Nigeria is planning to utilise significant climate financing in partnership with the US to advance the country’s green industrial agenda in the coming years.
Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale, in a meeting with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Sue Biniaz, in Bonn
The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC), Ajuri Ngelale, made this known during his meeting with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Sue Biniaz, in Bonn, Germany.
Ngelale said the nation’s mutual ties with the United States of America will extend into Nigeria’s realisable ambition to become a green industrial powerhouse over the next 10 years.
“I certainly cherished the quality and productive time spent today with the U.S. Head of Delegation to the United Nations Climate Conference and Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate, Ms. Sue Biniaz, in Bonn, Germany, on Sunday afternoon.
“We shared views concerning tangible next steps to be taken towards leveraging large-scale climate financing instruments to drive Nigeria’s green industrial agenda in the years ahead.
“The ties of mutually fruitful cooperation between the United States of America and the Federal Republic of Nigeria will extend deeply into Nigeria’s realisable ambition to become a green industrial powerhouse over the next 10 years.”
SPEC acknowledged that more work is needed to establish new mechanisms for the transparent and innovative allocation of resources to achieve the set goals of de-risked investment capital from around the world.
“We have much work to do in the form of putting in place new mechanisms to achieve a truly transparent and innovative application of available resources to meet our objective of attracting new and de-risked investment capital from around the world,” he added.
Ngelale expressed confidence in Nigeria’s Climate Action team towards achieving the mandate of becoming a green industrial powerhouse saying the group will attain its mandate.
“I am confident that we have the team to deliver on this for the country. One step at a time.”
The U.S. Principal Deputy Special Envoy for Climate was joined in the meeting by Trigg Talley, the Managing Director for Negotiations and Director for the U.S. State Department’s Office of Global Change.
Recall that the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu, on Sunday directed Special Envoy on Climate Action, Ajuri Ngelale, to serve as Nigeria’s Chief diplomat and lead representative on all climate-related engagements and negotiations while also supervising the Energy Transition Office.
SPEC is the lead negotiator on climate-related matters on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, reporting directly to the President.
The envoy is responsible for overseeing all interactions between the Secretariat of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and the NCCC Supervising Council, chaired by the President.
The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate, Ajuri Ngelale, will serve as the coordinator of all climate action-related activities. His mandate is to directly engage with other nations, international organisations, and non-governmental entities to build coalitions and advance global climate goals while keeping Nigeria’s national interest in mind.
Every year on June 11, wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists around the globe come together to celebrate International Lynx Day. This particular day is dedicated to raising awareness about the elusive and majestic lynx, a wild cat species known for its distinctive tufted ears, piercing eyes, and solitary nature. International Lynx Day aims to educate the public about the importance of protecting these remarkable creatures and their natural habitats.
The lynx
Lynxes belong to the medium-sized cat family, Felidae. They are the biggest wild cats found in Europe but, depending on the species, can be slightly smaller than a bobcat. Unlike most cats, lynxes have a short, stubby tail that looks almost bobbed, giving them a distinctive silhouette. Their most striking feature, however, is the presence of black tufts adorning the tips of their pointed ears. These tufts enhance their hearing, allowing them to pinpoint even the faintest sound of prey.
Eurasian Lynx: The largest lynx species, the Eurasian lynx can be found in the forests of Europe, Russia, and Central Asia. These cats have a broad range, inhabiting diverse environments from the dense boreal forests of Siberia to the mountainous regions of the Alps and the Carpathians.
Canada Lynx: Native to North America, the Canada lynx primarily resides in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska. These cats are well-adapted to cold climates, with thick fur and large, snowshoe-like paws that help them navigate deep snow.
Iberian Lynx: One of the most endangered wild cats in the world, the Iberian lynx is found in the scrub forests and rocky areas of southwestern Spain and Portugal. Intensive conservation efforts have been made to save this species from extinction, leading to a gradual increase in their population.
Bobcat: The most adaptable of the lynx species, the bobcat can be found throughout North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico. Bobcats inhabit various environments, including forests, swamps, deserts, and even suburban areas.
One of the most notable features of lynxes is their large paws, which are covered in thick fur. These paws act like snowshoes, distributing their weight and allowing them to move efficiently across snowy landscapes. This adaptation is particularly evident in the Canada lynx, which relies heavily on its ability to traverse deep snow to hunt its primary prey, the snowshoe hare.
Regardless of the species, all lynxes share some common characteristics. They are solitary creatures, preferring to live and hunt alone except during breeding season. Their keen eyesight and exceptional hearing make them skilled predators, adept at stalking and pouncing on unsuspecting prey. Their primary food source consists of snowshoe hares, but they’ll also hunt rabbits, rodents, small birds, and even fish.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of lynx species varies. The Eurasian lynx is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but some local populations are endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. The Canada lynx is also classified as “Least Concern,” although it faces threats from habitat fragmentation and climate change.
Once on the brink of extinction, the Iberian lynx is now listed as “Endangered.” Intensive conservation efforts, including captive breeding and habitat restoration, have helped increase its population from fewer than 100 individuals in the early 2000s to over 400 today. Despite this progress, the Iberian lynx remains one of the most threatened wild cats in the world.
Bobcats are the most abundant and widespread lynx species, classified as “Least Concern.” Their adaptability to various environments has allowed them to thrive, even in areas heavily influenced by human activity.
A Call to Action
As we celebrate International Lynx Day, let us remember that the future of these magnificent creatures lies in our hands. The lynx, with its silent grace and striking presence, symbolises the wild beauty of our planet. Each of us has a role in ensuring their survival, from supporting conservation initiatives to spreading awareness about their plight. By protecting the lynx, we are safeguarding the delicate web of life that sustains us all.
Let us be the voice for these silent hunters, advocating for a world where they can roam free and wild. Together, we can make a difference and leave a legacy of hope and conservation for generations to come.
On Monday, June 10, 2024, a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) from South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal presented the “Principles for a Fair Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP)” during a virtual press conference launch ahead of the G7 Summit proceedings starting on June 13.
G7 leaders gather for a group photo in Hiroshima on May 20, 2023
These guiding principles for global just transitions highlight the integral need for accountability, transparency, equity, and other principles in climate finance towards addressing the urgent climate crisis, from the perspective of the Global South communities and civil society in line to receive JETP finance.
The JETP deals announced in South Africa, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Senegal underscore the necessity for finance in combating the climate crisis. As discussions around COP29 in November begin to take shape, robust commitments to principled climate finance are deemed essential for the world’s climate response.
Despite finally meeting the $100 billion annual goal, developed countries are seemingly in favour of placing higher interest rates and restrictive conditions on their investments. This course of climate finance may ultimately hinder effective climate action in developing nations and increase their debt burden. Civil society voices urge G7 leaders and developed nations, as major polluters, to commit to creating a sustainable energy future through just climate finance deals.
Collectively developed by 350africa.org, 350.org Indonesia, Trend Asia, Nu Climate Movement, Enviro Vito, Good Governance Africa, Lumière Synergie Développement (LSD) and Action Solidaire International (ASI), through sharing knowledge and experiences, these Global JETP Principles call for climate justice and affirm the aspirations of CSOs in recipient countries for enduring climate solutions.
They aim to serve as an advocacy and capacity-building tool, bringing together civil society and grassroots communities to advocate for fair and ambitious climate finance that is responsive to the realities of developing countries.
JETPs recognise the need for resources to transform energy systems and support developing countries. Expensive access to finance traps these nations in debt, limiting climate investments and necessitating a reevaluation of climate finance delivery. Collaboration among CSOs in the global south is vital to challenge the top-down approach. Principles developed by recipient countries, facilitated by civil society, are essential for accountability and asserting local aspirations in the energy transition.
Alia Kajee, Public Finance Campaigner at 350.org, said: “Finance is not neutral; it can support transformative aspirations or perpetuate injustices under the guise of environmental progress. The current international financial system reveals significant power imbalances between developed and developing nations, which must be addressed to achieve just, people-centered climate action.”
Ndeye Fatou Sy, Programme Manager at Lumière Synergie Développement (LSD), said: “Finance ministers must prioritise funding mechanisms aligned with justice objectives to avoid undue strain on national economies, while ensuring greater transparency and accountability within JETPs. These partnerships, guided by principles ensuring efficacy and impact, are critical for driving effective climate action.”
Andreas Sieber, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns at 350.org, said: “A principled approach to finance is vital for navigating the global climate finance landscape, ensuring equitable and effective solutions. Initiatives like JETP highlight the need for just transitions, but aligning them with national climate finance direction and unlocking public finance, particularly in the Global South, is crucial. It is crucial that G7 member states demonstrate willingness to deliver finance at COP29.”
Maureen Harris, Senior Advisor at International Rivers and coordinator of the Vietnam Climate Defenders Coalition, said: “In Vietnam, the government has committed to a just energy transition and signed up for a JETP, while at the same time imprisoning the country’s leading climate defenders. Targeted attacks on climate leaders and environmental organizations severely limit genuine opportunities for consultation with civil society, which are essential to any just transition. To meet the urgency of the climate crisis, energy transition financing must center principles of transparency, participation and accountability, towards truly just and sustainable solutions.”
Liangyi Chang, Asia Managing Director at 350.org, said: “In the scorching grip of the 2024 climate heat wave, Asia bears witness to the harsh reality of climate change. As temperatures soar and ecosystems strain, the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy becomes ever more apparent. Every climate leader from civil society shall be part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership from all governments, only together we can make it possible and to solve the climate disruption.”
Year 2024 is the big climate finance year where countries will agree on a new global climate finance goal known as The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). This goal will be a key marker for a successful outcome at the annual UN climate talks (COP29) in Baku Azerbaijan.
Delegates gather for the Glasgow Dialogue on Loss and Damage at SB60. Photo credit: IISD-ENB / Kiara Worth
In 2009, at COP15 in Copenhagen, developed countries committed to a goal of mobilising $100 billion per year by 2020 for climate action in developing countries. At COP21 in Paris, countries agreed to set a new collective quantified goal before 2025, taking into account the needs and priorities of developing countries.
The NCQG aims to mobilise financing to support the climate needs and priorities for developing countries which include mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and just transitions. It is also meant to provide clarity on the public funding available for developing countries to implement their next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and adaptation plans which are due by February 2025. Countries agreed at COP28 to submit the NDCs 9-12 months ahead of COP30.
As countries meet in Bonn, Germany for technical discussions that lay the roadmap to what will be agreed later this year, there is high expectation that this preparatory work sets a clear ambition for a realistic finance target that is commensurate with the scale of needs and speed to deal with the climate crisis.
For developing countries, this means provision of finance that enables them to deal with the frequency of extreme weather events that leave the most vulnerable bearing the brunt of climate impacts.
For developing countries, this means a quantum figure in the trillions, with some like the Africa Group citing a figure of not less than $1.3 trillion per year by 2030. More than the amount in quantitative terms, countries are clear on the need for the financing to be quality. This means that the agreed climate financing will not be given in the form of loans as has happened in the past, should not be double counted and hence should be additional to development finance.
Climate finance that has been given in the form of loans has exacerbated the debt burden of developing countries. A study by ONE Campaign shows that due to debt service repayments, financial outflows from African countries have surpassed inflows that include official development assistance.
Will Bonn set the direction for considerations to inform an adequate and quality finance target? Looking at the agenda currently, the answer hangs in the balance. There seems to be an attempt to avoid discussing the amounts at these technical discussions. The danger with this is, leaving that crucial item to be discussed too late in the day and history repeating itself – having an arbitrary figure that is more of a political guess work, disregarding the real needs and purpose for which it is meant for.
Ali Mohamed, African Group of Negotiators Chair, said: “As the negotiations get into the second week, our work as the AGN is to ensure that we get a progressive draft text that sends a signal that non debt inducing climate finance will flow to developing countries at the scale needed to drive non carbon intensive and climate resilient development. SB60 is an opportunity to rebuild trust in the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. That trust can only be rebuilt if we come out of Bonn with a quantum that adequately covers the needs of the continent. The figure Africa is asking for from here as we head into COP29 is $1.3 trillion per year by 2030.”
Evans Njewa, Chair of the Least Developed Countries Group, said: “The first week has been promising, as the chair mandated to oversee 45 Least Developed Countries (LDCs) across the world, I have been keen to shape a process that is inclusive and meets the needs of LDCs. As we get into the second week where a lot of negotiation texts are likely to be concluded, we hope to agree that developed countries will provide climate financing that is based on science, is accessible and scaled up to meet the needs of developing countries. It is my hope that we will agree on shared commonalities that will produce a draft text that will give us positive decisions in Baku.”
Sven Harmeling, Head of Climate, Climate Action Network, Europe, said: “We analysed European Union climate finance and while there has been an increase in contributions in recent years, the scale definitely doesn’t match what is required. This year and in future climate financing debates, the EU must significantly increase the quality of financing and move away from non-grant instruments like loans, which have been 50% and step up in grants as these are particularly important for vulnerable countries to address the climate crisis.”
Imane Saidi, Diplomacy and cooperation researcher, Imal Initiative for Climate & Development, said: “The NCQG consultations have been held hostage by debates over the reform of the contributor base and the relevance of Article 2.1c of the Paris Agreement. These issues are not only outside the mandate but also stall substantial discussions on defining the structure, timeframe, and quantum of the goal.
“A progressive NCQG text for Africa and other developing countries should move beyond these tactics and conditionalities set by developed country Parties, to avoid their historical responsibility and focus on the core mandate. It should emphasise genuine accountability from developed countries and prioritise the real needs of the developing world.”
Stela Herschmann, Climate Policy Specialist at Observatório do Clima, Brazil, said: “We are getting into the second week of SB60 and so far, what we’ve seen is countries reinforcing known positions. There hasn’t yet been a substantial debate at this meeting on what really matters, such as what climate finance actually is and how much we’re talking about. Countries, especially the developed ones, need to stop dodging and come up with clear proposals and figures, or we’ll hardly make any concrete progress at this meeting, with worrying consequences for COP this year and our way to Belém.”
Eva Peace, Loss and Damage Youth Coalition, said: “The new climate finance goal is an opportunity to learn from the lessons of the $100 billion goal and design the NCGQ to meet the needs and priorities of developing countries. The NCQG should include sub-goals on loss and damage, adaptation, and mitigation and provide public grant-based finance.
“At COP28 we got the establishment of a loss and damage fund which unlocked another phase of addressing the climate change shocks in Africa and strengthening recovery for our communities. However, that is not enough, as we get into this second week of negotiations, we hope developed countries agree to take responsibility in the mobilisation and provision of climate finance by prioritising the inclusion of loss and damage.”
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) says it is dismayed by a report in a section of the media alleging that it inflated subsidy claims by N3.3 trillion.
NNPC Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari
In a statement issued on Monday, June 10, 2024, the organisation disclosed that it conducts its businesses accountably and transparently in keeping with international best practices and has, at no time, inflated its subsidy claims with the Federal Government.
“All previous subsidy claims by the Company are verifiable as relevant records and documents have been sent to relevant authorities and agencies,” stated the firm.
NNPC Ltd stated further that it is neither aware of any audit of its subsidy claims nor probe ensuing therefrom, adding that “both ridiculous claims are products of the febrile imagination of the reporters and their respective media houses”.
The group noted that it would resist any attempt to drag it into the apparent politics of fuel subsidy as it currently operates on commercial basis and on the express provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
“It is on record that in line with its Transparency, Accountability & Performance Excellence (TAPE) mantra, NNPC Ltd. has, on several occasions, independently invited external auditors to review its books,” NNPC Ltd stated, even as it called on media practitioners and media houses to exercise restraint and verify information before publication in keeping with the ethics of the noble profession of journalism to avoid misleading the public.
As we step into week 2 at the ongoing UNFCCC SB60, let’s shake things up with a fresh mindset and a faster pace. This shift is our secret weapon to secure the progress we need by the end of SB60, putting governments in the driver’s seat to seal the deal in Baku!
Olumide Idowu
The approach to ensure that climate negotiations in Bonn progress and to prepare Nigeria for the signing of treaties in Baku is to focus on the following actions:
Increasing Energy Efficiency and Reducing Emissions of Greenhouse Gases: Nigeria should strengthen its domestic climate policies by implementing measures to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, encourage renewable energy sources, and increase energy efficiency. Demonstrating Nigeria’s dedication to addressing climate change and establishing a solid platform for international negotiations would be achieved through this action.
Establishing International Alliances: Nigeria should actively engage with other nations, particularly those that share similar concerns and interests on climate change, to establish alliances and partnerships. Through forming partnerships with countries that share similar values, Nigeria can strengthen its position in climate negotiations and collaborate to achieve shared objectives.
To support its efforts in mitigating and adapting to climate change, Nigeria should aggressively seek and mobilise climate finance from foreign sources. This will facilitate the financing of climate initiatives, the implementation of sustainable practices, and the building of resilience to climate change effects.
Enhancing Climate Adaptation Measures: To address the vulnerabilities and hazards posed by climate change, Nigeria should prioritise and develop its climate adaptation measures. These include investments in resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable agricultural techniques, and improving early warning systems for extreme weather events.
Capacity Building and Technology Transfer: To improve its technical and institutional skills in the fight against climate change, Nigeria should prioritise technology transfer and capacity-building programmes. Additionally, Nigeria could access new solutions and best practices by promoting technology transfer and sharing knowledge with other countries.
Through implementing these activities, Nigeria has the potential to contribute to the overall progress in climate discussions, to position itself favourably to conclude treaties in Baku, and to demonstrate its commitment to addressing climate change at continental and international levels.
By Olumide Idowu, Executive Director, ICCDI Africa
Greener environment and retrofitting of buildings have been suggested as a means of guarding against the incessant heat being experienced due to climate change.
Participants at the stakeholders forum on Heat, Health and Housing in Lagos
Dr. Olumuyiwa Adegun, a Senior Lecturer at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), who made the submission in his remarks at a stakeholders forum tagged “Heat, Health and Housing: Addressing Challenges Through Data-Driven Approaches” in Lagos, also disclosed that “retrofitting our buildings makes them heat resistant and climate smart”.
Dr. Adegun, who disclosed thar there are lots of health implications attached to heatwave such as dizziness, skin rashes and skin stroke, noted: “Apart from the increase in daytime and nighttime temperature due to the effects of climate change we also find the aspect of urban heat island, that’s the concrete jungle we’ve created for ourselves. Instead of soaking in the heat, it’s sending it back, taking the heat and sending it back. So that’s one factor causing a lot of heat in cities.
“We also have the aspect of the building materials or the kind of materials you used to build affects how you were exposed to heat. So, if you use somebody like maybe Adobe, you may not have as much heat as using the sandcrete wall in order to protect you, if you use something like zinc you live in the zinc house, compared to an adobe house is much more thermally uncomfortably trapped. For example, people who live in slums with no designated kitchen cook in the living room, all these human activities also exposed people to heat.”
The Principal Investigator on the project “The Accessing Intra-Urban Heat Vulnerabilities” also noted that most of the buildings in urban centres are with no proper ventilation, adding: “So, when we build we should have vegetation, trees, shrubs, grasses, not just all concrete paving. So, the idea is when there is absence of vegetation, there is increasing heat. What if we have more vegetation in where we live where we work, where we play; of course, it will bring down the temperature, it has cooling effect.”
On his part, Olumide Idowu, the Executive Director, International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI), identified proper urban management as the only way out of proffering solution to the prevalent cases of heatwave in the country.
He said: “It is very important for the government to look at our urban planning because the way we allocate land that are meant for recreational and other purposes is very alarming. Our policy formations too need to be checked. Yes, we formulate policies, but implementation is not that captured for the people in the local communities.
“Our leaders have to begin to look at climate change as an issue that has come to stay, so implementing issues around it has to be a continuous process, how are we making sure that we have a sustainable solution to it?
“The people need to cooperate and collaborate in making sure that the government is doing the right thing by allocating the right resources to the right places so that everybody can see the fair share of what the environment is all about and we now look at how we can make sure that everybody takes responsibility towards his own immediate environment in ensuring that anything that happens within your environment, you are responsible for it.
In his submission, Prof. Debo Adeyewa, a Director at West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), said: “For Nigeria to make progress the people should elect leaders who are passionate about them into office, they should appoint people who are educated so they can be aware of climate change as it affects people at the grassroots. You don’t need a lot of energy; these are things only educated persons can understand. And this we are also passionate about bringing the results down to the grassroots.”
The project used FESTAC (as formal) and Ebute-Ilaje and Ajegunle Ikorodu (as informal) areas of study with Dr. Tobi Morakinyo presenting a paper on “Heat Vulnerability and Risk Assessment over Lagos Metropolis”. Other members of the research team are Dr. Olusoga Adewale, Victor Arowolo and Ademola Akinbobola.
Dignitaries at the forum include Dr. Funmi Soji-Awotiwon, Assistant Head, Digital Health Unit, Lagos State Ministry of Health; Dr. Peter Elias, Associate Professor of Geography, University of Lagos; Chief Morinsola Oladunjoye, Community Head of Ajegunle Community; representatives from the private sectors and others.
When it comes to the application of modern biotechnology in agriculture, the Africa Union’s (AU) position is clear – the technology is one required to transform the continent’s agricultural sector.
A group picture of the participants at the 2nd IBC in Africa Forum held in Accra in May 2024
This endorsement follows the African High-Level Panel of Experts on Emerging Technologies 2007 report that identified biotechnology as one of the good tools that is useful in supporting Africa’s agriculture.
The AU is of the view that such modern scientific tool can redeem Africa’s agriculture from the vagaries of pests and diseases as well as climatic conditions that are undesirable, and ensure there are seeds that resist drought, pest and diseases. “And that would lead us to solving our food insecurity challenges as a continent,” according to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD’s Senior Programme Officer for Legal and Policy on Biosafety Issues, Akile Sunday.
The 2024 2nd IBC Africa Forum in Accra
He was speaking on the topic: “AU Guidance for Emerging Biotechnologies in Africa,” to a group of scientists, regulators and science communicators in Accra at the 2nd Institutional Biosafety Committees’ Forum in Africa (IBC- Africa Forum 2024). The participants were mainly members of Institutional Biosafety Committees (IBCs) in some scientific and regulatory institutions in Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.
The forum was organised by the African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium (AGBC) in collaboration with Ghana’s National Biosafety Authority (NBA) to firm up discussions and deliberations from the maiden IBC Forum held last year in Nairobi, Kenya. The purpose of these instituted annual Forums is to deepen participants’ understanding of regulatory frameworks governing IBCs and their roles within these frameworks, particularly in Africa.
The Ghana forum was also an occasion to enhance the professional growth of IBC members actively engaged in genetic biocontrol technologies, including gene drive, gene editing and synthetic biology projects.
Agenda 2063 – prioritising scientific innovation for Africa
Tracing the history of AU’s position on modern biotechnology, Akile said the stance was line with Africa’s 50-year strategic plan of action and blueprint for the continent’s development – “Agenda 2063.” It was adopted at the 24th Ordinary Assembly of the Heads of State and Governments of the AU in January 2015, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
He noted that of the seven Aspirations of Agenda 2063, Aspiration 1, clearly captures the need for Africa to view science, technology, research and innovation as an important tool towards her socio-economic transformation.
“So, these four areas stand at the epicenter and is key towards bringing us to the point of appreciating the importance of science towards our socio-economic transformation as a continent,” Akile stated.
He said for this to be achieved, an enabling environment for member states to apply science, had to be created by having in place national policies, legislation and regulations that promote and drive forward science. To this end, the AU has over the years been facilitating the establishment of enabling environments for Africa to achieve her vision 2063 with science as the base for its transformation.
Akile touched on the role of AUDA-NEPAD in ensuring science serves as a base for Africa’s transformation, saying, the Agency serves as the technical interface providing advisory knowledge and technical expertise to assist all member states towards the attainment of the scientific aspiration of Agenda 2063.
He announced that the 10-year blueprint to achieve science and technology innovation in Africa, the “Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024” (STISA), a policy adopted for systematic implementation of activities from 2014 to 2024, has been extended for another 10-year period from 2024 to 2034.
Additionally, the AU has ensured the development of several guideline documents to enable member countries properly navigate the arena of modern biotechnology and its associated tools. The documents are: Guidelines for Institutional Biosafety Committees; Guidelines for Risks Analysis for the Testing and Deployment of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes; Guidelines for Compliance Monitoring and Inspection of Activities Involving Genetically Modified Mosquitoes; and Ethics Guidelines for the Use of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes.
The AUDU-NEPAD Officer commended the AGBC for moblising resources to build the capacity of IBC members, and thereby enhancing their expertise to adeptly handle related materials.
Enhancing IBCs capacity to handle diverse genetic technologies
The Founder and Head of the Secretariat of the AGBC, Willey Tonui, said the Consortium was formed in 2020 to build an informed local leadership to support the requirements for development, decision-making and on the utility of genetic biocontrol technologies for animal, public health and conservation in Africa.
Biocontrol is an ancient practice involving the use of beneficiary insects or animals to control unwanted and problematic ones. The concept of genetic biocontrol is simply, the use of genetically modified organisms through gene drives and gene editing to control other problematic organisms. Hence, the identification also of this concept by the High-Level Panel of Experts on Emerging Technologies and subsequent recommendation by the AU for its adoption in the continent’s fight against malaria for member states to consider.
In this wise, ongoing research is well advanced to genetically modify the genome of the female anopheles mosquito to render it incapable of spreading the positive agent plasmodium, which causes malaria in humans. Once released into the environment, they would mate with the conventional counterpart, change their system of operation, so they would be unable to spread the disease.
In an interview, the former CEO of the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) and Facilitator of the Forum, Eric Okoree, said because genetic related research take place at the institutional level, the AGBC’s goal is to ensure that IBCs are well equipped to appreciate their assignment.
He explained that IBCs are responsible for ensuring that every genetically modified work going on at the institutional level follows the due procedure and are supervised by them.
Some Ghanaian scientists who participated in the forum described it as a timely event, especially for institutions like the Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (BNARI-GAEC), whose IBCs, was set up recently.
A trained Plant Breeder and member of BNARI’s IBC, Elaine Azu, in an interview, expressed her satisfaction with the impact the training has on her. Following the interactions with experts and exposure to sample documents, she was confident that she has received the required skills to prepare and review project dossiers and application documents. Thereby, making Ms. Azu ready to contribute to her institute’s soon to start gene editing work on yam and rice.
Ghana’s NBC remains committed to biosafety processes in the country
In a related development, Ghana’s NBA Board Chairman, Prof. Yao Tettey, has reaffirmed the agency’s support for biosafety regulations and pledged to provide leadership, exceptional services, and guidance on emerging technologies.
He said the NBA’s focus “remains steadfast on fostering informed and transparent decision-making processes that support the responsible development and deployment of genetic biocontrol agents or products,” adding that, “the potential of emerging biotechnologies to improve Ghana’s agriculture, environment and healthcare is immense”.
Prof. Tettey was addressing a consultative meeting in Accra of partners and stakeholders jointly organised by the NBA and the AGBC as a sequel event to the 2nd IBC- Africa Forum 2024.
He commended the collaborative effort between the AGBC and the NBA as a crucial step forward in their shared commitment in Ghana to advancing biosafety and regulatory frameworks for emerging biotechnologies. Prof. Tettey urged the organisers to continue working together to ensure that regulatory frameworks developed are robust, adaptable, and aligned with global best practices.
The Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change (SPEC), Chief Ajuri Ngelale, is the new Focal Point of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s engagement with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings, and other related international meetings on climate-related and green economic matters.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
This emerged as President Bola Tinubu on Sunday, June 9, 2024, approved mandate for office and terms of reference for the pioneering Office of SPEC.
According to a statement, this was informed by the need to bring clarity to the functions of the office within the climate and green economy ecosystem.
Chief Ngelale is replacing Dr Salisu Dahiru who doubled as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and Climate Change Focal Point. Dahiru was relieved of his duties as the NCCC DG by President Tinubu on Sunday and replaced by Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe.
By the President’s directive, the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action shall also be:
(1) The lead negotiator on climate-related matters on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, reporting directly to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
(2) The lead negotiator on carbon market and management initiatives on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with a mandate to integrate the work of the Intergovernmental Committee on National Carbon Market Activation Plan (NCMAP) into the climate action plans of the Federal Government of Nigeria, reporting directly to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
(3) The supervising interface between the Secretariat of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and the NCCC Supervising Council, which is chaired by the President.
(4) Coordinator of all climate action-related activities across Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, legislative, and subnational entities which directly impact the President’s climate action and green economic agenda with a mandate to directly engage other nations, international organisations, and non-governmental entities to build coalitions and advance global climate goals in accordance with Nigeria’s national interest.
(5) The coordinator of activities of all relevant Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies towards the successful fulfilment of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
(6) The secretary of the Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions, which is chaired by the President.
(7) The chief diplomat and lead representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on all climate-related engagements and negotiations while supervising the Energy Transition Office.
(8) The focal-point authority on all non-executive activities related to the operations of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) with delegated authority to oversee the activities and operations of the NCCC secretariat for frequent reporting to the President in between meetings of the NCCC Supervisory Council.
(9) The lead interface on engagements with the Central Bank of Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Finance, Federal Ministry of Power, Federal Ministry of Environment, other critical Federal Government of Nigeria institutions concerning the administration and coordination of climate-related donor finance, renewable energy finance and green industrial growth management.
(10) Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
Furthermore, the President has approved the expansion of the membership of the Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions (P-CAGE).
The committee comprises the following additional members:
(1) Representative, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning
(2) Representative, Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs
(3) Representative, Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas)
(4) Representative, Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science & Technology
(5) Representative, NNPCL
(6) Special Assistant to the President on Energy Transition, Ms. Yasmin Mohammed
(7) Representative, Energy Transition Office, Mr. Somkele Awa-Kalu.
The Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions will be inaugurated in July.
According to the statement, the President emphasises diligence, dedication, and patriotism in the execution of this critical national assignment with a view to realising his administration’s agenda on climate action and green industrial growth for the long-term benefit of the Nigerian people and Africans at large.
In accordance with his commitment to actualise Nigeria’s green industrial vision, boost investor confidence, and unlock sustainable economic value through various climate finance instruments, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in interim capacity, pending the confirmation of her appointment by the NCCC Supervisory Council.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe
According to a State House press release signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, on Sunday, June 9, 2024, the President has also approved that Dr. Maduekwe, 39, who holds a Bachelor of Law degree, a Master’s degree in Environmental Law & Policy from the University of Dundee (UK), and a Doctorate degree in Law from the University of Hull (UK), is to serve as the Co-Chairperson of the Intergovernmental Committee on National Carbon Market Activation Plan (NCMAP).
She replaces Dr Salisu Mohammed Dahiru, who took office as the NCCC pioneer Director-General on July 25, 2022.
Dr. Maduekwe has over 15 years of national and international experience in climate policy development and project implementation. She previously served as Nigeria National Coordinator, Climate Parliament. Climate Parliament is an international, multi-partisan network of legislators working worldwide to help solve the climate crisis and accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
Dr. Maduekwe was also the legal adviser to the NCCC Director-General.
Furthermore, the President has approved the appointment of Mr. Ibrahim Abdullahi Shelleng, 40, as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Finance & Stakeholder Engagement, Office of the President. He is seconded to the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) Secretariat, where he will handle all matters related to Climate Finance & Stakeholder/Donor Relations.
The President has also approved that Mr. Shelleng is to assume the position of Secretary of the Intergovernmental Committee on National Carbon Market Activation Plan (NCMAP) and serve as a member of the Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions, as well as the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.
Mr. Shelleng, who holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, has served in leading roles across multiple financial institutions, and was Head of Business Development for the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company PLC (NMRC) before his appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the President.
The President has also approved the appointment of Mr. Olamide Fagbuji, 44, as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Climate Technology and Operations, Office of the President. He is seconded to the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) Secretariat, where he will oversee the digitalisation of a new open procurement process and cross-departmental procedural optimisation initiative.
Mr. Fagbuji served as Special Assistant to the President on Economic Matters under the previous administration and was most recently the Technical Adviser to the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) on Policy Research and Strategy. He is a policy analyst and computer scientist.
By the directive of the President, the aforementioned appointments take immediate effect.
According to the release, the President expects the new appointees to bring their expertise and discipline to bear in these very important assignments in pursuance of the nation’s aspiration on green industrial development and climate action for sustainable growth and national prosperity.
