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Over 2m rural Nigerians now have clean water – Utsev

Michael Simire
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Over 2m rural Nigerians now have clean water – Utsev

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has said that over two million rural Nigerians now have access to clean and safe drinking water, following the completion of hundreds of government water-supply projects.

The minister made the announcement while delivering the keynote address at the Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement on the ministry’s achievements in Abuja on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

He explained that 500 new installations, including solar-powered boreholes, storage tanks, reticulated pipelines, and water fetching points, have been constructed nationwide to improve rural livelihoods and sanitation.

Prof. Joseph Utsev
Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation

Utsev noted that sanitation had also been strengthened under the Clean Nigeria Campaign, with 5,238 public sanitation facilities constructed and 162 Local Government Areas certified Open Defecation Free (ODF).

He said the ministry’s efforts were supported by UNICEF, the World Bank, and other development partners through the Sustainable Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (SURWASH) and the Partnership for Expanded Water Supply and Sanitation (PEWASH) programmes.

“These programmes provide sustainable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services across the country, benefiting millions of Nigerians.”

The minister added that two National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia have been completed to enhance water-quality monitoring nationwide.

Utsev emphasised that community engagement remains central to the ministry’s work, noting that Water Users’ Associations have been established across regions to empower farmers and ensure sustainable management of irrigation and WASH infrastructure.

On dams and hydropower, the minister explained that the Kashimbilla Multipurpose Dam and its 40-megawatt hydropower plant are fully operational, while the Gurara and Dadin Kowa Dams now contribute renewable energy to the national grid.

He reported that other dams under construction include Mangu Dam (90%) in Plateau, Adada Dam (78%) in Enugu, Ogbesse Dam (65%) in Ekiti, and Farin Ruwa Dam in Nasarawa.

“Smaller dams, including Irawo Earth Dam in Oyo and Otukpo Multipurpose Dam in Benue, along with the rehabilitation of Tiga, Challawa Gorge, and Ruwan Kanya reservoirs, are improving capacity and operational efficiency,” he said.

On irrigation, Utsev said the Dadin Kowa Scheme now provides 2,000 hectares of farmland to farmers in Gombe State, boosting productivity and livelihoods.

He reported that the Middle Rima Valley Project in Sokoto and Middle Ogun Project in Ogun are operational, using solar-powered sprinklers to reduce energy costs for farmers.

The minister added that small-scale renewable-energy irrigation projects in Gari (Jigawa), Ipapo (Oyo), and Duku-Lade (Kwara) have been completed, while additional schemes in Kebbi State are ongoing.

He said river basin development authorities now play a major role in national food security, revitalising dry-season farming schemes that benefit over 1.6 million farmers.

Utsev highlighted the maiden National Sanitation Conference, which brought together stakeholders, religious, and traditional leaders to develop strategies for eradicating open defecation.

He reaffirmed that water security, irrigation, renewable energy, and sanitation remain central to Nigeria’s vision for inclusive growth, public health, food security, and national prosperity.

The minister said, “Our government is committed to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, targeting universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.”

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Emanso Umobong, said the Citizens and Stakeholders’ Engagement aims to strengthen accountability, transparency, and stakeholder inclusion.

She noted that the water and sanitation sector is central to public health, economic development, food security, and national well-being.

Umobong said the forum provides a platform for dialogue on sector performance, challenges, and collaboration.

“Close interaction with stakeholders is essential to obtain meaningful feedback and improve service delivery.

“The Ministry values all contributions, and outcomes of today’s session will help refine policies and enhance programme implementation,” she said.

She highlighted that citizen and stakeholder engagement was first anchored in Presidential Executive Order 12 of 2022, later amended by Executive Order 13 to strengthen coordination and accountability in implementing government priorities.

Umobong said ministries are required to hold at least one stakeholder engagement meeting every quarter, chaired by the Minister and supported by Permanent Secretaries, Directors, development partners, and civil society actors.

Highlights of the meeting included questions and feedback from partners on repositioning the Ministry and its agencies to align with its mandate and strengthen the water and sanitation sector.

By Tosin Kolade

Authors retract climate change study, will resubmit for peer review

Michael Simire
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Authors retract climate change study, will resubmit for peer review

Following the publication of two critiques as “Matters Arising”, and in conversation with the journal Nature, the authors of the study “The economic commitment of climate change” at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) have retracted the paper. In response to the critiques, the authors undertook revisions to constructively address the issues raised.

Nature determined the changes exceeded those of a correction, so the authors will resubmit a new version of the paper for peer review.  A revised analysis, including data and methodology, was made open access in August 2025 for the wider scientific community to engage with, though the authors emphasise that this has not yet undergone peer review.

Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)

The revised analysis shows economic damages from climate change till mid-century are substantial and outweigh the costs of mitigation, they are mainly driven by temperature changes and affect regions with low incomes and low historical emissions most.

The authors and PIK take full responsibility for the original oversight which has led to the retraction. The authors would like to thank Thomas Bearpark, Dylan Hogan, Solomon Hsiang and Christof Schötz for bringing the issues to their attention. By resubmitting a new version of the paper, they hope to contribute to the further development of this important field.

PIK is one of the leading research institutions addressing relevant questions in the fields of global change, climate impacts and sustainable development.

Natural and social scientists work closely together to generate interdisciplinary insights that provide a sound basis for decision-making for society, businesses and politics. PIK is a member of the Leibniz Association.

Intensified cyclones, floods expose urgent need for climate action in Indonesia, Southeast Asia

Michael Simire
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Intensified cyclones, floods expose urgent need for climate action in Indonesia, Southeast Asia

Unusually heavy rains have triggered deadly flooding across Indonesia’s Sumatra Island, affecting 3.2 million people and causing more than 700 deaths, with over 500 still missing.

These floods are part of a wider regional crisis linked to Cyclone Senyar which struck Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia and Cyclone Ditwah, which hit Sri Lanka. Together, these extreme weather events have resulted in over 1,300 deaths across Southeast Asia as of December 3, 2025.

Thailand’s Hat Yai province recorded its highest rainfall in 300 years, while Cyclone Senyar formed in the typically calm Malacca Strait an event experts consider “rare” due to the lack of rotational force near the equator. Scientists warn that such anomalies are becoming more common as warmer ocean temperatures supercharge storms and intensify rainfall.

Indonesia Flood
Residential houses damaged by flash floods in Meureudu, Pidie Jaya district Indonesia’s Aceh province. Photo credit: CHAIDEER MAHYUDDIN / AFP/Chaideer MAHYUDDIN / AFP

Sisilia Nurmala Dewi, 350.org Indonesia Team Lead, said: “With human-induced climate change intensifying storms and deforestation destroying our capacity to cope with climate impacts, this is a man-made disaster. The Indonesian government has mismanaged the environment by failing to protect our forests and allowing continued fossil fuel use.

“World leaders including President Prabowo of Indoneisa need to confront climate change by addressing its root cause: burning fossil fuels and clearing forests. While the President has made public statements about phasing out coal and shifting to renewable energy, this has not been reflected in actual policy.

“Rich countries and big polluters must pay their climate debt now, not in the future, because lives are being lost now. Fossil fuel, mining, and palm oil companies that have profited from destroying our environment must pay up for loss and damage. Communities must be provided what they’re owed to rebuild from disaster and be protected from future harm. The money for a better future exists – it’s just in the wrong hands.

Climate disaster victims are also becoming increasingly aware that polluters and their own governments are accountable for these clearly preventable tragedies. As the citizen lawsuit initiated by Bali’s flood victims shows, people are rising up and taking climate justice to court.” 

The UN World Meteorological Organisation has raised alarms over rising extreme rainfall across Asian nations, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. A recent attribution study by the Grantham Institute confirms that human-induced climate change has intensified both wind speeds and rainfall in recent typhoons, adding to the urgency for decisive climate action.

Rescue operations in Sumatra have been severely impeded by blocked roads, broken bridges, and thick mud conditions typical of rural and mountainous areas hit hardest by climate disasters. These compounded challenges illustrate how the most vulnerable communities are the least likely to receive timely assistance, deepening the injustices they already face despite having contributed least to the climate crisis.

Environmental degradation has further amplified the disaster. Driven by mining, logging, and palm oil industries, Sumatra has lost 4.4 million hectares of forest in the last two decades an area larger than Switzerland, leaving landscapes more prone to landslides and floods.

During a visit to flood-hit North Sumatra, President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged climate change as a challenge Indonesians “must confront.” However, his statements continue to frame climate change as a natural phenomenon rather than the man-made crisis it is, driven by fossil fuel combustion and deforestation. Indonesia’s own climate policies remain heavily reliant on fossil fuels and fail to protect forests, despite public claims of transitioning to renewable energy.

At COP30, nations pledged to triple adaptation finance but provided no concrete dollar commitment and delayed the goal to 2035. Observers believe that, for vulnerable communities already losing lives and livelihoods, this delay is unacceptable. They insist that rich countries and major polluters must pay what they owe now, not in the future.

Communities across Indonesia are demanding accountability. Survivors of September’s deadly floods in Bali, supported by 350.org organisers, are preparing a climate lawsuit against the Indonesian government for failing to prevent the disaster, citing the International Court of Justice advisory opinion affirming governments’ responsibilities to protect citizens from climate harm.

Celebrating Kano’s impressive growth in Nigeria’s climate governance ranking

Michael Simire
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Celebrating Kano’s impressive growth in Nigeria’s climate governance ranking

On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at a high-level event in Abuja, the results of the 2025SubnationalClimate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking were unveiled. This landmark assessment – conceived by the Department of Climate Change, the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), PACE of the UK FCDO and other partners – remains Nigeria’s first comprehensive attempt to rate climate action across all 36 states. Designed to spur healthy competition, inspire peer learning and motivate action, the ranking has become a powerful tool for strengthening climate governance nationwide.

One of the most striking outcomes of the 2025 edition was the dramatic and unprecedented rise of Kano State from 35th position in 2024 to 4th position in 2025. This remarkable leap did not go unnoticed. It drew commendations across the climate community, national media and international partners.

Dr. Dahir M. Hashim
Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, Commissioner, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Kano State

But, as impressive as this milestone is, it is important to say clearly that this success was neither accidental nor cosmetic. It was the product of deliberate, strategic and courageous efforts to reform, strengthen and modernise climate governance in our state.

And at the heart of that transformation was the motivation and direction provided by the ranking exercise itself. The 2024 results made it unambiguously clear where Kano stood, the gaps we had to confront and the areas where improvement was urgent. We embraced the ranking not as a judgement but as an opportunity – a mirror that showed us where we needed to go and how quickly we needed to act.

Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, we placed climate governance at the centre of our development priorities. The Governor’s clear directive was that Kano would no longer lag behind, and that environmental stewardship must translate into real improvement in the lives of our people.

In the past year, therefore, we strengthened institutions and deepened environmental governance by implementing the Kano State Climate Change Policy, expanding renewable energy deployment, greening our urban spaces through the Urban Renewal Project and accelerating afforestation and erosion control across the state. Guided by the ranking template, every step we took was structured, intentional and measured.

But what truly propelled our rise was not policy on paper – it was implementation, and implementation that produced results in real communities. Our strategy was inclusive and bottom-up, ensuring that every intervention addressed real needs and delivered tangible benefits.

In early 2024, we signalled our commitment by championing the Northwest Climate Resilience Declaration, a regional compact with a seven-point agenda for coordinated action across the Northwest. This was a turning point — a shift from climate rhetoric to climate delivery.

Through the Kano State Afforestation Project (KNAP), we operationalised that commitment. In 2025 alone, 5.5 million seedlings were distributed across all 44 LGAs. This strategic tree planting project is reducing dust storms, restoring degraded lands and strengthening carbon sinks. Environmental experts estimate that every million mature trees can sequester up to 24,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually. Kano’s 2025 effort therefore has the potential to lock away emissions equivalent to several thousand vehicles each year, while creating natural windbreaks and improving the microclimate in our Sahel-facing communities.

Under the ACReSAL project, we translated climate intent into improved water security. We delivered 10 solar-powered boreholes, complete with mini-dams, irrigation channels and safe-water zones. These facilities are already improving access to water for thousands of households and farmers, reducing the pressures of erratic rainfall and cutting time spent – particularly by women and children – in search of water. Better water access means higher crop yields, reduced waterborne diseases and improved household wellbeing.

To protect lives and critical infrastructure, we awarded an ₦8.5 billion contract for the large-scale gully-erosion control project along the Bulbula–Gayawa corridor – one of the most climate-vulnerable urban belts in Kano. This intervention is preventing property loss, reducing flooding and stabilising a corridor that supports major transport, commerce and residential communities. Each rainy season, this single project now protects assets worth billions of naira and secures the livelihoods of an estimated 200,000 residents.

We also prioritised improvements in urban climate infrastructure. The deployment of wireless solar-powered traffic lights backed by a ₦3.4 billion investment is not only reducing emissions and electricity costs but improving traffic safety and easing congestion. Likewise, the ₦1.46 billion upgrade to facilities at the Ministry of Power & Renewable Energy strengthened our institutional ability to sustain a transition to cleaner energy.

Our partnership with UNICEF and the UK Government enabled us to deliver 55 climate-resilient schools and primary healthcare centres, fitted with solar systems, better ventilation and flood-resistant designs. These facilities ensure learning continues during heatwaves and that essential healthcare remains available during extreme weather events. The impact on children, pregnant women and vulnerable groups cannot be overstated.

In waste management, we strengthened REMASAB through the procurement of 10 refuse trucks and two payloaders, and launched a new waste-handling initiative across public transport routes. Cleaner urban environments are already reducing disease vectors and improving air quality – a major concern in a densely populated state like ours.

We also embraced digital transformation by launching an online climate action and green investment platform. With real-time air and water quality data, hazard reporting and pathways for civic participation, this platform has improved transparency and positioned Kano as one of the few Nigerian states using digital tools to strengthen environmental governance.

All of these efforts were recognised in our performance across each thematic criterion of the subnational ranking. From institutional arrangements to policy status, budgeting, implementation, and online visibility, our scores rose sharply – reflecting real reforms rather than box-ticking.

Our jump from 45 points in 2024 to 280 points in 2025 was the result of work that touched every LGA, every sector and every community. And most importantly, the improvements we made are already delivering social, economic and environmental benefits: better water access, improved agricultural prospects, reduced environmental hazards, stronger infrastructure and healthier living conditions for our people.

While we celebrate this achievement, we understand that climate leadership is a journey, not a destination. Guided by the ranking framework and motivated by the wellbeing of our citizens, we will continue to strengthen climate governance, deepen implementation and expand the impact of our interventions.

Also, this recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated teams, local governments, community leaders, civil society, and partners (especially the UK-FCDO Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) who have worked with us to strengthen climate action in Kano.

It is not yet uhuru, but we celebrate this milestone – and we commit to doing even more for the people of Kano State.

By Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, Commissioner, Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Kano State

Navy dismantles five illegal refining sites in Delta

Michael Simire
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Navy dismantles five illegal refining sites in Delta

The Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos of the Nigerian Navy says it has deactivated five illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino Community in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.

FOB Escravos Commanding Officer, Navy Capt. Ikenna Okoloagu, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, in Warri.

Okoloagu said that, cumulatively, about 13,050 litres of stolen crude oil concealed in 30 dugout pits and three polythene sacks were seized during the operations.

Illegal crude oil refining
Illegal crude oil refining in the Niger Delta region

He said the illegal refining sites were deactivated between Nov. 5 and Nov. 19 following a series of coordinated operations guided by credible intelligence.

Okoloagu said the exercise was carried out under the ongoing Operation DELTA SANITY II.

The naval chief also said the operations were in line with the strategic directives of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, which focused on maintaining sustained pressure on economic saboteurs.

“Specifically, on Nov. 5, 2025, operatives, acting on actionable intelligence, dismantled two illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino Community with about 4,000 litres of stolen crude oil.

“Subsequently, on Nov. 14, an additional site was dismantled at the same community with about 3,850 litres of stolen crude oil recovered.

“Additionally, on Nov. 19, two illegal sites were deactivated at the same riverine community and about 5,200 litres of stolen crude oil seized,” he said.

The naval boss warned criminals to desist from sabotaging the nation’s economic assets or face the full wrath of the law.

Okoloagu expressed the Base’s unwavering commitment to stemming illegal activities in the maritime domain and safeguarding the nation’s critical assets from saboteurs.

By Edeki Igafe

NCDMB, BOI sign $100m Nigerian Content Intervention Fund MoU

Michael Simire
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NCDMB, BOI sign $100m Nigerian Content Intervention Fund MoU

The Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Bank of Industry (BoI) on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the $100 million Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) Equity Scheme.

The Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr. Felix Ogbe, signed on behalf of the Board, while the Managing Director of BoI, Dr Olasupo Olusi, signed for the bank.

Ogbe described the signing as a landmark development and milestone in local content financing.

Felix Ogbe
Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Ogbe

‘’We have concluded arrangements to establish the 100 million dollars Equity Investment Scheme in partnership with BOI.

“This finance scheme will provide equity financing to high-growth indigenous energy service companies, while diversifying our income base and strengthening local content development,” he said.

Ogbe said that the board had completed the framework for the issuance of the Nigerian Content Equipment Certificate.

According to him, the certificate will confirm companies’ compliance to the one per cent remittance obligations.

“The certificate will become effective 1st January 2026 and will be required to get key permits and approvals from the board,” he said.

Also speaking, Olusi, commended NCDMB leadership for its partnership.

He also commended its shared vision and unwavering commitment to strengthening indigenous participation across Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain.

“This collaboration marks a significant expansion of our long-standing relationship, through the fund.

“BOI will deploy equity and quasi-equity capital to support high-potential Nigeria companies, complementing traditional debt financing and strengthening access to the long-term risk.

“It will also support capital required for scale, competitiveness and value creation.

“The structure of this fund reflects BOI’s proven equity investment approach anchored on rigorous due diligence, disciplined investment review processes and robust post-investment monitoring.

“Our objective is to ensure that deployed capital generates credible commercial returns.

‘’We will also be advancing national priorities in local content development, manufacturing expansion, job creation and technology transfer.

“Together we reaffirm our shared commitment to building resilient indigenous enterprises that can compete globally and deliver lasting economic value for Nigerians,” Olusi said.

By Shedrack Frank

UK PACT unveils clean air, climate initiative

Michael Simire
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UK PACT unveils clean air, climate initiative

The United Kingdom Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) has unveiled a new project aimed at strengthening private sector capacity for climate and clean-air action in Nigeria.

The initiative, tagged “Transport Climate Action: Boosting Business Leadership for Clean Air in Nigeria”, was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday, December 2, 2025.

It seeks to reduce carbon emissions and accelerate low-carbon, inclusive economic growth, with a strong focus on the transport sector.

UK PACT
Dignitaries at the unveiling of the new UK PACT initiative, in Abuja

It brought together businesses, policymakers, regulators, financial institutions and civil society groups.

Dr Emmanuel Onwodi, Project Lead at Escher Silverman Global Air Pollution, said the intervention was driven by the rising burden of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

He said GHG was one of Nigeria’s most urgent economic and public health concerns, noting that more than 200,000 premature deaths occur annually due to poor air quality.

According to him, businesses are both victims and contributors to the crisis.

“The transport sector accounts for over 15 per cent of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions but is ill-equipped to address the issues, including limited technical expertise, unclear regulatory pathways and restricted access to finance for clean technologies,” he said.

Gari Haq, Consortium Lead at the University of York, said the UK PACT project would tackle existing gaps by equipping private enterprises with training, tools and policy support for low-carbon operations.

He outlined UK PACT as a flagship UK government programme supporting partner countries to cut carbon emissions and drive inclusive growth.

Haq said the 15-month project would help businesses access climate finance and participate in voluntary carbon markets.

“It would also support the development of finance-ready Climate and Clean Air Action Plans, promote emissions-reducing practices aligned with Nigeria’s NDC 3.0 targets, and build understanding of regulatory frameworks such as the National Climate Change Fund.

“The project will also strengthen collaboration between private companies, regulators and financial institutions, and integrate Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion considerations into climate action,” he added.

The initiative is delivered in partnership with Consulting Engineers Group (CEG) and the SLOCAT Partnership on Sustainable, Low-Carbon Transport, alongside Nigerian partners Escher Silverman Global (ESG) and AP3 Advisory.

Mr. Ibrahim Shelleng, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Finance and Stakeholder Engagement, said climate change was now a lived reality across cities, farms, industries and communities.

He cited extreme heat in the north, flooding in coastal states and worsening air quality in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Kano.

Shelleng said the challenges also present an opportunity to mobilise the creativity and dynamism of the private sector.

“Our industries, SMEs, financiers, manufacturers, agribusinesses, logistics companies and technology innovators have a central role in driving the transition to a cleaner, healthier and more resilient economy,” he said.

He added that the stakeholder gathering underscored that Nigeria’s climate and clean-air ambitions cannot be achieved without an empowered and committed private sector.

“This platform deepens understanding, builds capacity, shares practical tools and strengthens collaboration.

“It allows us to explore priority areas such as integrating climate-smart business practices, adopting clean-energy technologies and accessing climate finance, including carbon markets, green bonds and blended-finance instruments,” he said.

Shelleng said aligning private sector strategies with Nigeria’s national climate commitments would help reduce emissions, improve air quality and ensure competitiveness in a global economy increasingly driven by sustainability.

By Felicia Imohimi

CoP20: CITES decisions on trade regulation imminent for big cats, trees, sea cucumbers, sharks 

Michael Simire
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CoP20: CITES decisions on trade regulation imminent for big cats, trees, sea cucumbers, sharks 

Halfway through the 20th World Wildlife Conference, Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) are advancing decisions that will shape international trade regulation for big cats, tree and plant species, sea cucumbers, sharks, and more.

Science‑driven cooperation continues to guide nations toward shared solutions for conservation of species and the people who benefit from and rely on the sustainability of trade in them. With momentum building, Parties are preparing to finalise draft decisions and amended Resolutions for adoption in the closing plenary on December 4 to 5, 2025, where the Convention’s next three‑year agenda will be set.

CITES CoP20
Committee 1 plenary at CITES CoP20

Nearly 3,400 participants have joined so far, including close to 1,000 government representatives from 163 Parties, alongside 209 observer organisations, more than 100 media representatives and numerous local participants. Together, they have already addressed 105 agenda items, achieving consensus on many and voting 29 times where necessary.

Over 50 side events have complemented the negotiations, including the launch of new CITES e‑learning courses on InforMEA and trade sustainability assessment guidance, and updates from the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC).

CITES Secretary-General Ivonne Higuero said: “This halfway point shows the energy and commitment of Parties, observers, and partners. As we move forward, we rely on Parties to maintain the same positive spirit and constructive energy in building consensus. With this collective determination, we are confident that the work can be completed on time and deliver meaningful outcomes for wildlife and people alike.”

Deliberations are proceeding in parallel within two Committees. Committee I, focusing on species‑related matters, began with African carnivores and terrestrial species, including lions, leopards, vultures, and the Joint CITES-CMS African Carnivores Initiative addressing cheetah, leopard, lion, and wild dog. Proposals on dorcas gazelle, saiga antelope, giraffe and okapi are under review. Plant species have featured prominently, with agreement on revised guidance for agarwood and progress on African and Neotropical trees, guided by range State priorities. 

The Committee I reviewed 10 proposals to amend the Appendices for plants, with ongoing debate on Brazil wood. Proposals concerning guggul, red doussié, African padauk, and Parlatore’s podocarp were rejected after voting. The adoption of Appendix I listing of the endemic and iconic Chilean palm was agreed by consensus. The Appendix II listings for two ponytail palms and four aloe species were also adopted. An amended annotation proposed for American ginseng was rejected.

Aquatic species discussions covered non‑detriment findings, stony corals, and queen conch. Proposals on nine aquatic species proposals were accepted, including transfer to Appendix I for manta ray and whale shark (consensus), and – after a vote – the Oceanic whitetip shark. The proposal to include all anguillid eels in Appendix II was not agreed in Committee I, but a Resolution was agreed, and this Resolution is applicable to all anguillid eels.

Zero annual export quotas were set for wild‑taken guitarfishes and wedgefishes already included in Appendix II, while school sharks and gulper sharks were agreed to be listed in Appendix II. Sea cucumbers saw mixed outcomes, with the Appendix II listing for Golden sandfish by consensus, therejection of a proposal to list six other species of sea cucumber and the adoption of new decisions to guide workshops on conservation priorities and enforcement.

Committee II, addressing implementation of the Convention, advanced administrative and financial matters, reaffirmed cooperation with UNEP, and tasked the budget working group with preparing recommendations for 2026–2028. Parties advanced several global policy matters, agreeing to enhance their work on CITES’ role in zoonotic disease risk mitigation.

Deliberations moved to the inclusion of references to the new marine biodiversity agreement for areas beyond national jurisdiction in the CITES Strategic Vision. Parties agreed to endorse stronger cooperation with MEAs and approved to expand translations of Resolutions and Decisions. The draft gender action plan was adopted, with further work scheduled intersessionally.

With regards to the engagement with indigenous peoples and local communities, Committee II agreed to defer terminology discussions pending work under the CBD glossary. Parties also agreed to publish the non-binding Guidance on the CITES website. Committee II debated the livelihoods agenda item; and discussion was deferred pending an in‑session document.

Elephant-related work progressed with the Committee noting the report of the Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) Programme, establishing an ETIS working group, and renewing support for both monitoring systems, updated stockpile provisions, and retirement of outdated measures such as mammoth ivory.

While revised measures on closure of domestic ivory markets did not advance, strengthened measures for unsecured stockpiles were agreed by the Committee II, alongside ongoing work concerning ETIS categorization, NIAPs, legal acquisition findings, and acceptable destinations. 

Further progress in Committee II included sharing best practices on demand reduction for illegal wildlife products, updated compliance measures on totoaba to reinforce national enforcement and local community engagement, and species‑specific progress: integrating cheetah issues into the Big Cats Task Force, expanding measures for Asian big cats, retaining leopard decisions, and new guidance on captive tiger management. Work also advanced on jaguar conservation, continued on great apes, and remains under discussion for saiga antelope.

There is a substantial agenda to get through still in the Committee stages. As the second week began on December 2, Parties worked to finalise draft decisions and amended Resolutions for adoption in plenary on December 4 and 5. The 80th meeting of the Standing Committee (SC80) will convene on the afternoon of December 5 to establish the intersessional work programme, guiding scientific, technical, and compliance‑related efforts until the next World Wildlife Conference (CoP21).

The progress achieved across both Committees demonstrates a shared determination to deliver meaningful outcomes for wildlife and for the communities who depend on it. Sustaining this cooperative spirit will be essential in the days ahead.

Tanzanian hip hop artist, Frida Amani, named UNEP Advocate

Michael Simire
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Tanzanian hip hop artist, Frida Amani, named UNEP Advocate

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, named Tanzanian hip hop artist, Frida Amani, as its first-ever Advocate for Ecosystem Restoration. The designation comes ahead of the seventh session of the UN Environment Assembly, in Nairobi.

With more than one million social media followers, Frida Amani is among East Africa’s most celebrated female rappers and media personalities. She has won multiple accolades, including the Music Cities Award – which recognises and celebrates the best uses of music to drive economic, social, environmental, and cultural development in cities and places worldwide – and the Orange Award in Tanzania. 

Frida Amani
Frida Amani

“Growing up, we saw nature as a great protector – providing water, food, shade, and meaning. We also watched it become increasingly vulnerable to climate change and unsustainable exploitation, resulting in floods and droughts. By joining the UN Environment Programme, I wish to inspire my fans to become part of a generation committed to ecosystem restoration. It is no longer enough to lament nature’s loss – we must bring it back. We are Generation Restoration,” Amani said.

Amani becomes UNEP’s first Advocate for Ecosystem Restoration. In this role, she will work to raise awareness and mobilise young people to prevent, halt, and reverse ecosystem degradation. At the midpoint of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, her voice is poised to strengthen efforts to rehabilitate degraded natural areas – from oceans to mountains and from cities to savannahs, grasslands, and forests.

“Frida sings, speaks, and acts for a healthy environment, so I am pleased to welcome her to the UNEP family,” said UNEP Executive Director, Inger Andersen. “Reflected in her work is a relentless passion for restoration, where care for people and nature go hand-in-hand, making her an inspiring role model for young people across Africa and beyond.”

Amani’s social and environmental activism is woven into many of her musical productions and performances. This includes songs such as Kisiki Hai (Famer-Managed Natural Regeneration in Swahili), the Performance for Nature event, the Mote Mama Gizani campaign for the health of pregnant women, as well as her role as Goodwill Ambassador for the Lead Foundation. Frida Amani has set up her ow foundation – the Amani foundation – through which she supports causes like the Performance for Nature concert held in Tanzania earlier this year.

Front-of-package labels: A vital tool for a healthier Nigeria

Michael Simire
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Front-of-package labels: A vital tool for a healthier Nigeria

Nigeria is grappling with a rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension. These illnesses are often closely tied to unhealthy diets, particularly the excessive consumption of processed and packaged foods high in sugar, sodium (salt), and saturated fats.

The widespread availability, affordability, and aggressive marketing of these ultra-processed products continue to push more people toward obesity, metabolic complications, and other diet-related conditions, contributing to the 29 percent of all deaths in Nigeria now linked to NCDs.

Bukola Olukemi-Odele
Bukola Olukemi-Odele, food scientist and Programme Officer (Cardiovascular Health, Food Policy Program) at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA)

In this context, consumers need clearer and more accessible information at the point of purchase about the nutritional content and health risks of the foods they are buying. Front-of-Pack (FOP) labels provides exactly this by offering quick, visible guidance that helps people identify foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These labels steer consumers away from high-risk products and support healthier choices in the face of an escalating public health crisis.

FOP labels use simple, easy-to-understand graphics, symbols, or text placed prominently on the front of packaged food and drink products.  Unlike the detailed, often confusing “nutrition facts” tables found at the back of a product’s pack, FOP labels are designed for quick comprehension and bring the most important health information to where consumers actually look. They improve instant recognition of unhealthy products, even for consumers with low literacy levels or those shopping in a hurry.

Common examples around the world include warning labels such as black octagons stating, “HIGH IN SUGAR”, the Traffic Light System which uses red, amber, and green colours to show whether a product’s overall nutritional profile is poor, moderate, or healthier, and Nutri-Score which grades food from A to E using a colour coded scale.

This simplicity matters even more in places like Nigeria where shoppers are confronted with an overwhelming influx of foreign products, new brands, and aggressively marketed food ingredients competing for attention on already crowded shelves.

Presently, Nigeria relies on back-of-pack labelling, which is complex, small, and difficult for the average consumer to comprehend and interpret quickly. A clear and simple warning label, such as a bold black octagon that says, “HIGH IN SUGAR,” could make a decisive difference by cutting through marketing tactics and helping consumers immediately identify products that may harm their family’s health. This also strengthens the public’s right to make informed decisions about their food choices.

Beyond shifting consumer behaviour, FOP labels also push food manufacturers to reformulate their products. Companies often reduce sugar, salt, and saturated fat levels to avoid bearing a prominent “HIGH IN…” warning on their packaging, which in turn contributes to a healthier national food supply.

Research consistently shows that consumers from lower socioeconomic and education backgrounds often face the greatest barriers to understanding complex nutrition information. Clear and visually striking front-of-package (FOP) labels can help close this gap and serve as a vital tool for promoting health equity across Nigeria. By presenting crucial health information in an accessible and easy-to-understand format, these labels empower all Nigerians – regardless of their educational levels or background – to make healthier decisions.

The Nigerian government, through agencies like the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMOHSW) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), must therefore prioritise an evidence-based policy on front-of-pack labelling, as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to protect its population.

It is time to move from complex back-of-pack data to simple, unmistakable warnings that protect consumers. A clear label on the front of every package is a powerful public health tool that can save lives, reduce pressure on our healthcare systems, and build a truly healthier Nigeria for generations to come.

By Bukola Olukemi-Odele, food scientist, and Programme Officer (Cardiovascular Health, Food Policy Programme) at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA)

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