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Rights violations, environmental degradation: Report exposes Chinese, Indian mining practices in Nigeria

Michael Simire
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Rights violations, environmental degradation: Report exposes Chinese, Indian mining practices in Nigeria

A new report by the Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) has exposed the human rights violations and environmental degradation of host communities by Chinese and indigenous mining companies in Nigeria.

Chinese mining in Cameroon
Local youth of Colomine blocking a truck belonging to a Chinese mining firm after a clash between locals and the Chinese over a mining area. Photo credit: Solomon Tembang

The report, titled “Mining Practices in Ezillo and Ikwo Communities of Ebonyi State: An Environmental Time Bomb,” was publicly unveiled at a global briefing jointly organised by the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), Renevelyn Development Initiative (RDI) and Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN) and attended by over 60 participants – including legal experts, grassroots organisers, and media professionals.

Field investigations conducted across four communities in the state revealed an absence of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), a legal requirement under Nigerian law. Bypass of due process by the mining firms, signing non-legislative agreements with local elites and exclusion of the broader community in the processes.

At the global launch, Assistant Coordinator of the AJTN, Ciza Mukabaha said that the report revealed a willful non-compliance with national and international legal frameworks, highlighting the devastating impact of pollution, land grabbing, intimidation, and the failure of companies to fulfill community development agreements. These communities deserve justice, compensation, and comprehensive remediation of the damages caused.

Mercia Andrews of the Rural Women Assembly (South Africa) said: “The stories from Ezillo and Ikwo reflect a broader struggle of rural communities across Africa. Organising women and affected people into strong, informed movements is key to reclaiming our land, rights, and future.”

Chima Williams, Executive Director of the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), said: “What we see in this report is not just negligence – it is structured impunity. Legal strategies, including class action lawsuits and community litigation are necessary tools to hold violators accountable and secure justice.”

Communities now face severe air and water pollution, infertile soils, declining crop yields, respiratory illnesses, and disrupted livelihoods. Vulnerable groups – especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities – have been entirely excluded from compensation processes and decision-making structures. Meanwhile, state security forces are reportedly used to intimidate community members who resist or speak out.

Philip Jakpor, Executive Director at the Renevelyn Development Initiative, said: “The findings are disturbing and add to the pool of resources available to hold the mining firms to account. The media must rise to its responsibility of amplifying community voices and exposing environmental injustices. Silence in the face of these injustices is as dangerous as the grave situation in the communities.”

In his intervention, Maimoni Ubrei-Joe, Director of Campaigns and Administration at CODAF, explained that the report is intended to ignite not only outrage but also action.

“The people of Ezillo and Ikwo deserve justice, dignity, and a healthy environment to call home.”

Findings in the report include:

· No environmental audits or proper ESIA prior to mining activities.

· Massive land degradation, pollution, and destruction of livelihoods.

· Discriminatory compensation schemes benefiting local elites.

· Use of military/police to suppress dissent.

· Loss of youth and skilled population due to economic collapse.

Earlier, Benin Richard, the Executive Director of CODAF, pointed out that the field investigations were necessitated by the grave reports the organisation was getting from host communities where mining was causing largely undocumented impacts.

The group recommended the conduct of Independent Environmental Audits including
post-impact assessments to quantify damage and guide restoration, Fair and Inclusive Compensation for the locals that align with international standards such as the World Bank’s OP 4.12. It also demanded inclusive community engagement that must take into cognisance the position of women, youth, and marginalized groups in all negotiations and agreements.

Others are Implementation of resettlement and livelihood programs and enforcement of environmental laws which must center on upholding Nigerian and international frameworks including the ADB Safeguard Policy.

On World Environment Day, you can help to end plastic pollution

Michael Simire
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On World Environment Day, you can help to end plastic pollution

When you woke up this morning, you did not breakfast on a plate of plastics, and rightly so. Your body likely has plastic in it anyway: microplastics, which have been found in the arteries, lungs, brains, placenta, and breast milk of people across the world.

Inger Andersen
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director, Inger Andersen. Photo credit: Eric Bridiers

We still do not know exactly what these microplastics do to our bodies, although new research is emerging all the time. We do know that we did not choose to ingest them. We do know that they do not belong there. And we do know that only ending plastic pollution will stop such plastics accumulating inside of us.

Plastics bring many benefits for humanity – in healthcare, in clean energy technology and much more. Plastic is a useful, durable material that has a role to play in societies and economies, including as we transition to a greener, safer world. The problem is that the way we produce, use and discard many plastics – particularly single-use and short-lived products used for convenience, not necessity – has swamped the world in pollution.

An estimated 11 million tonnes of plastics leak into aquatic ecosystems each year, while around 13 million tonnes of plastics accumulate in the soil annually. This pollution gets everywhere – from the Mariana Trench, the deepest ocean point, to Mount Everest, the highest mountain peak – and breaks down into ever smaller particles, which sneak into our bodies through food, water and even air.

The harm caused by plastic pollution on species, ecosystems and economies is well documented. The costs of plastic pollution could rise as high as a cumulative US$281 trillion between 2016 and 2040. We are talking about lost income from tourism, beaches that need to be cleaned up, contaminated rivers, communities flooding as plastic waste clogs drains, fishing communities that are increasingly catching little more than plastic bottles and bags, and more.

Ending plastic pollution is clearly a human health, planetary health, economic health and business health imperative. This is why, on World Environment Day, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the host nation, the Republic of Korea, are mobilising communities across the globe to #BeatPlasticPollution.

Make no mistake: the world is moving to end plastic pollution. Over 90 countries have put in place some form of restriction on single-use plastic bags. An initiative by The Ellen MacArthur Foundation and UNEP has committed over500 businesses, governments and organizations to creating a circular economy, in which plastics never become pollution. In 2022, at the UN Environment Assembly, the nations of the world kick-started negotiations on an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. Negotiators are now working hard to deliver a deal at the next round of negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, this August.

But if we are to turn this global movement into a future free of plastic pollution, we need to apply a circular approach across the full lifecycle of plastics – ensuring that plastic stays in the economy, where it belongs, not in our oceans, our soils or our bodies.

Recycling alone will not be enough. Only 21 per cent of plastic today is economically recyclable, defined as when the value of recycled material is high enough to cover the cost of collecting, sorting and processing it. This is part of the reason why only 9 per cent of plastics are being recycled.

We need a complete rethink of how we design, make, use and reuse plastics. Products should be designed to be used more than once, and to be recycled at the end of their life. We need to think about shifting to refill systems, and more. The transition must be just: to protect the livelihoods of waste pickers and impacted communities, and to find affordable alternatives for poor communities living day-to-day – people who can only afford to purchase small quantities of a particular product or rely on clean drinking water available in plastic sachets.

There is work to do, but the rewards of ending plastic pollution will be plentiful: cleaner oceans and lands, healthier people and ecosystems, greater climate resilience, new job opportunities and stronger economies.

Governments and businesses have a key leadership role to play, through investment and innovation in new approaches. But every one of us can make a difference. The choices we make can shape industries, shift markets and redefine our collective future. On World Environment Day, do whatever you can, wherever you can, to reduce plastic pollution and help carry everyone towards a cleaner, safer and more prosperous world.

By Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme

Denmark partners NGO on climate change project in Niger Delta

Michael Simire
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Denmark partners NGO on climate change project in Niger Delta

The Embassy of Denmark in Nigeria, partnering with the Academic Associate PeaceWorks (AAPW), is set to fund a two-year project towards moderating climate change impacts in the Niger Delta.

The embassy’s Senior Programme Manager in Nigeria, Nosakhare Ayejimiwo, disclosed this in a two-day Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

The forum is entitled “Policy Dialogue and Exhibition on Green and Blue Economy in the Niger Delta”.

Ayejimiwo said the policy dialogue and exhibition were not only to share ideas but living demonstrations of how partnership and cooperation could lead to real and impactful change.

“One of Denmark’s strategic priorities for engagement with Africa is to increase efforts for climate adaptation, with particular focus on water, forests, and biodiversity, and support for green transition in the continent.

“We are living in a time where climate change is undeniably one of the greatest global concerns of our era.

“Yet, while its effects are felt worldwide, it is communities at the frontline like yours and others in the Niger Delta that bear the brunt of its impacts most acutely.

“The Niger Delta faces unique challenges that demand urgent, thoughtful, and locally relevant responses.

“Denmark’s partnership in this region reflects our strong commitment to supporting solutions that are inclusive, locally-led, and sustainable.

“This project is a shining example of those values in action; it embodies collaboration across sectors and stakeholders,” she said.

In her remarks, AAPW Executive Director, Judith Asuni, explained that the two-year project, implemented by AAPW, would be in four communities.

According to her, the communities are those highly affected by climate change, environmental degradation and piracy in Bayelsa and Delta states.

She added that the communities could potentially develop green and blue economies in their areas.

Asuni said, “The project aims to promote sustainable practices in both marine and terrestrial environments, emphasising conservation and resource management in the Niger Delta region.”

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Agricultural and Natural Resources, Prof. Beke Sese, reiterated the mandate of his ministry to produce food for Bayelsa, Nigerians and the world.

He pointed out that the administration of Gov. Douye Diri had concluded that the state was too blessed to be poor or associated with poverty.

However, while attributing the state’s blessedness to its rich vegetation and soil fertility, he regretted that a large amount of food consumed in the state was being brought from outside.

“Our primary focus has been on rice production because Bayelsa State is a natural habitat for rice. So, we are supporting our rice farmers by providing inputs, seedlings and rice mills.

“Our goal is to reduce the cost of rice, and we cannot do that without collaboration with our rice farmers.

“We want to create the enabling environment for farmers to be productive,” he said. 

Health conditions in IDPs may complicate situation of flood victims, groups warn

Michael Simire
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Health conditions in IDPs may complicate situation of flood victims, groups warn

The Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF) and the Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI) have urged the Niger State Government  to take full responsibility for the flood disaster which happened in Mokwa Town last Thursday and ensure that displaced persons get all the relief materials necessary to ameliorate their plight.

Mohammed Umar Bago
Gov. Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State

CFSF and RDI made the call following reports that displaced families in the temporary camp in Mokwa have raised the alarm over the deplorable conditions of the camps provided for them, which they describe as unfit for human habitation.

The makeshift structure is said to lack basic amenities such as clean water, toilets, and medical supplies.

The flood which occurred during a heavy downpour on Thursday May 29, 2025, led to the death of 159 persons, according to official figures, and destruction of property worth millions of naira.

In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, the CFSF and RDI said that the state government’s blaming nature instead of owning up for its lack of preparedness for the avoidable loss of lives and property is unacceptable. They also want the state government to clarify reports that a dam collapse was responsible for the quantum destruction that happened in the town.

The statement reads: “Passing the buck is very worrisome. In an ideal situation what we should be hearing is the reprimand of people in authority who failed to act when the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warned that Niger State is a high-risk state in its prediction of rain patterns for 2025.”

Executive Director of CFSF, Comrade Sani Baba, said: “The magnitude of the disaster in Mokwa is very disturbing and could have been prevented because NiMet had warned, giving the state government enough time to plan. We do not also trust the casualty number the state government is peddling because local sources say it is far higher.

“We are worried because last year when the Alau Dam collapse happened we had anticipated that other states would be proactive but with what happened in Mokwa town it is evident that most states still treat the issue of climate change and preparedness to address it as childs play.”

Executive Director of RDI, Philip Jakpor, said: “The Niger State Government cannot be absolved from the fallout of the flood in Mokwa because we suspect there is more to the volume of water that we saw in amateur videos circulating online. Does it involve a dam as some claim or something else?. It is the responsibility of the state government to either substantiate or debunk the reports.”

Jakpor also added that it is becoming evident that disaster capitalists are benefiting from the flood disasters that occur every year due to their reactive approach which seems to be centered only around sharing palliatives”

While reports indicate that the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and their state counterpart are now distributing relief materials in Mokwa, the two organisations want the agency to be more proactive in its response to disaster by procuring modern equipments including choppers and speed boats that can reach remote communities instead of busying itself with only distribution of palliatives.

They also want more formal and dignified shelters for displaced persons so as not to further traumatise the affected persons.

This incident should be a wake-up call to other states. We must not wait for disaster to happen before measures are put in place to protect lives and property, they argued.

GEF backs $8.7m initiative to unite African nations against extreme weather events in Ubangi River Basin

Michael Simire
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GEF backs $8.7m initiative to unite African nations against extreme weather events in Ubangi River Basin

Home to one of the largest tributaries of the Congo River, the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will benefit from a pioneering cross-border initiative to prepare for extreme climatic events and develop joint water resource management strategies with $8.7 million in funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Ubangi River
African fisherman rowing boat on Ubangi River. Photo credit: Mbrand85 / Shutterstock

Approved on Monday, June 2, 2025, by the GEF Council, the “Regional programme for integrated water resources management in the transboundary basin of the Ubangi River between the CAR and the DRC” aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two African nations while improving technical and institutional capacities for managing increasingly extreme floods, droughts and erratic rainfall patterns affecting the Ubangi River basin.

The GEF implementing agencies of the project are the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the African Development Bank. A regional body and two national ministries are ensuring the execution of the initiative: the International Commission of the Congo-Ubangi-Sangha (CICOS), the Ministry of Rural Development of the DRC and the Ministry of Development of Energy and Water Resources of the CAR.

Thierry Kamach, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of CAR, said: “The degradation of natural resources is undeniable. The United Nations 2030 Agenda is an inspiring and unifying message to build strong resilience around a transformative project that will further strengthen ecosystem interdependence for a greener and more sustainable future.”

Flowing between the CAR, the DRC and the Republic of Congo, the Ubangi stretches over 2,272 kilometres and is the main right-bank tributary of the Congo River. As such, it is part of the Congo River basin, the second-largest river basin in the world and a global biodiversity hotspot with over 1,000 fish species.

The river basin’s rainforest harbours more than 10,000 plant species and 2,500 animal species, including two-thirds of all primates, which are under pressure from deforestation and land cover clearing. In parallel, changes in hydrological regimes, riverbank erosion, sedimentation and mining pollution threaten the river’s fish and shore fauna, which are becoming increasingly rare, and the Ubangi’s role as a regulator of regional and global climates.

These challenges will be addressed by the new GEF initiative in an integrated fashion, considering the nexus between biodiversity, climate and ecosystem degradation, and between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

“This initiative is vital as it brings together the communities and institutions of two countries to conserve one of Africa’s most ecologically and economically important river basins. By working across borders, these countries will strengthen their resilience to climate change while protecting biodiversity and the natural systems that sustain life,” said IUCN Director General, Dr Grethel Aguilar.

“Through its strong on-the-ground presence in the Congo basin, IUCN will mobilise actors in the forest and environmental sectors to promote collaborative basin management and community-led Nature-based Solutions at the regional, national and local levels. Our focus will be as much on biodiversity and water resources, as it will on safeguarding the livelihoods of the region’s 25 million inhabitants, many of whom depend on the Ubangi River for navigation, trade and agriculture,” Aguilar added.

“This initiative is aligned with GEF’s long-standing commitment and investments in the sustainable management of the Congo basin,” said GEF CEO and Chairperson, Carlos Manuel Rodríguez. “By funding this crucial effort in support of sustainable management of water and land resources while averting pollution and land degradation, the GEF also contributes to maintaining the ecosystem functions of this gigantic forest system in supporting the stability of the regional and global hydrological cycle.”

Over the past 30 years, changes in rainfall patterns have progressively decreased water levels and reduced runoff in the Ubangi River by up to 18%. Coupled with riverbank erosion, this further accentuated the siltation of the river, which is not only detrimental to biodiversity but also cripples navigation, limits trade and restricts access to residential areas. Alternating with drought periods, destructive floods are another harsh reality affecting hundreds of thousands of people in the region over the last decade, leading to population displacement to neighbouring countries.

The new GEF initiative will enable more effective binational cooperation in decision-making and the political monitoring of water crises by establishing a joint observatory and shared tools and data protocols between the DRC and CAR to enhance forecasting, prevention and common crisis management measures. To combat biodiversity loss caused by human activities in the river basin, practical demonstrations of nature-based solutions – such as agroforestry, conservation farming and ecosystem rehabilitation – will be carried out on site.

Ensuring social inclusivity and promoting a “whole of society” approach, the project will roll out a framework for dialogue and exchange among stakeholders, including regional and local authorities, the private sector (particularly local small to medium-sized enterprises), young professionals and female community leaders. This aims to strengthen local actors’ capability to contribute to shared watercourse management through training and capacity-building and to assist them in formulating strategies to resolve common challenges.

Anthony Nyong, Director of the Climate Change and Green Growth Department at the African Development Bank, stated: “The Bank welcomes this GEF-supported initiative to strengthen cooperation in the Ubangi basin, enhance local resilience and promote women’s leadership. Its nature-based, people-centred approach aligns with our High 5s and offers a model for basin-wide collaboration in Africa.”

With $67 million mobilised in co-financing, the GEF initiative complements a pre-existing project entitled “Regional Support Programme for the Development of Cross-border Water Infrastructure and Resources between the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – PREDIRE”, being implemented by the African Development Bank, by mainstreaming environmental, ecosystem and participative approaches into the sectors of water, agriculture and transport.

NEPL/Seplat JV powers change with clean energy, youth innovation

Michael Simire
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NEPL/Seplat JV powers change with clean energy, youth innovation

The NEPL/Seplat Joint Venture (JV) has reiterated its commitment to clean energy, youth-led innovation, and potable water access in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

NEPL/Seplat
Dignitaries at the inauguration of a solar-powered mini-grid in Ologbo N’ugu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State

Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance at Seplat Energy, said this during the inauguration of a solar-powered mini-grid in Ologbo N’ugu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.

The occasion also witnessed the graduation of participants of the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP), and unveiling of a borehole in the same community.

Afe commended the host community for their support in delivering the three sustainability-focused initiatives.

She described the solar mini-grid as a beacon of progress, designed to illuminate homes and businesses in Ologbo N’ugu and its environs.

The newly commissioned mini-grid has an 18.45KWP capacity, a 30KWh battery, and a 20KVA inverter, with the ability to power 138 homes and businesses.

The YEP programme, which trained 53 youths in collaboration with EtinPower Limited, focused on equipping participants with skills in designing, installing, and maintaining solar infrastructure.

Six outstanding graduates received awards during the hybrid graduation ceremony.

Edo Governor, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, praised the public-private partnership and noted that the projects aligned with the state’s “Operation Light Up Edo” initiative.

He was represented by Mr. Saturday Egbadon, Director-General of the Edo State Electrification Agency.

Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Mr. Felix Isere, and Mr. Owunari Tomikeimieye of NEPL, emphasised the importance of community involvement and sustainable impact in project execution.

Chief Gius Eheneden, Ero of Umughunu, expressed appreciation on behalf of the community, hailing the projects as a transformative chapter in their oil and gas engagement history.

He pledged the community’s continued support for future development efforts.

By Nefishetu Yakubu

Lagos reads the Riot Act to residents on environmental infractions

Michael Simire
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0
Lagos reads the Riot Act to residents on environmental infractions

The Lagos State Government (LASG) has reiterated zero tolerance to all forms of environmental infractions in the state.

Tokunbo Wahab
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said this at a news conference on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Lagos.

Wahab said the state government would not hesitate to clampdown on residents who defy and disobey environmental laws.

He said the news conference was to inform the public on the measures the ministry had put in place, especially on the renewed commitment to enforce law and order in the state.

“As we prepare for the Sallah festivities which will come up in a few days time, a lot of waste will be generated through the slaughtering of rams and other types of livestock.

“We urge all residents to maintain a clean and hygienic environment, especially around homes, markets, and worship centres.

“All generated wastes should be sorted, bagged, and handed over to the approved Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators across all the wards in the state,” he said.

He said every household and business must patronise their assigned PSP operator for proper waste collection.

“Do not patronise illegal waste collectors or cart pushers. That is what the provisions of the law state.

“Timely payment of your waste bill supports the system and ensures consistent service.

“Those who generate waste must take responsibility for its proper disposal. Every resident must realise that all residents or tenement must pay their waste bills to keep the PSP operators in business,” he said.

He warned residents not to dump refuse or solid waste in drains, medians, or setbacks.

“Illegal dumping in drains and public spaces causes flash flooding, endangers public health, and defaces our city. It is strictly prohibited and under active surveillance.

“Desist from dumping building materials on the drains or on the roads during construction process. All such contravening structures will be sealed up, and the owners will be prosecuted.

“There is a total ban on open defecation or open urination.

“Apart from the health implications for the citizenry open defecation also falls short of human decency. Free public and private toilet facilities are available across the state for people to make use of anytime they are pressed,” he said.

Wahab added that the ban on all forms of street trading was still in place.

“No form of trading will be allowed on the road, medians, open spaces and walkways meant for pedestrian. Anyone caught will be prosecuted.

“All residents must be warned that our surveillance and enforcement operatives are very active.

“Operatives from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Kick Against Indiscipline, and the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) surveillance teams are fully operational across the state.

“Offenders are being apprehended daily, and there is a new commitment to prosecute and name shame all those convicted,” he said.

Wahab reiterated that anyone caught dumping refuse illegally or littering the environment with refuse would face up to N250,000 in fines or up to three months imprisonment.

“Under the Lagos Sanitation Environmental Law Provisions, serial offenders will face stiffer punishments. Don’t risk it. Be warned.

“If your PSP operator fails to collect your waste, report immediately to LAWMA through the following LAWMA’s helpline channels: 080000 Lawma (08000052962), 07080601020,” he said.

On the World Environment Day, Wahab said the ministry would not stop until it eliminates the scourge of plastic waste in the state.

“The World Environment Day will be celebrated on June 5, with the theme: ‘Ending Plastic Pollution’.

“We as a state are committed to ending the scourge of plastic waste.

“There is no going back on July 1 deadline for the commencement of enforcement of ban on single use plastics after an 18-month moratorium to producers, distributors, and users.

“We are also stepping up our advocacy for the citizenry to be well aware of the ban, which is a follow up to that of styrofoam good packs,” Wahab said.

By Olaitan Idris

Govt dismisses claims linking Mokwa flood to dam failure

Michael Simire
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0
Govt dismisses claims linking Mokwa flood to dam failure

The Federal Government has refuted claims that the recent devastating flood in Mokwa, Niger State, was caused by the release or failure of water from nearby dams.

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

Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said both the Kainji and Jebba dams remain structurally sound and fully operational.

”It is important to clarify that the flooding in Mokwa was not the result of any water release from the Kainji or Jebba dams.

”Both facilities are intact and pose no risk to surrounding communities,” the minister stated.

Utsev expressed the federal government’s sympathy to the Government and people of Niger, especially the communities affected by the disaster, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 29.

He commended the swift response of the state government, local authorities, and first responders for providing relief to victims.

According to the minister, the flooding was largely due to heavy rainfall associated with extreme weather conditions driven by climate change, which overwhelmed the town’s drainage infrastructure.

Utsev explained that unregulated building activities and encroachments blocked a seasonal tributary of River Dingi, which normally remained dry except during periods of heavy rainfall.

According to him, the absence of efficient alternative drainage channels worsened the situation.

The minister also recalled that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), under the ministry, had warned of potential flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area as part of the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) released on April 10.

”The AFO identified 1,249 communities across 176 local government areas in 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as high flood-risk zones. An additional 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs were listed as moderate risk.

”The high-risk states include Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara,” he said.

Utsev reiterated earlier warnings, urging state and local governments to improve drainage, relocate at-risk communities, raise public awareness, and enforce land-use laws.

He also encouraged stakeholders to consult NIHSA’s online flood forecast dashboard for detailed, location-specific risk information to aid proactive planning and disaster mitigation.

Utsev described the Mokwa flood as a stark reminder of the increasing impact of climate change, which continues to manifest in more frequent and intense weather events nationwide.

”As a Ministry, we remain fully committed to managing Nigeria’s water resources sustainably and building climate-resilient systems.

”We call on all sectors, government, private, civil society, and communities to work together in building safer and more resilient environments,” he said.

He added that technical personnel from the ministry, NIHSA, the Upper Niger River Basin Development Authority (UNRBDA), and the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) were already on site in Mokwa conducting a thorough assessment to guide future interventions.

While expressing the government’s condolences, the minister noted that flooding is not just a natural event but a developmental issue requiring coordinated and sustained response.

According to data from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), more than 200 people lost their lives and around 500 remain missing following the floods in Mokwa on May 29.

NEMA also reported that at least 121 individuals sustained injuries, while more than 3,000 residents were displaced.

The flood, triggered by heavy rainfall, destroyed over 265 homes, as well as key roads and bridges.

President Bola Tinubu has pledged federal assistance and activated the National Emergency Response Centre to coordinate ongoing recovery efforts.

By Akpan Glory

Climate adaptation investments yield impressive returns – WRI study

Michael Simire
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0
Climate adaptation investments yield impressive returns – WRI study

As climate hazards like floods and wildfires intensify – and global financial resources grow tighter – a new study by World Resources Institute (WRI) presents evidence that bolstering funding for adaptation and resilience is not only urgent but also one of the smartest development investments available today.

Climate adaptation investment
Climate adaptation investment

The study defines adaptation investments as those aimed at reducing or managing physical climate risks, such as climate-smart agriculture, expanded health services and urban flood protection. However, in many cases, the resulting development and social benefits matched or exceeded the avoided losses from climate impacts.  

“This research has pried open the lid on what resilience is truly worth – and even that first glimpse is staggering,” said Sam Mugume Koojo, Co-Chair of the Coalition of Finance Ministers for Climate Action from Uganda. “It’s time for leaders to recognise climate adaptation is not just a safety net but a launch pad for development.” 

WRI evaluated projects based on three key types of returns (commonly referred to as the “triple dividend of resilience”): avoided losses from climate disasters; induced economic gains (e.g. job creation and increased crop yields); and broader social and environmental benefits (e.g. improved health systems, biodiversity). On average, benefits were fairly evenly distributed across all three types. Yet only 8% of investment appraisals estimated the full monetised values of these dividends – suggesting that actual rates of return are substantially underestimated in economic assessments of most adaptation investments. 

Benefits beyond avoiding climate shocks 

While adaptation investments have traditionally focused on reducing climate vulnerability and strengthening the resilience of investments, the study finds that over 50% of their documented benefits occur even if climate-related disasters do not happen.  

Infrastructure built to better manage extreme weather events may provide year-round value: irrigation systems can support diverse cropping patterns and evacuation centres may double as community hubs. Nature-based solutions – such as watershed, wetland and coastal protections – frequently provide added ecological and recreational benefits. 

These findings demonstrate that investing in adaptation is not just a protective measure – it also helps advance countries’ broader development priorities and sustainable development goals. 

“One of our most striking findings is that adaptation projects aren’t just paying off when disasters happen – they generate value every day through more jobs, better health and stronger local economies,” said Carter Brandon, Senior Fellow, WRI. “That’s a major mind shift: policymakers don’t need a disaster to justify resilience – it’s simply smart development.” 

Adaptation investments also cut carbon and protect nature 

Nearly half of the analysed adaptation investments are also expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions, showing that adaptation and mitigation often go hand in hand. This overlap could open the door to greater climate finance from investors focused on lowering emissions.  

The strongest examples of this win-win were found in energy, forestry, transport, cities and agriculture sectors. Many of these projects use nature-based solutions that sequester carbon and deliver ecological benefits, such as urban tree planting to reduce heat or stabilising hillsides to reduce erosion. 

Recommendations for policymakers 

Based on these findings, WRI recommends that government leaders treat adaptation as an engine for economic opportunity and fully integrate resilience into national development strategies. The paper also calls for a standardised approach to measuring and reporting adaptation outcomes, which would improve investments’ comparability, transparency and accountability.  

The study builds on the Adapt Now report released by WRI and the Global Commission on Adaptation in 2019 and was prompted by the G20 and the government of Brazil’s interest in better evidence of economic benefits from investing in resilience.

“This evidence gives leaders and non-State actors exactly what they need heading into COP30: a clear economic case for scaling adaptation,” said Dan Ioschpe, Climate High-Level Champion for COP30. “Belém must become a turning point – mainstreaming resilience into national and local priorities and unlocking the full potential of non-state actors’ leadership.” 

Forecasting hope: Climate action for a more resilient Cook Islands

Michael Simire
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Forecasting hope: Climate action for a more resilient Cook Islands

Cook Islanders have a close connection to their land and feel a sense of stewardship to protect it against the rapidly changing climate.

However, extreme coastal hazards are increasing, including rising sea levels, tropical cyclones, and changing rainfall patterns, putting coastal communities and the livelihoods that depend on them at risk.

Cook Islands
The project is funding the implementation, improvement and maintenance of critical high quality climate information and early warning systems for multiple hazards

Tessa Vaetoru, Development Programme Manager, Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM), said: “Cyclone Martin didn’t just show us what it means to be unprepared, it reminded us of how isolated and vulnerable we are as small island communities in a vast ocean. An entire island left to survive in silence, with no warning and no way to call for help.

“It taught us the cost of silence, of systems that don’t reach us in time. FP147 is an investment that is changing that, it’s about ensuring our outer islands are seen, heard and warned, giving our people access to accurate climate information, early warning systems that can save lives. Because no one should ever have to live through what Manihiki did.”

Forecasting a resilient future with climate insights & early warnings

To deliver lasting climate resilience, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) is funding a $49.9 million climate information and knowledge services project implemented by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Cook Islands Government.

Celine Dyer, Climate Change Office Coordinator, Office of the Prime Minister, Cook Islands, said: “The project focuses on the MET (Meteorological) Office, which is strengthening its infrastructure in the Outer Islands (Pa Enua) and right across the nation so that it can disperse more credible, timely information to our communities.”

Samuel Nga, Principal Technician, Cook Islands Meteorological Office, said: “We’re able to put out our own stations, collect our own data, input that into the models and create our own forecasting system. Since the Green Climate Fund came in, we’ve seen an increase in staff capacity. They’ve taken on more responsibilities to sustain ourselves as a Cook Islands MET Service.

“With the support from the GCF, we’re able to build ourselves up as a really strong whole Cook Islands MET Service so that people can rely on us again to provide accurate information and provide forecasting and warnings to our own people.”

Rooted in wisdom: community voices & Indigenous knowledge 

A project component, “Te Aorangi Kupu”, involves integrating scientific information with traditional knowledge, language and storytelling. The Climate Change office translates climate and weather terminology to Cook Islands Te Reo Maori, the local language, making climate information accessible for all.

They also incorporate traditional knowledge into their solutions. For example, insights about water holes – such as their locations and optimal usage times – have been passed down through generations.

Celine Dyer: “Getting communities engaged in these discussions, getting their feedback, and having them provide solutions [is important]. They’re the ones who know the solutions that suit their context.”

Matt Blacka, Cook Islands National Programme Manager, Climate Services Project: “This year, 2025, we will get our first weather radar for Rarotonga, which means we will be able to see all the weather systems within 100 kilometres of this island. That’s a huge investment. Without the GCF project, we couldn’t fund infrastructure like that. There’s just no way we could.”

By Zeenia Dastur, Green Climate Fund (GCF)

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