President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, expressed concern over the flood that affected parts of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
Flooding in Maiduguri
The President extended condolences to the government and people of the state, especially to the families that lost their means of livelihood.
Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, said in a statement.
“The worst flood in recent decades, triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam, has displaced thousands of residents and affected facilities such as the Post office and the Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
“While relevant authorities are still assessing the damage wrought by the flood, the President calls for the immediate evacuation of people from affected areas.
“Tinubu assures Gov. Babagana Zulum that the Federal Government is ready to collaborate to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the affected people,” said Onanuga.
He said the President ordered the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assist the flood victims and remained committed to mobilising federal resources to support the state during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, Mr Barkindo Mohammed, the Director General of the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), has described the situation in flooded Maiduguri town as “terrible.”
Water from Alau Dam, which collapsed early Tuesday morning, has continued to submerge various wards in the town while thousands of displaced residents are scouting for safer places.
Mohammed said in Maiduguri that the agency had since commenced rescue operations and distribution of sandbags.
“Just now, we went for a rescue and proceeded to distribute sandbags in Gozari.
“As I am talking to you now, I am trapped; we came to rescue some people and we are now trapped with my staff,’’ he said.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people are in the streets with nowhere to go while some could be seen lying or sitting under tree shades with their families.
Musa Abbas, with a family of two women and six children, said he had nowhere to go as his brothers were residing in the Bulumkutu area that needed one to cross the bridge.
“The bridge is now submerged; I can’t cross, and my brothers can only come for me.
“We will sleep here and continue to pray the rain won’t come,” Abbas said.
Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” has been grappling with recurrent flooding that has devastating effects on its population and economy. Recent floods, particularly in places like Maiduguri, have highlighted the urgent need to examine the underlying causes of this crisis. The persistent flooding is not merely a result of heavy rainfall; it is a complex interplay of climate change, urbanisation, environmental degradation, and socio-economic factors.
Flooding in Nigeria
One of the primary drivers of flooding in Nigeria is climate change, which has resulted in altered weather patterns. The rainy season has become increasingly unpredictable, with intense downpours leading to flash floods. For instance, in Maiduguri, a city that has recently experienced significant flooding, heavy rains overwhelmed drainage systems, leading to widespread devastation. The increasing frequency and intensity of rainfall are directly linked to global climate change, which is altering local weather patterns.
Urbanisation further exacerbates the flooding crisis. Rapid population growth in urban centres has led to the construction of informal settlements, often in flood-prone areas. These settlements typically lack adequate drainage infrastructure, which makes them particularly vulnerable to flooding. The situation in Maiduguri serves as a prime example; as the city expands, many residents find themselves living in areas that are highly susceptible to floodwaters, putting their lives and livelihoods at risk.
Deforestation and environmental degradation also play a significant role in increasing flood risks. The removal of trees for agricultural expansion and urban development diminishes the land’s natural ability to absorb rainfall. As forests are cleared, soil erosion becomes more prevalent, leading to increased runoff during heavy rains. The loss of vegetation not only contributes to flooding but also affects biodiversity and local ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining environmental balance.
The impact of flooding on livelihoods in Nigeria is staggering. The agricultural sector, which employs a significant portion of the population, often suffers catastrophic losses during flooding events. In Maiduguri, recent floods destroyed crops and displaced farmers, leading to food shortages and economic instability. The loss of agricultural productivity directly threatens food security and exacerbates poverty, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to escape.
Additionally, flooding poses severe health risks to affected communities. Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for diseases such as cholera and malaria, putting vulnerable populations at greater risk. In the aftermath of flooding, access to clean water and sanitation facilities often diminishes, further exacerbating public health challenges. The psychological impact on individuals and families, including trauma and anxiety, is also significant and can hinder recovery efforts.
The socio-economic challenges associated with flooding are particularly pronounced among marginalised groups. Women and children are often disproportionately affected by flooding, as they typically bear the brunt of household responsibilities during crises. The loss of livelihoods can lead to increased gender disparities, as women may face barriers in accessing resources and decision-making power in recovery efforts.
To address the multifaceted challenges posed by flooding, the Nigerian government must adopt a comprehensive approach. Improved urban planning is essential to create resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events. This includes investing in drainage systems, flood barriers, and green spaces that can absorb excess rainfall. Such infrastructure development can help reduce the impact of flooding on communities.
Moreover, sustainable agricultural practices should be promoted to enhance resilience against flooding. Techniques such as crop rotation, agroforestry, and the use of drought-resistant crop varieties can help communities adapt to changing climate conditions. Training programmes for farmers on sustainable land management can empower them to mitigate the impacts of flooding while promoting food security.
Community awareness and education are critical components of a long-term strategy to combat flooding. By informing residents about flood risks and equipping them with knowledge on emergency preparedness, communities can enhance their resilience. Establishing early warning systems can also save lives by providing timely information about impending floods, allowing for proactive measures to be taken.
Lastly, international cooperation and funding can significantly bolster Nigeria’s capacity to address flooding. Engaging with global partners to access technology, expertise, and financial resources can support initiatives aimed at climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction. Collaborative efforts can also enhance data collection and research on climate patterns, enabling better preparedness and response strategies.
In conclusion, the persistent flooding in Nigeria is a multifaceted crisis that requires urgent attention. By addressing the root causes, enhancing infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering community resilience, the government can take significant strides toward mitigating the impact of flooding.
Through concerted efforts and collaboration, Nigeria can pave the way for a more resilient future for its citizens, reducing the devastating effects of flooding on livelihoods and the environment.
By Olumide Idowu, Executive Director ICCDI Africa, @OlumideIDOWU
Director General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Dr. Innocent Barikor, has that said there is heavy penalty for environmental violation along the value chain of the of the disposition of battery in a manner that is not acceptable by the law.
Participants at the workshop organised by SRADev Nigeria, in Lagos
Barikor made this statement in Lagos on Monday, September 9, 2024, during the Capacity Building Workshop on Used Lead-Acid Battery Recycling in Nigeria.
According to him, “one of the contents of the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations, 2024, is that it is driven by the “Polluter Pays Principle” and has established an Extended Producer Responsibility’ (EPR) system which means that we are going to cascade, so producers must take responsibility.
“The major responsibility of NESREA is to enforce and the regulation already stipulates the enforcement, even before enforcement, do the people know there is a regulation? Do they know the extent of these regulations? Even though ignorance of the law is not an excuse, but can we now begin to give them some knowledge and space to understand that is what the law says. So henceforth as a regulator or recycler, if you don’t register, there’s a penalty,” he maintained.
In his remarks, Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria), said the workshop is about “building our capacity and creating awareness about the next steps in the use LED asset recycling batteries, a sector we think have been so much neglected for so many years, until we did a whistle blowing in 2016 by exposing the dangerous activities happening in that sector in terms of the recycling practices being undertaken by mostly Asians, Chinese and Indian companies, of course with connivers of some Nigerians, where we were told that they are doing green recycling, that is sustainable recycling of use lead acid recycling, batteries.
“But when we went visiting, we found out that communities were dying instalmentally from the activities. So, we raised alarm through the media, through research, well founded research and we had the response from the global community, particularly the European countries. Had to court business buying from Nigeria because of that bad practice, and that signalled why the Federal Ministry of Environment kicked up quickly policy process, which was what we advocated and called for, kicked up policy programme for the country, which is realised now, followed by different experiential learning trip to Germany to see how it’s better done. And now the regulation which we all participated in to see through so that the sector can be regulated.
“So basically, what we are doing as a non-governmental organisation, professional one interested in the sector, is we are not just campaigning or advocating for the sector to be shut down. We are also collaborating, we brought experts all the way from Germany, Oeko-Institut, to come here and give us tailored-made approach to solving the problems. So, we don’t just whistle blow alone, we also offer solutions to the problem in terms of if we say this sector is not doing the job, then it is also for us to recommend what they should do. We went beyond that, we even had to go get funding support from the German government to train Nigerians, to train the plant managers or the recyclers on how to best handle it.
“So what we are doing here today is a partnership between the private public sector, where we are bringing face-to-face the regulators, with those who they are regulating, to learn and unlearn, so that at least when the regulators tomorrow go to implement the regulation or to enforce the regulation, it will not be an issue of no, we are not aware of this Standard Operational Procedure (SPP) as being discussed with the participants of the workshop. There’s a co-learning exponential process happening so that at least we all can live in a sustainable environment,” he stressed.
Mr. Andreas Manhart, from Oeko Institute in Germany, while speaking on the essence of the workshop, said: “The institute works on a lot of environmental topics and hazardous waste and contaminates are one of them, and contaminates travel around the world, so it’s basically a global responsibility to manage them properly. And contaminates have the biggest impacts directly on people. So, we’re not speaking about climate change, which certainly is extremely important. But those who really affect people, lead and heavy metals still stick out, but they can be managed. So, we have a lot of cases where these contaminates, and these processes can be done very well. But in Nigeria, of course, like in many other countries, is still quite some challenges. So today we’re talking about lead poisoning.”
On what Nigeria needs to do to effectively regulate the unwholesome practices, Manhart opined: “First of all, this is about lead acid batteries, which are recycled. So there is quite big business sector behind it to recycle them, and this can be done properly, but it’s not always done, and there are severe hot spots in the management and recycling sector in Nigeria, I would not say all of the sector, but part of it, and it’s extremely important, that there is a regulation to define minimum standards and to make the authorities to give them the tools to enforce such minimum requirements. So, this regulation is a crucial steppingstone to improvements.
“Technology is basically the best method for preserving or processing these batteries, as they are unbroken together with the battery acid, they are given to specialised recycling plants that have the equipment that have automatic processes that take care of all types of the lead, the lead oxide, the acid. This has to do with equipment, which is quite capital intensive, but there is already some plants, at least one plant in Nigeria, they can do so. Others are on the way, but you’re not yet there. It can be done. It can be recycled in a safe manner. It can be done so that the workers and the neighbouring communities are safe. Unfortunately, we still see a lot of plants in Nigeria and also in other countries. where this is not the case.”
Mikey Jarrell, a PhD student at the University of California, San Diego, USA, who flew into Nigeria to attend the workshop, said: “I specialise in development economics, which involves economic processes in developing countries. And for me, the topic that I find most interesting is development, the trade-off between growth and public health. For example, in the battery industry, there is a very clear trade-off. You can spend more money to get higher quality machines that pollute less but this might mean less growth, less employment. It’s a balance. Trying to find the balance is my research.
“I’m very impressed with the workshop as I did not expect to find something like this. Before we came to Nigeria, we spoke to Dr Leslie, and he mentioned this conference was happening, and I did not expect the attendance. First of all it was mind blowing to see government officials truly engaged in the material and participating in the workshop, to see the progress that has been made in some of the legislation, and what seems to be a true willingness to enforce some of these measures, and to get members of the industry, the owners of the factories, the people who work in different stages of the industry, to come to the same event at the same time, to speak to these people and to come together. Very impressive.
“The easiest place to start always is something that will be beneficial to all parties. For example, if there is a machine that lowers the costs for the factory and also reduces the pollution, well, then that’s a win-win. I encourage all the stakeholders to always consider this,” Jarrell advised.
In his submission, Mr. Ade Babajide, Director, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, called for synergy between various government establishments.
He said: “There’s a need for all government agencies to work together. For instance, in a state like Lagos where you have a very high population, and because of the high population, you have so much pressure on the environment, so there’s a need for everybody to collaborate, all hands to be on deck to ensure environmental sustainability and to ensure that we have protection of the environment.”
The Director, who represented the Commissioner and Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, said the workshop offered an avenue for all stakeholders to look at the proper and judicious management of batteries and ferrous material which have a great impact on environment in view of heavy metal contamination.
“So, there’s a need for us to come together to ensure that both the water system, the land and air, are not contaminated and polluted. This is very important so as to ensure that citizens of the states are properly protected, and their health is guaranteed.
“The Battery Control Regulation is a new law, so what we have to do now is to, you know, in Lagos State, we have to look at the law, look at how it works for us. We consider the law. It’s a just been passed. So, we’ll see how it works for us, and we’ll see how we can key into it. As we always say in Lagos, our case is peculiar. Because one, we have very high population. Two, we have a lot of water bodies in Lagos. So, we know that environment is very sensitive. So, we are always very careful to ensure that our environments are always safe,” he stressed.
Dignitaries at the Partnership for Responsible Battery and Metal Recycling (ProBaMet) workshop organised by SRADev-Nigeria with support from Oeko-Institute in Germany include Mrs. Miranda Amachree, Alliance for Responsible Battery Recycling (ARBR); Felix Odimegwu, Anambra State Commissioner for Environment; and Oba Kazeem Gbadamosi, the Ologijo of Ogijo.
Others are representatives from Lagos State Environment Protection Agency (LASEPA), Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) and other stakeholders.
The first-ever Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), an automated device made entirely in Nigeria that collects, counts, and rewards consumers for their used plastic bottles and beverage cans, was launched in Abuja on Saturday, September 7, 2024, by Ecobarter, a social enterprise company that specialises in waste collection and recycling.
In this interview with Etta Michael Bisong, the organisation’s founder and CEO, Rita Idehai, offers additional details about the event’s significance, the RVM, its challenges and solutions, as well as her recommendations for the general public on how to deal with the issue of plastic pollution across the country.
Rita Idehai (left) with Etta Michael Bisong
Significance of the event
What is possible and can come out of Nigeria and Africa? I think that is the biggest thing for me. Because the RVM, to me, as I always say, is not a new invention; it is everywhere in Europe, but there are challenges on why it has not come here. “So, small girl, building this and then putting it on the continent is huge, and that is the most significant thing for today.”
Of course, I have my feelings of pride for what I have accomplished, but allowing others to also share in that experience for something that is desperately needed in Nigeria is even a source of more joy for me.
Its contributions towards solving the issue of plastic waste in Nigeria
Plastic waste is something that everybody is already aware of. We see it every day as our drainages and gutters clog.
One of the challenges we have had as people who are leading recycling collections in Nigeria is access. People do not have access to recyclers and recycling facilities. So, this machine being here today and with the possibility of it being deployed across Nigeria and African cities is an opportunity for more people to bring and recycle their waste. It is something that you get an incentive for very easily. You can print a receipt, add money to your wallet, withdraw money to your bank, and buy stuff from it.
So, people having the facility to easily just cash out on their waste is good and will mob up a lot of plastics from the environment. This is a random place, and you see people coming here and asking us what we are doing. We explained to them, and they said, “You should have told us; we would have come with our plastics.”
People are excited about it, and it would take up plastics from our society.
Government and stakeholders’ role to ensure its spread across the country
Funds and enabling environment. Again, this is something that we just started in a very small place, literally in front of my house. We are looking at building a proper standard manufacturing facility so that we can do more volumes. And, to do a facility, you need funding.
Then, we are also looking for policies that even more or less mandate people to recycle. I think across all of these things that I have mentioned, you will see the place for development partners or government establishments. We will need partnerships with government bodies like the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to educate people about this machine and waste problem.
These are some of the things that we need and ways we think the government can come in.
Advice to the public
This is the first of its type here, and it is a thing of pride for us, and we hope it is a thing of pride for them as well. But, beyond that, we want it to bring out some action in them, to see the value in their waste. Hence, there is no reason again for anyone to trash their plastic bottles or beverage cans.
“There is a stylish way for them to recycle and get money, and this is it.” And, by the grace of God, this is going to be everywhere so that you don’t have to walk or travel long distances to be able to access one.
Akodo Ise, a coastal community in the eastern part of Lagos State, Nigeria, is among the most vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels, ocean surges, and storm-induced flooding. Located near prominent landmarks like the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lekki Deep Sea Port, and Dangote Refinery, Akodo Ise is known for its serene environment and rich fishing activities. However, the community has suffered immense losses due to climate change, which threatens its very existence.
Ocean surge: An aerial view of an encroaching tide
Lagos State, naturally susceptible to flooding due to its location along the Atlantic Ocean, faces exacerbated challenges from human-induced factors like poor drainage, improper waste disposal, and wetland destruction. These factors, coupled with natural occurrences such as coastal erosion, have worsened the flooding situation in communities like Akodo Ise.
As a result, the livelihoods of many residents – primarily dependent on fishing, farming, and tourism – have been severely affected, with fishing grounds, vessels, and farmland damaged or destroyed.
An abandoned community school, now uninhabitable
During a recent visit to Akodo Ise, the Baale (traditional leader) shared the community’s struggles, describing how recurrent flooding and erosion have devastated his coconut farmland and forced him to relocate from his home. The primary school, once a vital part of the community, now stands abandoned at the edge of the ocean. Walking through the community, the scale of the destruction becomes apparent: damaged infrastructure, ruined homes, and even burial grounds washed away by the encroaching sea.
The Baale of Akodo-Ise stands in the remains of his home, once over 50m from the ocean
There is an urgent need for immediate action to mitigate the effects of climate change in communities like Akodo Ise. The government and other stakeholders must implement effective measures, including building resilient infrastructure and fostering local adaptation strategies.
A fisherman’s family in Akodo-Ise after a recent overnight ocean surge. Which destroyed some portion of his house and fishing vessel
While the Lagos State Government’s annual International Climate Change Summit offers a platform for discussion, tangible actions are necessary to protect vulnerable communities from the ongoing threat of rising sea levels.
The Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC) has pledged to lead wetland conservation efforts to protect the environment and improve local livelihoods.
NIWRMC Acting Executive Director, Mrs Sakinatu Abbo-Jimeta, made this pledge in a statement at the Committee meeting on the Development of Conservation Plans and Management of Wetlands in Nigeria in Kano.
According to her, wetlands offer numerous benefits, including enhancing fishing and aquaculture, mitigating floods, and improving water supplies.
“They also serve as natural filters for pollutants and are home to a wide range of wildlife,” she added.
She explained that the initiative would focus on developing conservation and management plans for wetlands across the country.
The acting director said the meeting served as an opportunity for experts to assess the state of Nigeria’s wetlands and develop strategies for their sustainable use.
Abbo-Jimeta emphasised that wetland assessments are a crucial part of the commission’s conservation policy.
“These assessments will provide important data on the wetland’s hydrology, biodiversity, and soil composition.
“There is a close relationship between wetland assessment and monitoring. Assessments help identify potential threats or benefits, guiding our conservation efforts,” she said.
She added that the Baturiya wetland would be a pilot site for preliminary assessments.
“This will give us a clear picture of the potential or threats to the Baturiya wetland, allowing us to craft targeted conservation and management plans”.
The meeting also featured presentations from experts on various aspects of wetland management.
Dr Muslim Idris, the Committee Chairman, stressed the need for Nigeria to balance its water resources for better policy formulation and management.
He noted the importance of understanding the country’s water input and output.
Experts including Prof. Georgina Samuel and Dr Isa Dutse, shared findings on the biodiversity and challenges facing the Hadejia-Nguru Wetlands.
Dr Sadiq Muktar presented on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques to identify wetlands.
The initiative, he said, was critical as Nigeria’s wetlands are under increasing pressure from human activity, pollution, and climate change.
NIWRMC aims to protect wetlands for future generations while improving the well-being of those who depend on them.
The Forestry and Wildlife in Borno State Ministry of Environment says a herd of elephants that allegedly strayed from the neighbouring Cameroon has invaded and destroyed some community farmlands in the state.
Elephants
A Director in the ministry, Mr Ayuba Peter, confirmed the ugly incident in an interview in Maiduguri, the state capital, on Monday, September 9, 2024.
Peter said the incident had become perennial in the last five years in the area.
“We have been having reports of elephants destroying farmlands in Gamboru/Ngala and Kala-Balge Local Government Areas (LGAs) for the past five years.
“They used to come from a forest reserve in the neighbouring Cameroon Republic at this time and roam around, causing serious destruction to farmlands until flood water recedes around December,” Peter said.
He further said that the menace had been reported to the Federal Government through the National Park for urgent intervention.
He said that facilities, such as guns and firecrackers, are needed to scare the elephants away.
Peter said that efforts by the ministry were being frustrated by flooding, coupled with insecurity in the border communities.
He called for concerted efforts by various stakeholders, including non-governmental organisations, to permanently arrest the menace.
He also appealed to government at all levels to give financial support to the farmers, whose farmlands were destroyed.
In a letter to Gov. Babagana Zulum, a community leader, Baba Hassan from Ngala, called for urgent measures to address the problem.
Hassan expressed worry that farmers in the community suffered huge losses, worth millions of naira, to the rampaging animals.
“The recent invasion of the farmlands by elephants has resulted in the destruction of vast hectares of crops that the owners rely on for their livelihood.
“Imagine the despair and hopelessness these people are going through as their farms are trampled and devoured by these destructive creatures.
“Government must intervene to permanently put an end to the menace, which threatens food security and the economy of these communities.
“In the midst of already challenging times, marked by hardship, high cost of living, and soaring food prices, this unfortunate incident has exacerbated the difficulties faced by the vulnerable members of our communities,” Hassan said.
He recommended the setting up of barriers, employing trained personnel to stop the elephants from encroaching on the farmlands and community awareness programmes on elephant behavior and habitat protection.
Other affected farmers, including Bunu Modu and Musa Ali of Gamboru/Ngala LGA, described the recurring invasion of their farms as frustrating.
Also, Allamin Hassan and Hala Idris, said they lost so much in their farms to the attack and appealed to the State and Federal Governments to take urgent measures to end the phenomenon.
According to them, something has to be done quickly before farmers would be compelled to confront the elephants.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) says it has successfully secured over N60 billion and $100 million for the oil and gas host community development trust fund.
Dignitaries at the inauguration of the Body of Neutrals at the Upstream Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre in Lagos
Gbenga Komolafe, Commission Chief Executive of NUPRC, disclosed this during the inauguration of the Body of Neutrals at the Upstream Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre in Lagos.
Komolafe emphasised the commission’s ongoing efforts to effectively implement the Petroleum Industry Act’s robust provisions.
He said that the funds were intended to add value to host communities and facilitate a conducive operating environment for industry operators, aiming to optimise the nation’s hydrocarbon resources.
However, Komolafe noted that despite these efforts, challenges persist, adding that disputes within host communities often hinder the effective use of these funds.
He explained that conflicts and legal battles among community members could delay the deployment of funds, exacerbating issues in an already strained judicial system.
He stressed the importance of alternative dispute resolution methods, which offer faster, fairer, and less adversarial solutions to industry disputes.
According to Komolafe, these methods not only benefit the parties involved but also alleviate the burden on the judicial system.
“Our approach is both inclusive and adaptable, tailored to the unique needs of the oil and gas sector.
“Whether through mediation or expert determination, our centre is equipped to handle disputes of varying complexities and scales, ensuring respectful and supportive assistance to all involved,” Komolafe said.
The establishment of the Body of Neutrals marks a significant advancement in providing effective and cost-efficient dispute resolution services.
Komolafe emphasised that this centre represents a departure from traditional litigation, which is often marked by delays, high costs, and increased conflict.
“Our Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre aims to streamline dispute resolution through mechanisms like mediation and conciliation,
“Our goal is to offer a quality, cost-effective, and timely resolution process.
He noted that the funds for host community development were managed directly by the communities through their elected trustees, without government interference.
According to him, the structure is designed to ensure effective use of the funds, fostering a harmonious environment and supporting national production goals.
“The expectation is that these funds will promote shared prosperity and create a peaceful operating environment, which will, in turn, support optimal production and benefit the federation’s revenue,” Komolafe added.
Mrs Olayemi Anyanechi, Commission Secretary and Legal Adviser, praised the inauguration as a significant milestone.
She said that the Body of Neutrals would ensure fairness and impartiality, providing a platform for equitable dispute resolution.
She added, “This event signifies our commitment to justice and equity.
“The Body of Neutrals will set new standards in dispute resolution, reflecting our dedication to ethical excellence and our long-term vision for the centre.”
She expressed confidence that the centre would address conflicts among host communities and positively impact the industry.
Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo State on Monday, September 9, 2024, approved the constitution of a Task Force on Development Control and Environmental Issues in the state.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State
The governor’s aide on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, disclosed this in a statement issued in Benin and made available to newsmen on Monday.
Osagie stated that the task force would be chaired by Matthew Ikhide, with Isaac Ero as Secretary.
Other members of the task force include Fidelis Owen, Bridget Omorotionwan and Ese Ogbebor.
According to him, Henry Enabulele will serve as a member from the Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development.
“Osamudiamwen Omoregie is to represent the state’s Inland Revenue Service, while Bobby Obayuwana is a member from the Media,” he added.
The statement further disclosed that the task force would be inaugurated on a date to be announced later.
Dirty air disproportionately affects more vulnerable populations such as women, children and older people. Air pollution has become the second leading risk factor for early death globally, overtaking tobacco for adults and second only to malnutrition for children under five. Yet despite already high and still rising economic, environmental and existential impact of air pollution, which each year costs the world $8.1 trillion in health damages alone, less than 1 per cent of international development funding is dedicated to tackling it.
In addition to this silent killer’s toll on human health, “pollution is also choking economies and heating up our planet, adding fuel to the fire of the climate crisis,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message for the day, which the UN General Assembly designated as a day to champion clean air causes in 2019.
Led by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), this year’s theme focuses on amplifying global calls to Invest in #CleanAirNow to ensure a healthier and more prosperous future for people and the planet.
“Investing in clean air requires actions by both government and businesses to phase out fossil fuels, strengthen air quality monitoring, enforce air quality standards, boost renewable energy, transition to clean cooking, build sustainable transport and sustainable waste management systems, clean up supply chains, and reduce harmful emissions, including methane,” the UN Secretary-General said.
UNEP Executive Director, Inger Andersen, used her Clean Air Day message to call for greater investment in air pollution solutions in all societies, and an end to the violation of every human being’s fundamental right to breathe clean air.
“We are asking nations, regions and cities to establish robust air quality standards by backing renewable energy and sustainable transport, holding industry to account with strict emission standards, and integrating air quality into climate action,” she said.
“We are asking for strong funding through redirecting fossil fuel subsidies, through grants or microloans for cleaner cooking technologies, and through serious private sector engagement and investment,” she added. “We are asking for collective action, from international development initiatives to individuals that can make small changes in their own lifestyles.”
The good news is that air pollution is preventable, and people around the world are stepping up to address the crisis. Proving that change is possible, some cities have slashed air pollution levels, while countries have committed to reducing methane – a potent air pollutant also driving global warming – through the Global Methane Pledge and developed integrated plans to comprehensively tackle air pollution. A 20 per cent decrease in just one common pollutant, PM2.5, could lead to a 16 per cent jump in employment growth and 33 per cent jump in productivity, while reducing methane emissions could save between $4 billion and $33 billion by halving crop losses by 2050. Cutting super pollutants could further limit temperature rise and protect food security by preventing up to 0.5°C of warming by 2050.
To limit harm from unclean air, Governments can, among other measures, set and implement stricter air quality standards, invest in air quality monitoring to identify and track pollution hotspots, build institutional capacity to address air pollution, and integrate clean air measures into national policies and plans. Businesses should invest in clean technologies and practices that reduce emissions and assess their air pollution footprint and make clean air a core aspect of their business planning.
Air pollution knows no borders, and everyone has a duty to protect our atmosphere and a right to inhale healthy air. By working across all regions, sectors, and societies, and investing in cleaning up our air we can collectively breathe easier for generations to come.
