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

Michael Simire
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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
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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

Osun to embark on climate data collection, reporting, tracking

Michael Simire
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Osun to embark on climate data collection, reporting, tracking

The Osun State Government has revealed its plan to embark on a comprehensive initiative focused on the collection, reporting, and tracking of critical climate data.

Senator Ademola Adeleke
Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun State

Consultant to the Osun State Government on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof Chinwe Obuaku, made this known to Osun Spring Correspondent in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

She noted that the initiative would play a central role in the development of Osun State’s Climate Action Plan which is a strategic framework that will guide the efforts of the state government to mitigate the impacts of climate change while fostering sustainable growth.

Prof Obuaku stated further that, by adopting this structured approach, Osun State would be able to monitor its progress, address challenges proactively, and ensure that all sectors are working towards a common goal of sustainability.

She said, “As global climate challenges intensify, Osun State is poised to take decisive steps toward becoming a leader in climate action and sustainability. In an effort to build a resilient future, we are embarking on a comprehensive initiative focused on the collection, reporting, and tracking of critical climate data.

“This initiative will play a central role in the development of our state’s Climate Action Plan, a strategic framework that will guide our efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change while fostering sustainable growth.

“Our initiative will be guided by a structured reporting template, ensuring that each sector contributes effectively to the state’s overall climate goals. This template will cover a range of critical areas, including an overview of ongoing climate actions, key activities and achievements, challenges encountered, data and metrics, stakeholder engagement, funding and resources, future plans, and actionable recommendations.

“By adopting this structured approach, Osun State will be able to monitor its progress, address challenges proactively, and ensure that all sectors are working towards a common goal of sustainability.

“As we move forward, it is essential that every stakeholder in Osun State remains engaged and committed to this cause. The climate challenges we face are complex and require a coordinated, multi-sectoral response.

“Osun State is not just reacting to the global climate crisis; we are taking bold, proactive steps to secure a sustainable future for our people. Through collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to our climate goals, we will ensure that our state remains a thriving and resilient community for generations to come.”

By Sola Isola

Maiduguri floods: Group calls for better emergency response

Michael Simire
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Maiduguri floods: Group calls for better emergency response

Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) has faulted the Borno State Government, the Federal Government and the state’s emergency response team for their failure to protect the lives and properties of the people in Maiduguri, following the collapse of the Alau Dam in Borno State, which has led to severe flooding in Maiduguri.

Chima Williams
Chima Williams

The Alau Dam collapsed on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, causing severe flooding which has submerged thousands of homes and displaced residents in several communities in Maiduguri.

Reacting to the incident, the Executive Director of EDEN, Chima Williams, decried the inability of the managers of the dam proactively detect the rising water levels of the dam, which led to the collapse of the bridge.

Williams observed that the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had issued prior warnings that were ignored by both the federal and state governments, which has led to the loss of livelihood in Fori, Galtimari, Gwange, Bulabulin, and other affected communities.

“In 30 years, this is the worst flooding Borno State has experienced and it could have been avoided. Homes have been destroyed. People have been displaced. Schools have been shut down. This shows a huge gap in our emergency management system in Nigeria,” he said.

Williams added that such disaster could have been avoided if the federal and state emergency management agencies were functional and proactive in carrying out their duties and serving the people.

He admonished other states to be watchful, to avoid a similar disaster. He also called on the federal and state governments to provide temporary accommodation for the affected communities, and to send food and other relief materials to cushion the effects of the flood.

Groups task govt on energy transition, seek communities’ inclusion

Michael Simire
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Groups task govt on energy transition, seek communities’ inclusion

Some civil society organisations (CSOs) have called on the Federal Government to expedite action on energy transition from fossil fuels to clean energy sources to prevent climate crisis.

Energy Transition
Civil society actors at one-day capacity workshop on energy transition in Abuja

BudgIT Foundation, Publish What You Pay (PWYP), Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), Community Outreach for Development and Welfare Advocacy (CODWA) and Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) made the call at one-day capacity workshop on energy transition in Abuja.

Mr Vincent Egoro, PWYP Senior Regional Coordinator, Anglophone Africa, said that the energy transition should be just and all-inclusive in order to secure a livable and sustainable future for all.

Egoro said, “For us in Nigeria and at PWYP, we want the energy transition to be just and inclusive, and this will require the reshaping of economic systems, policies, and financial instruments, as well as the adoption of new technologies and practices.

“This is where capacity building becomes important. By equipping all stakeholders with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to drive this transformation, we can achieve a just transition and ensure that it is sustainable.”

NRGI Senior Officer, Nigeria Programme, Tengi George-Ikoli, who also urged the government to act fast on energy transition, said the world was transiting to avoid extreme weather/climate crisis, caused by deforestation, floods, fires and sea encroachment.

George-Ikoli, who presented a paper titled, “Energy Transition in Nigeria: Policies, Prospects, Challenges, Opportunities and Strategies for Advocacy”, recalled that the past transitions included coal transition in 1800s, oil transition in 1920s, gas, hydro and nuclear transition in 1950s.

She added that there was solar and wind transition in 1900s, saying that the world was now transiting from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources to avoid extreme weather/climate crisis.

“Countries signed Paris Agreement in 2015 to hold increases below 2-degree Celsius and limit temperature increase to 1.5-degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels.”

She stressed the need for government and relevant stakeholders to review and reshape economic systems, policies, and financial instruments fit into energy transition purpose for effective implementation.

In his remarks, Mr Enebi Opaluwa, Head, Natural Resource and Climate Governance, BudgIT Foundation, also emphasised the need for Nigeria to align with global energy transition, saying that many countries had transited from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources.

Opaluwa said Nigerian government needed to act fast on energy transition because the demand for crude oil which earned the country’s revenue would soon decline.

According to him, there is need for government at all levels to ensure inclusion of vulnerable populations and underserved communities in their energy transition processes.

This, he added, could be achieved through awareness, enlightenment, education, empowerment and provision of different cleaner energy sources suitable for different vulnerable populations and their communities.

Also speaking, Executive Director of CODWA, Comrade Taiwo Otitolaye, said energy transition would only progress and be meaningful to the vulnerable populations and underserved communities if food security was guaranteed.

Otitolaye said, “A hungry person is an angry person; it is when vulnerable people eat, they will be happy and interested to listen to any enlightenment on energy transition.”

He urged CSOs to understand the difference between clean and renewable energy in order to inform and engage government strategically.

Otitolaye said that the sustainability objectives of clean and renewable energy vary in terms of environmental footmark, like land use for hydroelectric dams versus wind farms.

According to him, different energy sources require different technologies and infrastructure. For example, solar farms and nuclear plants need distinct resource allocations and planning.

By Priscilla Osaje

Flood: Arewa Forum commiserates with victims, seeks strict planning laws

Michael Simire
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Flood: Arewa Forum commiserates with victims, seeks strict planning laws

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has extended its condolences to communities in Northern Nigeria and other affected regions, following the devastating floods caused by overflowing rivers, streams, and dam.

Flooding in Maiduguri
Flooding in Maiduguri

In a statement issued in Kaduna by Prof. Tanko Muhammad-Baba, the ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, the forum expressed deep concerns over the tragic loss of lives, destruction of property, and disruption of livelihoods across several communities.

“These floods have caused catastrophic damage to many areas, coming at a time when Nigerians are already struggling with significant economic challenges, including inflation, insecurity, and food shortages.

“The floods have only worsened the situation,” the ACF said.

The forum referenced the severe flooding in Maiduguri, where on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, a video footage showed streets and homes submerged, bringing life to a standstill.

“Similar scenes have been reported across other northern states, with homes, farmlands, and infrastructure left in ruins.

“The devastating images from Maiduguri are just one example of the widespread flooding across many communities, with no clear end in sight,” it noted.

“The ACF grieves with all those affected and prays for comfort for those who have lost loved ones and property,” it said.

The forum called on government agencies, emergency responders, and humanitarian organisations to urgently provide relief and assistance to affected areas without bureaucratic delays.

They also urged the deployment of military engineers to restore damaged infrastructure and provide temporary shelters with basic amenities.

Furthermore, the ACF emphasised the need for strict enforcement of regional planning regulations, building codes, and environmental laws to prevent future disasters.

They condemned the negligence and corruption that often result in preventable tragedies.

“We must ensure that no more lives, limbs, or property are lost due to incompetence, dereliction of duty, or corrupt practices.

“We call on the public to adhere to environmental regulations, maintain proper hygiene, and avoid actions that block drainage systems or waterways,” the forum said.

The ACF also prayed for God’s protection over all communities and called for sustained efforts to prevent both natural and man-made disasters in the future.

By Hussaina Yakubu

79th UN General Assembly opens in New York

Michael Simire
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79th UN General Assembly opens in New York

The 79th session of the UN General Assembly opened on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, in New York, with incoming President Philemon Yang outlining a vision of unity in diversity.

79th UN General Assembly
79th UN General Assembly opens in New York

Yang also called for deeper international cooperation to tackle global challenges, including climate change, escalating conflict, and a slowdown in sustainable development.

Yang underscored the need for equitable economic growth driven by innovation and green economies, ensuring that “the benefits of economic development are accessible to all nations, large and small.”

Peace and security, he added, will also be key priorities, as he urged nations to resolve ongoing conflicts, including in the Gaza Strip, Haiti, Ukraine, and the Great Lakes region of Africa.

“We must invest in all efforts to decrease tensions and build trust around the world,” he said.

Human rights, the strengthening of international law and justice frameworks, will remain high on the agenda, with the Assembly working to enhance the coordination of humanitarian efforts.

This, Yang said, will help ensure its response to crises is timely and efficient, and that aid reaches those most in need.

“Lastly, we will address the pervasive challenges of international terrorism, drug and human trafficking, and modern slavery,” he continued, stressing the need to uphold human dignity.

“As President of the General Assembly, I am committed to facilitating these discussions and harnessing our collective will and expertise to deliver significant solutions,” he added.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres also addressed the opening of the session, highlighting the urgency of collective action to confront a world “in trouble.”

He praised President Yang for his vision and leadership, pledging his full support to unite the diverse member states around common goals.

“From day one, the United Nations has been the place for multilateral solutions – grounded in collaboration, dialogue, diplomacy, and the UN Charter,” he said.

Acknowledging the gravity of the current global situation, the UN chief emphasised the need for concrete solutions across various domains, including reducing poverty, inequality, and the climate crisis.

“We need solutions…to bring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) back to life and end poverty and inequality,” he noted.

He added that economic progress and job creation, particularly for women and young people, must be prioritised.

The Secretary-General also pointed to the critical role of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), and the need to ensure they serve as tools for progress, not barriers.

“Step by step, solution by solution, we can rebuild trust and faith in one another,” he concluded, calling for renewed commitment to the principles that have guided the Organisation since its founding in 1945.

The opening of the 79th session also marks the first time the State of Palestine was seated among Member States at the General Assembly, following the adoption of resolution ES-10/23 at the tenth emergency special session earlier this year.

That resolution also set forth additional rights for the State of Palestine’s participation in Assembly meetings, but not the right to vote or put forward its candidature to UN Main Organs such as the Security Council or the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

However, the additional rights and privileges do not confer membership to the State of Palestine, which requires a specific recommendation from the Security Council.

By Cecilia Ologunagba

NiMet forecasts three-day thunderstorms, rains

Michael Simire
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NiMet forecasts three-day thunderstorms, rains

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted thunderstorms and rains from Wednesday, September 11 to Friday, September 13, 2024, across the country.

Rainfall
Rainfall

NiMet’s weather outlook released on Tuesday, September 12 in Abuja envisaged thunderstorms over parts of Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Yobe, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna states during the morning hours on Wednesday in the northern region.

According to NiMet, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Kano, Borno, Katsina, Adamawa, Kaduna, Taraba, Zamfara, Kebbi and Jigawa states during afternoon and evening hours.

“In the North Central region, thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa and Niger states during the morning hours.

“Later in the day, thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Benue, Kogi, Niger and Kwara states.

“In the southern region, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ogun, Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Delta, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states during the morning hours,” it said.

It predicted intermittent rains over parts of Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Oyo, Rivers, Cross River, Delta and Akwa Ibom states later in the day.

According to NiMet, thunderstorms are expected over parts of Taraba and Adamawa States during the morning hours in the northern region.

It anticipated thunderstorms over parts of Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, Adamawa and Taraba states later in the day.

“In the North Central region, rains are anticipated over parts of Plateau and Benue states during the morning hours.

“In the afternoon/evening hours, thunderstorms are anticipated over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, Kwara and Benue states.

“In the southern cites, intermittent rains are anticipated over parts of Enugu and Anambra states during the morning hours,” it said.

NiMet envisaged intermittent rains over parts of Ondo, Edo, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, Cross River, Bayelsa, Rivers and Delta states later in the day.

The agency predicted thunderstorms are over parts of Adamawa and Taraba states in the northern region during the Friday morning hours.

It envisaged thunderstorms over parts of Taraba, Borno, Gombe, Bauchi, Adamawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina and Zamfara states later in the day.

According to NiMet, rains are expected over parts of Nasarawa and Niger during the morning hours in the North Central region.

“Later in the day, localised thunderstorms are expected over parts of Kogi, the Federal Capital Territory, Kwara and Niger states.

“In the southern cities, cloudy skies are expected in the morning hours. Later in the day, thunderstorms are anticipated over the Inland cities with prospects of intermittent rains over the Coastal cities,” it said.

It urged residents to avoid flood-prone areas as high likelihood of urban flooding in major cities due to heavy downpours.

According to NiMet, strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur, public should take adequate precaution and adhere to safety advisories issued by relevant authorities.

“Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations,” it said.

By Gabriel Agbeja

HOMEF, CAPPA hail Nnimmo Bassey on Wallenberg Medal award

Michael Simire
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HOMEF, CAPPA hail Nnimmo Bassey on Wallenberg Medal award

Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) celebrates with its Executive Director, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, on the prestigious honour of the 2024 Wallenberg Medal. Bassey is the first Nigerian and the fifth African to have received the award.

Nnimmo Bassey
Nnimmo Bassey (middle) at the 2024 Wallenberg Medal award

He joins the ranks of other giants like South Africa’s Helen Suzman (1992), Archbishop Desmond Tutu (2008), Rwanda’s Paul Rusesabagina (2005), and Congo’s Denis Mukwege (2010). Bassey’s long list of accomplishments is celebrated as he accepts this prestigious recognition.

The award took place on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the Ross School of Business Robertson Auditorium, at the University of Michigan.

The Wallenberg Medal is a tribute to outstanding humanitarians who have gone above and beyond to protect the vulnerable and oppressed, much like Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who saved thousands of Jews during World War II, whom the award was named after.

At the occasion, the Swedish Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Urban Ahlin, extolled the virtues of Raoul Wallenberg and enjoined the audience to dedicate their lives to the cause of humanity so that they may be remembered just as Wallenberg was being recognised. Other speakers included the Chair of the awards committee, Professor Sioban Harlow, and the provost of the university, Professor Laurie McCauley.

In his acceptance speech and lecture titled: “We Are Relatives”, Dr Nnimmo Bassey stressed “love, humility, dignity, and respect” as core to his vision of a livable future for all beings.”

He stated that, as an environmental justice advocate whose work has been based on the understanding the polycrisis confronting us, we have a duty to always seek to uncover the roots of the crises rather than treating the symptoms.

He said: “Seeking out those roots helps us avoid superficial responses and pursue real solutions, some of which may be unattainable in our lifetimes. One of our key struggles has been understanding the mindset that permits inequalities in our societies. The mindset that elevates might over care and love. The mindset that promotes the individual rather than the community. The mindset that refuses to understand that we are relatives. The mindset that grabs, trashes, and feeds on the misery of others. The mindset that permits environmental racism.

“Understanding the roots of polycrisis helps us to see the phenomenon of expanding sacrifice zones in our world today. It also placed on us the duty of standing with the oppressed to halt the expansion of sacrifice zones in Nigeria, in Africa, and elsewhere by seeking to overcome the energy and other hegemonic transitions that sacrifice nature and are driven by colonial extractivism built on embedded geopolitical power imbalances.”

Bassey further stated: “Climate action and inaction provide pictures that help us see the difficulties we face in trying to build a consensus that the climate crisis is a global crisis and not a national crisis. It also shows that the world is not yet ready to make the hard decisions by accepting that the pursuit of infinite growth on a finite planet is a false dream.”

Director of Programmes at HOMEF, Joyce Brown, on behalf of the organisation, applauds the executive director for his outstanding performance, stating that Dr. Bassey’s exceptional work and contributions have led to undeniable global recognition. It was also a veritable opportunity to showcase the work that HOMEF does and show the key place that cultural tools like poetry play in healing a hurting world, she adds.

Similarly, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has described the 2024 Wallenberg Medal bestowed on Dr Nnimmo Bassey as well-deserved.

Robert Egbe, CAPPA’s Media and Communication Officer, made the expression in a statement on Wednesday.

Egbe commended the environmentalist for his eloquence and deep expression of ideas while delivering the 29th Wallenberg Lecture.

He said that Bassey effectively used the lecture titled: “We Are Relatives” to discuss the power of love, humility, dignity and respect in his vision for a liveable future for all beings.

Egbe described Bassey as a world class environmental activist.

“Bassey is synonymous with pristine work and relentless pursuit of environmental justice and accountability.

“We salute you on this well-deserved recognition as the recipient of the 2024 Wallenberg Medal. We are excited to celebrate this recognition,” he said.

The CAPPA spokesman said that Bassey had remained committed to addressing climate migration, environmental and social impacts of extractive production, and hunger.

“He is known to be resolute irrespective of obvious challenges, this award affirms the global recognition of his exceptional impact,’’ he said.

Besides being an environmental activist, Bassey’s work includes significant environmental books like To Cook a Continent: Destructive Extraction and The Climate Crisis in Africa (2012), and Oil Politics: Echoes of Ecological War. His poetry, including We Thought It Was Oil But It Was Blood (1998), I Will Not Dance to Your Beat (2010), and the latest I See the Invisible (2024), continue to inspire the spirit of resistance and hope in all who read or listen to him.

Maiduguri flooding: A harbinger of climate-induced loss and damage

Michael Simire
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0
Maiduguri flooding: A harbinger of climate-induced loss and damage

The Centre for 21st Century Issues (C21st) expresses deep sympathy for the government and residents of Maiduguri, Borno State, in the wake of severe flooding that occurred on Tuesday morning, September 10, 2024. This catastrophic event, triggered by the collapse of Alau Dam and exacerbated by unusually high rainfall, has submerged large parts of the city, displacing thousands of residents, predominantly women and children.

Flooding in Maiduguri
Flooding in Maiduguri

The flooding in Maiduguri is a grim reminder of the escalating climate crisis and its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities. This disaster underscores the urgent need to address climate-induced loss and damage, a challenge becoming increasingly prevalent across Nigeria and the globe.

It is important to note that:

  1. The collapse of Alau Dam, a significant water source for Maiduguri, has led to widespread flooding and destruction.
  2. Floodwaters submerging the zoo, cemetery, and other public infrastructure in Borno State, leading to the escape of animals, the exposure of buried bodies, and damage to essential infrastructure, could facilitate the spread of zoonotic diseases and other waterborne illnesses. This situation poses a significant threat to public health and increases the risk of displacement among vulnerable populations, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. Immediate action is required to mitigate these risks and protect the health and safety of affected communities.
  3. The flooding compounds existing security and humanitarian challenges in Borno State.
  4. This event demonstrates the link between climate change and the increased frequency of extreme weather events.

C21st calls on the federal and state governments to:

  1. Ensure immediate relief and support for affected communities in Maiduguri while making comprehensive plans and preparations to safeguard public health, particularly for vulnerable populations in states where significant rainfall is anticipated in the coming weeks.
  2. Invest in climate resilience and adaptation measures to prevent future disasters, including conducting dam assessments and making necessary investments to address the impacts of extreme weather events.
  3. Support and engage in the ongoing process of operationalising the Fund for Loss and Damage, advocating for the deployment of financial instruments that align with climate finance delivery at both national and sub-national levels. This is essential for ensuring a prompt and effective response to climate-induced loss and damage in developing countries.

As we approach global climate negotiation and the third meeting of the Fund for Loss and Damage, this disaster serves as a sobering reminder of what’s at stake. C21st urges policymakers and the international community to prioritise climate justice and support for communities facing the irreversible impacts of climate change.

By Titilope Akosa, Executive Director, Centre for 21st Century Issues

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