LNG LLC, a joint company between TotalEnergies (80%) and OQEP (20%). The LNG production, which is expected to start in the first quarter of 2028, is primarily intended to serve the marine fuel market (LNG bunkering) in the Gulf.

One of the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants in the world

The Marsa LNG plant is fully electrified and combined with a 300 megawatt-peak (MWp) photovoltaic solar farm that will supply the equivalent of the plant’s annual energy needs. Marsa LNG will therefore be one of the lowest carbon intensity LNG plants in the world, with less than 3 kg CO2e/boe of scope 1 and 2 emissions. For reference, this is 90% lower than the average carbon intensity of LNG plants in the world, which stands around 35 kg CO2e/boe.

The first marine LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East

Ideally located at the entrance to the Gulf, the Marsa LNG site has been selected to establish the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East.

A charter contract for a new LNG bunkering vessel has been signed by Marsa LNG LLC. This vessel, named Monte Shams in reference to the Jabal Shams or the “Mountain of the Sun” in north-eastern Oman, is under construction and will be stationed in Sohar from 2028, where it will supply LNG to a wide range of vessels (container ships, tankers, large cruise ships).

In the maritime industry, LNG is an immediately available transition fuel allowing a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by approximately 20% compared to fuel oil. Ships using LNG in Sohar, will further reduce their GHG emissions thanks to the low carbon intensity of the LNG production in Marsa LNG, and local bunkering without the need to transport LNG to a distant bunkering port.

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, said: “I’m very proud to see Marsa LNG breaking ground, alongside our longstanding partner OQEP, and with the strong support from the Sultanate’s authorities. This flagship project demonstrates that LNG production can be very low carbon, contributing to making gas a long-term transition fuel.

“With an ambitious technical design, we intend to set the standard and pave the way for the next generation of low-emissions LNG plants across the world. We also offer an effective way to support the shipping sector’s energy transition, by providing lower-emissions marine fuel in a key location at the entrance of the Gulf.” 

Commenting on the groundbreaking of Marsa LNG, Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, stated: “The Ministry reiterates its steadfast commitment to supporting downstream energy projects as a vital pillar of economic integration across the industrial, trade, port, and logistics sectors. The Marsa LNG project, a strategic collaboration project between OQ Exploration & Production and TotalEnergies, embodies this commitment by developing advanced infrastructure for supplying vessels with LNG as an alternative clean fuel.

“This project marks a significant step in advancing low-emission energy solutions, reinforcing Oman’s position as a reliable regional hub for clean maritime fuel. It aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in sustainability and industrial innovation. Additionally, it underscores our dedication to providing responsible energy solutions for the global shipping sector while actively reducing its carbon footprint.

“While we welcome this pioneering partnership, we affirm that investment in downstream energy projects is a key driver of economic growth, creating quality, sustainable job opportunities, facilitating knowledge transfer, and developing national expertise, all of which strengthen Oman’s readiness to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy sources.”

Ahmed Al Azkawi, CEO of OQEP, said: “At OQEP, we are committed to driving innovation and sustainability in Oman’s energy landscape. The Marsa LNG project represents a solid step forward, harnessing cutting-edge technology and strategic collaboration to ensure a cleaner, and affordable energy future. As the first LNG bunkering hub in the Middle East, Marsa LNG will play a pivotal role in reducing emissions in the shipping industry while reinforcing Oman’s position as a key player in the global energy sector. We take immense pride in contributing to this transformative journey – one that sets new standards for low-carbon energy solutions.” 

Expert demands full implementation of PIA in Niger Delta oil communities

Michael Simire
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Expert demands full implementation of PIA in Niger Delta oil communities

An expert in Natural Resource Governance, Dr Mike Uzoigwe, has called for the full implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) for the development of oil communities in the Niger Delta.

PIA
Participants at the one-day training for communities under the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) of the Petroleum Industry Act, held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday

Uzoigwe made the appeal during a training for community representatives under the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT), held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

He noted that five years after the PIA was enacted, funding under the HCDT framework for member communities had yet to be fully implemented.

He attributed the slow pace of implementation to oil companies’ failure to remit funds, ongoing litigations, internal community disputes, and regulatory challenges, among other factors.

According to him, these challenges have made it difficult to properly assess the effectiveness of HCDT implementation in host communities.

Uzoigwe also expressed concern that several communities were yet to establish HCDTs, which are essential for accessing funds designated for local development.

“Fortunately, there are communities that have successfully leveraged the HCDT to advance development in their localities.

“However, we want every host community to access these funds to accelerate development in their respective areas and contribute to the broader transformation of the Niger Delta,” he added.

Uzoigwe urged host communities to familiarise themselves with the provisions and regulations of the PIA to enable them to fully benefit from the Act.

Also speaking, Dr Emem Okon, Executive Director of Kebetkache Development and Resource Centre, explained that the training was organised for HCDT communities in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, and Rivers states.

According to her, the objective of the training was to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the PIA’s provisions, conduct needs assessments and undertake community development planning.

“We examined how the HCDT can be made effective and efficient in utilising the three per cent operational cost allocation for community development projects, as stipulated in the PIA.

“This allocation is structured as follows: 75 per cent for project execution, 20 per cent for savings, and five per cent for administrative costs.

“HCDT members are responsible for identifying and prioritising community needs through a transparent, sincere, and people-centred decision-making process in managing these funds,” Okon explained.

She encouraged host communities to engage actively with various stakeholders, including women, youth, farmers, and community leaders, to identify development projects that reflect the genuine needs of their communities.

By Desmond Ejibas

Osun clinches climate action awards, hosts stakeholders workshop on climate finance

Michael Simire
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Osun clinches climate action awards, hosts stakeholders workshop on climate finance

Osun State has received multiple awards in recognition of its leadership in climate change action and environmental sustainability. The honours were presented at the closing of the Pre-Africa Infrastructure, Climate Change and Investment Summit (AICIS-2025) Stakeholders Engagement Workshop held at the Western Sun Hotel, Ede.

Governor Ademola Adeleke
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State (left) receiving the award

The three-day workshop, which ran from April 28 to 30, 2025, was convened in partnership with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and development stakeholders. It attracted high-level participants including government officials, academics, civil society groups, and private sector representatives, who deliberated on climate project development, waste-to-wealth innovation, and access to international climate finance.

Speaking during a reception at the Government House in Osogbo to honour the participants, Governor Ademola Adeleke said Osun had emerged as a sub-national hub for climate action in South Western Nigeria.

“We are elated as a government for the partnership that birthed this transformative workshop,” the governor said. “Our commitment to climate action predates our assumption of office. Osun is today the undisputed hub for climate action in South Western Nigeria.”

Adeleke recalled that following his electoral victory in July 2022, his transition committee laid the groundwork for climate governance, which led to the creation of a dedicated Department of Climate Change under the Ministry of Environment. The state also appointed a Consultant on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof. Chinwe Obuaku-Igwe, who has since led various initiatives earning the state national recognition.

“Since her appointment, Prof. Obuaku-Igwe has innovated on several fronts. Her leadership and partnership with the Ministry of Environment have resulted in three climate action awards for Osun,” the governor said.

Among ongoing initiatives is the establishment of a Recycling Hub to drive circular economy and fast-track waste-to-wealth processes. The project is being coordinated under the Office of the Consultant.

In her remarks at the workshop, Prof. Obuaku-Igwe stressed the need for states to align local solutions with international climate finance mechanisms.

“Our goal is to bridge the gap between grassroots realities and global climate financing,” she said. “With well-developed concepts and strong financial models, Osun is positioned to attract the investments required to implement scalable, high-impact climate projects.”

The workshop featured presentations from leading experts including Dr. Bankole Seyi, Mr. O.O. Eto Abasi, Prof. Kafeelah Yusuf, and Dr. Ademola Aderinto, covering topics such as MRV systems, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy integration, and behavioural change for environmental sustainability.

A communique issued at the end of the workshop outlined several key resolutions, including the scaling up of public-private partnerships, building MRV capacity at state level, creating project incubation hubs, and harmonising federal and state policies.

The motion for the adoption of the communique was moved by Funso Babarinde, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Renewable Energy, and seconded by Akinbode Oluwasegun of the National Youth Council, Osun State.

As part of next steps, stakeholders agreed on the submission of bankable climate proposals to the Green Climate Fund (GCF) by Q4 2025 and the organisation of a follow-up summit to review progress.

Governor Adeleke also commended the Commissioner for Environment, Mayowa Adejorin, and the top management of the ministry for their dedication to environmental sustainability.

“We are not relenting,” the governor said. “The knowledge shared here will no doubt translate into implementable projects that will drive sustainable development in Osun and beyond.”

Osun State is expected to participate fully in the upcoming Africa Infrastructure, Climate Change and Investment Summit, scheduled to hold in Abuja from May 27 to 30, 2025.

Morocco launches massive emergency water programme amid climate crisis

Michael Simire
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Morocco launches massive emergency water programme amid climate crisis

As the impacts of climate change intensify, Morocco is rolling out an ambitious emergency water management plan to secure drinking water supplies across the country, including a project to acquire 203 mobile seawater desalination and demineralisation units at a projected cost of 2.34 billion dirhams, Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, announced.

Nizar Baraka
Morocco’s Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka

The North African country faces mounting water challenges due to declining rainfall, rising temperatures, and consecutive years of drought, which have significantly disrupted water storage levels and the balance between supply and demand, Baraka said in a written response to a parliamentary question from MP Ibrahim Abba of the Haraki group.

Since the 1960s, Morocco has pursued a proactive water policy focused on dam construction, resulting in 154 large dams, 148 small dams, 17 water transfer facilities, and numerous wells and boreholes to tap groundwater. In addition, 16 seawater desalination plants are currently operational.

Baraka recalled the signing of a framework agreement for the 2020–2027 National Drinking and Irrigation Water Supply Programme, with a projected budget of 143 billion dirhams. The plan prioritises increasing water supply through dam construction, desalination, interconnection of water systems, and exploration of groundwater resources.

To manage demand more effectively, the programme also promotes improved efficiency in water distribution networks and a shift from traditional to precision irrigation methods. Treated wastewater reuse for green spaces and golf courses is also being considered.

In response to worsening drought conditions, especially in rural and watershed areas, the government has implemented several emergency initiatives. Among them is a 2.335-billion-dirham programme aimed at securing water access in three major river basins, including Drâa-Tafilalet. A complementary rural support plan includes the purchase of 582 water trucks, 4,400 water tanks, and 41 mobile treatment units – 26 for desalination and 15 for demineralisation – at a cost of 400 million dirhams.

Baraka confirmed a major new partnership agreement to fund and implement the acquisition of 203 additional mobile desalination and demineralisation stations.

Additionally, Morocco has completed the urgent phase of the water transfer project between the Sebou and Bouregreg basins and established a hydraulic link between the Oued El Makhazine and Dar Khrofa dams to bolster the potable water supply for Tangier.

To support southern provinces, a desalination plant is underway in Dakhla, while Casablanca and surrounding areas will benefit from water produced at the Jorf Lasfar facility under a broader resource mobilisation strategy.

Baraka also revealed that the ministry is revising Morocco’s national water strategy to address the effects of climate change. A recent study day, involving both Moroccan and international experts, aimed to develop scientific approaches for evaluating water resources, with the goal of achieving 100% potable water coverage and 80% irrigation coverage in line with royal directives.

NNPC, Caverton, Stenabulk Joint Venture, strategic industry alignment – Lokpobiri

Michael Simire
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NNPC, Caverton, Stenabulk Joint Venture, strategic industry alignment – Lokpobiri

Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has described the Joint Venture (JV) between Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Caverton Offshore Support Group and Stenabulk as a strategic industry alignment.

Heineken Lokpobiri
Mr. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil)

Lokpobiri also said that the JV was a bold step toward enhancing shipping operations, strengthening local content, and driving economic growth.

This is contained in a statement on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, by his Special Adviser, Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor.

The minister who spoke during a strategic engagement with the JV partners emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving national profitability goals.

He attributed the JV to President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and foresight in industry reforms.

According to him, this joint venture is a testament to the President’s vision. It reflects the kind of impact-driven collaboration that we believe will transform the energy sector and strengthen Nigeria’s economic position.

”For us to maximise expected profitability and deliver long-term value to the nation, every sector of the industry must be actively firm and aligned with one another.

”The JV represents a practical example of the government’s local content aspirations becoming reality.”

Lokpobiri expressed satisfaction with Caverton, an indigenous firm, in the partnership.

”I am pleased to see a Nigerian company at the heart of this strategic partnership. It is not only a reflection of our commitment to inclusive development but also ensures national participation.

”This strongly aligns with our Local Content policy. This initiative will boost the economy by ensuring revenue retention within our borders,” he said.

The Chief Operating Officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, affirmed the company’s readiness to deliver on the objectives of the joint venture.

”We are proud to be a part of this collaboration. Caverton brings a strong understanding of local operations and a firm commitment to demonstrating that indigenous capacity can deliver world-class results,” he said.

The General Manager of Stenabulk, Mr. Fredrik Eriksson, also described the partnership as a unique opportunity to merge international shipping expertise with local operational strength.

“We are excited to collaborate with Caverton and NNPC to bring innovation and efficiency to the sector,” he said.

By Emmanuella Anokam

Accelerating climate innovation: Financing national systems of innovation for action

Michael Simire
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Accelerating climate innovation: Financing national systems of innovation for action

The Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) – two bodies of the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism – held meetings in April 2025 in Copenhagen, Denmark, to advance climate technology efforts. During their joint session, they convened a dialogue on financing national systems of innovation (NSI), bringing together providers and recipients of support to share experiences and real-world insights on bolstering climate innovation.

Copenhagen Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark

Following the approach of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the TEC defines NSI as “a network of actors, institutional contexts and linkages that underlie national technological change”, essential for achieving climate and sustainable development goals. In 2023, the TEC published six country cases studies and a summary for policymakers outlining good practices and lessons learned from establishing and implementing NSI.

Success Stories

The dialogue showcased examples of countries and regions financing innovation systems in diverse contexts: 

  • Pakistan: The Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator, implemented by the CTCN, has developed a community-driven blueprint for rainwater harvesting to address both flooding and water scarcity while strengthening adaptive capacities in the water sector. Successful pilots have been established in both rural and urban areas.
     
  • Latin America and West Africa: The CATAL1.5°T Initiative, supported by the Green Climate Fund and the Government of Germany, is supporting investments in early-stage climate ventures. Projects include agricultural wastewater treatment and sustainable food ingredients in Mexico, and innovative energy solutions in Burkina Faso.
     
  • Morocco and Nigeria: The Global Cleantech Innovation Programme, supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, in partnership with the Global Environment Facility, nurtures early-stage small and medium-sized enterprises through comprehensive business acceleration services focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions.
     
  • Least Developed Countries (LDCs): The United Nations Technology Bank for LDCs works with countries and partners to develop robust, context-specific science, technology and innovation systems and policies. This includes conducting technology needs assessments that evaluate existing systems and provide recommendations for strengthening them, including strategies for attracting financing.

Strengthening Innovation Systems

Key messages from the discussion emphasized the importance of policy coherence, systemic approaches and multi-level collaboration: 

  • Funding: Financing NSI extends beyond funding individual projects – it requires fostering long-term, system-wide change. This includes regulatory reforms that improve the business environment and mechanisms that reduce investment risk in climate technology development.
     
  • Cross-sector partnerships: Cross-sectoral collaboration between government, the private sector and academia is essential to align innovation ecosystems with climate finance and drive lasting impact.
     
  • Tailored, integrated support: Effective NSI financing is context- and sector-specific and benefits from a “whole-of-government” approach that aligns innovation, climate and development policies with countries’ specific needs and stages of technological development.
     
  • Scaling: Locally viable projects have greater potential for expansion. Business incubation, mentorship, capacity-building and investor matchmaking all play a key role in helping innovations grow.


The Technology Mechanism’s Role

Strengthening NSI is a shared priority in the 2023-2027 joint work programme of the TEC and the CTCN. As TEC Vice Chair Thibyan Ibrahim noted: “While primarily being a national responsibility and prerogative, international actors could complement, catalyze and accelerate national efforts on strengthening NSI.”

Representatives from both bodies reaffirmed their commitment to supporting developing countries by working closely with relevant actors – including UNFCCC’s national designated entities (NDEs) for technology development and transfer – to provide policy and implementation support.

AAPN commends NAFDAC’s seizure of banned pesticides, seeks stronger reforms, collective responsibility

Michael Simire
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AAPN commends NAFDAC’s seizure of banned pesticides, seeks stronger reforms, collective responsibility

The Alliance for Action on Pesticides in Nigeria (AAPN) has commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for its recent bold enforcement operations, which led to the seizure of over ₦800 million worth of banned agrochemicals in four states – Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo.

Pesticides application
Pesticides application

This was after the public ban, long phase out period and extended grace by NAFDAC on the substances and her merchants.

The confiscated products included Paraquat (banned effective January 1, 2024), Chlorpyrifos (banned effective November 1, 2024), and Atrazine (banned effective January 1, 2025).

These pesticides are known to be highly hazardous and pose severe threats to public health and the environment.

According to the AAPN, this action by NAFDAC marks a significant step in curbing the rampant misuse and illegal distribution of banned chemicals across Nigeria. The seized substances; over 551 cartons found across 16 agrochemical outlets – are linked to serious health conditions such as cancer, respiratory failure, liver and kidney damage, and have contributed to suicides, food poisoning, and international rejection of Nigerian agricultural exports.

While AAPN applauds the enforcement effort, the group urges further systemic reforms to address the deeper roots of unsafe pesticide use in the country, recommending the following urgent actions:

End the open sale of all forms of highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs) in markets across Nigeria.

Agrochemical dealers’ associations, farmers’ groups, and agro-technical networks must take responsibility for educating, training, and holding their members accountable. They must desist from selling banned products and actively warn members about their dangers.

Government institutions at all levels federal, state, and local levels – along with market authorities, farmers’ cooperatives, agrochemical associations and traders’, should work closely with NAFDAC to enforce regulations and protect public health.

Rather than promoting the use of highly toxic chemical substitutes, we advocate for the widespread promotion and adoption of bioprotectors such as biopesticides, biofertilizers, and other eco-friendly inputs. Where unavoidable, only pesticides categorised as Unlikely to Present Acute Hazard should be considered.

“This is just one part of a much-needed broader approach to tackle the growing menace of pesticide misuse in Nigeria. NAFDAC’s actions must be expanded to reach other regions, particularly rural communities, where unsafe pesticide practices are most prevalent.

“The open sale and use of banned agrochemicals pose an enormous threat to both public health and food safety.

“AAPN calls for a national strategy involving NAFDAC, the Ministries of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), security forces, and agrochemical dealers and marketers associations to work together in widening the enforcement net. It is crucial that agrochemical dealers’ associations take full responsibility for ensuring their members adhere to the ban and are held accountable when involved in the illegal sale or distribution of these harmful substances.

“Unfortunately, some dealers are perpetrators rather than co-enforcers of the regulations, and they must be held accountable.We also emphasised the need for farmers associations, farm workers networks, and leaders of these groups to be integral to enforcement and education efforts. These stakeholders are on the frontline of exposure to these dangerous chemicals, even before they reach consumers.

“It is essential to protect those who work directly in agriculture, as they are often the first to bear the brunt of toxic pesticide exposure.The tragedy that occurred in Oye Obi community in Benue State in 2020, where over 270 people tragically lost their lives after a banned pesticide – Endosulfan, was leaked into the community’s river, should serve as a grim reminder of the consequences of inaction.

“Incidents like this, alongside widespread cases of the use of pesticide for suicides, occasions of food poisoning, and the export rejection of Nigerian agricultural products due to pesticide contamination, must not be allowed to continue.AAPN strongly advocates for legislative measures that can close the gaps in existing laws, ensuring more robust monitoring, education, penalties for violators, and force disclosure of how lethal that these pesticide active ingredients are.

“The open sale of Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) must end, and the government must work closely with NAFDAC and other relevant stakeholders to enforce existing regulations and introduce new laws where necessary.We must act collectively and urgently. The unregulated circulation of Highly Hazadious and banned pesticides is not only undermining our food systems but also costing lives.

“Nigeria cannot afford to continue this cycle of negligence and harm. We call on the Nigerian government to sustain support for NAFDAC’s monitoring and enforcement roles and to champion a national movement toward safe, sustainable, and health-conscious agricultural practices.Together, through stronger cooperation, enforcement, and public education, Nigeria can move toward a safer, more sustainable future for both its farmers and consumers.”

WJC report highlights disruption of global pangolin scale, ivory trafficking networks

Michael Simire
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WJC report highlights disruption of global pangolin scale, ivory trafficking networks

The Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) has published a new report revealing a remarkable and sustained disruption in the trafficking of pangolin scales and ivory from Africa to Asia.

Elephant ivory
Elephant ivory

Titled “Disruption and Disarray: An analysis of pangolin scale and ivory trafficking, 2015–2024”, the report documents a sharp decline in significant seizures since 2020, pointing to a shift in the criminal landscape and the potential long-term impact of targeted law enforcement efforts.

The report draws on seizure data, open-source research, and the WJC’s own criminal intelligence and investigation findings over the past decade.

It highlights a turning point in 2020, when seizure volumes dropped dramatically – largely attributed to the global shock of the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, this decline has held steady, suggesting more than a temporary disruption.

In addition to the pandemic’s impact, recent intelligence indicates that sustained, targeted law enforcement operations – including key arrests and prosecutions of high-level traffickers – have contributed to a weakened criminal capacity, particularly at the supply side in Africa.

“This significant reduction in the trafficking of pangolin scales and ivory is a testament to the critical impact of focused and collaborative law enforcement efforts. As our new report shows, proactive targeting of kingpins and high-level traffickers, strategic arrests, and strong international cooperation have fundamentally disrupted criminal networks operating at an industrial scale. Our partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service demonstrates how sustained pressure at key trafficking hubs can have a ripple effect across the global supply chain. By continuing to apply strategic pressure on the crime bosses and financiers who drive this illicit trade, we can build on this momentum and create lasting change in the fight against transnational wildlife crime”, said Olivia Swaak-Goldman, Executive Director of the WJC.

Criminal dynamics and evolving patterns

The report compares trafficking patterns in the pre-pandemic (2015–2019) and post-pandemic (2020–2024) periods, drawing on seizure data, open-source research, and WJC criminal intelligence. Among the key findings:

1. A substantial decrease in the number of multi-ton seizures of pangolin scales and ivory since 2020.

2. A shift toward major interceptions taking place in African countries prior to export.

3. No significant pangolin scale seizures reported at any seaport for the past three years – a strong indicator of disrupted supply chains.

4. Continued evidence that organised crime networks have diversified their operations to adapt to changing market dynamics and law enforcement pressure.

5. Ongoing seizures of pangolin scale stockpiles in Nigeria, suggesting persistent criminal investment despite declining export flows.

6. The decline in seizures may reflect improved enforcement but also highlights a significant intelligence gap — it remains unclear whether trafficking has decreased or if shipments are now evading detection entirely.

A  strategic tool for law enforcement and policymakers 

The purpose of the report is to share up-to-date findings and provide a current assessment of the criminal dynamics and changes in the trafficking landscape, with the goal of helping to inform law enforcement strategies and policy decisions. By understanding these shifting patterns, authorities can ensure that the global response remains appropriately targeted to current and future needs, and that gains made in disrupting illegal trade are not reversed. 

Building on its investigative experience, the Wildlife Justice Commission puts forward a series of targeted recommendations to further disrupt trafficking networks and reduce the risk of crime displacement: 

Key recommendations:  

  • Prioritise the dismantling of high-level criminal networks: Identifying and targeting the crime bosses, financiers, and brokers who control supply chains. 
  • Deepen long-term, intelligence-led investigations: To penetrate complex networks, corroborate intelligence, and gather robust evidence. 
  • Target the profits of crime: Through financial investigations and asset forfeiture, to remove the incentives that sustain trafficking networks. 
  • Enhance international cooperation: Joint investigations and intelligence sharing are essential to dismantle networks operating across multiple countries. 
  • Involve prosecutors from the start: Early engagement ensures strong legal cases and increases the likelihood of successful prosecutions. 

Celebrating 10 years of impact 

This report also marks a significant milestone for the Wildlife Justice Commission. In 2025, the group celebrates its 10th anniversary.

For a decade, the WJC is said to be on the frontlines of the fight against wildlife crime — conducting intelligence-led investigations and supporting law enforcement agencies around the world.

“But the fight is far from over. This report reflects both the progress made and the challenges ahead in the global effort to dismantle the criminal networks threatening wildlife and ecosystems.”

A global effort  

The Wildlife Justice Commission says it remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies, and governments in tackling transnational wildlife crime, adding that the findings in the report serve as a call to action for continued international cooperation and strategic investment in the tools and partnerships that have proven effective in disrupting organised criminal activity. 

Groups warn of impending disaster in Borno over stalled Alau Dam repair

Michael Simire
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Groups warn of impending disaster in Borno over stalled Alau Dam repair

The Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF) and the Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI) have warned of  imminent disaster in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, with the onset of the rains and the federal government’s failure to commence repairs on the Alau Dam which collapsed last year due to heavy rainfall.

Alau Dam
The groundbreaking ceremony of the Alau Dam in Borno State

The position of the two organisations come on the heels of allegations by locals that the much publicised repair and expansion of the dam promised by the federal government have not commenced even as the rainy season kicks in.

The locals queried the government’s decision to shun Mothercat Nigeria Limited, the original contractor that built the bridge, in favour of another firm that began work on the system 1 and 2 damaged pipeline under the Lagos Street Bridge only to abandon it after it was mobilised for the work.  

The Alau dam collapsed on Tuesday September 10, flooding 70 percent of Maiduguri and displacing residents of Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, Bulabulin, and other communities. In the aftermath of the incident, thousands of homes were submerged, including the palace of the Shehu of Borno and government facilities in the capital.

While 80 percent of animals at the Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo died, those in the Museum Park escaped, further endangering hapless residents who are yet to fully recover one year after the incident.

Executive Director of CFSF, Comrade Sani Saba, said: “Another disaster may be imminent. With the delay in commencement of the repair work on the dam we can conclude that the federal government is more interested in optics and showmanship when disaster happen rather than supporting pro-active interventions.

“Nothing can justify the government’s engagement of a firm that is incapable of delivering and exposing the locals to fresh harm. It is simply unacceptable.”

Executive Director of RDI, Philip Jakpor, said: “We are bewildered at the lackluster attitude of the government in the face of possible repeat of the flooding incident of 2024.  What we should be hearing by now is the level of progress of the work.

“By virtue of the delay in commencing the rehabilitation of the dam lives may be lost, livelihoods affected and the economy of the state if the rains come with the fury of last year. This will likely worsen the insecurity residents face.”

The groups learnt that a large population in Borno are still not yet able to access safe and potable water. Residents of densely populated areas such as Wulari, Mafoni, Kumshe, Hausari, Shehuri North, Shehuri South and old Maiduguri.

The two organisations demanded immediate commencement of the repair and expansion of the dam and prosecution of contractors that have been funded but failed to deliver.

“Until we have people who are accountable for their actions, this sort of annoying situation will continue. The relevant agencies like the Nigeria Meteorological Agency and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency have given adequate notice of what is imminent. No serious government would wait till disaster happens before acting. We demand urgent action.”

Carney, new Canadian leader, urged to deliver on climate

Michael Simire
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Carney, new Canadian leader, urged to deliver on climate

In a closely watched election shaped by economic anxiety, Canadians have elected a Liberal government led by Mark Carney. A former central banker, Carney reportedly campaigned as a steady hand in the storm.

Mark Carney
Mark Carney

Observers insist that he must now act with urgency on the defining crisis of our time.

While voters didn’t elect a far-right government, the Conservatives presumably gained ground in many parts of the country and secured their highest vote share since 1988. The social democratic NDP lost party status and, with it, some of Parliament’s strongest climate champions.

Carney will be forming a minority government, so he will need creativity and compromise to govern, according to industry watchers.

They added that, without a strong progressive flank in government, sustained public pressure will be all the more important to ensure the new administration delivers the decisive climate action needed. 

In a reaction, Amara Possian, Canada Team Lead at 350.org, submitted: “Like millions across Canada, I breathed a sigh of relief last night. We stopped a Conservative Pierre Poilievre government, but the fight for Canada’s future is far from over. Prime Minister Mark Carney says ‘We will need to think big and act bigger. We will need to do things previously thought impossible at speeds we haven’t seen in generations.’ That starts with leaving fossil fuel nostalgia behind and building a clean energy future that protects people and the planet from far-right chaos.

“Carney talks of urgency, but still nods to ‘conventional energy,’ which is code for oil and gas pipelines and false solutions. Canada has spent too long talking a big game about renewables while propping up the fossil fuel industry. That approach has wasted time, public money, and public trust. Real climate leadership means ending fossil fuel expansion, not appeasing fossil fuel interests.

“Thanks to grassroots pressure, the Liberals committed to an East-West electricity grid in their election platform. Now we need to ensure that Carney follows through in a way that centers workers, Indigenous communities, and the public good over corporate profits.

“Carney faces a choice: entrench the status quo or lead Canada into a new era. Canada must cut emissions in half by 2030 and step up globally, supporting countries on the frontlines of climate disaster and leading G7 nations toward stronger, fairer climate action.

“We stopped a far-right government from taking power. But the real work lies ahead as we build a future where our climate is protected and our communities thrive.”

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