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SPP rallies state commissioners to bridge gaps in subnational climate governance

Michael Simire
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SPP rallies state commissioners to bridge gaps in subnational climate governance

The Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP) has convened a high-level meeting with State Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change, under the auspices of the “Conference of Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change”.

SPP
Participants at the SPP high-level meeting with State Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change

This initiative continues SPP’s commitment to strengthening subnational climate governance by building technical capacity, fostering collaboration, and elevating the voices of state‑level policymakers to the global stage.

In his welcome address, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, President of SPP, represented by Mr. Gboyega Olorunfemi, Project Lead at SPP, thanked the Commissioners for their time and commitment to improving climate action in their states. He observed that, over the years, SPP’s engagements have revealed persistent gaps in subnational climate governance, stating that these gaps can only be closed by empowering local decision‑makers with technical expertise, visibility, and access to funding.

“Through our collaborative work, we have identified key constraints limiting your ability to deliver effective climate governance. This is why SPP has decided to support and collaborate with you in closing these gaps, and to ensure that your states can attract climate finance, design robust policies, and participate meaningfully in national and international forums,” he said.

Prof. Okereke explained that SPP would strengthen the Conference’s secretariat by deploying a dedicated technical expert to ensure more effective coordination of climate action in their states. He encouraged the Commissioners to collaborate and share best practices among themselves, instead of working in silos.

In her opening remark, Chief Mrs. Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ekiti State, and Chairperson of the Conference of Commissioners on NEWMAP Project, thanked SPP for their efforts at amplifying subnational voices.

“Today marks the culmination of several discussions and follow-ups, and I am glad that we are making progress as a team. This is a great opportunity for us to enhance our productivity leveraging the technical expertise of SPP, and I urge my dear colleagues to be fully committed as we work to support our state Governors to achieve our respective climate and environmental goals,” she said.

Participants took turns to express gratitude for this opportunity, and also made suggestions on how the initiative can be improved.

In his contribution, Dr. Olly Owens, Technical Advisor on Forestry Management and Climate Change to the Governor of Ekiti State, agreed that working in silos has watered down the efforts of subnational governments and development partners, urging SPP to spearhead the integration and concentration of these efforts for more impacts.

“It will be good to help all of the states link together to access opportunities. So, anything that SPP can do to ensure that everybody works together to leverage these opportunities is highly welcome. Also, the voice of the subnational is not being considered. What we find when we try to join up with initiatives such as the COP is that so much of the processes and UN architecture are designed for national governments, and there is lack of ways which we can directly interact with it, which is a problem in a federal system. Any way you can assist to improve subnational participation at the international stage will also be welcomed,” he stated.

Dr. Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner of Environment, Anambra State, also emphasised the importance of working together rather than in silos, stressing that the platform would be beneficial in bringing states up to speed on available options and capacities, with the potential to help weaker states develop quicker.

“I believe that this platform will go a long way in bringing states up to speed on available options and capacities, with the potential to help weaker states develop more quickly. Anambra State is very happy about this and is committed to helping achieve this,” he said.

Prof. Sam Ugwu, Commissioner for Environment, Enugu State, expressed satisfaction with the strategic alignment between SPP and the Conference of Commissioners, and emphasised the need for support from SPP to advance climate change policies across all states of the federation.

“I am particularly interested in the issue of climate funding. Earlier this year, we launched our climate policy, and the next step is to ensure that it is implemented. We need this coordination from your organisation to support our efforts,” he said.

Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, Commissioner for Environment for Abia State, represented by Mr. Chris Ike, Director Climate Change, recognised the importance of climate finance at the subnational, stating that poor financing for climate action remains abysmally low and look forward to the support from SPP to prioritise the facilitation of access to climate finance.

Aishat Barde, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Taraba State, acknowledge the support of SPP in facilitating funding for the development of the first of its kind Climate Change Policy and Action Plan for the state. She added that Taraba State is ready for the official launch and is committed to working closely with the SPP team and her partners in driving climate action.

Chukwu Victor Uzoma, Commissioner for Environment, Ebonyi State, commended the coordinating Commissioner and SPP, pledging his willingness to open up Ebonyi for collaboration and development.

Over the years, SPP has championed several projects to bolster subnational climate governance through mapping of climate impact, action and policy at the state level, to publishing the first Climate Governance Performance Rating and Ranking for Nigeria’s 36 states, mobilising funds for the development of climate change policy and action plans in Enugu and Taraba states, and providing platforms and delivering capacity building for Commissioners of Environment and climate‑desk officers.

By Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, Communication Specialist, SPP and Elochukwu Anieze, Senior Policy Analyst, SPP

Sights restored as over 2,000 benefit from NNPC/Shell Vision First outreach in Lagos community

Michael Simire
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Sights restored as over 2,000 benefit from NNPC/Shell Vision First outreach in Lagos community

There have been testimonies of restored sights as more than 2,000 people accessed healthcare services in an outreach organised in Lagos as part of the Vision First initiative of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPC) and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo).

Shell
A cross section of some of the beneficiaries and the organisers of the programme

“Now I can see clearly, I can see my beautiful wife again, after not being able to see her for some years very well. I am really happy,” a beneficiary, Ademola Alabi Joshua, said after surgery for cataract on his eyes. “When I got here, my first eye was operated, and I discovered that the second day I came, I could see very clearly, so I decided to go for the second eye, which was also operated yesterday, and today I discovered that my sight was regained back to normal. Thank you so much.”

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Taiwo Onogu, said she was billed N1.4 million for the eye surgery which was eventually conducted free at the outreach.

The five-day outreach which held in Mushin Local Council Development Area, was the fourth in Lagos since the introduction of the Vision First initiative in 2022. Among other things, the medical team performed 245 eye surgeries, of which 198 were for cataract and 47 for Pterygium. Another 1,992 received laboratory services while the pharmacy dispensed drugs to 1,863 patients. Nearly 1,652 people received general consultation.

The latest milestones mean the programme has reached more than 6,000 people with over 400 eye surgeries and distribution of more than 2,000 eyeglasses since 2022.

SNEPCo Managing Director, Ronald Adams, commented on the impact of the programme: “Vision is an important part of life, and we’re pleased at the testimonies from Mushin, which were the same positive feedback from the three earlier sessions. With the support of NNPC and co-venture partners, we will continue to implement impactful social investments which have been an integral part of our operations since we pioneered deep-water oil production at Bonga in 2005.”

The Vision First initiative aims to combat avoidable visual impairment through early diagnosis and treatment, against the background of a report in the National Eye Health Policy 2019 that, blindness in three out of four people in Nigeria, is preventable.

Dangote to global CEOs: Africans will develop Africa

Michael Simire
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Dangote to global CEOs: Africans will develop Africa

President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has urged African entrepreneurs, business leaders and wealthy individuals to invest in the development of the continent.

Dangote
L-R, Strathmore Busses School (SBS) Director of Academic Carol Musyoka; Director of Academic Lagos Business School (LBS) Patrick Akinwuntan; Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin; President / CE, Dangote Industries Ltd, Aliko Dangote; Dean of Lagos Business School ( LBS) Professor Olayinka David-West; Executive Dean of Strathmore Business School(SBS) Nairobi Kenya, Dr. Caesar Mwangi, during the visit of LBS’ Global CEO Africa Programme Cohort 5 to Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Fertiliser Plant in Ibeju-Lekki Lagos on Thursday July 10, 2025

Speaking while hosting participants of the Global CEO Africa Programme from Lagos Business School and Strathmore Business School, Nairobi, after a tour of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, Dangote emphasised that, with the right investments, Africa has the potential to grow and compete globally.

He asserted that what the continent needs are bold and transformative projects capable of addressing its long-standing challenges. Citing the successful construction of the world’s largest single-train refinery – the Dangote Petroleum Refinery – as proof that nothing is impossible, he maintained that similar achievements can be replicated across sectors to drive economic growth.

Dangote reflected on the initial scepticism surrounding the refinery project, noting that despite numerous obstacles, the group remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering on its vision.

“There will always be challenges. In fact, life without challenges isn’t exciting. You just hope for the kind of challenges you can overcome – not the ones that overwhelm you,” he remarked.

He explained that completing the refinery has emboldened the group to pursue even more ambitious goals: “Now that we’ve built this refinery, we believe we can do anything. We aim to make our fertiliser company the largest in the world – and we’ve set ourselves a 40-month timeline.”

Dangote highlighted Africa’s wealth in both human and natural resources, stressing that business leaders are in a privileged position to harness these assets and create jobs for the continent’s growing population. He stated that development cannot be left to governments alone, urging the private sector to trust in national leadership and invest at home instead of moving capital abroad.

“We, as Africans, must stop taking our money abroad. We should invest it here to build our countries and the continent. As for me, I don’t take my money out of Africa. If we don’t show confidence in our own economies and leadership, foreign investors certainly won’t. After all, we know our leaders better than anyone else. That money being taken out of the continent should be left here, where it can benefit everyone,” he advised.

While many African nations have achieved political independence, Dangote argued that they remain economically dependent. He cited countries like Dubai and Singapore, which were on par with some African countries in the 1970s but have surged ahead through deliberate policies and partnerships with visionary entrepreneurs.

Dangote expressed concern about the disparity between Africa’s rapidly growing population and the limited job opportunities available. He called for a strong banking sector, a robust manufacturing base, and a thriving agricultural sector as cornerstones of the continent’s transformation.

He also stressed the importance of improved interconnectivity among African nations, revealing that it is currently cheaper to import goods from Spain than to transport cement clinker from Nigeria to neighbouring Ghana.

Acknowledging policy inconsistency and infrastructural challenges, Dangote encouraged the visiting CEOs not to be deterred but to remain ambitious while acquiring deep knowledge of their respective industries.

“If you think small, you don’t grow. If you think big, you grow. It’s better to try and fail than never to try at all,” he advised the 24 CEOs in attendance from six African countries.

Academic Director of the Global CEO Africa Programme at Lagos Business School, Patrick Akinwuntan, explained that the initiative is designed to inspire Africa’s future business leaders.

The programme, in partnership with Strathmore Business School in Nairobi, comprises three modules, requiring participants to spend a week each in Nairobi (Kenya), Lagos (Nigeria), and New Haven (USA).

“The goal is to nurture business leaders who see Africa as a single market – one without borders – focused on the continent’s vast potential. The refinery is a powerful symbol that vision goes beyond mere sight,” he said.

Akinwuntan, who is also the former Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, praised Dangote for his integrity, competence, and boldness in bringing such a monumental project to fruition.

Executive Dean of Strathmore Business School, Dr Caesar Mwangi,  echoed these sentiments. He said the visit would inspire CEOs to realise that only Africans can truly develop the continent.

“This refinery is the world’s largest single-train refinery. It’s proof that we must dream big, think big, and – most importantly – act. If the Dangote Group can achieve this, then so can others across the continent,” Mwangi said.

“Every CEO here can take this inspiration back home and initiate impactful projects that will uplift our continent and create opportunities for the millions of young Africans who need them,” he added.

Dean of Lagos Business School, Prof Olayinka David-West, stated that the visit aligned with the school’s mission of grooming leaders capable of addressing Africa’s complex social and institutional challenges.

She lauded Dangote as a visionary leader who mobilises resources to confront the continent’s critical problems. She noted that the refinery’s ripple effect extends beyond petroleum production, enhancing livelihoods and national wellbeing.

“This facility is pivotal. It serves as a practical tool to implement frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). While it’s one project, its effects will be felt across multiple sectors,” she explained.

Dr Rabiu Olowo, CEO of Nigeria’s Financial Reporting Council and a participant in the programme, said the visit had reignited the need for bold and courageous thinking in pursuing sustainable national development.

The visiting CEOs also included global banking leader Segun Aina; Managing Director of Family Bank, Nairobi, Nancy Njau; Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer for Cameroon, CEMAC, and CESA Region at Ecobank, Emmanuel Wakili; and former President of the CFA Society Nigeria, Ibukun Oyedeji, among others.

NCDMB unveils Nigerian Content Fund Certificate, empowers 130 firms with $400m NCI Fund

Michael Simire
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NCDMB unveils Nigerian Content Fund Certificate, empowers 130 firms with $400m NCI Fund

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has introduced the Nigerian Content Fund Clearance Certificate (NCFCC) as a mandatory compliance document for contractors and operators in the oil and gas sector.

Felix Omatsola Ogbe
Felix Omatsola Ogbe, head of the NCDMB

The certificate was launched during a Stakeholders’ Sensitisation workshop held in Lagos, where the Board also showcased an upgraded Nigerian Content Development Fund payment portal and a revised Community Contractors Finance Scheme.

The NCFCC is now a prerequisite for contract bidding, project approvals, and Board certifications in the oil and gas industry. It forms a core part of NCDMB’s regulatory drive to ensure full compliance with statutory financial contributions as stipulated by section 104 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.

The NOGICD Act mandates all entities in the upstream sector of the Nigerian oil and gas industry to pay one percent of the value of their contracts into the Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF), managed by the NCDMB for developing Nigerian content in the oil and gas and linkage sectors.

In line with these regulatory developments, the Board announced that over 130 indigenous companies had accessed funding from the $400 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCI Fund). The NCI Fund is a portion of the NCDF managed in partnership with the Bank of Industry and the Nigerian Export-Import Bank, to provide low-cost finance to qualified oil service companies, to enhance their competitiveness and deepen Nigerian content performance in the oil and gas industry and grow the national economy.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the certificate and digital tools were designed to enhance compliance, transparency, and access to finance for indigenous contractors.

“This programme is more than a workshop; it reaffirms our commitment to deepen Nigerian content, enhance oversight, and open up financing opportunities for indigenous and community-based contractors,” Ogbe stated.

The Executive Secretary, who was represented at the workshop by the Acting Director, Finance and Personnel Management, Mr. Mubaraq Zubair, explained that the revamped NCDF portal and the compliance certificate system would facilitate real-time remittance verification and streamline approval processes. He added that the restructured Community Contractors Finance Scheme, developed in collaboration with financial institutions, would boost grassroots participation.

Zubair said, “We have removed critical access barriers by collaborating with banks like FCMB to bring financing closer to host communities.”

In a presentation on the NCFCC policy, Supervisor, Planning and Policy Development, NCDMB, Dr. Ayebatonye Epemu, explained that the NCFCC had become mandatory for upstream companies, vendors, and consultants.

“It is now a precondition for bidding, certifications, and approvals. Processing takes 14 working days, and the certificate is valid for 12 months. Companies are required to submit their requests via the NOGIC-JQS portal,” Epemu said.

Speaking on the performance of the NCI Fund, Group Head, Oil and Gas at the Bank of Industry, Mr. Gabriel Yemilade, disclosed that the bank disbursed $348.296 million and ₦48.289 billion to 79 local firms active in marine logistics, upstream exploration, modular refining, gas processing and fabrication.

“The fund has evolved from an initial $200 million in 2017 to $300 million by 2020, due to high demand. We are enabling local content through direct financial support,”

Yemilade reaffirmed BOI’s administration of the Community Contractors Scheme, which offers loans of up to ₦100 million at eight per cent interest yearly, secured by valid contracts or Standing Payment Orders.

In his remarks on the administration of the Community Contractor Fund, the head, Midstream and Dealers at FCMB, Akintomide James, outlined the bank’s role in disbursing the ₦50 billion facility secured from NCDMB under the revised Community Contractors Finance Scheme. He explained that the fund was targeted at supporting community-based contractors and indigenous service providers in the oil and gas value chain, particularly those executing contracts for operating and service companies.

James stated that FCMB, the first primary financial institution enlisted in the revised scheme, would leverage its pedigree, vendor financing experience to deploy tailored support for local contractors. The scheme offers competitive pricing at eight per cent yearly with a single obligor limit of ₦100 million and a tenor of one year, including moratoria of up to 90 days.

He noted that applicants must be Corporate Affairs Commission-registered, possess regulatory permits, and present verified purchase orders, work orders or invoices. Acceptable collateral includes irrevocable standing payment order (ISPOs)from contract awarders.

According to James, the bank’s product offerings include LPO financing, invoice discounting and facilities for asset acquisition, all designed to ease access to finance.

Delivering a complementary perspective, Head of Specialised Business at NEXIM Bank, Mohammed Awami, revealed that the bank launched two dedicated funding windows worth $50 million to support indigenous oil and gas service providers.

He said the initiative, comprising a $30 million General Facility and a $20 million Women in Oil and Gas Programme, targets equipment leasing, contract finance, and working capital, in alignment with NCDMB’s inclusion goals.

“We have recorded a strong response, with a success ratio of 4.6:1. These facilities empower local service providers and promote gender diversity in the sector,” Awami added.

Addressing the challenges around fund access, General Manager of the NCDF, Fateemah Mohammed, represented by ErefaghaTurner, said although disbursements had grown significantly, many applicants still struggle with collateral and documentation.

“Between January 2024 and May 2025, we saw an 11.43 per cent increase in disbursement volume and a 21.06 per cent rise in naira value. However, only 30.47 per cent of applicants met disbursement conditions under BOI windows,” she noted.

To tackle these gaps, the Board is expanding sensitisation campaigns, simplifying requirements, and considering flexible security structures – particularly for women and community groups.

ANI, Australia High Commission inaugurate solar power project in Taraba community

Michael Simire
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ANI, Australia High Commission inaugurate solar power project in Taraba community

The Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, on Sunday, July 13, 2025, inaugurated an off-grid solar power project in Mayo Selbe, Gashaka Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Agbu Kefas
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State

The off-grid project with the capacity to deliver power to 63 households was funded by the Australia High Commission in Nigeria.

Ms. Leilani Bin-Juda, the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, described the event as a meaningful milestone regarding community impact.

“It is truly inspiring to see the fruits of the collaboration between such an innovative Australian company, Okra Solar, and our esteemed partner, the ANI Foundation, through the High Commission’s Direct Aid Programme.

“I commend the ANI Foundation for the remarkable projects empowering local communities, particularly around the Gashaka Gumti National Park.

“This initiative, which has provided clean, green solar energy to 63 households in Mayo Selbe for the first time, represents a meaningful milestone in delivering tangible benefits to the local communities around Gashaka Gumti National Park,” she said.

Represented by Mr. Nacha Geoffrey, ANI Foundation’s Country Manager, Bin-Juda, urged the community to continue to preserve the national park for greater benefits ahead.

Dr Ibrahim Goni, the Conversator-General (C-G) of the National Park Service, described the event as a new feat by the ANI Foundation regarding community empowerment.

Justice Ibrahim Buba, a retired judge of the Federal High Court, said in his goodwill that the event was a testament to a partnership founded on vision and commitment.

“The inauguration of this solar electrification project in Mayo Selbe is a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets commitment.

“This initiative, spearheaded by the ANI Foundation in invaluable partnership with the Australia High Commission and the Gashaka community, exemplifies a truly transformative collaboration,” he said.

Buba, a member of the Code of Conduct Bureau, said he was delighted that the community’s longstanding partnership with the ANI Foundation was preserving the natural heritage while fostering sustainable development.

Mr. Titus Nagombe, Commissioner for Heritage and Ecotourism in Taraba, said the project aligned with the developmental goals of the Gov. Agbu Kefas administration.

The commissioner who lauded ANI, the Australia High Commission, and Creeds, the project’s implementing partner, said the state government remained committed to supporting such worthy projects.

Also speaking at the event, the Lamido of Gashaka, Zubairu Hammangabdo-Sambo, commended the partnership between the ANI Foundation and the Australian High Commission, saying the project marks a new height in community development initiatives in the area and beyond.

Richard Okorie Emmanuel and Hafsatu Kasan, beneficiary households, said the project would not only empower those who own shops in the community but would also give the entire Mayo Selbe community a new lease of life.

Among other notable dignitaries present at the event were the Chairman of Gashaka Local Government, Mr. Yusuf Alura; heads of sister security agencies in Gashaka; and ANI officials.

By Gabriel Yough

Green Climate Fund Board approves $1.225bn for new projects, reforms accreditation model 

Michael Simire
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Green Climate Fund Board approves $1.225bn for new projects, reforms accreditation model 

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board has approved a record volume of climate finance for developing countries, green-lighting 17 new projects for climate action around the world. The $1.225 billion total is said to be the largest amount approved at a single Board meeting, during a year in which the Fund is scaling up its activities in response to the global demands for climate finance.

Mafalda Duarte
GCF Executive Director, Mafalda Duarte

GCF now has a portfolio of 314 projects amounting to $18 billion in GCF resources, $67 billion including co-financing.

The projects will bring urgently needed funding for adaptation and mitigation action and include the first single-country GCF projects in Mauritania, Saint Lucia, and Papua New Guinea. The adaptation projects will benefit some of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, mainly targeting Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and African States.

The package of projects also includes investments which will mobilise private investment for climate action, including a $227 million equity investment in the Global Green Bonds Initiative that will unlock new green bond markets, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and a $200 million investment to drive green finance in India. The full list of new projects is below. 

 The 42nd GCF Board meeting (B.42) was hosted by the Government of Papua New Guinea from June 30 to July 3, 2025, marking the second time the Fund’s Board has met in the Pacific region.  

GCF works through a network of over 150 partner agencies (‘Accredited Entities’), an unrivaled global network that includes international financial institutions such as Multilateral Development Banks, United Nations agencies, and commercial banks, as well as over 100 regional and national entities (‘Direct Access Entities’) from public, private and non-profit sectors. The Board agreed on a comprehensive reform package for GCF’s accreditation model. The reforms to GCF’s accreditation framework will make it more fit for purpose, providing enhanced transparency, responsiveness, and efficiency, whilst increasing fairness and country ownership. 

Measures in the package will improve entities’ accountability and enhance Direct Access Entities’ capacity. The reforms include a nine-month service standard for GCF’s review of new applications, which will greatly speed up accreditation and facilitate an even more diverse and extensive partner network. Alongside the accreditation reforms, eight new partner organisations were approved to become Accredited Entities, including seven Direct Access Entities, listed below. 

Following the decision of the Board at its last meeting to establish a regional presence for GCF, the Board has now decided to launch a call for proposals for countries to host regional offices and an outpost of the Fund. The Board has established criteria, a process and a timeline for selection. Proposals will be invited from interested countries, and after the Secretariat’s analysis, its recommendations will be presented for consideration by the Board. 
 

The meeting also approved new Staff Regulations with the aim of ensuring that the Fund can attract and retain the highly qualified personnel needed to deliver on its ambitious mandate.

Co-Chair Leif Holmberg from Sweden, said: “This has been a very successful Board meeting with a record amount of funding and the adoption of some major reforms to make GCF more efficient and effective. I am delighted that the Board has approved comprehensive reforms to its accreditation framework – the largest policy package ever brought to the Board – which will speed up accreditation whilst maintaining accountability, allowing us to further grow our network of partners, particularly direct access entities.”

Co-Chair Amb. Seyni Nafo from Mali, said: “I am very proud that this Board meeting has approved a record amount of new climate finance for developing countries. GCF’s $1.225 billion investment in these new projects will improve resilience and accelerate mitigation efforts in 36 countries around the world. At a time when collective climate action is more needed than ever, GCF is stepping up to deliver on its mandate. I am also pleased that the Board is moving ahead on regional presence, which will bring GCF much closer to developing countries.”

Executive Director, Mafalda Duarte, stated: “Pacific islands are facing an existential threat from climate change. Holding our Board meeting in Papua New Guinea has reinforced for me the urgency of action to protect the resilient people and incredible biodiversity of this country and others in the region. We came here to deliver that action, and we have done so, with new finance for the Pacific and for projects around the world. Alongside a record volume of climate finance, this Board meeting has approved major policy decisions which support our 50 by 30 vision for GCF as we aim to become the climate finance partner of choice.

“Major reforms to our accreditation model will make us more efficient and broaden our partner network, and the selection process for our regional presence will bring us much closer to our beneficiary countries. Alongside our goal of becoming the partner of choice, GCF also wants to become the employer of choice, and in this context the adoption of new Staff Regulations will help us to attract a high-quality workforce as well as to reward and retain our talented and dedicated Secretariat staff.”

Seventeen funding proposals were approved at the 42nd meeting of the GCF Board (B.42): 

  • SAP050: Toward Risk-Aware and Climate-resilient communities (TRACT) – Strengthening climate services and impact-based multi-hazard early warning in Maldives with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)  
  • SAP051: Increasing resilience to the health risks of climate change in the Federated States of Micronesia with The Pacific Community (SPC) 
  • SAP053: FISH-ADAPT: Transforming climate resilience and sustainability in Saint Lucia’s fisheries communities with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) 
  • SAP054: SOURCE Pacific Drinking Water Project with Asian Development Bank (ADB) 
  • FP265: Climate-resilient landscapes for sustainable livelihoods in northern Ghana with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)  
  • FP266: Strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and populations in four regional hubs in northern Mauritania with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 
  • FP267: Scaling up ecosystem-based approaches to managing climate-intensified disaster risks in vulnerable regions of South Africa (Eco-DRR) with South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)  
  • FP268: Scaling-Up Resilience in Africa’s Great Green Wall (SURAGGWA) with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO)  
  • FP269: Dairy Interventions for Mitigation and Adaptation (DaIMA) with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  
  • FP270: Climate Adaptive Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture for Resilience (CAISAR) in Cambodia with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) 
  • FP271: India Green Finance Facility (IGFF) with Asian Development Bank (ADB)  
  • FP272: Protecting livelihoods and assets at risk from Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and climate change-induced flooding in glacial river basins of Nepal with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) 
  • FP273: Papua New Guinea REDD-plus RBP for results period 2014–2016 with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) 
  • FP274: Building the Climate Resilience of Children and Communities through the Education Sector (BRACE) with Save the Children Australia (SCA)  
  • FP275: Scaling up the Deployment of Integrated Utility Services (IUS) to Support Energy Sector Transformation in the Caribbean (Phase 1) Programme with Caribbean Development Bank (CDB)  
  • FP276: GCF’s investment into the Global Green Bond Initiative (GGBI) (previously known as Green and Resilience Debt Platform (GRDP)) with European Investment Bank (EIB)  
  • FP277: ATOME Villeta Green Fertiliser (AVGF) Project with International Finance Corporation (IFC).    

As an indication of GCF’s determination to rapidly move projects to implementation, project agreements were signed with the Accredited Entities for nine of the newly approved projects immediately after the close of the Board meeting. Those projects are: 

  • SAP050: Toward Risk-Aware and Climate-resilienT communities (TRACT) – Strengthening climate services and impact-based multi-hazard early warning in Maldives with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 
  • SAP053: FISH-ADAPT: Transforming climate resilience and sustainability in Saint Lucia’s fisheries communities with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) 
  • FP265: Climate-resilient landscapes for sustainable livelihoods in northern Ghana with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)  
  • FP266: Strengthening the resilience of ecosystems and populations in four regional hubs in northern Mauritania with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) 
  • FP267: Scaling up ecosystem-based approaches to managing climate-intensified disaster risks in vulnerable regions of South Africa (Eco-DRR) with South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI)  
  • FP268: Scaling-Up Resilience in Africa’s Great Green Wall (SURAGGWA) with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO)  
  • FP269: Dairy Interventions for Mitigation and Adaptation (DaIMA) with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  
  • FP273: Papua New Guinea REDD-plus RBP for results period 2014–2016 with Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) 
  • FP274: Building the Climate Resilience of Children and Communities through the Education Sector (BRACE) with Save the Children Australia (SCA).  

The following entities were approved for accreditation during the B.42 meeting: 

  • Banco Promerico de Costa Rica, based in Costa Rica 
  • Banque Nationale d’Investissement (BNI), based in Côte d’Ivoire 
  • Development Bank of Namibia Limited (DBN), based in Namibia 
  • Development Finance Corporation (DFC), based in Belize 
  • Environment Protection Fund (EPF), based in Lao People’s Democratic Republic 
  • JSC Georgian Energy Development Fund (GEDF), based in Georgia 
  • Saint Lucia Development Bank (SLDB), based in Saint Lucia 
  • International Land and Forest Tenure Facility (Tenure Facility), based in Sweden. 

GCF now has a total of 153 Accredited Entities, including 101 regional or national entities (‘Direct Access Entities’). 

AI and climate action: Opportunities, risks, challenges for developing countries

Michael Simire
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AI and climate action: Opportunities, risks, challenges for developing countries

A new technical paper released by the Technology Executive Committee (TEC) under the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can serve as a powerful enabler of climate action in developing countries most vulnerable to climate impacts.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Harnessing AI technology to address climate change challenges

The TEC Chair, Dietram Oppelt, launched the Committee’s latest technical paper at the AI for Good Summit in Geneva on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Developed in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, and with the support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency, the paper is part of the Technology Mechanism’s #AI4ClimateAction Initiative.

It provides a comprehensive overview for policymakers, practitioners and researchers navigating the opportunities, risks and challenges of deploying AI for climate mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.

AI as a Tool for Climate Action

AI technologies offer significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, AI can help minimise energy waste, optimise energy consumption and distribution, and identify emission hotspots in industrial processes. AI-powered energy management systems can improve grid efficiency, forecast power demand, and optimise the deployment of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. Similarly, AI tools can analyse transportation data to optimise traffic flow and route planning, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Additionally, AI also offers promising applications when it comes to adapting to the impacts of climate change. It can strengthen early warning systems by predicting extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods and droughts, enabling proactive disaster risk management. AI-driven urban resilience planning can help identify infrastructure vulnerabilities and optimise land use. When combined with satellite imagery, AI can also support biodiversity conservation, sustainable water use, and land restoration efforts.

Risks and Challenges of Using AI for Climate Action in Developing Countries

Despite these benefits, the paper highlights that bias and inequity in AI systems also present serious risks. If algorithms are not designed inclusively, they can perpetuate social inequalities and undermine trust. Additionally, the energy and water consumption of AI systems raises sustainability concerns, particularly in regions already facing resource constraints.

The paper also warns that many developing countries face significant barriers to adopting AI-driven climate solutions. Limited digital infrastructure – including unreliable internet connectivity, inadequate computing power, and capacity shortages – hinder the effective deployment of AI systems.

Moreover, developing countries often lack access to high-quality, comprehensive climate data essential for training AI models and supporting robust, data-driven decision-making. Without reliable data-sharing frameworks and cybersecurity measures, AI outputs can be inaccurate or vulnerable to misuse.

Recommendations for Realising AI’s Potential

To unlock the benefits of AI for climate action in developing countries – especially Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States – the paper outlines a set of recommended priority actions: 

  • Address the digital divide by investing in infrastructure and AI capacity-building programmes that empower local experts and institutions.
  • Enhance data availability and access through improved climate data collection and open-data initiatives to support AI model development and deployment.
  • Strengthen AI governance under the UNFCCC by creating regulatory frameworks that promote transparency, fairness, accountability and ethical AI adoption.
  • Tackle gender bias and social inequalities by designing AI systems with inclusive approaches to deliver equitable climate benefits.
  • Manage AI’s resource consumption by promoting energy- and water-efficient AI systems to ensure sustainability.
  • Foster global collaboration by strengthening cooperation between governments, UN agencies, the private sector, academia, and civil society to share knowledge, align standards, and address regulatory gaps.

Implementing these recommendations can help developing countries harness AI as a strategic tool to advance climate action at scale. Strengthening digital infrastructure, closing data gaps, and adopting robust governance frameworks will not only build local capacity but also encourage innovation and collaboration.

This will help ensure that all countries – especially those most vulnerable to climate change – can participate fully in global climate efforts while addressing their unique challenges.

Development Communication in Nigeria: Missing link between donor funds, real change

Michael Simire
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Development Communication in Nigeria: Missing link between donor funds, real change

In Nigeria, the practice is that development is often measured by the amount of money spent, rather than the change achieved. Annually, donor agencies invest substantial funds in development intervention projects – ranging from poverty alleviation, health, and agriculture to climate resilience and education. Yet the gaps remain wide – not just in infrastructure or service delivery—but in trust, ownership, and sustainability.

Mohammed Idris
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris

At the heart of this disconnect is our disregard for development communication in project ideation, formulation, and implementation.

What Is Development Communication?

Development communication is not about erecting billboards, airing jingles, or running PR campaigns. It is the deliberate use of communication to foster participation, build local knowledge systems, and drive behaviour change in ways that communities can own and sustain.

It’s about listening before designing projects, engaging before implementation, translating policy into people’s realities, and designing interventions with the people and for the people.

Development communication is the bridge between donor intent and community impact. Yet, development agencies and practitioners in Nigeria have largely continued to ignore this bridge.

Why Interventions Struggle Without Development Communication

In Nigeria, most donor-funded development interventions rely heavily on external consultants – many of whom have little or no knowledge of the communities they design projects for. Our idea of communication tends to be one-directional: pushing messaging campaigns with no real feedback loop, and often without clear Monitoring and Evaluation mechanisms to track impact.

Rather than focus on participatory dialogue, the emphasis is placed on visibility – media coverage, social media posts, glossy reports – while the people at the centre of these interventions are sidelined.

Because of our disregard for development communication that enables inclusive dialogue, the very people we aim to serve often become suspicious, and projects are abandoned.

This is also a result of our consistent disregard for indigenous knowledge systems. Our communication approaches are frequently designed for data extraction, not for relationship-building. We impose tools and messaging on communities, instead of fostering conversations with them.

I’ve seen this firsthand through fieldwork in FCT, Benue, Niger, and Nasarawa – where projects fail not because the ideas are bad, but because the communication is poor.

Case in Point: Climate Adaptation and Indigenous Knowledge

Over the last six years, I conducted eight field-based studies showing that rural farmers are already adapting to climate change using traditional knowledge and practices. But instead of integrating and building on these local systems, many development projects introduce “new” solutions that end up alienating the very people they are meant to support.

The problem is not innovation. The problem is the failure to respect existing knowledge and the lack of communication practices that recognise local context, language, and leadership.

Why Development Communication Is the Game Changer

If governments, development agencies, and partners begin to take development communication seriously, we will begin our projects with community-led communication diagnostics.

This would mean using Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) tools – not just for baseline data collection – but to co-create solutions with communities.

It would mean involving the people our interventions are meant to serve in the design, implementation, and monitoring of the projects – not treating them as afterthoughts. It would also mean tracking how people feel, understand, resist, or embrace the work being done in their communities.

This is what makes change sustainable.

A Call to Donors and Development Actors

If you’re funding programmes in Nigeria and genuinely want real, measurable change, I ask that you start by asking:

  • How are we listening?
  • What communication structures are in place?
  • Who is speaking – and who is being silenced?

Development communication is not a luxury. It is the missing link between funding and transformation. It is how we build trust, mobilise ownership, and secure long-term sustainability.

Let me be clear: if our interventions continue to ignore development communication, they will continue to lose the very people they’re meant to serve. And when we lose the people, we lose the impact we aspire to make.

It’s time to rethink our assumptions. Visibility is not engagement. Funding is not transformation. Real change starts with the right kind of development communication.

By Audu Liberty Oseni, Director, Centre for Development Communication – CDC

Group sues NNPC over failure to account for money meant for refinery repairs

Michael Simire
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Group sues NNPC over failure to account for money meant for refinery repairs

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited over the “failure to account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged missing N825 billion and $2.5 billion meant for ‘refinery rehabilitation’ and other oil revenues.”

Bayo Ojulari
Bayo Ojulari, GCEO, National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited

The suit followed the damning allegations documented in the 2021 audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, which was published on November 27, 2024. Aliko Dangote, president of the Dangote Group, also last week said that NNPCL refineries may never work again, despite the $18 billion spent on the refineries.

In the suit number FHC/L/MISC/722/25 filed on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Lagos, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel the NNPCL to account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged missing N825 billion and $2.5 billion of public funds meant for “refinery rehabilitation’ and repair.”

SERAP is also asking the court to “direct and compel the NNPCL to recover and remit to the federation account the alleged missing N825 billion and $2.5 billion of public funds meant for refinery rehabilitation and repair.”

SERAP is likewise asking the court to “direct and compel the NNPCL to identify those responsible for the missing oil money, surcharge them for the full amount involved, and hand them over to appropriate anticorruption agencies for investigation and prosecution.”

In the suit, SERAP is arguing that “the grim allegations by the Auditor-General (and Mr. Aliko Dangote) suggest a grave violation of the public trust and the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, national anticorruption laws, and the country’s international human rights and anticorruption obligations.”

SERAP is also arguing that “granting the reliefs sought would strike a blow against the impunity of those responsible for the missing oil money meant to repair the country’s refineries and ensure that the money is returned for the sake of NNPCL’s victims – Nigerians.”

According to SERAP, “These grim allegations have also undermined economic development of the country, trapped the majority of Nigerians in poverty, and contributed to high levels of deficit spending by the government.”

SERAP is also arguing that “the vast majority of Nigerians have seen little benefit from their country’s oil wealth, even as the NNPCL continues to fail to account for the missing billions of dollars that are desperately needed to repair or replace the country’s dysfunctional refineries.”

According to SERAP, “The Auditor-General has for many years documented reports of disappearance of public funds from the NNPCL. Nigerians continue to bear the brunt of these missing public funds meant for refinery rehabilitation.”

The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare, Ms Oluwakemi Oni, and Ms Valentina Adegoke, read in part: “The missing oil revenue reflects a failure of NNPCL accountability more generally and is directly linked to the institution’s continuing failure to uphold transparency and accountability principles.

“According to the recently published 2021 audited report by the Auditor General of the Federation (AGF), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) failed to account for over N825 billion and $2.5 billion of public funds meant for ‘refinery rehabilitation’ and repairs, and other oil revenues.

“The Auditor-General fears that the money may be missing.

“The NNPCL reportedly failed to account for over N82 billion (N82,951,595,510.47) meant for ‘refinery rehabilitation and repairs.’ The ‘money was deducted from the sale of Crude Oil and Gas between 2020 and 2021’.

“The Auditor-General fears the money may be missing. He wants the money recovered and remitted to the Federation Account. He also wants the NNPCL ‘to ensure that the amounts due for the Federation Account are not subjected to any deductions before remittance of net.’

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N343 billion (N343,642,598,726.51) ‘being proceeds from domestic crude sales.’ The ‘money, meant for ‘pipelines maintenance and management costs, was unilaterally deducted from the gross domestic crude sales.’

“The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury. He also wants the NNPCL to hand over those suspected to be involved to the EFCC and ICPC.

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N83 billion (N83,659,813,739.99) ‘being miscellaneous income from the NNPC joint venture operations from 2016 to 2020.’ The ‘money was withdrawn from the CBN/NNPC sinking fund account (a suspense account).’”

“The Auditor-General is concerned that this practice ‘has led the Federation to resort to borrowings.’ He wants ‘the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.’

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N204 billion (N204,853,744,047.39) ‘being unjustified deductions from the oil royalties for 2021.’ The ‘money was due to the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) now Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).’ The Auditor-General fears ‘the money may have been diverted.’ He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N3.7 billion (N3,748,581,281.27) ‘being money purportedly paid to a Company as a shortfall on sales of MT cargo of PMS.’ The Auditor-General fears the money may be missing. He wants the money recovered and remitted to the treasury.

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N28 billion (N28,654,179,867.00) ‘being outstanding bridging allowance from NNPC retail for 2021.’

“The NNPCL failed to account for over N13.5 billion (N13,5559,658,148.91) ‘being outstanding bridging allowance claims from three major oil marketers in 2021.’

“The Auditor-General is concerned that this ‘may have resulted in difficulty in funding the 2021 budget.’ He wants ‘the money recovered from both the NNPC retail and the major oil marketers and remitted to the Federation Account.’

“The NNPCL also reportedly failed to account for over N15 billion (N14,134,947,949.80 and N1,087,533,332.62) ‘being outstanding revenues from debts owed by twenty-six marketers for 2021.’ The Auditor-General wants ‘the money recovered from the oil marketers and remitted to the Federation Account.’

“The NNPCL reportedly failed to account for over $29.6 million ($29,648,970.36) being outstanding royalties payable to the Department of Petroleum Resources CBN account.’ The Auditor-General is concerned this ‘may have resulted in difficulty in funding the 2021 budget.’ He wants the money recovered.’

“The NNPCL failed to collect over $2 billion ($2,260,448,992.45) ‘being outstanding oil royalties from oil companies for 2021’, and failed to collect over N48 billion (N48,218,163,192.67) ‘also being outstanding oil royalties from oil companies.’”

“The Auditor-General fears that ‘the money may be missing.’ He is concerned that this ‘may have resulted in difficulty in funding the 2021 budget.’ He wants ‘the money recovered from the oil companies and remitted to the Federation Account.’”

No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

Heat waves put older persons at high risk, warns UN report

Michael Simire
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Heat waves put older persons at high risk, warns UN report

As extreme heat grips many countries and becomes “the new normal”, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) warns of heightened health risks for older persons in the Frontiers 2025 Report published on Thursday, July 10.

Older persons
Older persons

Other highlighted impacts of climate change include the melting of glaciers that reawaken ancient pathogens and floods that risk releasing dangerous chemicals. 

The 7th edition of the Frontiers Report, The Weight of Time – Facing a new age of challenges for people and ecosystems, is part of UNEP’s Foresight Trajectory initiative and highlights emerging environmental issues as well as potential solutions. The first edition in 2016, warned of the growing risk of zoonotic diseases, four years before the COVID-19 pandemic. This report is released as communities across China, Japan, India, Europe, USA and elsewhere face weeks of extreme heat and flooding. 

“Heat waves are among the most frequent and deadly impacts of climate change, along with floods and shrinking ice cover,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. “We must be prepared for the risks these impacts pose, especially for society’s most vulnerable, including older persons. Yet as this year’s Frontiers Report shows, solutions exist that can help protect communities and restore ecosystems long-thought to have been lost.” 

Adults aged 65 and above now form an increasingly dominant part of the world population, particularly in urban areas of low- and middle-income countries. The report notes that annual heat-related deaths among older persons have risen by an estimated 85% since the 1990s. Additional risks arise from deteriorating air quality and floods in low-lying coastal cities where older persons live. 

Older persons – especially those with chronic illnesses, limited mobility, or frailty – are particularly vulnerable to heat-related health issues, including respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases, as well as increased mortality. 

The report recommends making cities pollution-free, resilient, and accessible spaces with expansive vegetation. Key strategies include better urban planning, community-based disaster risk management, and improved access to climate information for older populations. 

Earlier this year, the UN Human Rights Council adopted a new resolution to develop an “international legally binding instrument on the human rights of older persons,” a possible path to add safety to those most exposed to climate change. 

Zombie microbes 

Beyond the risks to older persons, the report also warns of ancient microbes awakening. Should global temperatures rise more than 2˚C above pre-industrial levels, this would significantly reduce the cryosphere in mass, which includes glaciers, seasonal snow, ice sheets and shelves, sea ice, seasonally frozen ground, and permafrost. Cryospheric regions are home to 670 million people as well as to billions more who live in areas with water originating from those frozen areas. 

Dormant fungi, bacteria, and viruses in these frozen regions could reactivate, raising the risk of antimicrobial resistance. To slow down the decline of the cryosphere, the Frontiers 2025 Report recommends cutting greenhouse gas emissions – including black carbon emissions from diesel engines, open-field agricultural burning, and wildfires – and limiting tourism in fragile frozen regions. The report also recommends accelerating scientific research into the diversity of cryospheric microorganisms that will not survive the cryosphere’s decline. 

The return of banned chemicals through floods 

The report also identifies risks from the remobilisation of chemicals that were banned and phased-out decades ago. Floods can bring such chemicals to the surface, after having accumulated in sediment over centuries. 

As floodwaters stir up sediment and debris, toxic chemicals may be released and re-enter urban areas or food systems. The report lists effective measures to reduce this growing risk: traditional control measures like polders, dikes and retention basins, improved drainage systems, nature-based solutions (e.g., sponge-city approaches), regular monitoring of pollutants in diverse locations and products, and economic impact studies about this type of pollution. 

The risk of ageing dams 

Another emerging threat the Frontiers 2025 Report addresses is the risk of ageing dams. Alongside many benefits, dams can harm indigenous and fishing-dependent communities, as well as degrade ecosystems. Removal of large, older dams that have become unsafe, obsolete, or economically unviable is increasingly happening in Europe and North America. 

The report highlights potential benefits of the removal of dams and barriers in restoring natural river connectivity for biodiversity and ecosystems. Reversing river fragmentation and restoring natural processes support the implementation of the UN’s principles for ecosystem-restoration initiatives. 

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