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New science-policy panel marks big win for multilateralism – Andersen

Michael Simire
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New science-policy panel marks big win for multilateralism – Andersen

Closing remarks by Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), at the Intergovernmental meeting to establish a science-policy panel to contribute further to the sound management of chemicals and waste and to prevent pollution, in Punta del Este, Uruguay, on Friday, June 20, 2025

Inger Andersen
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Today we made history. By agreeing to this critical science-policy panel on chemicals, waste and pollution prevention, we showed that multilateralism is alive and well. Even in deeply complex times we showed that, yet again, environmental multilateralism is delivering. 

You have demonstrated that you know that global problems require global solutions. That you are determined to act in this regard. That you recognise each of the elements of the triple planetary crisis needs independent and inclusive science. Therefore, you have established this critical panel, completing the “trifecta” of science panels under the UN system.

Today is a momentous day. Let it be said that today was the first major step we collectively took to usher in a new future on the sound management of chemicals and waste and pollution prevention.

Every voice mattered in this journey. Each country, scientists, Indigenous people, youth, business, non-governmental organizations and all Major Groups have made their voice heard. We know that your voice is critical. We see you all and I thank you all. 

And let me say that UNEP is honoured to provide the secretariat for this important panel – an honour we do not take lightly or for granted. We are already hosting the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) and – together with our friends at the World Meteorological Organisation – the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). We are proud to also host this new panel

Let me also take this opportunity to thank so many people involved. The Chair of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) that put forward the proposals for the panel, Gudi Alkemade. The OEWG Bureau and negotiators. Our two Intergovernmental Meeting co-chairs, Ambassador Madame Laura Dupuy Lasserre and Vice-Minister Yutaka Matsuzawa. My brilliant UNEP colleagues, who have been working tirelessly. Our UN colleagues from across the UN family, who also have been working on this since the UN Environment Assembly resolution requesting this panel. And finally, the staff working hard here in this venue, from service staff to the interpreters. 

Now we move on from this historic day to the hard work of making our decisions here in Punta del Esta a reality – a journey we will take together. One that will be inclusive, transparent and deliver the best independent science that this panel can provide. 

I do believe that the beautiful setting here has inspired us. By the kindness of Uruguay, that has generously given us the diversity of seeing all the seasons every single day. By the morning fog that reminds us that things are at times not as clear as we might wish. By the blue skies that give us warmth and hope. And by the ocean that hugs us all and encourages us all to reach for the endless horizon.

Now our focus turns to operationalising the panel so that it can quickly and effectively support countries with the science they need, safeguard our environment, and protect generations to come.

The world wanted this panel.

The world needed this panel.

And, thanks to you all, the world now has this panel.

We look forward to seeing you in Nairobi in December for the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly, where we will surely celebrate this win.

Nations establish new Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on chemicals, waste, pollution

Michael Simire
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Nations establish new Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on chemicals, waste, pollution

Against a challenging geopolitical backdrop and in a major move to protect people and planet, countries on Friday, June 20, 2025, came together to agree a new global science-policy panel to support the sound management of chemicals and waste and to prevent pollution.

UNEP
Delegates at the Intergovernmental meeting to establish a science-policy panel in Uruguay

Designed to fill a major gap in the global environmental architecture, the panel will provide countries with independent, policy-relevant scientific advice on chemicals, waste, and pollution prevention. Talks were kickstarted in 2022 following the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution that called for the creation of an intergovernmental science-policy body on chemicals, waste and pollution prevention. 

After several years of hard negotiations, convened by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the newly established panel is expected to conduct global assessments, identify knowledge gaps, communicate complex science in policy-friendly formats, and integrate capacity for national decision-making in relation to the panel’s function. It will also support horizon scanning to anticipate emerging threats and guide timely response.

As the impacts of the triple planetary crisis – the crisis of climate change, the crisis of nature and biodiversity loss, and the crisis of pollution and waste – become ever more extreme, this new panel also completes a global scientific trifecta alongside the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).

“Today we made history. This panel represents science and cooperation coming together to minimise the negative impacts of chemicals and waste and prevent pollution. This is the first step in delivering meaningful action to address our global waste and pollution crisis and secure a healthier, safer future for all,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

“During complex times, environmental multilateralism has yet again delivered for people and for our planet. Now our focus turns to operationalizing the panel so that it can quickly and effectively support countries, safeguard our environment and protect generations to come.”

A critical tool for global environmental governance

While chemicals are used daily in modern life, there can be unintended negative impacts that contributes to global pollution and increases the burden of disease – contaminating the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil we depend on. The impacts on human and environmental health are profound. 

Municipal solid waste generation is predicted to grow from 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050. In 2020, the global direct cost of waste management was an estimated $252 billion. Air pollution alone is linked to an estimated 6.5 million deaths annually, and deaths from modern forms of pollution have risen by 66 per cent over the past two decades.

The proposed panel aims to close the gap between science and policy by equipping governments – particularly in developing countries – with the evidence, insights, and tools needed to take effective, context-specific action.

Negotiations in Punta del Este built on the work of a dedicated working group that reconvened to resolve outstanding issues from its 2024 session. These discussions paved the way for an Intergovernmental Meeting, held from June 19–20 2025, in Punta del Este, Uruguay, where countries formally established the panel. 

Next Steps

Countries reached agreement on the establishment of the new panel, which will be hosted by UNEP. The next step is to prepare for the panel’s first plenary session, where governments will discuss and adopt its initial work programme, priorities, and partner engagement, among other issues. 

Paris Agreement showed the world that multilateralism can deliver – Stiell

Michael Simire
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Paris Agreement showed the world that multilateralism can deliver – Stiell

Remarks delivered by UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, at an event to mark the 10-year anniversary of the Paris Agreement at the UN June Climate Meetings, Sixty-second session of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB62), in Bonn, Germany, on Saturday, June 21, 2025

Simon Stiell
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change

Ten years ago, the Paris Agreement showed the world that multilateralism can deliver.

The prognosis was – and remains – clear: without cooperation between nations, humanity was on a crash course for self-destruction.

We know from the science that without the Paris Agreement we’d be headed for up to 5 degrees of heating.

No nation, no economy could survive that.

We’re now headed for around 3 – it shows how far we’ve come, and how far we still have to go.

The work Parties and many others have done through this process of UN-convened cooperation has literally changed the course of history.

The world we live in today is different because of Paris.

Today’s event gives us an opportunity to explore how it is a different place because of it.

And crucially what that means about the decisions we make in this process today, to create the world we want and we need.

Since Paris, clean energy investment has increased tenfold.

If you had said 10 years ago that clean energy investments would hit $2 trillion in 2024, you would have been met with heavy scepticism.

And that the Paris Agreement’s fingerprints would be visible across the multilateral system – from shipping to development finance, to national constitutions and courtrooms.

Paris was not the beginning, but it opened the door to much of the world order we accept as normal today.

Since Paris, over 80% of global GDP is now covered by net zero targets.

But we also know that change is not happening fast enough.

We know this through the outstanding global scientific cooperation with the IPCC.

That cooperation is one of this era’s most unsung but most powerful human advances.

Unfortunately, what that science shows us is that this can’t be described as human achievement.

The IPCC showed us that almost half of humanity is living in climate crisis hotspots – where people are 15 times more likely to die.

Friends, I raise this because it’s a stark reminder that there are two sides to the 10-year anniversary of the Paris Agreement.

It’s a moment to reflect on all that has been achieved – and frankly I think we all need to a better job at explaining that to the world.

On that topic – I commend the Government of France for its initiative, with Brazil, to create a commemorative logo which can be used to promote climate-related events this year.

But this 10-year moment must also be an inflection point.

A moment where we step it up on multiple fronts.

This must be the decade of delivery. Of acceleration. Of implementation on the ground.

And I’m not talking about grand gestures or virtue signaling – I’m talking about blueprints for real-world economic opportunity; for security; for resilience; for growth.  Backed up by real delivery.

And we know what will make the difference:

Finance – the great enabler of climate action in real economies – especially for those who need it most.

People often ask: what will the next decade of climate action look like and how must our process evolve?

The short answer is: over the next decade we must move our intergovernmental process much closer to the real economy and to climate action and the 8 billion people around the world, to accelerate and to implement.

We must go further, faster, fairer.

We will see from the secretariat’s three reports later this year how far we have come – on NDCs and the imperative of 1.5 – which remains both essential and achievable.

On adaptation and resilience.

And through the BTRs an important snapshot of the state of implementation.

COP30 then becomes the moment for the nations of the world to respond. And how we respond is up to us.

MEMAN seeks clarity on Dangote logistics offer

Michael Simire
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MEMAN seeks clarity on Dangote logistics offer

The Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has called for clarity on Dangote Refinery’s offer of free nationwide logistics for petrol and diesel distribution.

Dangote Refinery
Dangote Refinery CNG trucks

MEMAN’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Clement Isong, made the call on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during the association’s quarterly online press webinar.

He explained that Dangote Refinery plans to extend free logistics support to marketers, manufacturers, telecom firms, aviation companies, and other large-scale consumers.

The webinar, with the theme “Fair and Healthy Competition in the Nigerian Market”, drew media professionals, industry experts, and stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s changing energy landscape.

Isong welcomed the innovation but stressed the need for transparency, especially regarding logistics and pricing within Dangote Refinery’s proposed distribution framework.

He said: “We’ve heard reports about free logistics from Aug. 15, but we need clarification on scope, regions covered, and operational details.”

He urged dialogue between Dangote, regulators, stakeholders, and the media to ensure all aspects are properly addressed.

He warned against drawing conclusions too early, saying, “Some suggest standardised pricing nationwide, but we need facts. Clear communication is essential.”

Isong reaffirmed MEMAN’s support for open market competition and praised the innovation behind introducing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks.

He noted that several MEMAN members have already implemented solar stations and pooled logistics to boost efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Describing Dangote’s plan to roll out 4,000 CNG trucks as “brilliant,” he raised concerns about fairness and competition oversight.

“That’s a major move for logistics and sustainability. But it might also trigger fears of dominance in the fuel supply chain.”

Isong said MEMAN members are also transitioning from diesel to CNG trucks in line with the government’s cleaner energy drive.

However, he warned that the policy remains in early stages and infrastructure gaps must be addressed.

“CNG is still a developing policy. Infrastructure is lacking, so coordinated planning is vital,” he said.

He pointed out that Dangote has experience using CNG in its cement operations, having converted around 2,000 trucks already.

Isong said this experience gives the company an edge, but warned that clear rules are needed to protect market fairness.

He called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the NMDPRA to manage innovation alongside market stability.

“This must be an ongoing conversation between regulators and market actors,” he said.

He emphasised that MEMAN supports deregulation and innovation, but cautioned that market structure must not be ignored.

“We support CNG trucks and similar innovations. But we must fully assess the implications before taking positions,” he said.

He said MEMAN is carefully watching market developments and will respond once all facts are available.

“We need a full picture before making any conclusions,” he said.

He noted that innovation must align with national priorities and benefit the average Nigerian.

“Rushing to conclusions would be unwise. This should be about national interest and consumer welfare,” Isong said.

He acknowledged risks in a deregulated market, such as monopolies, but stressed the long-term value of competition.

“Competition fosters efficiency and sustainability, but oversight is vital to prevent market capture,” he said.

He added that energy is vital to development and must be priced and distributed with the public in mind.

“If fuel prices soar, Nigerians suffer and growth stalls. We need ongoing discussions on distribution and pricing,” he said.

On collaboration, he noted that the sector often shares resources to manage costs and improve efficiency.

“Many MEMAN members buy from Dangote and work together on logistics. Globally, the oil sector cooperates across the chain.

“Retail competition exists, but supply chain cooperation ensures lower costs and reliability,” he said.

Nigeria’s energy transition continues, and Dangote’s 4,000 CNG trucks could significantly reshape fuel logistics.

The impact depends on how this move is regulated, expanded, and integrated into the wider national strategy.

Earlier, Dangote Industries said it would start nationwide fuel distribution from Aug. 15, using the new CNG trucks.

This was confirmed by Mr Abiodun Alade, Dangote’s Internal Communications Specialist.

MEMAN said it is monitoring market responses and will engage constructively once Dangote’s plans become clearer.

Meanwhile, the World Bank noted that Nigeria’s policy environment is seen by investors as stifling competition.

Mr. Samer Matta, Senior Economist at the World Bank, made this known in a presentation titled “Catalysing Competition in Nigeria”.

He said monopolies and market concentration still dominate many Nigerian sectors.

In a 2024 table on market-based competition (0 lowest, 20 highest), Nigeria ranked last among peers like Egypt, Ghana, and India.

Matta said government protection fails to improve refining efficiency or deliver consumer benefits.

He argued that refineries should face open competition, not be shielded from import challenges.

He criticised the current policy, which prioritises local supply and permits imports only in case of shortages.

He said this approach contradicts the competition principles stated in section 317 (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act.

Hydrography agency to drive blue economy, Africa’s maritime development

Michael Simire
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Hydrography agency to drive blue economy, Africa’s maritime development

The National Hydrography Agency (NHA) has reaffirmed commitment to development of the blue economy and tourism in the country, the West African subregion and the entire African continent.

World Hydrography Day
Delegates at the World Hydrography Day celebration in Abuja

Rear Adm. Ayo Olugbode, Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of NHA, said this at the World Hydrography Day celebration, themed: “Seabed Mapping – Enabling Ocean Action”, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Abuja.

Olugbode said the agency under his leadership, was dedicated to advancing African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals through hydrographic initiatives that foster safe navigation, trade facilitation, and Africa’s maritime competitiveness.

According to him, as hydrographic data becomes increasingly central to maritime safety, transportation and trade, the NHA stands ready to contribute to a more connected and economically empowered West Africa.

“Hydrography today is not confined to the survey vessel or the drawing table.

“It now influences coastal urban planning, marine biodiversity conservation, fisheries management, and disaster risk reduction.

“It underpins our Blue Economy and informs maritime domain awareness.

“In short, hydrography is a cornerstone of our collective ocean future, and that future depends not only on technology, but on people.

“To our young students and professionals in the room, I say: your generation holds the compass.

“The ocean is calling for explorers, thinkers, and problem-solvers. Your curiosity and creativity will be the driving force behind the next wave of innovation in this vital discipline,” he said.

Olugbode said the World Hydrography Day 2025 was not just a celebration of surveys and charts, but a moment to reflect on the immense responsibilities to map, protect, and sustainably manage our vast maritime spaces for the benefit of future generations.

He said the agency had continued to lead the charge with a clear national mandate and a strong regional vision.

“In the last year alone, we have expanded our chart production capabilities, deepened our technical expertise, and strengthened our collaborative ties with the Nigerian Navy, academia, and the private sector.

“In particular, we have promoted unbroken bilateral and international engagements with other nations and international partners such as the International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts (IC-ENC) and International Board on Standards and Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBS),” he said.

Olugbode said the World Hydrography Day celebration 2025 was a rallying point for cooperation among nations, coordination among institutions, and collaboration among sectors.

Earlier, the Director, International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) Rear Adm. Luigi Sinapi, said the 2025 World Hydrography Day celebration captured not only the essence of our culture, but also the extent of our culture.

He emphasised that African countries were not only active participants in the global hydrography system but also had their own navigation agenda.

This, according to him, is crucial for global social action, encompassing climate resilience, protection costs, offshore energy development, sustainable fisheries, and marine conservation.

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Why I resigned as NNPCL spokesman – Soneye

Michael Simire
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Why I resigned as NNPCL spokesman – Soneye

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Mr. Olufemi Soneye, has resigned from his position.

Mr. Olufemi Soneye
Mr. Olufemi Soneye

Soneye, in a message posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, June 21, 2025, said the decision would allow him to devote more time to his family and attend to personal responsibilities that required his closer presence.

He expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support and collaboration in helping to shape and amplify the NNPC story over the past 20 months.

“Dear esteemed colleagues, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you all for the unwavering support, professionalism, and genuine commitment you’ve shown in helping to shape and amplify the NNPC Ltd. story over the past 20 months.

“Your role in building a vibrant and effective communications presence for our national energy company has been nothing short of invaluable.

“I wish to inform you that I have stepped aside from my role as Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd.

“This decision will allow me to devote more time to my family and attend to personal responsibilities that now require my closer presence,” Soneye said.

He expressed profound honour to have served both the company and the country, and contributed in his own way to the ongoing transformation of NNPC Ltd.

Soneye also expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in him, the opportunities granted and the incredible professionals both within and outside the organisation with whom he had worked.

“I remain a steadfast supporter and ambassador of NNPC Ltd. wherever I go.

“I enjoin you, dear colleagues, to continue your robust, balanced and constructive reportage in support of the company’s noble mission and strategic role in Nigeria’s energy future,” he said.

By Emmanuella Anokam

Organic food: Farmers seek govt support on markets, chemical use

Michael Simire
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Organic food: Farmers seek govt support on markets, chemical use

Experts in the agriculture sector have urged the Federal Government to prioritise organic farming and reduce reliance on hazardous agrochemicals, which threatens public health and limit Nigeria’s access to international markets.

Organic farming
Organic farming

They made the call in an interview in Karshi, Abuja during a visit to organic farms as part of a field report on sustainable agricultural practices.

Mr. Adams Peter, Managing Director of Amadam’s Organic Agricultural Company, said Nigeria’s overdependence on chemical-based farming has become a major barrier to global trade.

“Our food exports are being rejected in many countries because they are not organic and are contaminated by chemicals,” Peter disclosed.

He explained that most farmers lack proper training on the safe use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers which leads to misuse and unsafe residue levels in food.

Peter, whose company has been operating since 2001, said his organisation is focused on organic farming because of its multiple benefits to health, environment and the economy.

“Organic agriculture is not only safer for consumers; it also nourishes the soil and protects the ecosystem.

“It creates employment, especially for Nigerians and can improve household income.”

He noted that in spite of growing awareness about food safety, organic food remains largely inaccessible in many urban centres.

“We hardly find organic vegetables or foodstuff in Abuja markets, that is why we are working with our network to set up dedicated organic food markets across the FCT.

“Government support for organic farming is still very low. If we’re serious about improving food quality and boosting exports, we must invest in organic agriculture,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr. Donald Ikenna, Lead Coordinator of the Alliance for Action on Pesticide in Nigeria, warned about the growing use of highly hazardous chemicals in the country’s food production system.

“More than 40 per cent of the chemicals used by farmers in Nigeria are classified as highly hazardous, this puts both farmers and consumers at serious risk.”

Ikenna said the widespread use of such chemicals has been linked to an increase in cancer, kidney failure and other chronic diseases.

“People are falling ill from what they eat and the economy is also suffering as we lose billions to rejected food exports.”

He stressed the need for a national shift to safer and science-backed alternatives, including biopesticides, organic fertilisers and agroecological practices.

He called on state governments and lawmakers to ensure constituency projects support organic farming initiatives at the grassroots.

“We have the local capacity to produce organic farm inputs in Nigeria. What we need is investment, training and strong political will.

“We must stop pumping money into harmful chemicals and start building systems that promote health, sustainability and long-term food security.”

Organic and agroecological farming is gaining momentum globally as a safer, climate-friendly alternative to conventional agricultural practices.

By Daniel Obaje

New ocean treaty holds economic, environmental promise for Nigeria – Expert

Michael Simire
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New ocean treaty holds economic, environmental promise for Nigeria – Expert

An environmental expert, Prof. Babajide Alo, says Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from the economic and environmental opportunities offered by the newly adopted international ocean treaty.

Prof. Babajide Alo
Prof. Babajide Alo

Alo, who disclosed this in interview on Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Lagos, said the treaty would promote sustainable use of ocean resources, create jobs, and open Nigeria to global benefit-sharing mechanisms.

The recently signed ocean treaty, also known as the High Seas Treaty or Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, aims to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, covering over 64 per cent of the world’s oceans.

It aims to safeguard biodiversity in the two-thirds of the ocean that lies outside of national jurisdictions.

This landmark agreement is expected to usher in a new era of ocean governance and offer opportunities for sustainable use of marine resources.

This historic agreement was adopted by the United Nations in June 2023, after nearly two decades of negotiations.

Alo, Nigeria’s lead negotiator for the BBNJ Treaty, described the treaty as a landmark agreement with the potential to revolutionise the way we manage and conserve the world’s oceans.

“The BBNJ Treaty, also known as the High Seas Treaty, aims to regulate areas beyond national jurisdiction, which covers approximately 75 per cent of the world’s oceans.

“These areas, often referred to as the ‘high seas,’ are crucial for sustaining human life, and their conservation is essential for the health of our planet.

“Nigeria actively participated in the negotiations, recognising the potential benefits of the treaty, including access to new areas for oil and gas exploration, as well as diverse biological resources,” he said.

The expert said that, with the treaty in place, Nigeria and other countries would have the opportunity to access and benefit from the vast resources of the high seas.

“These will include marine genetic resources, which have the potential to lead to breakthroughs in medicine and other fields.

“There is no doubt that Nigeria can benefit immensely from the vast resources and opportunities provided by the ocean.

“With this new treaty now in place, particularly through the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), we have an opportunity for both economic growth and sustainable development.

Alo noted that the EIAs were critical tools that guide responsible exploitation of marine resources, helping to protect biodiversity while enabling economic activity.

“If all marine-related activities are carried out with the EIAs in place, Nigeria can achieve long-term sustainability in ocean use,” he said.

He added that the treaty would bring social and economic benefits, particularly in job creation and foreign revenue.

“As we implement the elements of the treaty, there will be demand for people who will go out and cultivate marine genetic resources.

“The capturing and study of new marine species, for example, will feed into research and industry. From medicine to cosmetics, ultimately benefiting the economy,” he said.

Alo expressed optimism that Nigerian leaders would recognise the potential and act swiftly.

“We are praying and hoping that our leaders will quickly see the value in this initiative.

“The benefits will not only create jobs but also bring new revenue streams through a global fund attached to the treaty.

According to him, once Nigeria becomes a party to the treaty, it will be eligible to access this fund, which is designated for countries contributing to the implementation of its objectives.

“Benefit sharing is a key element in the treaty. I cannot put exact figures now, but it could run into millions of dollars,” he said.

Alo also called for urgent policy reforms to tackle marine pollution and illegal fishing.

“We need to strengthen pollution control measures so that our oceans are less polluted.

“Also, illegal fishing in our coastal waters must be addressed through enforceable policies. Reducing these activities will boost our marine economy and preserve our resources.

“The new treaty, adopted under the United Nations framework, is aimed at conserving and sustainably using marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction,” he said.

By Olaitan Idris

Lagos set to become first in West Africa to eliminate malaria

Michael Simire
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Lagos set to become first in West Africa to eliminate malaria

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, says the state is on the verge of making history, positioning itself to become the first West African geopolitical zone to eliminate malaria.

Prof Akin Abayomi
Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi

This, Abayomi says, will not be through a vaccine or genetically modified mosquitoes, but by employing “simple common sense” medical practices and a robust public health strategy.

This ambitious goal is driven by the state/ministry and Prof. Wellington Oyibo, Director of the Centre for Transdisciplinary Research for Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases.

For decades, malaria has been a prevalent health challenge across Africa.

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says.

According to it, there is an estimated 236 million malaria cases (95 per cent of global cases) and 590,935 malaria deaths (97 per cent of global deaths) in African member states in 2022.

Abayomi said there was need to get malaria out of the region.

He said this at the Study Kick-Off of Pathway to Pre-Elimination and Digitisation Project in Lagos State.

Its focus is on Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test and Microscopy Comparative Study & Assessment of PPMVS’ Capacity to Manage Malaria and Febrile Illnesses.

“It is very, very important that we do that once and for all, ’’ he said.

The commissioner said: “Lagos has diligently waged a “war against malaria” for the past 20 years. The cumulative efforts have yielded remarkable results.”

According to him, malaria prevalence among fever patients has plummeted from 15 per cent to 20 per cent to just about one to two per cent.

“This data spurred Gov. Sanwo-Olu to back a strategy aimed at achieving malaria elimination within the state.

“Where malaria used to be 20 per cent to 15 per cent of people with fever, it is now down to between one per cent and two per cent, meaning that our strategy is working.

“This significant reduction prompted a bold decision from Gov. Sanwo-Olu.

“When we got this data, we took it straight to His Excellency, Mr Governor.

“Commissioner for Health, do it,” Abayomi recounted the governor as saying, highlighting the strong political will behind this groundbreaking initiative.

The core of this strategy, tagged “test, treat, and track,” moves beyond the traditional focus solely on treating malaria.

“Instead, it prioritises accurate diagnosis of the actual cause of fever, which, in Lagos, is now rarely malaria.

“A significant component of the strategy involves transitioning from outdated diagnostic methods, while microscopy has been the ‘gold standard’.”

Abayomi, however, noted its limitations in low-resource settings due to requirements for good equipment, skilled personnel, and electricity, leading to “very big mistakes.”

“The state is therefore embracing Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs), which are highly accurate, more efficient, cheaper, and more feasible for widespread use across all healthcare settings, from community pharmacies to primary healthcare centers (PHCs).

“A comparative study led by Professor Oyibo will further validate RDTs’ superiority.

`”The ‘track’ element of the strategy is focused on environmental interventions.”

The commissioner clarified that fumigation was not the primary solution; rather, “the emphasis is on good environmental sanitation”.

“This includes eliminating stagnant water, clearing blocked drainages, and properly covering water collections in homes—measures that directly prevent mosquito breeding.

He added: “If a rare malaria case is detected, it triggers an investigation into the immediate environment to identify and eliminate the source of transmission.”

Oyibo said the  ambitious goal was being driven by a strategic shift in fever management and a commitment to evidence-based practices.

The consultant medical parasitology and Study Coordinator affirmed that, for decades, malaria had been synonymous with fever across Africa, often leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.

“Whenever you talk about Africa, the thing that comes to mind is malaria and poverty and famine.

“However, data from Lagos now indicates a dramatic reduction in malaria prevalence.

“The evidence we are seeing right now shows that Lagos State has come to a place where, from all indications, if you say you have fever, it’s not likely going to be malaria in over 90 per cent of the cases.

“This critical insight underpins the state’s new “test, treat, and track” approach,” he said.

Oyibo stressed the dangers of treating fevers as malaria without proper testing, citing severe consequences, especially for children.

“If it is a child that has pneumonia… and you now give anti-malaria medicine without doing a test. What will happen to that child? That child will die quickly of pneumonia,” he warned.

“The strategy emphasises testing for malaria first.

 “If negative – which is now the most common outcome – healthcare providers are then mandated to investigate other potential causes of fever.

“ This commitment to accurate diagnosis ensures “our quality of care is not being done fully at all,” Oyibo said.

“The initiative also seeks to streamline diagnostic methods, with a study currently underway to validate the superiority of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) over traditional microscopy for widespread use.”

 Oyibo highlighted the crucial role of political will from the Lagos State Government, describing it as “one of the greatest commitments we have from Lagos State, which we are still looking for in Africa”.

“This determination, combined with support from partners like the WHO and National Malaria Elimination Program, is propelling Lagos towards a future where malaria is no longer a major public health challenge.

“Lagos State can drive that now. They are the only state in Nigeria that has reached that,” he noted.

He explained that “Lagos aims to prove that by leveraging accurate data, implementing evidence-based practices, and fostering a disciplined approach to medicine, malaria can be eliminated, setting a powerful precedence for the rest of the continent.”

By Vivian Ihechu

New report lists Indigenous Women’s response to climate, human rights crisis

Michael Simire
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New report lists Indigenous Women’s response to climate, human rights crisis

As the world searches for answers to the climate crisis and the global backsliding of human rights, Indigenous Women says they are doing much more than just resisting: they are leading.

Indigenous Women
Indigenous Women from Panama

From Colombia to Papua New Guinea, they believe they are regenerating ecosystems, promoting circular economies, and defending their territories with solutions that appear to be working.

On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the International Indigenous Women’s Forum (FIMI), women leaders from around the world are gathering in Lima, Peru, to celebrate their achievements, share knowledge, strengthen alliances, and chart strategies to face global challenges.

“This anniversary is not just a commemoration, but a political act that defies the current context of setbacks in rights and reduced funding for equality.”

In this context, FIMI is launching a report titled “Beijing +30: Indigenous Women in Action,” which reveals both the critical situation faced by Indigenous Women and the transformative solutions they are already leading in response to the climate crisis, structural inequalities, and systemic violence.

The document presents concrete evidence of the challenges faced by Indigenous Women worldwide and documents initiatives led by them in various regions to address these inequalities. The report sends an urgent message: to continue ignoring this leadership is to squander some of the most effective and sustainable solutions to the climate, human rights, and social justice crises that threaten the world today.

The report is enriched by the direct contributions of Indigenous Women and Youth from Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Americas, and the Arctic, who are implementing effective solutions and strategies to protect their territories, cultures, and ways of life on the planet. These proposals, which integrate ancestral knowledge with science and technology, not only respond to local challenges but can also be adapted and replicated in different contexts around the world. The document presents a solid base of qualitative and quantitative evidence on the challenges they face and the solutions implemented.

More than asking for support, they propose reciprocity, shifting the traditional narrative and making visible what women from different Indigenous Peoples are already doing for the planet, despite facing systemic violence and receiving merely 1.4% of the global funding allocated to women and girls.

“Funding must reach grassroots organizations and influence local and regional governments to achieve the implementation of GR39, and to secure its application worldwide,” stated Tarcila Rivera Zea (Quechua, Peru), founder of FIMI.

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