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Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara restrategise to combat flood amidst persistent downpour

Michael Simire
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Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara restrategise to combat flood amidst persistent downpour

Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara State Governments have embarked on awareness campaigns and reactivation of disaster response teams as part of strategies to curb the scourge of envisaged floods in their respective areas.

As the states continue to intensify efforts, deluge had already begun in some communities with flooding, windstorm and other associated disasters.

Sokoto Flood
Flooded area in Sokoto. Photo credit: channelstv.com

The sensitisation and response team’s reactivation were part of proactive measures to mitigate the impact of predictions by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on possible occurrence of disasters as a result of downpour.

NiMet had advised governments and residents to clear drainage channels, avoid walking or driving through floodwaters and relocation from high-risk areas to more safe areas.

Other safety tips include preparing emergency kits, switching-off electricity and gas during flooding, reinforcing mudslide-prone areas and raising community awareness.

The Special Adviser to Gov. Ahmad Aliyu on State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Alhaji Aminu Liman-Bodinga, said the agency had collaborated with relevant stakeholders to ensure effective response system.

Liman-Bodinga said the institutions comprised the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Police, Federal and State Fire Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Red Cross among others.

He explained that high time prone local government areas were prioritised based on NiMet’s prediction and the state government had put proactive measures in place across the communities beside increased awareness.

The SA said government had stockpiled relief materials including foodstuffs, building materials, and household items at various warehouses to support affected residents in case of disasters.

Liman-Bodinga added that continuous sensitisation campaigns were ongoing via radio, television, marketplaces, community contacts and other outlets.

Mr. Mustapha Umar, the SEMA Director, Relief and Rehabilitation in Sokoto, said no fewer that 1,400 households were affected by flood in Kware local government area, adding that the victims were supported by the agency.

Umar said SEMA ensured maximum collaboration with relevant stakeholders comprising state and non state actors on disaster mitigation strategies and prevention efforts.

In Zamfara, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Alhaji Musa Kainuwa, said government ensured evacuation of refuse dumps and clearance of waterways as a measure to facilitate free flow of water on drainages to prevent flooding.

Kainuwa cautioned residents against dumping of refuse on drainages, waterways and erecting  structures within flood prone areas and urged riverine communities to move to high and safe areas to avert casualties arising from eventual flooding.

He said the state government in collaboration with NEMA was conducting sensitisation of flood-prone communities in the state to adopt strategies that would minimise scourge of flooding.

Also speaking, the Director, Disaster, Zamfara Emergency Management Agency (ZEMA), Mr. Abdullahi Suleiman, said that several sensitisation programmes on disaster risk management were ongoing to safeguard lives and property.

The sensitisation, he noted, were meant to safeguard residents in such prone areas through building resilience and preparedness against such emergencies across the state.

Suleiman said the 2025 seasonal climate prediction and annual flood outlook as forecasted by the relevant authorities had provided valuable insights into rainfall patterns and flood scenarios during the year.

”The report identified delayed onset of rains and earlier than normal cessation of rains as some of the disaster risk management implications.

“We have reached out to all residents of flood-prone communities in the state and urge them to be vigilant and proactive towards adopting flood containment strategies in their environment.

“For now, the state is yet to encounter flood in any community, so, we will continue with the proactive measures to prevent such occurrence,” he said

He recalled that more than 4,000 houses were destroyed by flood in communities in Gummi and Talata Mafara local government areas and its environs as a result of major floods following heavy rains during the 2024 rainy season.

On his part, the Kebbi Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Empowerment, Alhaji Muhammad Hamidu-Jarkuka, said government ensured timely preparation on disaster response at all levels in the state.

“The present administration in the state is always committed to fulfilling its primary and constitutional mandate of protecting the lives and property of citizenry.

“We carry out enlightenment exercises, community contacts and provision of logistics as proactive approaches to disaster response in the state,” he said.

He reiterated that adequate budgetary allocation were provided to support likely affected persons and urged residents especially those residing in flood prone areas to heed to advisories made by authorities.

In an interview, the Head of NEMA Sokoto Field Office in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States, Alhaji Aliyu Kafin-Dangi, said the agency had conducted Simulation Exercise on Flood Disaster Response (SIMEX) as part of proactive measures against flood disaster in the states.

Kafin-Dangi said exercises were organised in collaboration with the state government agencies as a collective preparedness effort, aimed at enhancing coordination, communication and efficiency among all stakeholders in disaster management in Nigeria.

“This is so, essentially, Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Niger and Kwara states have been identified as flood-prone states in the North-West and North-Central Regions in the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction by NiMet and the Annual Flood Outlook by Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

“As we all know, flooding remains one of the most recurrent and devastating natural disasters in Nigeria with far-reaching impacts on lives, livelihoods, infrastructure and communities.” he said.

According to him, the recent flood disaster witnessed at Mokwa in Niger State, attested to that fact, saying that the essence of the simulation was to expose any gaps and strengthen multi-agency collaboration.

“Let me reiterate that preparedness saves lives. Our ability to anticipate, respond and recover quickly from disasters depends largely on how well we train and work together before disaster strikes.

“We are simulating a crisis so that we are better prepared to save lives when it becomes a reality,” Kafin-Dangi added.

NiMet forecasts three-day rain, thunderstorms nationwide

Michael Simire
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NiMet forecasts three-day rain, thunderstorms nationwide

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted rain and thunderstorms across the country from Sunday, August 17 to Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

‎NiMet’s weather outlook released on Saturday, August 16 in Abuja envisaged moderate rain over parts of Jigawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Yobe, Borno, and Adamawa states during the morning hours on Sunday.

Thunderstorm
Thundery weather

‎The agency also forecast thunderstorms with moderate rains over parts of Zamfara, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kduna, Bauchi, Gombe, Sokoto, Kebbi, Yobe, Borno, Adamawa, and Taraba states later in the day.

‎”There is a high possibility of flood occurring in parts of Kebbi, Gombe, and Bauchi states during the forecast period.

‎”For the central region, there are prospects of light intermittent rains over parts of Plateau, the Federal Capital Territory, and Niger State during the morning period.

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

‎’ There is high possibility of flood occurring over parts of Niger, Plateau, Kogi, and Benue states during the forecast period,” it said.

‎The agency anticipated cloudy skies over the southern region  during the morning period.

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

‎It predicted a high possibility of flood occurring in parts of Osun state during the forecast period.

‎The agency predicted thunderstorms on Monday with moderate rains in parts of Bauchi, Borno, Adamawa, Gombe, Taraba, Adamawa, Yola, Kano, Katsina, Yobe, Jigawa, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kaduna states during the forecast period.

‎”For the central region, there are prospects of light rains in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, as well as Nasarawa, Benue, and Niger states during the morning period.

‎”In the afternoon or evening hours, intermittent light rains are anticipated in parts of Niger, Plateau, Kwara, and Benue states,” it said.

‎It also indicated that there would be cloudy skies over the southern region during the morning hours with light rains  in parts of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Enugu, Anambra, Edo, Delta, Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, and Lagos states later in the day.

‎NiMet anticipated morning thunderstorms on Tuesday with moderate rains in parts of Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Yobe, Adamawa, Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna.

‎Thunderstorms with moderate rains are expected in parts of Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and Adamawa states during the afternoon/evening hours.

‎”For the central region, cloudy skies are expected over the region during the morning period.

‎”In the afternoon/evening hours, moderate rains are anticipated in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Niger, and Plateau states.

‎”For the southern region, ‎cloudy skies are expected over the region during the  morning period. Later in the day, light rains are expected in parts of Ekiti, Ondo, Osun, Cross River, and Lagos states,” it said.
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‎It, therefore, urged the public not to drive under heavy rain.
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‎NiMet advised states with the possibility of flash floods to  activate emergency response plans, especially the ‎places highlighted in red. ‎
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‎”To avoid leaching of nutrients, farmers should refrain from applying fertiliser and pesticides right before the rains. ‎

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

“Disconnect electrical appliances from electrical sockets, and stay away from tall trees to avoid impact from falling branches and broken trees.
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‎”Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.

“Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet.

“You can visit our website ‎www.nimet.gov.ng for further information,” the agency said.

By Gabriel Agbeja

Minamata Convention marks eight years of global progress to make mercury history

Michael Simire
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Minamata Convention marks eight years of global progress to make mercury history

As the Minamata Convention on Mercury marks eight years since it entered into force, over 150 Parties and many stakeholders continue working to reduce mercury pollution worldwide. Preparations are underway for the sixth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-6), which will take place from November 3 to 7, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland.

“In these eight years, mercury-added products have been phased out, mercury-free alternatives are increasingly accessible and safer industrial practices are being adopted. These concrete achievements by Parties have led to reduced demand for mercury in industries and less emissions and releases to the environment,” said Monika Stankiewicz, Minamata Convention Executive Secretary. “Further strong action is needed to protect ecosystems and present and future generations, and in particular people vulnerable to mercury exposure”.

Monika Stankiewicz
Executive Secretary of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, Monika Stankiewicz

Since 16 August 2017, the Minamata Convention has taken significant steps to control the mercury supply sources and trade, reduce the use, emissions and releases of mercury, raise public awareness, and build the necessary institutional capacity. Together, Parties have taken action to phase out mercury-added products, including fluorescent lamps, thermometers, and mercury in cosmetics as well as to limit mercury use in industrial processes.

One of the Convention’s key areas of focus is artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), the largest source of mercury emissions worldwide. Parties across Africa, Asia, and Latin America are developing and reviewing National Action Plans to reduce, and where feasible eliminate, mercury use in this complex global development issue. These efforts aim to protect people directly exposed to mercury, particularly children and women of child-bearing age, such as pregnant women and including Indigenous women, who are disproportionately affected by mercury exposure.

The implementation work of countries is being supported through the Global Environment Facility (GEF), part of the Convention’s financial mechanism, and through initiatives such as the GEF-backed planetGOLD programme.

Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility, stated: “The GEF is proud to help countries turn the Minamata Convention’s commitments into practical solutions that safeguard lives, restore ecosystems and support communities. Through planetGOLD, artisanal and small-scale miners are making important progress to break free from mercury and access better technologies to produce mercury-free gold and sell it through formal markets. These are important changes that directly affect peoples’ lives as well as environmental conditions across the countries we support.”

He added that “we look forward to ongoing ambitious work to reduce mercury emissions from industry, shift away from mercury use in artisanal and small-scale mining, and eliminate mercury from skin lightening and other products – these GEF-funded initiatives are fundamental to building a healthier and safer future”.

The Specific International Programme, the other component of the Convention’s financial mechanism, provides direct funding to 34 Party-led projects aimed at strengthening institutional capacity to meet their obligations under the Convention. Additionally, national reporting remains a key tool for tracking progress under the Convention and identifying challenges in implementation.

At the global level, cooperation with partners such as the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions and contributions to frameworks like the Global Framework on Chemicals and the Global Biodiversity Framework are helping to address shared environmental challenges and generate co-benefits.

Osvaldo Patricio Álvarez Pérez, COP-6 President (Chile), highlighted that “by joining forces to put the Minamata Convention into action alongside other environmental efforts, we can face shared challenges head-on and make a bigger difference. I am committed to working with all Parties to find common ground and protect people and the environment from the dangers of mercury pollution”.

COP-6 will address challenges that Parties face in implementing the Convention, such as trade control, waste management and mercury use in cosmetics, dental fillings, artisanal and small-scale gold mining and industrial processes. It will also address enhanced cooperation with other global agreements and international partners on pivotal topics like biodiversity, and the full and effective participation of Indigenous Peoples and also local communities.

Ecopreneur speaks out after plastic treaty talks collapse in Geneva

Michael Simire
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Ecopreneur speaks out after plastic treaty talks collapse in Geneva

Bluewater CEO and founder, Bengt Rittri, has spoken out with frustration and sadness after world leaders in Geneva failed to reach an agreement on a global plastics treaty. Talks collapsed under pressure from petro-states, leaving billions of people facing the consequences.

“Think about it: over 600 billion single-use plastic bottles are made every year, and less than ten percent ever get recycled,” Rittri said. “That means the rest end up in landfills, rivers, oceans – or in the air we breathe and the food we eat. We’re leaving a toxic inheritance for the planet and our kids and grandchildren.”

Bengt Rittri
Swedish ecopreneur, Bengt Rittri, is saddened by failure of plastic treaty talks in Geneva. He says Bluewater will continue its mission to end the single-use plastic bottle plague

The breakdown of the treaty means the tide of plastic pollution will continue to rise. Scientists are finding tiny plastic fragments in rainwater, in the stomachs of fish, and even in human blood. Chemicals like PFAS – so-called “forever chemicals” – are now detected in almost everyone on Earth.

Rittri, a Swedish ecopreneur who founded indoor air purification pioneer Blueair, which he eventually sold to Unilever, warned that without urgent action, “we’re building a future where our bodies become dumping grounds.”

Bluewater says it won’t give up. The company has pledged to continue pushing forward with technology that removes both microplastics and harmful chemicals.

“But technology alone isn’t enough,” Rittri added. “Each of us has choices. Do I grab another plastic bottle, or refill a reusable one? Do I accept business as usual, or do I demand better? Those small daily decisions really do add up to change.”

NLNG seeks investments to stabilise gas supply

Michael Simire
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NLNG seeks investments to stabilise gas supply

The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) has called for deliberate investment in the gas sector to stabilise supply and sustain Nigeria’s economic growth.

Dr Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director of NLNG, made the appeal in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Saturday, August 16, 2025, by the company’s Manager of Corporate Communication and Public Affairs, Mrs. Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku.

NLNG
Senior officials from NLNG and NNPCL during an operational visit to NLNG Plant on Bonny Island, Rivers State

Mshelbila made the submission while receiving the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Bayo Ojulari, at NLNG’s Plant on Bonny Island.

He said that recent challenges in the energy sector required coordinated efforts and strategic investment to sustain growth and achieve Nigeria’s energy goals.

“There is an urgent need for deliberate investment in the gas sector to stabilise supply, de-risk critical infrastructure, and unlock upstream investments.

“These efforts will be essential to sustaining momentum of growth, deepening value delivery, and exploring future opportunities,” he said.

Mshelbila said that increased funding in the sector would strengthen investor confidence, improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global energy market, and position NLNG to deliver steady gas output.

He also underscored the importance of synergy among stakeholders in achieving national energy objectives.

The managing director described NNPCL as a dependable shareholder committed to the growth and development of NLNG and the wider gas value chain.

In his remarks, Ojulari expressed support for NLNG’s growth and long-term sustainability agenda.

He reaffirmed the company’s strategic role in advancing energy transition, economic stability, and industrial development.

“NLNG remains a beacon of governance, performance, transparency, and sustainability in Nigeria’s energy sector,” he said.

Ojulari noted that the visit provided an opportunity to engage with the NLNG team, assess operational progress, and identify areas for improvement to enhance plant availability and boost national revenue.

He disclosed plans for a dynamic Gas Master Plan and potential hydrogen collaborations with NLNG, in line with Nigeria’s net-zero emission target.

The NNPCL boss later toured key operational areas of the NLNG plant, including the main complex and the Train 7 construction site, which is expected to significantly increase the company’s production capacity.

Mr. Emeka Vitalis, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, described NLNG as a key driver of energy transition and a pillar of the national economy.

He highlighted the importance of Train 7, NLNG’s expansion project, in meeting Nigeria’s gas export targets and strengthening national capacity.

“Ensuring zero emissions across the gas supply chain will be vital to NLNG’s long-term success in the transition era.

“NLNG’s asset management practices remain a source of national pride,” Vitalis stated.

NLNG is jointly owned by NNPCL, Shell, TotalEnergies, and Eni, and plays a key role in Nigeria’s gas monetisation and export strategy.

By Desmond Ejibas

Govt targets 1m hectares restoration with ACReSAL project in 10 states

Michael Simire
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Govt targets 1m hectares restoration with ACReSAL project in 10 states

The Federal Government through the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project, has inaugurated a stakeholders’ engagement aimed at restoring one million hectares of degraded land in 10 States.

Mr. Abdulhamid Umar, the National Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, said this on Friday, August 15, 2025, in Lokoja, Kogi State, at a stakeholders’ engagement for the development of 11 Strategic Catchment Management Plans (SCMPs).

ACReSAL
Stakeholders’ in a group photograph during the Stakeholders’ Engagement for development of SCMPs on Friday in Lokoja

Umar, represented by Mr. Shettima Adams, said the 10 ACReSAL states are Kogi, Kaduna, Niger, Katsina, Plateau, Benue, Bauchi, Kano, Nasarawa, and FCT.

He said the project was designed to promote long-term transformation, restore dignity to drylands, rebalance ecosystems, and strengthen the resilience of millions of people across northern Nigeria.

Umar said the project would impact over 3.4 million direct beneficiaries.

According to him, the meeting is for the development of Sarkin-Powa-Kaduna, Okwa-Mada, Gurara-Gbako, Lokoja-Niger, and Aloma-Ebonyi catchments.

Umar said the engagement brought together strategic stakeholders from the 10 ACReSAL states, aimed to derive a shared vision for the purpose of the project.

“The engagement will also consider the opportunities and challenges in the catchments, which will form part of the catchment management plan.

“Catchment management plans are critical for sustainable development, as they provide a framework for managing natural resources, mitigating environmental challenges, and promoting social and economic development.

“The plans will be segregated into short, medium, and long-term plans, ensuring that the ACReSAL project achieves its objectives of restoring one million hectares of degraded land and impacting over 3.4 million direct beneficiaries,” Umar said.

He added that the project would also ensure that women and girl-child benefit from the project and are integrated fully into society.

“With the stakeholders’ engagement, Nigeria is one step closer to achieving sustainable development and environmental sustainability,” he said.

Umar urged stakeholders to make meaningful contributions to the document and ensure that their concerns are integrated into the plan.

He also expressed gratitude to the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria for their support and guidance in implementing the ACReSAL project.

The Kogi State Commissioner for Environment who is the Chairman, State Steering committee for the project, Mr. Olusegun Joseph, praised the selection of Lokoja for the ACReSAL stakeholders’ engagement.

Joseph, who declared the engagement open on behalf of Gov. Ahmed Ododo, reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to supporting the project.

He described ACReSAL as a transformative initiative to tackle environmental challenges and climate vulnerability.

He urged stakeholders to share practical knowledge and corporate solutions to address environmental issues, emphasising the importance of sustainable environmental management and climate resilience.

The commissioners commended the governor’s vision and commitment to the environmental sector and ACReSAL project.

Earlier, the State Project Coordinator, Mrs. Ladi Jato, emphasised the shared commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable resource management.

She highlighted the project’s achievements in Kogi including restoring 11,064 hectares of degraded land through gully remediation works.

“Increasing water storage capacity by 800 cubic meters through water harvesting initiatives.

“Enhancing agricultural productivity and livelihoods through dry season farming support, and restoring over 3,000 hectares through agroforestry and tree-planting activities,” she said.

Jato expressed confidence that the project would restore and safeguard the ecosystem for present and future generations.

The Maigari of Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo, who represented the Rogan of Eggan, Alhaji Mohammed Alhassan, pledged the traditional institution’s support for the project’s implementation.

Other stakeholders present at the meeting include Kogi State Commissioners for Agriculture and Water Resources, project coordinators and traditional rulers from the 10 states.

By Stephen Adeleye

Talks on global plastic pollution treaty adjourn without consensus

Michael Simire
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Talks on global plastic pollution treaty adjourn without consensus

Following 10 days of negotiations, Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) talks to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, adjourned early on Friday, August 15, 2025, without consensus on a text of the instrument. The Committee agreed to resume negotiations at a future date to be announced.  

The meeting adjourned with a clearly expressed desire by Member States to continue the process, recognising the significant difference of views between states.   

Plastic treaty
Plastics treaty negotiators have failed to reach a consensus

This resumed fifth session (INC-5.2) saw more than 2,600 participants gather at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, including over 1,400 Member delegates from 183 countries, and close to 1,000 Observers representing over 400 organisations. Some 70 Ministers and Vice Ministers, as well as 30 other high-level representatives, also held informal roundtables on the margins of the session.  

“This has been a hard-fought 10 days against the backdrop of geopolitical complexities, economic challenges, and multilateral strains. However, one thing remains clear: despite these complexities, all countries clearly want to remain at the table.   

“While we did not land the treaty text we hoped for, we at UNEP will continue the work against plastic pollution – pollution that is in our groundwater, in our soil, in our rivers, in our oceans and yes, in our bodies,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).   

The goal of INC-5.2 was to agree on the instrument’s text and highlight unresolved issues requiring further preparatory work ahead of a diplomatic conference. The session followed a structured approach—starting with an opening plenary, transitioning into four contact groups tackling key areas like plastic design, chemicals of concern, production caps, finance, and compliance, followed by a stocktake plenary, informal consultations, and ending with a closing plenary on August 15. 

A Chair’s Text from INC-5.1 in Busan served as the starting point for negotiations at INC-5.2, with the Chair releasing a Draft Text Proposal and a Revised Text Proposal over the course of the session. Despite intensive engagement, Members of the Committee were unable to reach consensus on the proposed texts. 

“Failing to reach the goal we set for ourselves may bring sadness, even frustration. Yet it should not lead to discouragement. On the contrary, it should spur us to regain our energy, renew our commitments, and unite our aspirations,” said INC Chair Ambassador Luis Vayas Valdivieso. “It has not happened yet in Geneva, but I have no doubt that the day will come when the international community will unite its will and join hands to protect our environment and safeguard the health of our people.”  

This INC process kicked off in March 2022, at the resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), when a historic resolution was adopted to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.   

“As this session concludes, we leave with an understanding of the challenges ahead and a renewed and shared commitment to address them,” said Jyoti Mathur-Filipp, Executive Secretary of the INC Secretariat. “Progress must now be our obligation.”  

The session also involved the active participation of civil society – including Indigenous Peoples, waste pickers, artists, young people, and scientists – who raised their voices through protests, art installations, press briefings and events at and around the Palais. 

The Geneva session follows INC 5.1, which took place in November/December 2024 in Busan, Republic of Korea. That meeting was preceded by four sessions: INC-1 in Punta del Este in November 2022, INC-2, held in Paris in June 2023, INC-3 in Nairobi in November 2023, and INC-4, which took place in Ottawa in April 2024. 

Norway, Sweden, Finland: Climate change made July heatwave 10 times more likely, study says

Michael Simire
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Norway, Sweden, Finland: Climate change made July heatwave 10 times more likely, study says

Human-caused climate change made a two-week-long heatwave in Norway, Sweden and Finland around 2°C hotter and at least 10 times more likely, a rapid analysis by World Weather Attribution has found. 

Extreme heat gripped the cold Nordic countries from mid-July, with temperatures above 30°C. Finland experienced 22 consecutive days where temperatures were above 30°C, its longest heatwave on record. In the Norwegian part of the Arctic Circle, a weather station recorded temperatures above 30°C on 13 days during the month of July 2025.

Heatwave
People enjoy the warm weather at the Ounaskoski Beach in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland. Photo credit: Jouni Porsanger/Lehtikuva via AP

The study from World Weather Attribution highlights how heatwaves intensified by climate change are disrupting healthcare and warns that similar events will become five times more frequent by 2100 unless there is a rapid shift away from fossil fuels. 

“Even comparably cold Scandinavian countries are facing dangerous heatwaves today with 1.3°C of warming,” says study author Friederike Otto, Professor in Climate Science at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London.

“This event should be taken as another reminder that no country is safe from climate change.”

Ten times more likely and 2°C hotter

The study from World Weather Attribution reveals that climate change made the mid-July heatwave in Norway, Sweden and Finland at least 10 times more likely than it would have been in a world without 1.3°C of global warming. 

Researchers also found that human-caused climate change made the event in Norway, Sweden and Finland around 2°C hotter.

In a 1.3°C cooler world, they say, a similar two-week period of persistent high temperatures would be extremely rare. 

But today, with current global warming, they are now expected about every 50 years. At 2.6°C of warming, which is expected this century, similar events will be five times as likely and a further 1.4°C hotter than today.

The study found that the likelihood of a prolonged period of heat like this has almost doubled since 2018, when the region last experienced such an intense heatwave.

Dr Clair Barnes, study author and researcher at the Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, says the “relentless” Nordic heatwave is “highly concerning”. 

“Climate change is fundamentally reshaping the world we live in. Cold-climate countries like Norway, Sweden and Finland are now experiencing unfamiliar levels of heat, as recently seen in strained health systems and sightings of reindeer seeking shade in urban areas,” she adds.

The stark threat of climate change in cold countries

The period of persistent heat across the three countries brought overcrowded and overheated hospitals, wildfires, toxic algal blooms and a surge in drownings. 

While many enjoyed the summer warmth, the prolonged high temperatures meant demanding working conditions, sleepless nights and health risks. Researchers warn that this “silent killer” may have caused hundreds of heat-related deaths. 

When Sweden was hit by the 2018 heatwave, about 750 excess deaths were estimated over a five-week period from early July.

“This heatwave was a stark reminder of the threat of climate change in cold-climate countries that aren’t normally considered vulnerable,” says study author Maja Vahlberg, technical advisor at the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, and climate consultant at the Swedish Red Cross.

“Our infrastructure was not built to withstand these extreme temperatures and our ageing population is increasingly susceptible to dangerous heat.

“We’ve seen some progress in adaptation and preparedness, particularly since 2018, when we experienced our last big heatwave. But we still need to do more to ensure our cold-adapted infrastructure and systems are also ready for high temperatures.”

It also pushed reindeer, which usually roam the forests, into towns as they sought shade from the high temperatures. Herders warned that their animals were on the verge of dying in the heat. Alongside threatening ecosystems, climate change is threatening the livelihoods of Indigenous Sámi communities, who have herded reindeer in the region for more than 1,000 years. 

NCDMB, PETAN share local content insights at Namibia Conference

Michael Simire
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NCDMB, PETAN share local content insights at Namibia Conference

Officials of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) shared insights on Nigeria’s local content implementation and lessons for other African nations on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Day 2 of the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference, at Windhoek, Namibia.

The Director, Corporate Services at the NCDMB, Dr. Abdulmalik Halilu, made a presentation on the Local Content Success Stories in Nigeria and Lessons learnt. Likewise, the General Manager Corporate Communications, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, and PETAN Chairman and member of NCDMB Governing Council, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, participated in a panel session, titled “Local content development: How Namibians can benefit from the oil and gas industry.”

Namibia conference
Panelists at the session on “Local Content Success Stories in Nigeria and Lessons learnt” at the Namibia conference

In his presentation, Halilu listed Nigeria’s local content implementation pillars to include regulatory framework, access to market, gap analysis, capacity building, incentives and funding, and research and development. He highlighted the key roles played by Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) who have over 101 companies that provide technology in diverse areas of the industry, employ over 30,000 Nigerians and have cumulative employment impact over 100,000.

He indicated that the implementation of the Nigerian Content 10-year strategic roadmap had grown Nigeria’s local content performance to 56 percent as at 2025. He identified some other initiatives of the NCDMB, such as capacity development, which is geared to build in-country value addition, funding and incentives as well as creating access to markets for service companies and manufacturing companies.

Speaking on the panel session, Dr. Ezeobi made salient recommendations that could guide Namibia and other African nations in their formulation and implementation of effective local content policies. Specifically, he advised the adoption of NCDMB’s Project 100 initiative, whereby strategic financial and non-financial support are provided to select local service companies, to upscale their capacities, including providing them access to market.

He also recommended government’s partnerships with competent private sector players to deliver strategic energy projects that meet needs of the nation’s economy. Another suggestion was the facilitation of collaborations between local companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and government’s sponsorship of local service firms to international oil and gas conferences, to expose them to partnership opportunities and new technologies.

The General Manager equally harped on the need for oil producing nations to introduce dedicated fund schemes which their local service companies and manufacturers can access at single digit interest rate, to grow their capacities and capabilities.

Responding to a question on challenges Nigeria faced at the onset of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, and how they overcame them, Dr. Ezeobi stated that Nigeria faced pushbacks from some international companies as well as scepticism over government’s commitment to implement the law. Other problems bordered on doubts regarding the technical capacity of local service companies, as well as the misconception by some indigenous operating companies and midstream and downstream players that the NOGICD Act did not cover their operations.

He expressed delight that those challenges had been largely overcome, through extensive engagements and communication with industry stakeholders, and by Nigerian service companies upscaling their capacities significantly and delivering top quality work on schedule consistently.

Dr. Ezeobi encouraged African oil producing nations to demonstrate strong political will when implementing local content policies and to communicate the policies effectively, ensuring that relevant stakeholders have good understanding of the policy, as well as their roles in the implementation and compliance processes.

In his contribution, PETAN Chairman, Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, advised the framers of the Namibian local content policy to decouple non-complex work packages from major projects. He tasked them to borrow a leaf from the NOGICD Act in producing a detailed list of activities carried out in oil and gas industry operations. This approach would allow upcoming local companies to compete for the smaller packages, win and deliver on them successfully, providing a pathway for such firms to grow capacity sustainably.

As part of NCDMB and PETAN collaboration at the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference, the two organisations set up a joint exhibition booth and received leaders of the government, and oil and gas stakeholders. Most of the visitors to the booth wanted to understand Nigeria’s local content law, while others sought guidance or collaboration for different technical services they hope to deploy in their fast-developing oil and gas industry.

Govt reaffirms commitment to timely completion of Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway

Michael Simire
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Govt reaffirms commitment to timely completion of Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the timely completion of the Section Three of the 61-kilometre Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Enugu State.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who led a federal government delegation to the site of the road project as part of a wider Citizens’ Engagement tour of the South East, said that modern road infrastructure is vital to economic growth, improved safety, and citizens’ welfare.

Mohammed Idris
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris

“This project is a visible testament to government’s resolve to complete strategic highways nationwide for the benefit of Nigerians,” said Idris.

Under construction by the CGC Nigeria Limited, the 61-kilometre dual carriageway (122 km in total) is valued at ₦100.8 billion. The Enugu-bound section has been completed, while work on the remaining stretch is ongoing, according to the Director of Highways, Southeast, Tony Mbiko.

In a related development, the Minister has described the Federal Government’s Oncology Centre in Enugu as world class and is a proof of the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to delivering life-changing health infrastructure to Nigerians.

The Minister stated while leading a high-powered delegation to inspect the newly established Oncology Centre in Enugu.

Commissioned only weeks ago by the Ministers of Health and Finance, the facility houses one of the most advanced cancer treatment machines in the world – previously only accessible abroad or in Lagos.

He noted that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is making world-class healthcare a reality across the country, with six such centres planned nationwide – three already operational.

During the visit, the delegation met patients receiving treatment, including a woman who had previously travelled long distances for care but can now access top-quality treatment in Enugu.

“This is democracy delivering tangible dividends. Our visit allows us to hear directly from citizens, see the impact for ourselves, and ensure these facilities are maintained for public benefit,” said Idris.

The tour also included inspections of federal road projects.

Similarly, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has lauded the recently launched Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme of the Federal Government, an initiative designed to advance inclusive development across the 8,809 wards of the country.

Governor Mbah stated this when a Federal Government delegation on a Citizens’ Engagement tour of the South East, led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, paid him a courtesy visit.

The Renewed Hope Ward Development, according to the Governor, is a laudable initiative that aligns closely with the grassroot-oriented agenda of the government of Enugu state.

Endorsed recently by the National Economic Council, the programme is one of the fresh initiatives of the President Bola Tinubu administration in its pursuit of eradicating poverty and hunger, and stimulating economic growth in the rural areas.

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