23.4 C
Lagos
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Home Blog Page 165

Boosting road infrastructure through Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project

Michael Simire
-
0
Boosting road infrastructure through Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project

The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is a major road project aimed at connecting coastal cities in Nigeria’s south.

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road

The highway will connect Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states, and have three lanes in each direction.

The Federal Government officially announced the conception of the N15.6 trillion ($12.5 billion) project in March 2024, and construction began shortly after, with President Bola Tinubu officially flagging off the project.

According to Tinubu, the 700km road will revolutionise transport across Nigeria and boost tourism and economic growth.

The president gives the assurance that the project, to include a rail line, will be a landmark treasure while serving as a good precedent in timely provision of world-class infrastructure.

He emphasises the long-lasting impact of the project and its significance, saying that the project expected to be completed within eight years, symbolises a brighter future, fostering hope, unity and economic prosperity.

Tinubu is delighted that the highway will connect communities, create opportunities for millions of people and ultimately encourage bold actions essential for the nation’s progress.

The Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, is satisfied that the coastal highway will significantly reduce travel time and transport costs in the area.

He says its improved connectivity will boost trade, tourism and overall economic development.

Umahi is convinced that the project will generate numerous employment opportunities during construction and operation.

He expresses the commitment of the Federal Government to delivering the project to Nigerians in time, assuring that the 47km currently under construction will be completed by May 2025.

“The construction of the train track for section I is going to take off in 2025, and we believe strongly that the President is going to give Nigerians the road infrastructure that they have been yearning for.

“We are going to plant trees and, of course, we are going to also have some laybys.

“We can decide that, in every five kilometers, we have a layby where we connect all our CCTV cameras, and then, we have vehicles and  security within the cabin there, so that the response time will be like 10 minutes,” he explains.

Umahi is confident in the ability of the contractor, HITECH Construction Company, to deliver the project as scheduled.

However, critics have raised some concerns about the project, including its potential to cause job losses, and alleged lack of transparency in the project’s planning and execution.

They also ask whether the project is a priority.

In spite of the criticisms, the landmark project has received support from stakeholders.

The National Assembly Joint Committee on Works says the highway is a work in progress, passing a vote of confidence in the minister of works.

The committee has pledged adequate support for the Federal Ministry of Works in the execution of the project, endorsing it as a legacy and praising Tinubu for its conception.

The Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Ikeja Branch, Mrs. Nimot Muili, believes that the project will boost economic growth by facilitating trade, commerce and investment.

According to her, it will also offer valuable learning opportunities for engineers at all levels.

Muili is delighted that the project is showcasing the importance of collaboration among engineers from different organisations in achieving significant infrastructure projects.

“The level of professionalism being displayed by all involved is really commendable.

“That means that Nigerian engineers are doing very well, and we can do better,’’ she argues.

On the use of concrete in the coastal highway construction, Mr Kunle Awobodu, a former President of the Nigerian Institute of Building, is satisfied.

According to him, concrete is more durable compared to asphalt, particularly in environments where water is a significant threat.

“Water is a major threat to asphalt roads while concrete is more resistant to its damaging effects.

“However, both concrete and asphalt roads require a solid base for proper support,” he argues.

Mr Olumide Adewebi, the immediate past Vice-President International, Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, affirms that concrete is more suitable for roads experiencing heavy traffic.

According to the surveyor, concrete will withstand wear and tear caused by numerous vehicles and prevent formation of potholes.

“I think that the fact that the minister of works is a seasoned engineer has a huge influence on this new direction of the Federal Government,” Adewebi says.

According to him, although concrete may have higher initial costs, savings in maintenance, reduced need for frequent repairs, and improved traffic flow will outweigh the costs.

He, however, emphasises the need to follow specifications and standard procedures during the construction to ensure quality.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, remarks that the contractor handling the coastal highway project has been diligent.

She is optimistic that the contractor will keep to the project’s design and meet the completion deadline.

According to her, the highway project is listed as a flagship project of the Tinubu administration due to its significant benefits.

Analysts urge diligence and transparency in the execution of the coastal highway project.

 By Lydia Ngwakwe, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Senegal, Mauritania new gas project signals new era of energy security in West Africa – AEC 

Michael Simire
-
0
Senegal, Mauritania new gas project signals new era of energy security in West Africa – AEC 

Senegal and Mauritania have reportedly achieved a historic milestone with the start of operations at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) development. Project developers bp and Kosmos Energy, alongside Senegal’s national oil company (NOC) Petrosen and Mauritania’s NOC Societe Mauritanienne des Hydrocarbures (SMH), have officially opened the first well of the GTA project, signaling the start of technical operations and a new era of gas-driven development and energy security in West Africa.

Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA)
The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project

While applauding the development, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) stated that Senegal and Mauritania’s NOCs and energy ministries have shown the value of public-private collaboration, demonstrating how strong partnerships, contracts and pro-investment policies can position African nations as global gas producers.

“We should give the governments of Senegal and Mauritania the credit they deserve; they have worked tirelessly to make sure the GTA project can succeed. With this achievement, Senegal and Mauritania are rapidly on their way to become international LNG exporters,” submitted the AEC.

The GTA development achieved first gas at 16:00 on December 31, 2024. The project will produce gas from reservoirs located 120 kilometres offshore in 2,850 metres of water, through a four-well subsea system tied back to the FPSO which will process the well fluids. Liquids will be offloaded to shuttle tankers, while gas will be transported by pipeline from the FPSO to a 2.5 million tons per annum (mtpa) FLNG vessel, moored behind a dedicated concrete breakwater.

This structure will protect the FLNG vessel plus various accommodation and utility platforms, together known as the GTA hub terminal. The project developers aim to establish an offshore production complex, with development wells connected to an FPSO vessel, as well as the FLNG ship and the structures that will support it. That complex is already more than 75% complete and, by this time next year, it will be nearly ready to start operating.

With 425 billion cubic meters (bcm), the GTA block is a large-scale deposit. With a production capacity of 2.5 mtpa in the first phase and 5 mtpa in the second phase – dependent on whether the project developers decide to double the FLNG infrastructure capacity -, the project offers a crucial new supply for European consumers and a strategic revenue source for Senegal and Mauritania.

While the project won’t necessarily be filling the gap left by Russia – after export and regasification, the first phase of GTA will export the equivalent of 3.69 bcm – it will play a strategic part in diversifying global supply chains and driving sustainable economic growth in Senegal and Mauritania. While the project’s first phase prioritises exports, the second phase features a strong local gas component for both nations.

Looking ahead, the start of production at GTA is poised to not only reinforce West Africa’s potential as an oil and gas hub in West Africa but attract a fresh slate of players to capitalise on growth opportunities in the region. This will be further supported by Senegal and Mauritania’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for foreign investment. Both countries have made significant strides in recent years to prioritise the sanctity of contracts, reform their regulatory and legal frameworks while enticing local participation and cross-border commerce.

Senegal has made a point of updating its 1998 Petroleum Code, to take the discovery of GTA and other large offshore fields into account. Mauritania, meanwhile, has set goals of remaining as open as possible to foreign investment and cooperating closely with international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The country is involved in an ongoing process of reform and it’s ready to work with the rest of the world to make the most of its energy resources.

These efforts will culminate in greater capital and technology injection across the market and the respective governments of Senegal and Mauritania should be commended for their commitment to future projects and opportunities, noted the AEC.

It added that, to maintain the pace of oil and gas development, the countries should further protect the sanctity of contracts, providing foreign investors with transparency, security and clarity.

“Projects such as GTA highlight the scale of opportunity that Africa’s gas market offers investors. The project shows that gas is truly good for Africa and will play a major part in accelerating energy security, boosting industrialisation and transforming Africa’s economies. Credit must be given where credit is due. Africans should be proud of bp, Kosmos Energy, Petrosen and SMH.

“The Senegalese government, Mauritanian government, their NOCs and international partners have been instrumental in the development of the GTA project and will continue to be key in driving the success of this and the many gas developments expected to follow,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. 

2025: What you can do about climate change apart from talking about it

Michael Simire
-
0
2025: What you can do about climate change apart from talking about it

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, but for many, it often feels like a distant and insurmountable problem. While discussions about climate change are crucial for raising awareness, action must follow words.

Dr Michael Terungwa David
Dr Michael Terungwa David

So, what can you do beyond just talking about climate change? Here are five practical and impactful steps you can take to make a difference this year 2025.

Firstly, Adopt a Sustainable Lifestyle. Your everyday choices matter, by making small adjustments to your daily habits, you can reduce your carbon footprint. For example, turn off lights and unplug devices when not in use. Switch to energy-efficient appliances and LED bulbs.

Limit Water Waste; Fix leaks, use water-saving fixtures, and collect rainwater for non-potable uses. Reduce emissions by walking, biking, or using public transit whenever possible.

Secondly, Rethink Your Consumption Habits. Consumerism drives resource depletion and emissions. Adopting sustainable consumption practices can help combat climate change. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and minimise waste by repairing items, buying second-hand, and recycling. Support Sustainable Brands and choose companies that prioritise eco-friendly practices and materials.

Thirdly, Engage in Climate-Smart Actions at Home. Your home is an excellent place to start contributing to a greener future. Harness renewable energy to power your home-Install Solar Panels. Plant trees and vegetables to promote biodiversity and absorb carbon dioxide additionally you can collect and use rainwater for your garden and other needs.

Additionally, Advocate and Participate in Local Climate Initiatives at the community level, this has far-reaching impacts. Join an environmental group and participate in local actions such as cleanups, tree planting drives, and conservation efforts.

Push for Local Policies and advocate for sustainable urban planning, renewable energy initiatives, and better waste management. Very importantly, educate Others, organise workshops or discussions to share knowledge and motivate collective action.

A key consideration is the for Demand Systemic Change. While individual efforts are vital, systemic change is critical for long-term impact. It is important to Vote for Climate-Conscious Leaders and support for policymakers committed to enacting climate-friendly policies.

Equally important is to hold Government and Corporations Accountable: You should demand transparency and responsibility from the Government and businesses about their environmental practices and Join movements pressuring governments and corporations to take stronger climate action.

Equally important is Support for Climate Education. Knowledge is a powerful tool for change, therefore Educate Yourself and Stay informed about climate science, policies, and solutions. Also, support Climate Education in Schools.

In conclusion, talking about climate change is a starting point, but actions speak louder than words. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, community engagement, or advocacy for systemic change, everyone has a role to play.

The fight against climate change demands collective effort, and by taking action today, you can contribute to a sustainable future.

Now, the question is: What action will you take?

Happy New Year!

By Dr Michael Terungwa David

European Serengeti reserve adopts off-road electric vehicle to curb noise, emissions

Michael Simire
-
0
European Serengeti reserve adopts off-road electric vehicle to curb noise, emissions

The European Serengeti, the large herbivore reserve, has made an important step towards its zero-emission functioning with the adoption of an electric vehicle designed for work in tough off-road conditions. The vehicle began serving the conservationists on Monday, December 30, 2024, to take care of vast expanses of naturally valuable territory, to maintain it and to conduct regular inspections.

European wildlife electric car
European wildlife electric car

“The advantage of an electric vehicle is its quiet operation, which does not disturb animals, and mainly its zero emissions. So, the normal running of the reserve will not entail greenhouse gas emissions and smog polluting the air,” said Dalibor Dostal, director of the conservation organisation European Wildlife, which founded the large ungulate reserve in Milovice in cooperation with scientists in 2015.

“This year, climate change also showed its destructive force in Europe, where devastating floods in Valencia, Spain, claimed hundreds of human lives. That’s why all of us should strive to do more in order to mitigate the impacts of climate change. And conservation organisations, just as public institutions not only from the sphere of nature conservation, should set an example,” added Dostal.

European Wildlife has reduced local emissions related to the normal operation of the reserve to zero during this year. Pumping water into the oldest watering place, which had been performed by a diesel genset until recently, has been replaced by electrification involving the laying of an underground cable. In terms of technology, the reserve has changed over to battery-powered tools, including brush cutters. The transition to zero-emission normal operation has now been completed by the deployment of the electric vehicle for daily operation in the reserve.

“We don’t plan to buy any more ICE vehicles or equipment other than zero-emission equipment in the future, either,” noted Dostal.

The reserve also wants to change over to zero-emission operation with respect to short-term, one-off activities such as excursions for visitors in an off-road vehicle or the work of an excavator when cleaning up the reserve or removing expansive shrubs.

“We’re currently verifying the possibility of converting the vehicle for excursions or catching animals into an electrically driven vehicle. At this year’s e-salon trade fair, we also examined the possibilities of manufacturers to deliver an electrically driven excavator,” added Dalibor Dostal.

No smog in the reserve is essential for local biodiversity. The problem is that emissions from internal combustion engines increase the nitrogen content of the soil, which results in weeds growing and rare flowers being suppressed.


The conservation organisation chose the electric vehicle for off-road work, i.e. a vehicle in the UTV category, based on a tender. The technical requirements were best fulfilled by a Polaris Ranger Kinetic battery vehicle.

Ardova, Heyden join Dangote Refinery to ensure affordable PMS for Nigerians

Michael Simire
-
0
Ardova, Heyden join Dangote Refinery to ensure affordable PMS for Nigerians

Propelled by the economic relief provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s crude-for-naira swap initiative, two prominent players in Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector – Ardova Plc and Heyden Petroleum – have entered into a bulk purchase agreement with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

Dangote Refinery gate
Dangote Refinery gate

This strategic move is designed to ensure a steady supply of petroleum products at affordable prices, further stabilising the nation’s fuel market and enhancing energy security for consumers.

This development follows the example set by MRS Oil Nigeria Plc, which had previously entered into a similar agreement with Dangote Refinery. As a result, MRS Oil recently lowered its fuel prices to N935 per litre across all its stations nationwide, addressing the long-standing issue of price disparities between states. Furthermore, MRS Oil’s stock surged to a new 52-week high last Friday, as investors became increasingly optimistic about the company’s future earnings prospects.

Reports indicate that the bulk purchase agreement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery will enable both Ardova and Heyden to secure a reliable and consistent supply of petroleum products from the world’s largest single-train refinery, ensuring a stable supply of fuel at competitive prices, benefiting consumers across the country.

The arrangement ensures that Ardova and Heyden will have access to a full range of refined products, thereby securing their operations with a reliable supply chain.

A statement from Ardova Plc underscored the importance of this agreement in fostering a more competitive environment within Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector.

Ardova has been a key off-taker from the Dangote Refinery since its inception, but this new framework is expected to formalise and strengthen the partnership between the two companies, creating long-term benefits for both parties.

“This framework will see Ardova Plc offtake a full slate of petroleum products from the refinery. While Ardova Plc has been a significant off-taker from the refinery since its inception, this new framework will institutionalise a more robust relationship between the two companies to further enhance the emerging competitive landscape in the downstream oil and gas industry in the country,” noted the statement.

The partnership with Dangote Refinery is poised to have a transformative impact on Nigeria’s oil and gas market. By ensuring a stable and affordable supply of fuel products in the over 1,000 retail outlets of the two companies, the agreement will help to alleviate the recurring issue of fuel scarcity that has long plagued Nigeria.

The Dangote Refinery, which began production in 2024, has already played a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. Its large-scale operations have helped alleviate the supply pressures that often lead to price hikes and fuel shortages.

During the festive season, Nigerians enjoyed a relatively smooth period, with stable fuel availability and no significant price increases at the pump. Unlike previous years, when the country faced fuel shortages and arbitrary price hikes during peak periods, the Dangote Refinery has significantly contributed to stabilising the market and maintaining price consistency.

Turning forests into economic hubs for national security

Michael Simire
-
0
Turning forests into economic hubs for national security

Forests play a vital role in sustaining ecosystems, supporting livelihoods, and combating climate change.

Forests
Members of the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants (FCGICM) (left) during a visit to the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal

However, their economic and security significance is often underappreciated.

Globally, the forestry sector is a major economic contributor.

It employs over 33 million people worldwide and generates huge revenue through industries such as timber, paper, and pharmaceuticals.

In the US, agroforestry has created 49,500 jobs per 1.8 billion dollars invested.

Similarly, Scotland’s forestry sector generates 1.1 billion pounds yearly and provides 34,000 jobs, revealing the economic potential of well-managed forests.

In Nigeria, forests play a vital role in rural economies, offering livelihoods and essential ecosystem services.

However, rapid deforestation and poor management are undermining these benefits, jeopardising biodiversity and socio-economic stability.

The Forestry Association of Nigeria has expressed concerns about converting forests for other purposes, warning that it could deplete vital resources.

Beyond their economic value, forests are also crucial for national security.

In Nigeria, poorly managed forests have become hideouts for criminal groups, such as bandits and insurgents, exacerbating insecurity, particularly in rural areas.

Recent research indicates that the dense cover and remoteness of forests make them ideal locations for criminal activities.

To this end, Nigeria’s Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, supported by the World Bank, aims to combat land degradation and build climate resilience in northern Nigeria.

This initiative is particularly crucial, as land degradation is exacerbating security challenges in the region.

In Nigeria, forests represent a vast untapped resource that could help address key national security challenges.

The Nigerian government, in collaboration with international organisations and local experts, is leading efforts to transform forests into dynamic economic hubs.

This initiative seeks to align economic development with environmental sustainability, thereby benefiting both the nation’s economy and security.

Malam Balarabe Lawal, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, recently presented these plans during a meeting with a World Bank delegation.

He stressed that “turning forests into economic hubs will not only prevent the activities of bandits, but also stimulate development through infrastructure and resource utilisation”.

This initiative, he said, is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to combat insecurity and environmental degradation.

Lawal stated that World Bank support would help the government sustain and expand the country’s forests, which are vital for mitigating both environmental and security risks.

In addition to government efforts, the involvement of the private sector is crucial.

The Ministry plans to establish a task force to encourage private ownership of forests.

This initiative will boost private sector participation, generate revenue, and expand Nigeria’s forest cover.

During a recent courtesy visit by the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants (FCGICM), Lawal revealed that the task force would include members from key departments and agencies.

These include the Forestry Department, the National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), the ACReSAL project, and the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN).

The task force will also include the Wood Exporters Association (WEA).

Lawal expressed the urgency of addressing the challenges facing Nigeria’s forests.

“There is a need to create awareness and encourage private forest ownership, which will not only increase our GDP but also help expand our forest cover to at least 25 per cent, in line with global standards”.

He also acknowledged the reliance of many Nigerian communities on forests and emphasised the need to explore alternative sources of charcoal to prevent further deforestation.

The Ministry is actively working on innovations to support the National Clean Cooking Policy, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of cooking fuel.

Similarly, Mrs Florence Idowu, FCGICM president, noted that the association is working towards obtaining Nigeria’s Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.

She also highlighted efforts to ensure compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EURD).

She stressed that certification is crucial to ensure adherence to global standards and help curb deforestation, especially concerning exports to European and American markets.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s international collaborations are enhancing its forest transformation agenda.

At the UN Convention to Combat Desertification Conference (COP16) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and India agreed to collaborate on tackling desertification, drought, and land degradation.

This partnership underscores the importance of global cooperation in addressing environmental challenges.

In November 2024, Nigeria further cemented its commitment to sustainable environmental practices by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China during COP29.

This agreement focuses on adopting innovative solutions, promoting mutual cooperation, and accelerating climate action.

These collaborations highlight the significance of South-South cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.

While experts recognise the vast economic potential of forests, they also warn against indiscriminate deforestation for development projects.

A recent report by a media research group revealed concerns about the conversion of conservation areas into luxury estates, which could exacerbate environmental degradation.

The Forestry Association of Nigeria has called for policies that balanced development and conservation, advocating for sustainable practices that ensured long-term ecological and economic benefits.

Similarly, Academics and environmentalists emphasised the importance of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM).

This approach, they argued, balanced the demand for forest products with the need to preserve ecosystem health and biodiversity.

Dr Chukwuma Okoli, a political scientist at the Federal University of Lafia, argued that transforming forested areas into economic hubs could have mitigated security threats.

He suggested that this approach would provide alternative livelihoods and reduce dependence on criminal activities.

Prof. Emmanuel Oladipo, an environmental scientist at the University of Ibadan, revealed the shift in public concern from timber extraction to the preservation of biodiversity and wildlife.

He also advocated for community-based forest management which empowered local communities to take ownership of their forests while providing economic incentives.

In spite of the benefits, several challenges remain, including illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and population growth, which continue to drive deforestation.

Additionally, a lack of accurate data on forest resources hampers effective planning and policy implementation.

To address these issues, experts recommend strengthening law enforcement, promoting alternative livelihoods, and improving data collection and monitoring systems.

In conclusion, transforming Nigeria’s forests into economic hubs offers a promising path to enhancing both national security and economic development.

By leveraging academic insights, implementing sustainable forest management practices, and fostering international partnerships, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its forests.

The long-term benefits of this transformation include reduced insecurity, improved biodiversity, and sustainable livelihoods for millions of Nigerians.

Stakeholders say integrating sustainable practices with economic development, Nigeria can set a global example for using forests to tackle both environmental and security challenges.

By Abigael Joshua, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Group urges govt to address key developmental challenges in 2025

Michael Simire
-
0
Group urges govt to address key developmental challenges in 2025

An NGO, Concerned Nation Builders Initiative (CNI), has urged the Federal Government to focus on addressing critical socio-economic challenges to restore hope and improve the lives of Nigerians in 2025.

Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
According to the group, the renewed hope Nigerians are yearning for entails, among others, accessible roads

Speaking in an interview in Epe on Thursday, January 2, 2025, Mr. Ladi Kassim, the Welfare Director of the organisation, emphasised the need for actionable steps to tackle the nation’s pressing issues.

“The renewed hope Nigerians are yearning for entails a stable economy, improved infrastructure, the protection of lives, quality healthcare, and accessible roads. These are the building blocks of good governance,” he said.

He called on the government to prioritise the rehabilitation of dilapidated roads and the provision of safe transportation systems.

He urged the government to address the nation’s security challenges, make a provision for citizens to have access to clean water, food security, and functional healthcare systems.

“Many communities across Nigeria still lack access to clean water, leaving residents vulnerable to waterborne diseases. The government must act decisively to bridge these gaps,” he said.

Kassim urged all tiers of government to implement policies and projects that would significantly enhance the well-being of Nigerians, particularly those in underserved rural areas.

“A nation cannot thrive when its citizens are deprived of the basic essentials of life,” he added.

He called on the federal government to make 2025 a turning point, a year of transformation and renewed confidence in national leadership and development.

By Idris Olukoya

Kaduna reviewing policy on agriculture to meet global best practices – Commissioner

Michael Simire
-
0
Kaduna reviewing policy on agriculture to meet global best practices – Commissioner

The Kaduna State Government says it is reviewing its policy documents on agriculture to align with global best practices.

Uba Sani
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State

Murtala Dabo, Commissioner for Agriculture, who spoke at a two-day Agriculture Policy Revalidation meeting in Kaduna, said the ease of doing business would be also revised to attract investments in the sector.

The revalidation meeting is in partnership with Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA).

Dabo said the investor friendly policies would also boost skills of the small holder farmers to enhance food production in the state.

The two-day revalidation workshop is being organised by the Kaduna state Policy and Agricultural Systems Strengthening (PASS) project.

According to Dabo, the reviewed policies will address critical areas on the ease of doing agribusiness, contract farming, gender in agriculture and soy beans policy in the sector.

He said that the state government’s efforts, in partnership with AGRA, demonstrated a commitment to transforming the agricultural sector and driving economic growth in the state.

Dabo commended AGRA for encouraging smallholder farmers by providing them the needed platform to enhance their productivity, stressing that smallholder farmers contributed no fewer than 87 percent to all agricultural produce in the state.

The commissioner assured that the policy, if implemented, would enable the state to enjoy food sufficiency, increased income and livelihood among the active practitioners in the sector.

Dabo said the draft of the reviewed policies would be presented to the Gov. Uba Sani for his assent after due process.

He urged all stakeholders to give the exercise the attention it deserved.

Dabo added that that proper planning was required and the outcome of the exercise would be the centre upon which all decisions in the agricultural sector would be based.

Alhaji Abubakar Abba, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry and Project Head, said the policy review committee was constituted to review the existing frameworks governing contract farming, gender inclusivity, soy beans and the ease of doing business.

According to him, the policy seeks to review, assess, identify and propose policy amendments that promote equity, sustainable agricultural growth and gender parity while aligning with national and international best practices.

On the ease of doing business, he said the committee was aimed at identifying barriers that hinder the smooth operation of agribusinesses in the state.

“The policy seeks to identify challenges, propose actionable solutions, streamline regulatory processes while improving infrastructure and fostering a more enabling environment for agricultural businesses,” he said.

Bage Bungwon, who doubles as state Director for Agricultural Services and Project manager, said the policy was a statement of action and a fundamental tool in achieving agriculture development.

He said the policies would give direction; provide objectives, strategies, among others.

Mr Abel Adejor, Lead convener, Policy and Citizens Initiative, said that the document was developed in 2019, but needed to be reviewed to meet current situations and economic realities for better performance.

Adejor expressed optimism that the state government would key into the document for it to become a law for strategic performance in the agriculture sector.

He said the gender policy would particularly attract women and youth into the agriculture sector.

According to him, the policy on soya beans will equally attract massive investment in the production of the produce given the large market for it in the state and the country.

The state government had allocated more than N70 billion or 9.3 percent of funds in its 2025 budget to bolster performance of the agriculture sector and boost food security.

By Ezra Musa

Food security will ensure sustainable national development – Expert

Michael Simire
-
0
Food security will ensure sustainable national development – Expert

Executive-Director, Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), Dr Michael David, says addressing food insecurity will ensure sustainable national development.

Dr Michael Terungwa David
Dr Michael Terungwa David

David, who stated this in an interview on Thursday, January 2, 2025, in Abuja, stressed the need for all hands to be on deck to ensure the availability of nutritious and affordable food for all Nigerians.

“The Right to Food Act 2023 has provided the necessary legislation that is essential for ensuring that every citizen has access to adequate, nutritious, and affordable food as a fundamental human right.

“Access to adequate and nutritious food is a fundamental human right enshrined in international treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” David said.

He stated that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 identifies food provision as one of the government’s economic objectives.

“The specifics of what the government must do and what citizens can expect from this provision are not clearly outlined, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive clause in the Constitution,” he added.

David noted that, to address the clause, the Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, was signed into law on March 3, 2023, by President Muhammadu Buhari.

“This legislation referred to as, the “Right to Food Act,” significantly amends the food provision clause to enhance food security for the nation and its people, making it a priority in government policies.

“According to the Right to Food Act, 16A (1) The State shall direct its policy towards ensuring that – (a) strategies that guarantee food security of the nation regarding availability, accessibility, and affordability of food to the citizens are initiated, undertaken, and implemented.

“Despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, millions of Nigerian’s face hunger and malnutrition,” he said.

According to him, factors such as poverty, climate change, conflict, and inadequate agricultural support systems exacerbate the food insecurity crisis.

He noted that the Right to Food Act has numerous benefits ranging from guaranteeing access to food, ensuring that all Nigerians have consistent access to adequate and nutritious food.

The GIFSEP boss therefore emphasised the need to promote agricultural development through massive investment and support for small holder farmers.

David maintains that ensuring food security is not only a moral obligation but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s prosperity and stability.

By Abigael Joshua

COP29: NCF advocates ecosystems preservation to enhance climate resilience

Michael Simire
-
0
COP29: NCF advocates ecosystems preservation to enhance climate resilience

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has stressed the importance of preserving ecosystems to enhance climate resilience and ensure sustainable livelihoods for communities.

NCF COP29
NCF’s Director General, Dr. Joseph Onoja, speaking at a side event at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024

Director-General of the foundation, Dr Joseph Onoja, said this during a side event at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held November 2024 at Baku, Azerbaijan.

Dr. Onoja, a conservationist and environmental advocate, made the submission in a presentation during the session on “Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Resilience in Africa”, where he highlighted Nigeria’s biodiversity and the role of conservation in mitigating climate change.

While underscoring the need for global support to implement nature-based solutions in Africa, Onoja recognised the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations, and advocated for equitable access to climate financing.

He called on developed nations to fulfill their commitments to fund adaptation and mitigation efforts in vulnerable regions.

Onoja drew attention to successful initiatives by the NCF such as the restoration of degraded forests in Nigeria and the promotion of community-led conservation projects.

“The conference has reaffirmed the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change.

“Nature is at the heart of our solutions, and it is imperative that we work together to protect our planet for future generations.

“Nigeria has a pivotal role to play, and the NCF remains committed to leveraging the outcomes of COP29 to drive sustainable conservation and climate action in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.

He said the post Baku COP29 outlook looked bright for the world and for Africa.

“NCF acknowledges the progress made at COP29, particularly the agreement on the New Collective Quantified Goal to triple climate finance, reaching $300 billion annually by 2035.

“This aligns with Africa’s need for robust financial support to enhance adaptation and mitigation efforts, especially in vulnerable communities.

“The Loss and Damage Fund also provides much-needed resources for countries suffering from the irreversible impacts of climate change,” he said.

He added that African countries were, therefore, encouraged to craft climate plans for tapping into the secured $300 billion in carbon finance annually by 2035.

“They should leverage existing local endowments, renewable energy, natural resources and a young workforce to create pathways to climate-positive growth in Africa.

“It is important to note that there’s still a huge golf in funding for activities that harm nature, which is thirty times more, compared to those that preserve it.

“The promised funding of $300 billion is a meager 10 per cent of the yearly allocation for global energy infrastructure.

“We hope that the funding provision keeps increasing in the years to come,” he said.

Onoja said that the NCF’s participation at COP29 aligned with its mission to promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation in Nigeria.

“Through this global platform, the foundation continues to amplify its voice and strengthen its resolve to combat the climate crisis,” he said.

He said that COP29 brought together world leaders, environmental experts, and stakeholders from nearly 200 countries.

“This was aimed to discuss and negotiate actions to address the global climate crisis and set new goals for climate finance, adaptation, and mitigation,” he said.

Onoja, who led the NCF delegation to COP29, was also part of the Nigerian Government delegation.

1...164165166...2,262Page 165 of 2,262

TV Report

Archives

2025 EnviroNews Nigeria. All Rights Reserved.

×