24.3 C
Lagos
Sunday, May 18, 2025
Home Blog Page 203

GOCOP partners NCDMB, EMADEB, Dangote, NCAA, Setraco, UBA, NCC, others for 2024 conference

Michael Simire
-
0
GOCOP partners NCDMB, EMADEB, Dangote, NCAA, Setraco, UBA, NCC, others for 2024 conference

Partners for the eighth annual conference of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) have begun to emerge with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Emadeb Group and Dangote Group leading the train of partners for the event slated for Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Reverton Hotel, GRA Lokoja, Kogi State.

Maureen Chigbo, GOCOP President
Maureen Chigbo, GOCOP President, at Media Roundtable on self-regulation

The chairman of the 2024 Conference Planning Committee, Danlami Nmodu, also listed other partners to include Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Setraco Nigeria Limited, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), according to a statement by GOCOP Publicity Secretary, Sir Remmy Nweke.

Nmodu was also quoted as saying that the eighth conference would center on the theme: “Nigeria: Tackling Insecurity, Power Deficit, and Transitioning to Digital Economy” and will hold on Thursday, October 3, 2024, from 10am. The keynote will be delivered by former governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyle Imoke.

Additional partners for 2024, he said, comprised the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Access Bank plc, Zenith Bank plc, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Fidelity Bank plc, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc (STI), Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) and National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

A major highlight of this year’s conference, Nmodu said, is a business luncheon with GOCOP partners on Wednesday, October 2, at the same venue, while the conference itself would hold on Thursday, October 3.

Nmodu noted that the 8th edition would be chaired by former Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman, with the former Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (Retd), and the Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, as Guest Speakers, while a Professor of Political Science at the Federal University Lokoja, Prof. Rotimi Ajayi, and an edutainment communicator and veteran broadcaster, Ms Debrah M. Ogazuma, are panellists.

Nmodu recalled that GOCOP conference 2023 was chaired by the JAMB Registrar and Chief Executive, Prof Ishaq Olarenwaju Oloyede, while the first Nigerian Professor of Capital Market, Prof. Uchenna Joseph Uwaleke, was the keynote speaker.

Previous speakers at the annual conference consisted of Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto who delivered the 2019 lecture on “Economy, Security and National Development: The Way Forward.”

In 2021, Mr. Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, keynoted the Conference in his capacity as Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19. He spoke on: “Post Covid-19 Pandemic: Recovery and Reconstruction in Nigeria.”
In 2022, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, delivered the keynote entitled “2023 Elections: Managing the Process for Credible Outcome.”

GOCOP was established to ensure that online publishers uphold the tenets of journalism.

Membership of the Guild is a constellation of editors and senior journalists who, having distinguished themselves in their various positions in the print and electronic media, ventured into online publishing which is both the present and future of journalism globally.

2,100 land, environmental rights defenders killed globally between 2012 and 2023 – Report

Michael Simire
-
0
2,100 land, environmental rights defenders killed globally between 2012 and 2023 – Report

A new report released by Global Witness has revealed that at least 196 land and environmental defenders were killed in 2023 for trying to protect their homes, community or the planet. according to a new report by Global Witness released on Friday, September 13, 2024, working in collaboration with global partners.

Jonila Castro
Jonila Castro, a Filipino activist who was abducted by the Philippines military in 2023 and currently facing criminalisation

The new figures bring the total number of defender killings to 2,106 between 2012 and 2023.

Overall, Colombia was found to be the deadliest country in the world, with 79 deaths in total last year – compared to 60 in 2022, and 33 in 2021. This is the most defenders killed in one country in a single year Global Witness has ever recorded. With 461 killings from 2012 to 2023, Colombia has the highest number of reported environmental defender killings globally on record.

Other deadly countries in Latin America include Brazil, with 25 killings last year, and Mexico and Honduras, which both had 18 killings.

Central America has emerged as one of the most dangerous places in the world for defenders. With 18 defenders killed in Honduras, the country had the highest number of killings per capita in 2023. A total of 10 defenders were also killed in Nicaragua last year, while four were killed in Guatemala, and four in Panama.

Worldwide, Indigenous Peoples and Afrodescendents continue to be disproportionately targeted, accounting for 49% of total murders.

Laura Furones, Lead Author and Senior Advisor to the Land and Environmental Defenders Campaign at Global Witness, said: “As the climate crisis accelerates, those who use their voice to courageously defend our planet are met with violence, intimidation, and murder. Our data shows that the number of killings remains alarmingly high, a situation that is simply unacceptable.

“Governments cannot stand idly by; they must take decisive action to protect defenders and to address the underlying drivers of violence against them. Activists and their communities are essential in efforts to prevent and remedy harms caused by climate damaging industries. We cannot afford to, nor should we tolerate, losing any more lives.”

While establishing a direct relationship between the murder of a defender and specific corporate interests remains difficult, Global Witness identified mining as the biggest industry driver by far, with 25 defenders killed after opposing mining operations in 2023. Other industries include fishing (five), logging (five), agribusiness (four), roads and infrastructure (four) and hydropower (two).

In total, 23 of the 25 mining-related killings globally last year happened in Latin America. But more than 40% of all mining-related killings between 2012 and 2023 occurred in Asia – home to significant natural reserves of key critical minerals vital for clean energy technologies.

As well as highlighting the number of killings worldwide, the report unearths wider trends in non-lethal attacks and their harmful impacts on communities globally. It highlights cases of enforced disappearances and abductions, pointed tactics used in both the Philippines and Mexico in particular, as well as the wider use of criminalisation as a tactic to silence activists across the world.

The report also explores the crackdown on environmental activists across the UK, Europe and the US, where laws are increasingly being weaponised against defenders, and harsh sentences are more frequently imposed on those who have played a role in climate protests. The findings form part of a concerning trend of criminalisation cases emerging worldwide.

Jonila Castro, a Filipino activist who was abducted by the Philippines military in 2023 and currently facing criminalisation, featured in the report, said: “Even after our release from abduction, threats continued. We are facing difficulties in returning to our homes and communities. We are still experiencing surveillance, red-tagging, and intimidation. Attacks to silence environmental defenders challenge our advocacy for environmental protection and people’s rights.

“Environmental devastation and human rights violations are interconnected, both sustained by governments and the extractive systems they defend. Our experience highlights the urgent need for stronger protection and recognition of community activists and environmental defenders in the global fight for climate justice.”

Despite the escalating climate crisis – and governments pledging to achieve the Paris Agreement target of 1.5C – land and environmental defenders are being increasingly subject to a wide range of attacks to stop their efforts to protect the planet. At least 1,500 defenders have been killed since the adoption of the Paris Agreement on 12 December 2015.

Nonhle Mbuthuma, author of the report’s foreword and Goldman Environmental Prize Winner 2024, said: “Across every corner of the globe, those who dare to expose the devastating impact of extractive industries – deforestation, pollution, and land grabbing – are met with violence and intimidation. This is especially true for Indigenous Peoples, who are essential in the fight against climate change, yet are disproportionately targeted year after year.

“Yet the brutality of these attacks reveals something profound: the power that ordinary people wield when they unite for justice. Leaders have a duty to listen and ensure that land and environmental defenders can speak out, everywhere, without fear of reprisal. This responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of every wealthy and resource-rich nation worldwide.”

Pan-Atlantic varsity roundtable explores constructive media engagement in governance

Michael Simire
-
0
Pan-Atlantic varsity roundtable explores constructive media engagement in governance

Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) held the second edition of its annual Media Roundtable event, centred around the theme: “Beyond Critique: The Importance of Constructive Media Engagement in Governance and Nation-Building.” The event brought together prominent media leaders, practitioners, students, academics, and various media stakeholders.

Pan-Atlantic University
Panelists at the Pan-Atlantic University media roundtable

In his welcome address, Dr Peter Bamkole, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin) of Pan-Atlantic University, set the tone for the day’s conversations by emphasising the power of truthful and transparent reporting.

“What you see, say, and write must be truthful, transparent, and reliable. Speaking the truth will change the narrative and promote constructive engagement instead of blind criticism,” Dr Bamkole stated.

The event featured an engaging panel discussion led by esteemed media professionals, including Magnus Onyibe (Public Policy Analyst and Author), Fisayo Soyombo (Founder, Foundation for Investigative Journalism -FIJ), Sherriff Quadry (Broadcast Journalist, Nigeria Info), Margaret Agada-Mba (Lecturer, School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University), Jonathan James Lyamgohn (Media Consultant) and Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun (Head of Programmes, News Central) each offering unique insights into the vital role of the media in governance and society.

Onyinyechi Aderibigbe of Nigeria Info and Elizabeth Musa of Business Day were the moderators at the event.

During the panel discussion, Sherriff Quadry emphasised the demanding nature of journalism, stating that it requires more than simply identifying as a journalist. He highlighted the need for extra commitment, dedication, and above all, sacrifice.

Quadry also stressed the essential role of a free press in maintaining a functioning democracy, noting that democracy cannot survive without journalists, and without a free press, it becomes impossible. He further addressed the challenges faced by Nigerian journalists, asserting that determination is key, as the work can be frustrating, particularly in a context where politicians often feel they should not be questioned.

Quadry also spoke on the responsibility of journalists to ensure that their work positively impacts society, cautioning that reports should foster development rather than create chaos. In her contribution, Margaret Agada-Mba questioned the government’s view of the media, posing the critical question: while the media strives to partner with the government, does the government consider the media a partner in national development?

Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun echoed the sentiment that there should be no restraints on the press, arguing that while cultural, religious, and ethnic sensitivities exist, they should not translate into restrictions on media freedom. She further underscored the role of journalists as truth-tellers, stating that their responsibility is to present news with honesty and transparency.

She further added to the dialogue by stressing the responsibility of senior journalists to mentor the next generation.

“There has to be a space for the transference of the values that make journalism what it is,” she said, underscoring the importance of cultivating ethical values in upcoming journalists.

Magnus Onyibe added that if journalists are ever offered the opportunity to work with the government, they should ensure they do so with a clear conscience, maintaining their integrity in the face of such challenges.

Fisayo Soyonbo addressed the issue of harassment faced by investigative journalists, highlighting that the solution to such intimidation is more investigative journalism.

“The answer to harassment is more journalism because the idea of harassment is to get the journalist to stop pursuing the truth,” Soyonbo said.

He emphasised the journalist’s role in uncovering the truth and presenting it to the public: “The job of a journalist is to dig the truth and release it.”

Jonathan James Lyamgohn emphasised three key principles when engaging with the government: respect, patriotism, and press independence.

“We are the fourth estate of the realm,” he noted, underscoring the vital role of journalists in upholding democracy.

He also remarked, “Journalism will always be challenging, but journalism will always be rewarding. Our ultimate employer, beyond our organization, is the people.”

The panellists reiterated that journalism is not merely a profession but a commitment to truth, transparency, and societal impact. As media practitioners navigate the complexities of reporting in a challenging environment, they must remain steadfast in their duty to hold power accountable, foster positive change, and contribute to the growth of a more informed and engaged society.

The event called on both the media and government to foster a relationship grounded in mutual respect and the shared goal of national development while preserving the integrity of a free and independent press. Through constructive engagement and responsible journalism, the media can continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring accountability and promoting the common good.

Ending open defecation in Nigeria our priority – UNICEF

Michael Simire
-
0
Ending open defecation in Nigeria our priority – UNICEF

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has affirmed its commitment to end open defecation in Nigeria.

UNICEF
A cross section of panelists at the workshop

Jane Bevan, Chief of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), UNICEF, stated this at a two-day media dialogue themed “Ending Open Defecation in Nigeria and Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)” in Lagos.

Bevan emphasised that collaboration from all sectors was crucial in achieving this goal.

“We are not just working toward an open defecation-free Nigeria; we are building a sustainable future where improved sanitation drives health, economic growth and environmental resilience.

“We need the government, partners and the private sector to join us in making Nigeria open defecation-free.

“We also need the media to assist us in sensitising the public to the dangers of open defecation.

“By leveraging the power of information, we can create a movement that not only raises awareness but also translates into tangible actions for ODF at the community level.

“We must keep this campaign on the front burner,” she said.

In her remarks, Mrs Chizoma Opara, a Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, expressed concern over the persistence of open defecation in the country.

Opara, who is also the National Coordinator of the Clean Nigeria Campaign, noted that the 2021 WASHNORM reports, revealed that more than 48 million Nigerians still engage in the practice.

“Open defecation is a sanitation and hygiene-related issue and a significant contributor to the spread of NTDs.

“Diseases like onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, trachoma, lymphatic filariasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) are transmitted through contaminated soil and faeces, perpetuating a cycle of poverty, malnutrition and ill health.

“By addressing open defecation, we can significantly reduce the transmission of NTDs,” Opara said.

Aituaje Iruobe, popularly known as WAJE and a UNICEF Champion, expressed concern on the high rate of open defecation in Nigeria, reiterating her commitment to leading the campaign against the practice.

The event also featured a panel of discussion session where stakeholders deliberated on strategies to eliminate open defecation and related issues.

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu and Segun Giwa

Farmers recount losses as tomato prices drop by 90% in Gombe community

Michael Simire
-
0
Farmers recount losses as tomato prices drop by 90% in Gombe community

Some tomato and pepper farmers and dealers in Bula community, Akko Local Government of Gombe State, are facing economic challenges as tomato prices drop by 90 per cent in two weeks.

Tomato
Baskets of tomato being sold at N1,000 at Bula community in Gombe State

A correspondent who visited the community on Thursday, September 12, 2024, observed that hundreds of baskets of tomato and bags of pepper were displayed for sale in the market.

Farmers and dealers were observed persuading customers to patronise their commodity.

As of Thursday, a big basket of tomato is N1,000 as against N10,000 which the commodity was sold at the community two weeks ago; this represents a 90 per cent drop in price.

A bag of bell pepper (Tatashe) which was sold for N40,000 two weeks back is now N10,000; representing 75 per cent drop in price of bell pepper.

While scotched bonnet (hot pepper) which was N50,000 is now N16,000; representing a 68 per cent drop in the price of the commodity.

Alhaji Saleh Maikudi, the Chairman of Tomato Farmers Association from Bula community, said farmers in the community were incurring huge losses daily.

According to him, a farmer or dealer loses daily, N9,000 per basket of tomato, N30,000 per bag of bell pepper and N34,000 per bag of hot pepper when compared with the price of the commodity two weeks back.

Maikudi, a 35-year-old farmer, said the situation was frustrating as his members had resorted to begging buyers to patronise.

He said the fear of incurring huge post-harvest losses had made farmers and dealers to beg customers in spite of the low price.

“This is why we are begging the Federal and the Gombe State Governments to come to our aid by providing processing facilities to prevent these losses and cut post- harvest losses.

“We have tomatoes and pepper in surplus now why not process and store, so we don’t experience scarcity of the commodity like we saw few months back?

“Farmers are now frustrated and apprehensive because the prices are not showing any good sign that they will get returns on their investment in view of the huge cost of farming,” he said.

Malam Khalifa Bello, the Chairman of Vegetables Sellers Association in the community, decried the huge monetary loss and post-harvest losses farmers in the community were facing.

He appealed to Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and private investors to assist farmers with mini processing facilities to process tomatoes into paste or powder and package in sachets or cans.

According to him, until tomato value chain from planting, harvesting, processing, packaging and storage is harnessed, farmers in the state will not make enough profit from the vocation.

Bello attributed the drop in prices to the large quantities of the commodity being harvested from different farmlands in the community as they were at the peak of harvest.

He said more than 1,500 baskets of tomato and 2,000 bags of different types of pepper were being transported out of Bula community to various parts of the country daily.

A big basket of tomato was sold for as high N150,000 in May.

By Peter Uwumarogie

Divestment: Host communities drag Shell to court for breach of ‘Mareva’ injunction

Michael Simire
-
0
Divestment: Host communities drag Shell to court for breach of ‘Mareva’ injunction

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Mr Mohammed Ndarani, on behalf of over 1,216 residents of host communities filed a claim of N500 billion against Shell Petroleum Development Company for breach of subsisting “Mareva” injunction.

Shell
Shell facility

A Mareva injunction is aimed at preventing the dissipation or removal of assets by defendants where it would be to avoid judgment.

The case is filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja with number FHC/ABJ/cs/1300/2024.

This follows a reported $2.8 billion divestment deal between Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited and a group of Nigerian organisations and which the host communities are kicking against.

The communities claimed that the recent transaction between Shell and Renaissance is a clear breach of the subsisting Mareva injunction granted by the Federal High Court, Akure on Sept. 28, 2023.

The injunction restrained Shell from disposing its assets in Nigeria until the conclusion of the case.

The communities are also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Shell, Renaissance and any other intending investors from entering any further negotiations towards the disposal of the said assets in breach of the injunction.

They prayed the court to order Shell to within 48 hours of the delivery of judgment in this suit, pay the sum of N500 billion as damages and another N5 billion as the cost of prosecuting the suit and legal representation.

The host communities, who sad that they are fish farmers, claimed that they suffered a great loss of properties due to the incessant incidents of oil spillage occasioned by ruptured pipelines belonging to Shell.

The claimants are also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining Shell, Renaissance and any other intending investors from entering into any further negotiations towards the disposal of the said assets.

SPDC JV, which operates 15 onshore and three shallow-water oil mining leases in Nigeria, had earlier this year moved to sell its assets to Renaissance.

Renaissance is a consortium of ND Western, Aradel Energy, First E&P, Waltersmith, and Petrolin.

The deal is valued at $1.3 billion, with an additional $1.1 billion in potential payments related to receivables and cash balances.

The net book value of the assets is $2.8 billion as of Dec. 31, 2023, and further contingent payments were expected, depending on business performance and product price fluctuations.

By Ebere Agozie

Climate finance: Key pathway to addressing flooding in Nigeria

Michael Simire
-
0
Climate finance: Key pathway to addressing flooding in Nigeria

Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in Nigeria, has been increasingly affected by severe flooding, greatly impacting its residents and infrastructure. With climate change intensifying weather patterns and increasing rainfall, the need for effective solutions is urgent. Climate finance can provide the necessary funding and resources to implement sustainable strategies that address the root causes of flooding while enhancing community resilience.

Olumide Idowu
Olumide Idowu

Climate finance refers to the funds that are mobilised to support projects aimed at mitigating climate change and adapting to its impacts. For Maiduguri, these funds can be directed toward vital infrastructure improvements, disaster preparedness initiatives, and community resilience programmes. Access to climate finance is essential for implementing effective solutions that can combat the escalating flooding crises faced by the city.

One of the most pressing needs in Maiduguri is the improvement of drainage systems. Many areas suffer from inadequate infrastructure that cannot cope with heavy rainfall, leading to severe flooding. Climate finance can be utilised to construct and upgrade drainage systems, ensuring that rainwater is effectively managed and reducing the risk of flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods. Investing in resilient infrastructure is a crucial step towards safeguarding lives and property.

In addition to traditional engineering solutions, climate finance can support the development of green infrastructure. Creating parks, bioswales, and green roofs can help absorb excess rainfall and reduce surface runoff. By integrating nature-based solutions into urban planning, Maiduguri can enhance its capacity to manage stormwater and mitigate the impacts of flooding while also improving air quality and public health.

Empowering local communities to engage in flood adaptation is essential. Climate finance can support programmes that educate residents about flood risks and provide training on sustainable practices. Community-led initiatives, such as local flood response teams and awareness campaigns, can significantly enhance resilience. By involving residents in the planning and implementation of solutions, the community can develop a deeper connection to the strategies that protect their homes and livelihoods.

The Nigerian government must expedite the processes related to climate finance to effectively address the flooding crisis in Maiduguri. Delays in accessing funds can hinder the implementation of critical projects that could mitigate the immediate impacts of flooding. By streamlining procedures and improving communication with international funding bodies, the government can ensure timely access to necessary resources.

To maximise the impact of climate finance, Nigeria should establish transparent and accountable mechanisms for fund allocation. This includes creating frameworks to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of funded projects. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, and community organisations will enhance the sustainability and impact of climate finance initiatives.

As the global community prepares for COP29, it is vital that the conference focuses on the specific climate finance needs of vulnerable countries like Nigeria. International discussions should prioritise the creation of accessible funding mechanisms tailored for developing nations facing climate challenges. Wealthier nations should be encouraged to increase their financial contributions to support regions like Maiduguri, which are disproportionately affected by climate change.

Climate finance presents a critical opportunity to address the severe flooding issues in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. By investing in resilient infrastructure, promoting green solutions, and empowering local communities, Nigeria can build a sustainable framework for flood management.

It is imperative for the government to accelerate access to climate finance and for international forums like COP29 to recognise and address Nigeria’s urgent needs. Through concerted efforts, Maiduguri can overcome the challenges posed by flooding and pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

By Olumide Idowu, Executive Director ICCDI Africa, @OlumideIDOWU

Wallenberg Medal: ICCDI Africa celebrates ‘beacon of environmental justice’ Nnimmo Bassey

Michael Simire
-
0
Wallenberg Medal: ICCDI Africa celebrates ‘beacon of environmental justice’ Nnimmo Bassey

The International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI Africa) has disclosed that it is thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Nnimmo Bassey as he is honoured with the Wallenberg Medal.

Wallenberg Medal
Nnimmo Bassey being honoured with the Wallenberg Medal

According to the group, the prestigious award recognises not only his tireless dedication to environmental justice but also his profound impact on communities around the world.

“Nnimmo’s work exemplifies the power of advocacy in addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation,” submitted the Lagos-based group, adding that Bassey has been a leading voice in the fight against environmental injustices, particularly in his native Nigeria.

ICCDI noted that Bassey’s unwavering commitment to the rights of affected communities in the Niger Delta has brought global attention to the harmful effects of oil extraction and exploitation. It added that, through his leadership in organisations such as Health of Mother Earth Foundation, Environmental Rights Action and Friends of the Earth International, Bassey has championed the cause of those whose voices are often marginalised in environmental discussions.

“His advocacy has not only raised awareness but has also inspired action to protect vulnerable ecosystems and the rights of local populations.”

ICCDI added that, in addition to his activism, Nnimmo is a gifted storyteller and poet, using his art to convey the urgency of the climate crisis. It noted that his ability to weave narratives that resonate emotionally with audiences has been instrumental in mobilising support for environmental justice initiatives.

“Through public speaking engagements and written works, he has effectively highlighted the interconnectedness of social justice and environmental stewardship, urging us all to recognise our shared responsibility in addressing these pressing issues.”

ICCDI stated further: “The Wallenberg Medal is a fitting tribute to Nnimmo’s relentless pursuit of a more equitable and sustainable world. It serves as a reminder that individual actions can lead to systemic change, inspiring countless others to join the movement for environmental justice.

“Nnimmo’s belief in grassroots activism and community empowerment underscores the importance of local solutions in tackling global challenges. He encourages us to embrace the principle that true progress can only be achieved when all voices are included in the conversation.

“As we celebrate Nnimmo Bassey’s well-deserved recognition, let us also reflect on our collective responsibility to champion the causes he so passionately defends. His legacy is a call to action for each of us to engage in the fight against climate change and environmental injustices. Together, we can honour Nnimmo’s work by committing to sustainable practices and advocating for policies that protect both people and the planet, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.”

CAPPA knocks NPA, condemns concession of water services at Tin Can Island Port

Michael Simire
-
0
CAPPA knocks NPA, condemns concession of water services at Tin Can Island Port

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has criticised the Federal Government’s decision to privatise the Tin-Can Water Treatment plant by handing it over to Sandust Tincan Water Project Limited (STWP) under a 16-year concession agreement, saying it raises concerns about the indiscriminate sale of public utilities by the current government.

Tin Can Island Port
Tin Can Island Port

According to news reports, the concessioning of the plant located within the Tin-Can Island Port (TCIP) complex follows 18 years of abandonment, decay and neglect of the facility.

The concession agreement, valued at N11 billion, effectively transfers the management and operation of TCIP’s water facilities to STWP, beginning September 1, 2025. The functional operation of the TCIP’s water utility is expected to restore the production and sale of fresh water to visiting vessels and port users.

The non-governmental organisation noted that the concession agenda, driven by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), and the Ministry of Finance, signals a worrying pattern of auctioning off essential public assets, particularly water infrastructure, under the guise of efficiency and increased revenue generation.

The organisation further stated that the concession reflects the lack of attention to the urgency of revamping water utilities for the benefit of underserved populations.

“Tin Can Island Port is Nigeria’s second-busiest port, serving as a crucial hub for international trade and economic development. As such, the supply of adequate clean water is also critical for sustaining the millions of citizens and residents within and around the port community who rely on it for their everyday domestic needs,” the statement noted.

The organisation lamented that turning over the control of such a vital resource to private hands with the sole purpose of revenue generation represents a step in the wrong direction and urged the government to reverse course by prioritising inclusive, socially responsible solutions that place public welfare at the centre of governance and development.

Sefa Ikpa, CAPPA’s Water Programme Officer, noted: “Entering into a concession agreement is not a solution but a symptom of a deeper systemic problem. In many instances, what leads to the decay of public infrastructure is rampant corruption and nepotism fuelled by a lack of accountability measures to keep public officers in check.

“Interestingly, even many private investments and firms, including financial institutions, have failed in Nigeria due to the same challenges. What this means, therefore, is that concessions are not the ultimate solution, neither is public ownership of national infrastructure an effort fated to fail. What needs to happen is the enforcement of effective accountability systems and best practices in the management of public utilities to guarantee optimum service delivery.”

Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of CAPPA, also described the NPA’s justification for entering a concession of the port’s water facility as disingenuous, noting that the government should have invested in and managed the utility directly given the woeful performance of concession ventures in the country.

“Records from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) reveal that the concessioning of public utilities in Nigeria has seen more failures than successes. For instance, a report by the Commission last year indicated that the Federal Government risked losing about N183 billion due to failed contractual agreements involving 25 concessioned public facilities and infrastructure.

“Interestingly, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has recorded the highest failures over the past two decades. The Nigerian Ports Concessions of 2006, which is considered Nigeria’s first and largest concession involving 20 contracts, has become a failure nearly two decades after,” Akinbode said.

Still addressing the issue of public water, CAPPA also decried the recent Memoranda of Understanding signed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction Group to enhance the lightening of the FCT and boost improved rural water supply respectively. These deals, according to CAPPA, follow the same pattern of outsourcing critical services to foreign entities, continuing the cycle of external dependence that has continued to hobble Nigeria’s national development priorities while exporting critical expertise and jobs.

“It must be emphasised that no nation develops equitably when its critical national infrastructures, such as public water utilities, are submitted to private hands for profit-making.

“Rather than blindly following the dictates of international financial institutions, Nigerian authorities must find the courage to develop home-grown policies and initiatives that can truly fast-track our country’s national development and growth.

“The cycle of dispossession and exploitation that has long been the scorecard of public-private partnerships, privatisation or concession and other similar neo-liberal policies in Nigeria must be broken to give way for genuine public enjoyment of governance and ownership of national wealth,” the statement concluded.

Flood: Agency confirms 49 dead, 226 communities affected in Kano

Michael Simire
-
0
Flood: Agency confirms 49 dead, 226 communities affected in Kano

The Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has confirmed 49 persons killed and 226 communities affected by flood and windstorm in 27 Local Government Areas of the state from January 2024 till date.

Flooding in Kano
Flooding in Kano

Executive Secretary of SEMA, Alhaji Isyaku Abdullahi-Kubarachi, who disclosed this on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, while briefing newsmen in Kano, the state capital, recalled that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had earlier predicted high risk of flooding in 14 local government areas of the state.

He said the affected areas included Tudun Wada, Gwale, Wudil, Danbatta, Ajingi, Dala, Gwarzo, Madobi, Bichi, Kano Municipal, Karaye, Tarauni, Minjibir, Bebeji, Rogo, Shanono, Kabo, Garin Malam and Ungogo.

According to him, others are Kumbotso, Nasarawa, Kura, Dawakin Kudu, Dawakin Tofa, Gezawa, Rogo and Bagwai Local Government areas.

He noted that the flood destroyed 6,583 houses while 38, 814 persons were affected.

“8,289 farmlands equivalent to ‘36,265 hectares’ were destroyed, 1, 414 persons were displaced, and 139 persons were injured,” SEMA boss said

According to him, the agency has taken rapid prompt response by visiting the affected local government areas to sympathise with the victims on behalf of Kano State Government and distributed relief materials to alleviate their sufferings.

“SEMA in collaboration with relevant stakeholders organised several workshops to proffer ways of curtailing environmental hazards especially flood.”

He commended Gov. Abba Yusuf for providing logistics and other necessary assistance to alleviate the suffering of the victims.

The executive secretary, who warned against building on water ways, urged residents in the state to always clear drainage system in front of their houses to prevent flood.

He called on wealthy individuals to complement the agency’s efforts by supporting flood victims with relief material.

According to him, the agency will not relent in its efforts to ensure the protection of lives and property.

By Ramatu Garba

1...202203204...2,219Page 203 of 2,219

TV Report

Archives

2025 EnviroNews Nigeria. All Rights Reserved.

×