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Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation

Michael Simire
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Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation

As deforestation, poaching, and human encroachment threaten Nigeria’s remaining forest reserves, conservationists are calling for stronger support systems for the country’s forest rangers – those on the frontlines of environmental protection.

One such voice is Emmanuel Olabode, Project Manager of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation’s (NCF) Omo Forest Elephant Initiative. 

Park rangers
Park rangers

Speaking during the 2025 World Ranger Day commemorations, Olabode emphasised that training, re-training, motivation, and mental health support are essential to protect Nigeria’s most ecologically valuable forests.

“We’re down to just 40% of our natural forest reserves,” Olabode warned. “If our rangers aren’t empowered, we risk losing even more.”

Rangers Under Fire: The Risks on the Frontline

Omo Forest Reserve, located in Ogun State, is one of Nigeria’s most important conservation areas. It is home to some of the last populations of forest elephants, chimpanzees, white-throated guenons, African grey parrots, and endangered tree species.

But protecting this vast terrain comes at a high cost. Rangers patrol for hours daily – under harsh sun and through intense rains – navigating dangerous wildlife and confronting illegal loggers, poachers, and encroaching farmers.

“These are people who are trying to open new farmland or settle illegally,” Olabode said. “Sometimes they confront rangers violently.”

Rangers are also subject to human-wildlife conflicts, including venomous snakes, buffaloes, and scorpions. But beyond physical risks, the emotional toll is often ignored.

“They spend weeks in the forest without seeing their families,” he explained. “The emotional and mental stress is real, and we need to acknowledge it.”

Why Capacity Building Matters

For Olabode, the solution lies in structured capacity building.

His call is backed by Gbenga Oladeinde, Director of Forestry at the Ogun State Forestry Plantation Project, who described Omo Forest as a “blessing to mankind that must be managed sustainably.”

A Call to Collective Responsibility

Oladeinde emphasised that managing forest reserves cannot be left to rangers alone.

Clifford Omonu, Manager of Omo Nature Reserve, echoed this sentiment, praising rangers for what he called a “yeoman’s job”.

Why Omo Forest Matters

The Omo Forest Reserve isn’t just another green patch – it’s one of the few remaining biodiversity hotspots in Nigeria:

● Forest elephants – population declined by over 60% between 2002 and 2013 due to poaching.

● White-throated guenons, and white-bellied pangolins – all species of global conservation concern.

● Endemic trees like Milicia excelsa (Iroko), Cola nigerica, Khaya senegalensis (African mahogany), and Diospyros crassiflora (Ebony) are now restricted to isolated forest pocket

The Path Forward

To secure Nigeria’s forests for the next generation, conservation leaders are urging: increased funding for ranger training and welfare, collaborative forest management involving local communities and multiple agencies, legal and policy frameworks that reinforce ranger protection and support, greater public awareness on the ecological value of forest reserves.

By Ajibola Adedoye

This article (“Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation”) was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State (via Wild Africa). The opinions, findings, and conclusions stated herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State

Empowering African plant protection agencies to combat devastating potato pest

Michael Simire
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Empowering African plant protection agencies to combat devastating potato pest

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is empowering National Plant Protection Organisations in Africa to effectively detect and manage Potato Cyst Nematodes (PCN), a microscopic pest devastating potato crops across the region.

Nematodes are tiny worms that attack potato roots, stunting their growth and can wipe out potato yields by up to 100 percent.

irish potatoes
Potatoes

PCN has already been reported to be highly prevalent in four countries in East and Southern Africa. PCN is a quarantine pest that infects and feeds on potato roots, causing significant yield losses and threatening regional trade due to strict border phytosanitary controls. Early detection and management are critical to protect farmer livelihoods and regional potato markets.

A WTO’s Standards and Trade Development Facility project coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) involves technical training that is spearheaded by the IITA and icipe through the NemAfrica lab to equip national plant protection agencies in 12 countries with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and management strategies to tackle the PCN threat. The project is a collaborative effort that additionally involves the International Potato Centre (CIP), the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and CABI.

Potatoes are an essential staple food in Eastern and Southern Africa. The crop supports the livelihoods of an estimated 800,000 smallholder farmers, covering over 800,000 hectares of land. Nearly 9 million tons of potatoes are produced in the region annually. However, the future of the potato is in peril with the silent and deadly spread of PCN.

The PCN remains a hidden enemy to potato production however, it often goes unnoticed or is mistaken for other issues, such as sick or tired land that has poor soil fertility. Affected plants are stunted and become yellow, producing smaller tubers and significant damage to yield. The project emphasises the urgent need for creating awareness to guide effective management strategies.

The training programme focuses on the accurate assessment and diagnosis of PCN. Stakeholders across the potato value chain – from farmers to traders and policymakers – have been encouraged to learn how to recognise PCN symptoms. Furthermore, the project has underscored the need to promote regional cooperation to prevent the spread of PCN.

“By strengthening diagnostic capacity and fostering regional collaboration, this project is a vital step toward safeguarding potato production and trade in East and Southern Africa,” said Dr. Harun Murithi, Consultant Crop Health Specialist – Disease and Pest Management at IITA. “Accurate identification of PCN will enable timely interventions, protecting farmers’ livelihoods and contributing to food security.”

The project focuses on raising awareness and strengthening the capacity of public and private sector potato value chain organizations to collaboratively address phytosanitary risks of PCN and other emerging pests. The project is enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of plant health professionals and border inspectors to accurately identify PCN to effectively manage it.

Technicians and laboratory staff are being trained on sample collection, extraction, and identification of PCN. Essential diagnostic equipment and consumables to conduct this work, such as the key extraction tool known as the Fenwick can and sieves are provided to National Plant Protection labs.  In addition, the project is supporting detection surveys in major potato-growing regions in the target countries in Eastern and Southern Africa to map the presence of PCN.

Covering 12 countries selected for their regional importance and trade links, the project recently held a training workshop in Nairobi which brought together representatives from Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, South Sudan, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Lesotho to build foundational diagnostic skills for National Plant Protection Organisations.

Following this training countries have begun conducting national detection surveys with support from NemAfrica. Zimbabwe has completed sample extraction and identification, while Zambia and Malawi are currently in progress. Ethiopia has completed sample collection, with Lesotho, Mozambique and Uganda already planned.

PIGD launches nine-month GEF-supported scheme that applies nature-based solutions in forest restoration

Michael Simire
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PIGD launches nine-month GEF-supported scheme that applies nature-based solutions in forest restoration

On July 30, 2025, the community of Ikot Ukpong Iman in Akwa Ibom State witnessed a significant leap forward in environmental sustainability with the official launch of the UNDP GEF-SGP-supported project titled “Application of Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Forest Restoration and Livelihoods’ Resilience.” The event brought together various indigenous community leaders, chiefs, government dignitaries, and community members.

In the days leading up to the event, anticipation grew across Akwa Ibom State as the implementing organisation, Prime Initiative for Green Development (PIGD), hosted a radio session on Comfort 95.1 FM Uyo and ran a series of awareness jingles.

Prime Initiative for Green Development (PIGD)
Participants at the project launch in Ikot Ukpong Iman community in Akwa Ibom State

On the morning of the event, community members arrived early for registration, each receiving a branded shirt to mark their participation. The event began with a prayer, followed by an inspiring welcome address from the Obong of Ikot Ukpong Iman. He highlighted the importance of the project in repositioning the community for long-term development and encouraged the people of Ikot Ukpong Iman to take full ownership.

The first keynote speaker of the day, Ruth Akagu, the UNDP-GEF SGP Representative, emphasised the power of collaboration between UNDP and grassroots communities. She urged the community to actively engage with the project, recognizing its potential to drive broader developmental opportunities. Uko Umoh, the executive chairman, Etinan LGA, expressed his full support for the project and its potential to serve as a model for other communities.

The event also featured impactful presentations from leading experts. Professor Ekanem Ekanem, a renowned climatologist, expounded on climate change, illustrating the critical role of nature-based solutions in climate adaptation. Meanwhile, Professor Gabriel Umoh, an agricultural extension expert, discussed the ecological and economic value of agroforestry in building sustainable livelihoods. A representative from the Akwa Ibom State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development also spoke on the role of climate-smart agriculture in reviving rural economies.

Dr. Akpan Archibong, the project coordinator, then unveiled an ambitious nine-month roadmap from the inception to the completion of the project, one that promises community-led regeneration, capacity-building, and economic upliftment.

The youth leadership of the village further pledged their full commitment to the project, showcasing their eagerness to contribute to its success. The day ended on a high note with group photographs and refreshments served by the indigenous women of the community.

The official launch of the reforestation and agroforestry project in Ikot Ukpong Iman was more than another ceremonial event; it was a bold statement of collective partnership and a model for stronger nature-based climate action across Nigeria.

Kano inaugurates tree planting campaign, distributes 5m seedlings

Michael Simire
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Kano inaugurates tree planting campaign, distributes 5m seedlings

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Sunday, August 3, 2025, inaugurated a large-scale tree planting campaign in Yanbawa community shelter belt, Makoda Local Government Area, as part of efforts to combat climate change and restore the environment.

The initiative, according to the Governor, would see the distribution of five million tree seedlings across the 44 local government areas of the state.

Tree planting
Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State involved in tree planting

Speaking at the event, Yusuf described the campaign as a “concrete step toward protecting our environment, preserving the natural resources, and securing the future of the children.”

He said that each of the 44 LGAs must ensure the seedlings were planted strategically in every ward, and he directed the establishment of tree monitoring committees to oversee the nurturing, watering, and protection of the trees.

“We must not only plant the trees, but we must also ensure they are nurtured, watered, and protected.

“Each local government must establish a monitoring committee, possibly under a designated group, to report regularly on the progress of the plantations,” he said.

The governor warned against reckless encroachment on green spaces and called on the citizens to take collective action against environmental degradation, including erosion, desertification, and illegal deforestation.

“This is the right time for us to breathe fresh air again and restore the health of our environment,” he said.

Yusuf called on traditional leaders, youth groups, civil society organisations, and the residents to actively participate in the campaign.

He urged, “Let each of us plant a tree not just as an act of responsibility, but as a commitment to guard and nurture it for the benefit of our physical health, social well-being, and future generations,”

The governor prayed for divine guidance and success in the initiative, urging that the campaign be seen as a “new beginning” in the quest for a greener, healthier Kano.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Dahir Hashim, said that the tree planting campaign was part of efforts to combat climate change and restore degraded ecosystems across the state.

He described the campaign as a bold step towards environmental sustainability and climate resilience in the state.

Hashim added: “This campaign is a testimony to the environmental vision of His Excellency’s administration.

“Just a year ago, we launched the Three Million Tree Planting Campaign. Today, we build on that legacy.”

He stated that the seedlings for the campaign were produced in state-run nurseries revived under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, specifically in Mainika, Gwarzo LGA, and Kafinciri, Garko LGA.

Hashim said: “These facilities were non-functional when this administration came into office.

“Today, they are key to achieving our five million tree target.”

He commended the governor’s consistent commitment to environmental issues, recalling that Yusuf’s first public engagement as governor in June 2023 was the commemoration of the World Environment Day at North-West University, Kano.

“The transformation of the Government House with green spaces and eco-friendly landscaping is not just about aesthetics – it reflects a deeper culture of sustainability being mainstreamed across the state,” the commissioner added.

According to him, the campaign will reach all the 44 local government areas of the state, with seedlings distributed to schools, religious centres, farms, homes, and public institutions.

Hashim lauded the contributions of development partners, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and environmental stakeholders, adding that the campaign represented a shared responsibility to secure the future of Kano.

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

NiMet predicts thunderstorms, rain flash floods nationwide

Michael Simire
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NiMet predicts thunderstorms, rain flash floods nationwide

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted thundery and rainy weather activities across the nation from Monday, August 4 to Wednesday, August 6, 2025, warning of possible flash floods in some areas.

‎NiMet’s weather outlook released on Sunday, August 3, in Abuja envisaged morning thunderstorms on Monday with moderate rains over parts of Adamawa, Taraba, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano and Katsina states in the northern region.

Thunderstorm
Thundery weather

‎ “Later in the afternoon or evening hours, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over the entire region.

“There is a high possibility of flood occurring over parts of Adamawa, Taraba and Bauchi states during the forecast period.

‎”In the central region, there are prospects of light rains over parts of Benue, the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Kogi and Nasarawa States during the morning hours.

‎”In the afternoon or evening hours, light rains are anticipated over parts of Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau, Niger, Benue and the Federal Capital Territory,” it said.

‎The agency envisaged cloudy skies over the southern region with chances of light rain over parts of Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa states during the morning hours.

‎According to it, light rains are expected over parts of Abia, Imo, Ebonyi, Anambra, Osun, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Lagos, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states later in the day.

‎The agency anticipated the high possibility of flood occurring over parts of Oyo, Ogun, Edo and Delta states during the forecast period.‎

‎NiMet predicted morning thunderstorms on Tuesday over the northern region with moderate rains over parts of Taraba, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna and Zamfara states.

‎”Later in the day, thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected over the entire region.

‎”For the central region, there are prospects of intermittent light rains over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau and Benue states during the forecast period.

‎”Cloudy skies are expected over southern region with prospects of intermittent light rains on Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states during forecast period,” it said.

‎It predicted a high possibility of flood over parts of Anambra, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states during the forecast period.

‎The agency forecast morning thunderstorms on Wednesday with moderate rains over parts of Taraba and Kaduna states of northern region.

‎NiMet anticipated isolated thunderstorms and moderate rains over parts of Borno, Bauchi, Taraba, Kaduna, Gombe, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano and Adamawa states later in the day.

‎According to it, light rains are envisaged over parts of Nasarawa, Niger and the Federal Capital Territory in the morning hours of the central region.

‎”In the afternoon or evening hours, Intermittent light rains are expected over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, Nasarawa, Kwara, Kogi, Plateau and Benue states.

‎”For the southern region, cloudy skies with intermittent light rains are expected over parts of Ebonyi Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta and Cross River States in the morning hours,” it said.

‎According to it, light rains are expected over the entire region later in the day with  a high possibility of flood over parts of Bayelsa State during the forecast period.‎

‎NiMet urged the public to avoid driving under heavy rain and states with the possibility of flash flood to activate the emergency response system immediately.

‎”Ensure warm clothing for the vulnerable persons due to low night-time temperatures and ensure that loose objects are fastened to avoid collisions.‎

‎”Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets, stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees.

‎”Airline operators to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations,” it said.

‎The agency advised the residents to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet by visiting its website www.nimet.gov.ng.

By Gabriel Agbeja

Oyo residents decry ineffective enforcement of Styrofoam ban

Michael Simire
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Oyo residents decry ineffective enforcement of Styrofoam ban

The use of Styrofoam has been a topic of environmental concern and potential harm to ecosystem and human health. 

Despite the ban, Styrofoam use persists due to what looks like an ineffective enforcement by government to ensure compliance.

Styrofoam
Styrofoam plates and cups

The Oyo State Government in 2024 banned the use of Styrofoam for food packaging, storage, and related purposes in Ibadan and across the state. 

Styrofoam, which is said to pose serious environmental threats by floating on stagnant water and clogging drainage channels, has been banned for over a year, but the enforcement seems not to be effective.

Styrofoam
Clockwise from top left: Folasade Ashabi, Saheed Adeoye, Olaitan Adesola and Qudus Ibrahim

While traders in most markets within Ibadan metropolis openly display the product for sale, some alms givers have also not stopped distributing foods in these packs, oblivious of the ban already placed on it by the state government.

In an interview, a concerned Nigerian, Miss Olaitan Adesola, faulted the government for not stopping producers of Styrofoam from producing and distributing the products. 

She said, “If the government officials are really serious about it, they would have stopped the production or the importation, but they are not serious about it.”

In another interview, a food seller, Madam Folashade Ashabi, expressed shock over people’s non-compliance with the ban.

According to her, she has received lectures on the threats it poses to health, and she has since then stopped using styrofoam. “It’s shocking to hear that some people still went ahead to use it despite the awareness.”

In an interview with a driver, Mr. Saheed Adeoye, denied any knowledge of the ban recently placed on the sale and use of Styrofoam by Oyo State Government. Mr. Adeoye however said Styrofoam is cheaper and more accessible than any alternative provided. 

On his part, a Styrofoam seller, Mr. Qudus Ibrahim, advocated for government intervention to subsidise the alternatives.

The ban on Styrofoam is intended to address issues such as food poisoning; likewise, it also aims to minimise the impact off chemicals on public health.

It is however evident that there is a need for thorough enforcement. There should be an enforcement on the ban to tackle environmental degradation and promote sustainable living, it should target Styrofoam food packs, plastic straws, lightweight nylon bags, disposable cups, and plastic cutlery.

By Omowumi Abraham

Nigerians will enjoy full, uninterrupted electricity before Tinubu administration ends – Adelabu

Michael Simire
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Nigerians will enjoy full, uninterrupted electricity before Tinubu administration ends – Adelabu

Nigerians have once again been assured of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s determination to ensure that citizens enjoy full and uninterrupted electricity supply before he leaves office.

Towards this end, the President has continued to implement measures aimed at improving power generation, transmission, and distribution across the country.

Lagos
Delegates at the commissioning of the Kwaru 1X15 MVA 33/11KV Injection Substation in the Ikotun-Egbe suburb of Lagos

This assurance was reinforced on Saturday, August 1, 2025, by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, during the commissioning of the Kwaru 1X15 MVA 33/11KV Injection Substation in the Ikotun-Egbe suburb of Lagos.

At the event, Adelabu reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to achieving this vision within the lifetime of his administration.

“The present administration in Nigeria, led by His Excellency, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with the Renewed Hope Agenda, recognises that energy is not merely a commodity; it is the backbone of economic growth and job creation,”  the Minister stated.

He further explained that, “to ensure the growth and sustainability of the sector, the Federal Government of Nigeria continues to implement a multi-pronged approach, which has yielded some remarkable achievements.”

Beyond improving electricity supply to communities such as Abaranje, Isijola, Igando Road, Omoboriowo, Okerube, and surrounding areas, Adelabu emphasised that the project would have far-reaching benefits for Lagos State’s economy.

“This initiative will reduce operational challenges caused by power shortages, provide direct support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), stimulate economic growth, and create new job opportunities,” he said.

The Minister highlighted key achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including “the decentralisation and liberalisation of the power sector through the Electricity Act 2023, which has activated 12 state electricity markets and led to the development of a National Integrated Electricity Policy after 24 years.”

He also noted, “The attraction of over $2 billion in fresh investments to expand electricity access,” as well as “the transition towards full commercialisation, which increased the sector’s revenue by 70 percent in 2024.”

Other milestones, according to Adelabu, include “an increase in Nigeria’s installed generation capacity from 13GW to 14GW, with an all-time peak of 5,801.44 MW and a maximum daily energy record of 128,370.75 MWh on March 4, 2025.”

He also mentioned, “the stabilisation of the national grid through the Siemens Project, adding over 700 MW of transmission capacity,” and  “the successful mobilisation of ₦700 billion from FAAC for the Presidential Metering Initiative, alongside a $500 million World Bank DISREP fund, which will add 3.45 million meters to the sector.”

However, Adelabu acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in distribution, where “loss levels exceed regulatory limits, market remittances fall short, and customer complaints about service disruptions persist. Under my leadership, the Federal Ministry of Power remains fully committed to working with Distribution Companies (DisCos) to address these issues and ensure energy security nationwide,” he assured.

The Minister commended Ikeja Electric for completing the substation project within 12 months, praising their “diligence, proper planning, stakeholder engagement, and technical expertise. Ikeja Electric is one of the top-performing DisCos in Nigeria. We recognize their efforts and urge even greater strides in expanding access and improving service quality,” he said. “The Federal Ministry of Power remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance energy reliability and affordability for all customers,” he added.

Lagos gives 176 illegal estates 21-day ultimatum to process layout approvals

Michael Simire
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Lagos gives 176 illegal estates 21-day ultimatum to process layout approvals

The Lagos State Government has identified 176 illegal estate developments, predominantly located in the Eti-Osa, Ajah, Ibeju-Lekki, and Epe axis of the state, and has given them a 21-day ultimatum to process their layout approvals.

These estates, deemed illegal due to their failure to obtain layout approvals from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, were listed in a document published by the Ministry on Monday.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State

According to the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, the illegal estates compromised the sustainable development ethos and the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda of the Lagos State Government by operating without approved layouts. The identified illegal estates include Adron Homes, Elerangbe; Aina Gold Estate, Okun-Folu; Diamond Estate, Eputu; Prime Water View Garden, Ikate Elegushi; and Royal View Estate, Ikota, among others.

The Permanent Secretary has given the owners of these estates 21 days to submit the necessary documents to his office in the Ministry of Planning and Urban Development, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, to process their layout approvals.

He described the exercise as a routine function of the Ministry, in line with its mandate to regulate the development of public and private estates in Lagos State by processing and granting layout approvals to foster a functional, organised, orderly, and resilient smart city, as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda of the Lagos State Government.

He also emphasised the importance of all developers and real estate practitioners registering with the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), which is responsible for regulating, coordinating, and monitoring real estate practitioners in the sector.

ACS2: Driving Africa’s climate leadership, green growth, finance agenda

Michael Simire
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ACS2: Driving Africa’s climate leadership, green growth, finance agenda

The Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 8 to 10, 2025. Co-convened by the Government of Ethiopia and the African Union Commission, the biennual summit will be held under the theme “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development”. The two strategic pillars of the ACS2 would be showcasing the Africa led Climate Solutions and unlocking climate Finance.

The summit seeks to centre Africa’s ambition and homegrown solutions – positioning the continent as a driving force in the global climate response. The climate crisis is escalating – 2024 is on record as the hottest year, and 2025 is on course to surpass it. African countries remain highly vulnerable to these impacts, despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Moses Vilakati
Moses Vilakati, AU commissioner for agriculture, rural development, blue economy and sustainable environment

ACS2 seeks to build on and implement the strong commitments agreed on in 2023 during the inaugural summit, which delivered the Nairobi Declaration, an eleven-point call to action that signified Africa’s unified stance on climate action.

Climate finance at a scale to adequately address adaptation and Africa’s development imperative rooted in green industrialisation is one of the core agenda for ACS2.

On the one hand, African countries remain grossly disadvantaged in accessing the climate finance necessary to adapt and build resilience to the climate crisis. This forces them to spend more than 5% of their GDP responding to climate change, diverting national resources from other development priorities like health and education.

Conversely, Africa is building unstoppable momentum for a just energy transition anchored in its right to development. ACS2 will seek to reaffirm Africa’s desire to scale renewable energy capacity to 300 GW by 2030 to enable universal energy access and green industrialisation. By utilising its vast renewable resources and critical minerals, Africa will be signalling its commitment to shift energy-intensive manufacturing and value-addition back to the continent to drive the creation of jobs and grow our economies.

The ACS2, which is expected to bring together 45+ African heads of State, will seek to spotlight Africa’s leadership and innovation in addressing the climate crisis and provide the continent’s formal position ahead of COP30.

Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, African Union Commission, said: “Recognising that Africa leads the world in solar energy potential, with vast areas receiving over 2,000 kWh/m² annually, the ACS2 aims to accelerate climate solutions and financing for Africa’s green development, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy as a transformative force. Africa faces a significant climate finance gap.

“Only 18% of annual mitigation needs are funded, just 20% of adaptation needs are covered, and only 18% of total climate finance is sourced from private sources far below global averages. While Africa needs $3 trillion for climate goals; only $30 billion was received between 2021 and 2022. ACS2 is our moment to lead, innovate, and deliver. United by our common interests in achieving Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, we must promote inclusive Climate Governance that leaves no one behind for the Africa We Want.”

Seyoum Mekonen, State Minister of Planning and Development, Ethiopia, said: “The Africa Climate Summit is not just another event – it is Africa’s moment to lead. This is our COP. ACS2 is where bold ideas meet climate justice, and where collective momentum becomes a movement. Africa is too often seen only as a victim of climate change, but that story is incomplete.

“We are a continent of solutions – scaling climate-smart agriculture, protecting forests with digital tools, deploying solar-powered irrigation and early warning systems, advancing indigenous knowledge, creating green jobs for youth and women, and mobilising political will at the highest levels. ACS2 is our chance to show the world that Africa is not waiting, we are leading.

“More than 45 official events are programmed around the Summit’s themes; Over 400 side events registered; 74 pavilion spaces are also registered; More than 25 formal consultations conducted with AU Member States, UN agencies, the diplomatic communities, development partners, private sectors, CSOs, and faith-based organisations, among others.”

Abas Mohammed, Co-chair of the Content and Programme Committee of ACS2 and CEO, Environment and Climate Change Policy, Strategy Analysis and Mainstreaming, Ministry of Planning and Development, Ethiopia, said: “The Second Africa Climate Summit is built on scalable climate finance as its foundation and will spotlight homegrown, African-led solutions – especially in adaptation and resilience – that are already delivering real impact. A key outcome of ACS2 is to elevate these initiatives with global relevance – from large-scale reforestation and drought-resilient farming to renewable energy expansion – demonstrating that Africa is not only adapting but leading, and that investing in African solutions benefits the entire planet.

“ACS2 moves beyond declarations to delivery, carrying political weight and reinforcing Africa’s unified call to reform global climate finance architecture. The Summit will interrogate whether current finance mechanisms are fit for purpose, push for more accessible grant funding, and expand highly concessional financing for adaptation projects that drive social and economic benefits.

“The Flagship Report of African-led initiatives and programmes will also be a key output of the ACS2 showcasing the action on the ground.”

Mr. Harsan Nyambe, Director, Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy, African Union Commission, said: “Africa is facing increasingly frequent and prolonged extreme weather events, from multi- year droughts in East Africa to floods and cold snaps that threaten lives and livelihoods. These climate shocks affect every sector, particularly agriculture and fisheries, making locally tailored, multi-hazard early warning systems critical for preparedness and adaptation.

“Such systems must integrate meteorological data, disaster and health monitoring, and indigenous knowledge to help communities protect crops, livestock, and livelihoods. The African Union is supporting member states and regional communities with equipment, training, and coordinated early warning initiatives, which will be highlighted at the Summit, including the launch of a new AU project on early warning and adaptation.”

Agency intensifies tree planting to fight desertification in Yobe

Michael Simire
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Agency intensifies tree planting to fight desertification in Yobe

The National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW) has intensified afforestation efforts in frontline states as part of its 10th anniversary in reversing desertification and restoring degraded lands in the North.

Director-General of the NAGGW, Saleh Abubakar, made this known on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Maimalari community in Yusufari Local Government Area of Yobe State while inaugurating a large-scale tree planting campaign.

Yobe
Inauguration of the large-scale tree planting campaign in Yobe

He said the benefiting states include: Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara, with each state expected to receive no fewer than 800,000 seedlings.

“We are here to introduce a new and modern method of tree planting for you to adopt and apply in your farms and homes in order to combat desertification,” he said.

He explained that the agency would provide five million improved varieties of date palm and another five million assorted seedlings for distribution across the 11 frontline states threatened by desert encroachment.

He urged the communities to take ownership of the trees and ensure their survival beyond the planting stage.

“Each date palm tree can yield up to 100kg of fruits annually. This project is not just about protecting the environment, but also empowering communities economically,” he added.

In his remarks, Gov, Mai Mala of Yobe commended the agency’s efforts and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting environmental restoration.

Buni, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Sidi Yakubu Karasuwa, said the issue of desertification needed more commitment and action.

He described the collaboration between Yobe and the NGGW as a decade-long partnership that has yielded visible results in land reclamation and sustainable land use.

Also speaking, the Emir of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Suleiman, described the campaign as timely, pointing out that communities in northern Yobe were severely affected by advancing sand dunes from the Sahara desert.

“The Sahara is fast approaching. The only way to stop this desert encroachment is by planting trees,” the royal father said.

He urged members of the community to take responsibility for the trees planted in their areas, especially by ensuring adequate watering after the rainy season using boreholes.

The emir warned against the felling of trees, stressing that such acts would be met with strict sanctions.

“If you cannot plant, do not cut. Anyone who cuts down trees will face the law.

“In my emirate, we prosecute offenders, and I recommend the same for other communities,” he said.

The NAGGW was established as Nigeria’s response to the African Union’s Great Green Wall initiative, aimed at halting the southward expansion of the Sahara through afforestation, land rehabilitation, and community mobilisation.

By Ahmed Abba

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