Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has called for responsible management of funds allocated to Host Communities Development Trusts (HCDT) in the Niger Delta.
A cross section of officials of the Rivers State Government, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Service and the Shell Peroleum Development Company with the chairmen of three Host Communities Development Trusts at the official unveling of the Trusts in Port Harcourt… on Tuesday
The governor spoke on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at an event to unveil three additional HDCTs by The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), operator of the SPDC Joint Venture comprising SPDC, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), TotalEnergies Limited and Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited.
Represented by the state commissioner for Chieftaincy & Community Affairs, Charles Amadi, the governor said the development in oil producing communities as envisaged in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) would only become a reality if those charged with managing the funds put the people first and make themselves accountable.
HCDT is a creation of the PIA and requires oil exploration companies to allocate three percent of their operating expenditure in the previous year for the development of their host communities.
The three new HCDTs represent the hosts of SPDC JV at its Logistics Base, Akukutoru and TNP-2 areas and bring to 31 the number so far inaugurated by the Joint Venture out of the 33 for all its operations in the Niger Delta.
Governor Fubara said, “I appreciate Shell for your continued support at ensuring the economic growth of the communities.”
SPDC has been the industry leader in the implementation of the HCDT provisions of the PIA.
Also speaking at the event, Managing Director of SPDC and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, acknowledged the challenges of implementing a new legislation like the PIA, noting that SPDC engaged over 300 communities on the provisions of the law and the need for stronger collaboration between SPDC and the communities to ensure the desired growth and development.
Okunbor, who was represented by the HCDT Project Manager, Dr. Alice Ajeh, said, “Ultimately, community development rests on the shoulders of the communities themselves.”
In his remarks, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, commended SPDC’s leading position in the implementation of the HCDT provisions of the PIA and emphasised the importance of fostering sustainable economic development through robust implementation strategies.
“NUPRC, in line with global best practices and in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, has developed robust implementation strategies for the Trusts. This is for the purpose of fostering sustainable economic development of host communities,” the NUPRC chief said through his representative, Mrs. Chidinma Nwabueze.
Komolafe enjoined the host communities to guarantee seamless oil and gas exploration and production in their respective communities to reap maximum benefits from the trusts.
In his remark, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti, said, “We have high expectations for communities to collaborate with industry stakeholders to achieve peaceful coexistence. The boards of trustees should ensure that there are systems in place to address conflicts or grievances through dialogue that ensures resolutions that are beneficial to all the parties.”
Represented at the event by NUIMS Manager for Stakeholder Relations, Mrs. Ejidoh Uzo, Wunti said, “I commend the host communities for their prompt utilization of the instruments of the PIA as administered. This is a laudable initiative of Shell that will bring about positive development to the communities.”
Chairmen of the respective three new trusts – Mrs. Gogo Helen Osima for Akukutoru; Mr. Promise Wobo Iwezor for Logistics Base; and Mr. Macauley Aminikpo for TNP-2 – thanked SPDC JV, NNPC, NUPRC and their respective communities for the confidence reposed in them. They promised that the trustees would ensure transparency and accountability in discharging their duties.
The Federal Ministry of Environment has launched an inaugural State Climate Desk Officers’ Coordination Meeting.
Participants at the inaugural meeting that held virtually
The inaugural meeting, which as convened by the Ministry’s Department of Climate Change, was held virtually via Zoom on Thursday, June 13, 2024, and lasted from 12:00 to 13:30.
The meeting was officially inaugurated by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr Mahmud Adam Kambari, who also delivered the keynote speech.
In his keynote address, the Permanent Secretary stated that “the onset of climate change presents an unprecedented threat to our planet, with far-reaching consequences for our environment, economies, and societies.”
He emphasised that subnational climate change officers play an important role in translating global climate goals into actual actions and policies that are relevant at the local level.
“Your work on the frontlines of climate action, implementing mitigation and adaptation measures, is essential in building a more sustainable future for our citizens and safeguarding our natural resources for generations to come,” stated the Permanent Secretary.
Noting that previous meetings had taken place, the Permanent Secretary stated that the purpose of the launch was “to re-enact and foster existing synergy of the national and subnational towards aligning and meeting the Ministerial High Impact Deliverables in line with the Presidential Transformative Agenda.”
He also stated that the gathering is an opportunity to relaunch the Toolkits for the States’ Climate Action Communication, which the Ministry has produced and will soon be sent to the 36 States and the FCT to improve reporting on national climate action.
Mr. Kambari stated that the coordinating conference “provides a unique opportunity to foster collaboration, exchange best practices, and forge partnerships that will strengthen our collective impact on climate change mitigation and adaptation.”
“By coming together as a community of dedicated professionals, we can leverage our expertise, share lessons learned, and explore innovative solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change in our regions and states,” he stated.
In her remarks, Dr. Iniobong Abiola Awe, Director of the Department for Climate Change, stated that the Coordination Meeting is a critical platform for implementing the outcome of the 17th Session of the National Council on Environment (NCE) Resolution 9Ai, which states “the need for effective communication, collaboration, and synergy between the Federal and States in all environmental issues to enhance performance and better implementation of National Environmental Policies.”
The platform is expected to “serve to bridge the existing communication gap, provide a platform for knowledge-sharing and capacity development, and an enabling effective reporting of climate action, overall, it seeks to jointly synergise efforts at national and subnational levels to achieve climate commitments.”
Regular meetings will allow Desk Officers to share information, best practices, and coordinate efforts to improve climate resilience and link subnational climate action with national climate goals and priorities.
The Director stated that the discussions would allow state climate officers to find synergies, gaps, and areas of collaboration with other stakeholders such as government, civil society, academia, and the commercial sector.
She further stated that the platform would provide a chance to increase the ability of skill development for state climate desk officials through targeted training workshops and knowledge sharing activities. The Director stated that the DCC has formed a secretariat to manage coordination meetings and guarantee that the vision and objectives are implemented.
Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, President of Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), who was invited to make a presentation on the status of the Subnational Climate Governance Ranking Project, which is being done in collaboration with DCC, congratulated the Federal Ministry of Environment and the DCC for the inaugural coordination meeting and expressed his belief that the initiative and platform would go a long way in helping to plug the current gap in climate change governance in Nigeria by promoting stronger climate action.
Prof Okereke stated that the Climate Governance Performance Ranking of States builds upon the Climate Action Mapping initiative, which was completed last year in conjunction with the DCC and the Nigeria Governors Forum.
According to him, the ranking and rating project is now designed to establish a single comprehensive ranking of climate governance for the 36 states of the Federation.
Prof Okereke stated that the ranking considers five factors: climate governance and administrative structure, climate policy and action plan, climate change project implementation, climate finance and budget, and online visibility.
Okereke said he was confident that the climate governance rating initiative would spark health rivalry and a race to the top among state governments.
He stated that the mapping initiative completed last year was already having a major positive impact, with a record number of states now working to develop climate policy and action plans.
He stated that the final outcome of the rating and ranking exercise with the accompanying report would be released in a big national event in July, with the first three states getting awards jointly presented by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Society for Planet and Prosperity.
He urged the state Desk Officers to remain focused on promoting climate action in their respective states and pledged that the Society for Planet and Prosperity is committed to mount capacity building and training programmes that will benefit the desk officers.
By Dolapo John, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment
The Bonn Climate Change Conference concluded on Thursday, June 13, 2024, after two weeks of intensive work across a range of issues where progress is needed on the path to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) this November in Baku, Azerbaijan.
A plenary session at the 2024 Bonn Climate Change Conference. Photo credit: UN Climate Change | Lucia Vasquez Tumi
“We’ve taken modest steps forward here in Bonn,” said UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell in his closing speech. “(But) too many items are still on the table. We’ve left ourselves with a very steep mountain to climb to achieve ambitious outcomes in Baku.”
Areas of progress in Bonn include:
Parties streamlined content going into the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance. Clear options and the substantive framework of a draft decision must be finalised before COP29.
Parties took steps towards adaptation indicators that are forward-looking, effective, and scientifically sound.
Progress was made towards a better functioning international carbon market, but further work remains to be done.
Parties worked together for transparency and supported each other in planning stronger climate action plans.
A New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance
The June Meetings hosted a technical expert dialogue (TED10) to enable in-depth examination of the elements of the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance (NCQG) – including how to make sure it is: ambitious, optimally structured, transparently reported on, and improves the quality of climate finance to developing countries.
Parties also spent several days working on developing a substantive framework for a draft negotiating text for consideration at COP29, outlining the text in Bonn.
Stiell also noted the need for further progress on climate finance issues outside of the UNFCCC process, including by the G7. “Advanced economies have multiple levers to pull, including as shareholders in development banks.”
The Co-Chairs invited Parties to submit their consolidated and updated views on the NCQG so that they can produce a new input paper with options for TED11 and the third meeting of the ad-hoc work programme, which will be held back-to-back in October. A high-level ministerial dialogue on the NCQG will also be held in October to help pave the way for an outcome at COP29.
Progress on Building Resilience and Adaptation
At COP28 in the United Arab Emirates last December, Parties agreed measures for the Global Goal on Adaptation which created thematic targets that highlight forward-looking global priorities.
At the June UN Climate Meetings, Parties took important steps towards indicators in each of these thematic targets which will be inclusive, transparent and scientifically sound. Notably, Parties made progress on what is needed next, including how these indicators will be decided, as well as technical work ahead.
As part of the outcome of the Global Stocktake, UN Climate Change is urging Parties to develop National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) by the end of 2025, and to make progress in implementing them by 2030.
Only 58 developing countries have submitted a NAP. The secretariat has asked more countries to have a plan by 2025 and make progress on implementing them by 2030. Over the coming months, UN Climate Change will work directly with countries to accelerate the formulation of NAPs, including through its Regional Collaboration Centres.
Progress Made on International Carbon Markets Under Article 6
Delegates made important strides on key technical aspects of Article 6, including carbon credit authorisation, activity scope, the international carbon market registry and more.
Constructive discussions in Bonn clarified positions on Article 6.2 and 6.4 ahead of COP29. Delegates also agreed to hold a workshop to further progress technical work on Article 6.2 and 6.4 ahead of November. As a result, they will be better placed to meet in Baku ready to finalize an outcome and move towards better carbon markets.
In the lead up to COP29, additional work on Article 6.4 will move forward. The UN Body responsible for operationalising a new global carbon market under the Paris Agreement will meet twice ahead negotiations in Baku, to finalise recommendations on methodologies and emission removals. Feedback gathered from Parties and stakeholders at an engagement event during the June Climate Meetings will be incorporated into these recommendations.
The Supervisory Body also aims to finalise a Sustainable Development Tool in the run up to COP29, to establish environmental and social safeguards.
Completing the remaining elements on Article 6 in Baku will unlock further funding for national climate plans and adaptation.
Increasing Transparency
The incoming COP Presidency asked Parties to submit their Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) ahead of COP29 in Baku. These reports will help Parties build the stronger evidence base for ambition.
Later this month, UN Climate Change will deliver new Enhanced Transparency Framework reporting tools that integrate tracking of greenhouse gas inventories, action, and support. In partnership with Microsoft, UN Climate Change is also developing a new Climate Data Hub to bring this data to life.
UN Climate Change has already trained more than 1,100 experts from 150 countries, building the capacity of thousands of practitioners, including across other intergovernmental organisations.
Training sessions on the new reporting tools will be held in the Africa and Latin American and the Caribbean regions ahead of COP29, as well as at COP29.
Raising Ambition in Nationally Determined Contributions
Parties are required to deliver their next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) early next year, aligned with the 1.5 °C limit, and covering all sectors and all greenhouse gases.
At the June Meetings, UN Climate Change and the NDC Partnership launched the NDC 3.0 Navigator, to help Parties access information that can help them develop new NDCs with a focus on implementation.
Other Issues and Events at the June Meetings
The final review of the implementation of the enhanced Lima work programme and its Gender Action Plan (GAP) was initiated at the June Meetings – identifying progress, challenges, gaps and priorities in implementing the GAP, and further work to be undertaken. The discussions started at this session set the scene for developing the tools to embed gender in forthcoming NDCs, NAPs and transparency reports.
The Standing Committee on Finance advanced preparations for the 2024 Forum on gender-responsive financing. Taking place from September 2 to 3, in Arusha, Tanzania, the Forum will highlight the critical importance of gender-responsive finance in achieving low-emission climate-resilient development and poverty eradication that will be equitable and inclusive.
The Ocean and Climate Change Dialogue took place over two days at the June Climate Meetings, with a focus on two key topics – marine biodiversity conservation and coastal resilience, and ocean energy technologies.
The Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Hub hosted an event to bring young people together for skills-building and knowledge-sharing. The focus this year was on local action. Fifty young people – 25 from around the world and 25 from Germany – came together to develop the skills they need to lead climate initiatives in their communities.
The High-Level Climate Champions, Nigar Arpadarai (Azerbaijan) and Razan Al Mubarak (United Arab Emirates), organised a series of events that explored how businesses, cities, regions, Indigenous Peoples and civil society are working alongside governments to deliver ambitious climate action ahead of COP29.
The third Glasgow Dialogue on loss and damage at the June Meetings discussed the coordination arrangements for the Fund responding to loss and damage, assessed progress made and developed further recommendations.
The third Global Dialogue and Investment-focused Event held under the Mitigation Work Programme focused on reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of cities and urban buildings.
The first Dialogue under the United Arab Emirates Just Transition Work Programme took place at the June Climate Meetings with speakers highlighting the need for whole-of-society approaches to a sustainable future, that are inclusive, equitable and just.
The Federal Government has started the process of reviewing the National Environmental (Permitting and Licensing Systems) Regulations, S.I. 29, 2009, to address areas of gaps in trending and emerging environmental issues.
Dr Innocent Barikor, Director-General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESERA)
Speaking at the expert critique meeting for the review on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Abuja, Dr Innocent Barikor, the Director-General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESERA), said the document sought to strengthen environmental laws.
He said that the regulation also aimed at improving air quality and environmental conservation and avoidance of exposure to waste and hazardous substances.
“The regulation seeks to achieve statutory environmental targets and outcomes.
“Such as improvement in air quality, environmental conservation and avoidance of exposure to waste and hazardous substances by issuing Environmental Permits to the Regulated Community.
“These permits have significantly aided the agency to achieve her mandate of ensuring compliance with environmental laws, policies, standards and guidelines.
“However, in the course of operationalising the provisions of these regulations in the last 15 years, some gaps were identified.
“These gaps included trending and emerging environmental issues such as climate change, marine pollution and biodiversity conservation which are of global concern.’’
Barikor said that the factors necessitated NESERA to seek for assistance through the Quick Wins of its 5-Year Impact Plan from the UNEP-LEAP Small Scale Funding Agreement (SSFA).
He said this was under the Montevideo Programme V to facilitate the review of the regulation.
The director-general said that permitting and licensing regulations was the backbone that provided the necessary structure to balance growth and innovation and public safety.
“However, as with any system, there is always room for improvement, thus, the need for the ongoing efforts to refine and enhance our regulatory processes,” he said.
He said that the agency had so far conducted desktops reviews/documentations and interacted with relevant stakeholders across the six geo-political zones.
The director-general said that the agency also interacted with stakeholders from the 35 States of the federation through its zonal and state field offices.
Barikor urged stakeholders to consider the review process as a testament to the agency’s commitment in leaving a legacy of environmental sustainability for generations to come.
An expert, Mr Victor Ojogbo, said that the issue of the environment was critical.
Ojogbo, a former Director, Department of Planning and Policy Analysis, NESERA, said that the essence of the review was to examine the issues of offences, penalties for defaulters as well as enforcement by the agency.
He said that the review would also ensure that the regulators and regulated were placed on their toes for a seamless enforcement.
“I said that the issue of the environment is not to be treated with kids’ glove; because if it affects me; it affects you and then the environment,” he said.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has called for continuous increase and sustained financing to address climate change challenges in the state.
State officials at the closing of the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit
Sanwo-Olu said this at the closing ceremony of the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit, on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Lagos.
The governor emphasised the need for collaboration among governments, financial institutions, and international organisations to bridge the financing gap.
Represented at the summit by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the urgency for governments to direct resources toward projects that provided tangible benefits for communities and ecosystems.
“We are committed to fostering a supportive environment for climate finance and local adaptation initiatives, ensuring that all efforts align with the insights and expertise shared,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He commended the participants for their resolve to work with all stakeholders to transform discussions into concrete actions that benefited both communities and the environment.
He stressed that accelerating climate finance involved not only mobilising funds but also ensuring that these resources reached those most in need.
He noted that to achieve the set objective required creating financial instruments that are accessible, equitable, and effective.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised the government’s commitment to prioritising capacity building and knowledge sharing, adding that this would involve empowering local communities with skills, tools, and knowledge needed to develop and implement adaptation strategies.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening policy frameworks and regulatory environments to support climate action, while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity and equity.
According to him, climate action must be inclusive, ensuring that marginalised and vulnerable groups are not left behind.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of giving women, youths, indigenous peoples, and other underrepresented communities a voice in decision-making processes that affected their lives and livelihoods.
Experts at the summit highlighted innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and climate insurance, and the importance of leveraging both public and private sector investments.
The discussions underscored the necessity of a systemic shift in how financial resources are perceived and deployed for climate action.
Stephen Kwikiriza, a member of the community affected by the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)-associated Kingfisher oil project and a community observer with Environmental Governance Institute (EGI) Uganda, was finally released after being abandoned by his captors along the roadside in Kyenjojo district on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at around 8:30 p.m, approximately five hours drive from the site of his abduction in Kampala.
Stephen Kwikiriza
Mr Kwikiriza had been reported missing for six days after being abducted by plainclothes officers believed to be from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). Mr Kwikiriza is known for his outspoken criticism of the Kingfisher oil field activities operated by China National Offshore Oil Company (CNOOC). Moments before his phones were disabled, he sent a text message stating he had been arrested by members of the UPDF.
The UPDF has provided security for CNOOC’s operations at the Kingfisher field since 2018, and local communities have accused the UPDF of human rights violations, including seizing and burning fishing boats, arrests, sexual violence and other forms of abuse and mistreatment.
Mr Kwikiriza’s disappearance sparked outrage among fellow Ugandan human rights and environmental advocates and the international community, including the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, Mary Lawlor, who took to Twitter(X) to call for Mr Kwikiriza’s release.
Mr Kwikiriza has recounted the harrowing details of his abduction and the six days he was held in captivity. During this time, he was subjected to appalling conditions: forced to strip down to his underwear and kept in a room with minimal food and only a bucket for sanitation. Upon his arrival at the location where he was held, Mr Kwikiriza was beaten and reported that he was knocked unconscious, a clear indication of the violent treatment he endured.
Mr Kwikiriza has also informed the campaign that, during his week-long detention, his captors repeatedly interrogated him regarding the interest of the international community in his disappearance and their pressure for his release.
The StopEACOP campaign and allied organisations call for a full, impartial investigation into this deeply concerning incident involving the abduction, unlawful detention, mistreatment and abuse of a prominent human rights defender.
Since the peaceful demonstration in front of the Chinese Embassy in Kampala on May 27, 2024, where seven activists were arbitrarily arrested, several other Ugandans campaigning against the EACOP and related oil projects have faced forms of repression including, being arrested, searched, surveilled or, as in the case of Stephen Kwikiriza, abducted.
Adriko Sostein, another representative of the communities affected by the Kingfisher oil project, was arrested and charged with unlawful assembly on June 5, 2024, by the police after presenting a petition concerning the Kingfisher oil project and its impacts on community members and climate change. He has been released on police bond but will need to present himself to police again on June 13, 2024.
These cases come after many others with at least 56 intimidations and abuses related to Total’s Tilenga and EACOP projects recorded in Uganda and Tanzania, over a period of almost 4 and a half years.
The StopEACOP Campaign called for the immediate end of any forms of retaliation and repression of people who are critical of the EACOP and the associated oil projects.
“The concerns of affected people need to be heard and should be taken seriously by all the stakeholders who support or are considering supporting these projects,” submitted the group.
Zaki Mamdoo, StopEACOP Campaign Coordinator, said: “We condemn in the strongest terms the abduction of Kwikiriza Stephen and the abuse he has endured at the hands of his captors. This incident is especially concerning in light of the ongoing repression faced by environmental, land, and human rights defenders who speak out against EACOP and its associated projects.
“The perpetrators must be brought to book and the repression of activists and communities must come to an immediate end. The StopEACOP Campaign will continue to amplify the voices and demands of affected communities to decision-makers, undeterred by these attacks on our defenders. We remain steadfast in exercising our right to oppose projects that destroy lives and livelihoods.”
Brighton Aryampa, Attorney for Mr Kwikiriza, said: “Abductions should not have a place in our country. What happened to Stephen is inhumane and unconstitutional, which should be condemned in the strongest possible manner. We now ask the government to look into, investigate and conclude the matter so that the captors are brought to book. In the meantime, as lawyers, we shall advise Stephen on any other further legal action.”
Juliette Renaud, Friends of the Earth France’s Coordinator, said: “We strongly condemn the abduction of Kwikiriza Stephen and the violations he suffered over several days. Environmental defenders should be able to speak and act freely as they are essential in defending the rights of oil affected communities and in documenting the increasing human rights violations and environmental damages caused by Tilenga, Kingfisher and EACOP.
“Total has a clear legal liability in that sense. Its CEO repeatedly emphasises that they are committed to respecting freedom of expression, yet they have been consistent in turning a blind eye on the increasing harassment, threats and arrests suffered by environmental defenders simply because they dare stand against these oil projects and denounce their impacts.”
Some 62% of registered voters prefer to vote for a candidate for public office who supports action on global warming, while only 15% would prefer to vote for a candidate who opposes action.
Similarly, 39% of registered voters say a candidate’s position on global warming will be “very important” when they decide who they will vote for in the 2024 presidential election.
Of 28 issues asked about, global warming is said to be the 19th most highly ranked voting issue among registered voters (based on the percentage saying it is “very important”).
Among liberal Democrats, global warming was ranked the 4th most important voting issue after maintaining free and fair elections (Number 1), abortion (Number 2), and health care (Number 3).
Among moderate/conservative Democrats, global warming was ranked Number 14, while among liberal/moderate Republicans and conservative Republicans the issue was ranked 26th and 27th, respectively.
Support for building clean energy infrastructure locally
Majorities of registered voters support climate-friendly energy production and distribution infrastructure in their local area, including solar farms (65%), wind farms (58%), high-voltage power lines to distribute clean energy (54%), and electric vehicle charging stations (51%). These include majorities of liberal Democrats and moderate/conservative Democrats, and many liberal/moderate Republicans, but fewer conservative Republicans.
Requiring publicly traded companies to disclose their climate impacts
Large majorities of registered voters across the political spectrum support policies to require publicly traded companies to disclose their climate impacts.
For the oil and gas industry to achieve its full potential as an enabler of national economic and industrial growth, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPC Limited, Mr. Mele Kyari, has called for the support of the judiciary in tackling the twin challenges of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
GCEO NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari in a chat with the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Olukayode Ariwoola, during the National Capacity Building Workshop for Judges on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 organised by the National Judicial Institute (NJI), in Abuja, on Thursday
Kyari made the call at the National Judges Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 organised by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and INVESTIN 234, on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Abuja.
In a goodwill message he delivered at the workshop, the GCEO stated that the gains of the PIA have been severely undermined by crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism and urged the judiciary to consider the creation of a special court to try offences related to crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism or granting accelerated hearings to such cases.
According to him, the role of the judiciary was critical to the success of the efforts of the various security arrangements put in place by NNPC, the law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders in the industry.
“In particular, is the recommendation that a special court be created to try those offences as they hinge on our survival as a country, and/or for such trials to be conducted under an accelerated hearing process by the issuance of Practice Directions to that effect, with concomitant sanctions to deter would-be offenders,” Kyari stated.
The GCEO also called on the judiciary to accelerate hearing to criminal cases in their courts, through timely determination of the criminal charges and imposing adequate punishments and sanctions on culprits to serve as deterrence to others.
He said NNPC remains committed to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the PIA, adding that “together, we can ensure that the benefits of our natural resources are maximized for the economic and social development of our country”.
Kyari also commended the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola, and the organisers of the workshop for extending invitation to him and the opportunity to deliver a goodwill message at the workshop.
The Taskforce on Net Zero Policy, an initiative with the aim of furthering the work of the UN Secretary General’s High Level Expert Group (HLEG) on the Net-Zero Emissions Commitments of Non-State Entities, on Thursday, June 13, 2024, announced the constituents of its Board of Trustees and its Taskforce Expert Group (TEG).
Helena Vines Fiestas, UN HLEG member, Chair of the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance and Commissioner of the Spanish Financial Markets Authority
In a recent speech, UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, acknowledged the vital role that non-state actors have to play in realising the global shift to net zero and the importance of the HLEG recommendations as a framework to facilitate this activity.
The Taskforce also confirmed that it plans to produce a landmark report, to be published at COP29 and presented to the Secretary General, which will take stock of current trends and themes on net zero policy in relation to the HLEG recommendations.
The Taskforce, announced during COP28 in Dubai, has a remit to gather and produce insights which help align the credibility and accountability of 1.5°C-aligned net zero emissions commitments by non-state actors with effective coherent policies and regulatory certainty.
Climate change is well understood to pose material, existential risks to businesses, investors and societies around the world. With rates of warming continuing to accelerate and efforts to align with a 1.5°C future thus far unsuccessful, the need for action from policymakers and non-state actors alike has never been more urgent.
The Taskforce’s Board of Trustees is formed of senior representatives from organisations at the confluence of climate and policy issues. The Board serves to set the strategy and priorities of Taskforce, as well as serving as a pool of expert opinion to test the outputs of the group.
Helena Vines Fiestas (UN HLEG member, Chair of the EU Platform on Sustainable Finance and Commissioner of the Spanish Financial Markets Authority) and Andrea Meza Murillo (Deputy Executive Secretary to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)) will serve as co-Chairs of the initiative.
The constituents of the Board of Trustees are as follows:
Catherine McKenna, CEO, Climate and Nature Solutions & Chair, UN-Secretary General´s High Level Expert Group on Net Zero Pledges of non-state actors (UN HLEG)
Eric Usher, Head, United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI)
Jingdong Hua, ISSB Vice Chair, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
Jo Tyndall, Director of Environment, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
Mohamed Nasheed, Secretary General, The Vulnerable 20 (V20) Group
Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary General, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
Sabine Mauderer, Chair, Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS).
The Taskforce Expert Group is formed from technical experts drawn from fields relevant to the HLEG recommendations, including climate change mitigation and climate adaptation, corporate regulation, financial regulation, environmental and real economy sector policies, just transition policies, and financial markets (and others as needed).
Specifically, TEG members are expected to help shape the work of the Taskforce by providing guidance, research and analysis which will inform the Taskforce’s outputs.
TEG members have been selected to represent a diverse range of viewpoints drawn a spectrum of regional economic contexts, in keeping with the Taskforce’s objective to consider how EMDE markets can be best served by cohesive and just transition to net zero.
The input of the Board of Trustees and Taskforce Expert Group will form the basis of the Taskforce’s stocktake report, due for publication at COP29 in Azerbaijan. The report will identify and map policies in G20 countries against the HLEG criteria. It will also identify areas of good practice, challenges faced and actionable insights, including for vulnerable countries and emerging economies.
Commenting on the announcement, Taskforce co-Chair, Helena Vines Fiestas, said: “It’s my pleasure to formally welcome our Board of Trustees and Taskforce Expert Group members. The support for the work of the Taskforce so far demonstrates a clear desire for further global convergence on the net zero policy measures relevant to non-state actors, reflecting the urgent need for greater action through efficient policies aligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. With the support of our Trustees and TEG members, we have an incredibly high-quality pool of knowledge to draw on to inform the insights we will present at COP29.”
Taskforce co-Chair, Andrea Meza Murillo, said: “The work of the Taskforce will be instrumental to facilitate effective non-state entities’ action and net-zero policy coherence. The transition to inclusive net zero economies and societies requires comprehensive approaches, consideration of different sectors, and robust policy and legal frameworks to avoid greenwashing, and to achieve climate-nature-land-development goals. I’m delighted to contribute to the Taskforce and to work with the Board of Trustees and the Taskforce Expert Group members on this endeavour.”
Taskforce Ambassador, Laurence Tubiana, said: “Policies that support the urgent implementation of net zero are needed to deliver the Paris goals, especially in G20 countries. I am very pleased to support the important work of the Taskforce on Net Zero Policy, who will carry on the recommendations of the UN High Level Expert Group on Net Zero Emissions Commitments of Non-State Entities. I look forward to reading their recommendations at COP29.”
Catherine McKenna, CEO, Climate and Nature Solutions and Chair of High-Level Expert Group on the Net Zero Commitments of Non-State Entities, said: “In our Integrity Matters report to the UN Secretary General, we called for the establishment of a new Task Force to help support the move from voluntary initiatives to regulated requirements for net zero. This is key to tackling greenwashing, ensuring a level playing field, and accelerating the transition to net zero. So, I’m delighted to work alongside my fellow Trustees through this Task Force to help build a prosperous and inclusive net zero future.”
Klaas Knot, Chair of the Financial Stability Board, said: “Addressing climate change is important for financial stability. So, I welcome the creation of the Taskforce on Net Zero Policy, and the opportunity to provide input on the connections with financial stability policy work as a member of the Board of Trustees.”
ISSB Vice-Chair, Jingdong Hua, said: “Jurisdictions making up over 55% of global GDP have taken steps to introduce the International Sustainability Standards Board’s (ISSB) Standards. This means capital markets will soon have access to better information about climate – information that is comparable, reliable and decision-useful. Our focus is on capacity building initiatives to support this momentum and I look forward to contributing the Task Force on Net Zero Policy, including its focus on working with emerging markets and developing economies as we advance disclosure practices.”
Eric Usher, Head of the UN Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), said: “Non-state actor action on net zero is a vital component of the global transition. Not only that, but the shift to net zero represents a hugely significant growth opportunity, with the potential to benefit the global economy to the tune of trillions of dollars. The impetus to mitigate the risks and realise the benefits of the transition has never been more pressing or tangible. I am pleased to contribute to the Taskforce’s efforts as a Board of Trustee member to further the HLEG recommendation on accelerated policy action, with a view to ultimately contributing to the evolution of an enabling policy environment which will benefit economies and societies the world over.”
The following members are appointed to the TEG as a formal representative of their organisation/employer: Marcelo Mena – Global Methane Hub, Mark Watts/Alice Cavanagh – C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Prof Nick Robins/Dr Simon Dikau – LSE Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change, Noelia Garcia Nebra – International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), Prof Tom Hale/Prof Thom Wetzer – Oxford Net Zero Regulation and Policy Hub, and Dr Vaibhav Chaturvedi – Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).
The remaining TEG members are appointed in an individual capacity and not as formal representatives of their organisations/employers: Jane McDonald, Malango Mughogho, Bill Hare, Fiona Stewart, Carolina Aguirre Echeverri, Uli Agustina, Douglas Kativu, Dr Svitlana Krakovska, Catherine Leining, Yukari Takamura, Dr Olufunso Somorin, Dr Olumide Abimbola, Camille Ammoun, and Wang Xin.
The African ministers of housing, urban planning and development have pledged to support capital raising initiatives by pan-African premier housing financier, Shelter Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB).
Participants at the 43rd Annual General Meeting of Shelter Afrique Development Bank in Kigali, Rwanda
Speaking at a Ministerial Roundtable on Financial Innovations to Achieve Housing Affordability during the 43rd Annual General Meeting of Shelter Afrique Development Bank in Kigali, Rwanda, the ministers noted that the move would help the institution increase its social and developmental impact across its Member States.
“There is a need to strengthen Shelter Afrique Development Bank with a focus on addressing capital, improving financial stability and fostering partnerships to enable the institution fulfill its mandate and address the housing deficit across member States,” Namibia’s Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, said.
The ministers also called on countries, private sector and financial institutions to develop innovative and sustainable financing mechanisms to address the growing housing deficit in Africa and ensure access to affordable housing.
They also pledged to continue championing appropriate housing policies, institutional support mechanisms, public-private-partnerships, innovation in housing finance, and infrastructure support in addressing the housing crisis in the continent.
“There is a need for a comprehensive approach that considers both the financial and economic aspects to overcome housing challenges. Affordable housing is key for family well-being and economic resilience,” said Mr. Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Infrastructure, Republic of Rwanda and the incoming ShafDB AGM Bureau Chairman.
Partnership with BADEA
During the roundtable the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) submitted an innovative financing model for partnership between ShafDB, BADEA and ShafDB member States through which the parties would partner to increase ShafDB’s capital to boost its activities and impact across member States.
“I would like to thank BADEA for its interest in working with Shelter Afrique Development Bank and its member States to support the capitalisation initiative and replenishment of ShafDB. This unique funding model will be key in supporting ShafDB achieve its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan anchored on the VIRAL Model,” Shelter Afrique Development Bank Managing Director and CEO, Thierno Habib Hann, said.
Mr. Hann also noted that the initiative would help ShafDB enhance its financial strength, increase its social and developmental impact across its member States, strengthen partnership between BADEA, ShafDB and Member States, as well as help ShafDB in fulfilling its mandate of providing sustainable affordable housing.
He noted that the funding model presented a golden opportunity for all stakeholders, adding that several member States had already confirmed their interest in being on-boarded through the BADEA-ShafDB-Member States partnership.
