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Pacific climate advocates welcome pre-COP31 meeting in Fiji, Tuvalu

Michael Simire
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Pacific climate advocates welcome pre-COP31 meeting in Fiji, Tuvalu

Climate advocates across the Pacific will now prepare for the pre-COP31 meetings in Fiji and Tuvalu, with the Pacific Islands Forum confirming the hosts on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

350.org Pacific says it welcomes the announcement that Fiji will host the pre-COP31 meeting and Tuvalu will host a special leaders’ component, under an agreement negotiated between Australia and Turkey.

Fenton Lutunatabua, 350.org Pacific & Caribbean Programme Lead, says: “We welcome the pre-COP31 meetings to our islands, but we expect the Pacific to serve as more than just a backdrop to these discussions. As people on the frontlines, we expect leaders to not only bear witness to our realities, but to let this drive both the agenda and the expectations for COP31.

Maina Talia
Maina Talia, Tuvalu Minister for Climate Change, Environment & Home Affairs

“Meaningful leadership from impacted communities is important to secure COP31 outcomes that safeguard our future, especially as a current draft of the key COP31 agenda excludes any mention of fossil fuels – the leading cause of the climate crisis.

“Fiji and Tuvalu bring more to the table than their position as climate-vulnerable island states. Both nations have repeatedly pushed for stronger climate commitments in multilateral spaces, and our people have always told the world what they refused to hear: that the climate crisis is the greatest threat to humankind, and what was once a future threat is on our doorstep today.”

Jacynta Fa’amau, 350.org Pacific Campaigner, says: “As both a Pacific Islander and an Australian, I look forward to clear roles and mandates for our Pacific host nations in the pre-COP31 process. The Australia-Turkiye co-presidency gives us the opportunity to engage our communities in the islands as well as the diaspora, in holding the COP31 presidency accountable for the task at hand. Our communities have so much on the line in this fight, and the COP31 presidency would benefit from leaning into the rich experience of Pacific peoples in navigating the impacts and solutions to this crisis.”

Dr. Rufino Varea, Pacific Islands Climate Action Network Director, says: “We welcome this announcement by PIF following political consultation on the COP31 Pre-COP. As preparations move forward, there must be clarity on the role the Pacific will play in shaping the agenda and guiding outcomes within the Australia and Türkiye co-presidency.

“Hosting must go beyond geography and reflect meaningful leadership in substance, priorities and decision making. These processes must translate political visibility into concrete outcomes that advance justice and ambition for all, while centring the lived realities of frontline communities.”

Watchdog finds toxic chemicals in lipsticks, warns of risks to health, environment

Michael Simire
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Watchdog finds toxic chemicals in lipsticks, warns of risks to health, environment

The Philippines-based toxics watchdog, BAN Toxics, has once again warned the public about the presence of toxic chemicals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium in cheap lipsticks sold in local markets.

This came after a recent market investigation conducted by the group on the sale of affordable lipsticks, with prices ranging from P50 to P70 per piece, sold by beauty shops and ambulant vendors in Caloocan, Malabon, Manila, Marikina, Pasay, Pasig, Pateros, and Taguig. The items reportedy have no market authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

The group managed to purchase 45 matte lipstick samples to assess their compliance with health and safety standards, including the presence of toxic chemicals. Some of the products had incomplete or missing labeling information, raising concerns about the possible presence of hazardous substances. Notably, nine lipsticks listed propylparaben and methylparaben on their labels.

BAN Toxics
Lipstick products

Using a Vanta C Series Handheld XRF Analyser, the group tested the samples and discovered the presence of lead at levels of up to 120 parts per million (ppm), mercury up to 280 ppm, cadmium up to 114 ppm, and arsenic up to 36 ppm. All the samples contained three to four different hazardous substances, far exceeding the limits set by the ASEAN Cosmetics Directive under the ASEAN Guidelines on Limits of Contaminants for Cosmetics.

Citing the World Health Organisation, BAN Toxics highlighted that lead exposure remains a serious global health threat. It is linked to approximately 1.5 million deaths annually, primarily from cardiovascular disease, and causes irreversible neurological and behavioral damage, especially in children. Young children absorb significantly more lead than adults, leading to reduced IQ, learning difficulties, and behavioral problems. Lead exposure also harms the developing fetus.

“Lead, mercury, cadmium, and other chemical substances are proven toxicants that accumulate in the body through continuous exposure and can pose risks to public health and the environment,” said Thony Dizon, Advocacy and Campaign Officer of BAN Toxics.

Parabens, one of the listed ingredients, are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics. However, they are considered chemicals of emerging concern due to scientific findings suggesting their ability to disrupt the endocrine system. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals has been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, an increased risk of cancer, and skin irritation.

Since 2013, the country’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple public health warnings against unnotified cosmetic products, including lipsticks, as these may contain heavy metals such as lead used as pigments (colorants). Because these products have not undergone the FDA’s notification process, their quality and safety cannot be guaranteed, making them potential health hazards.

As an advocate of safe cosmetics, BAN Toxics urges regulatory agencies to step up enforcement actions against unregistered and unnotified beauty products and strengthen measures to protect the consuming public. The group further advises manufacturers to comply with the labeling requirements under the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive.

The required labeling information includes:

  1. Product name (and its function, unless clearly indicated)
  2. Ingredients (full listing in descending order)
  3. Net content (weight or volume)
  4. Instructions for product use (unless clear from the name or presentation)
  5. Batch number
  6. Special precautions (if any, including conditions of use and warnings)
  7. Country of manufacture
  8. Manufacturer or responsible person (name and address)
  9. Expiry or manufacturing date

The group further advises the public to carefully read product labels and avoid those with incomplete ingredient lists, purchase only from reputable beauty shops, and verify a product’s registration status with the FDA to ensure safety.

Dizon added, “The public should be cautious when purchasing beauty products, as they may contain harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury, and other preservatives. If we are not sure if the cosmetic products are safe, it is better to avoid buying and using them and report them to the proper authorities.”

To enhance consumer safety, the group is pushing for greater transparency and traceability of hazardous chemicals in the manufacturing of cosmetic products and is advocating for the enactment of a Safe Cosmetics Law in the country.

Professionals tasked to be dedicated, innovative on preserving forests, addressing climate change

Michael Simire
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Professionals tasked to be dedicated, innovative on preserving forests, addressing climate change

Director-General, Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, Prof. Zachariah Yaduma, has said enormous challenges facing the world in preserving forests and addressing climate change require the dedication and innovation of forestry professionals.

Yaduma made the assertion at the matriculation ceremony held for 333 fresh students admitted into the college for the 2025/26 academic session.

Some 234 students were offered admission to pursue various National Diploma (ND) programmes while 99 others were admitted for Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.

The Director-General urged the new students to embrace the values of hard work, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the environment.

He assured the students that the college has all it takes to prepare them, not just for employment, but for innovation and entrepreneurship in a rapidly changing world.

“The Federal College of Forestry was established not merely to award certificates, but to build character, competence, and capacity.

“We have a rich legacy of producing graduates who have gone on to make remarkable contributions to the field of forestry, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.

“As you embark on this academic journey, remember that you are not just students; you are the custodians of our forests, the guardians of our environment, and the future leaders who will shape the destiny of our nation’s natural resources,” he added.

Also speaking, the Guest Lecturer, Prof. Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), charged both new and old students to unlock hidden treasures in forestry.

Sanni said that Nigeria’s annual 3.7 per cent deforestation rate ranks among the highest globally, noting that the country had about 30 per cent to 35 per cent of forest in the 1960s, but the current Nigerian forest cover was below 10 per cent.

He charged universities and colleges in Nigeria to intensify teaching on sustainability, environmental ethics, and also promote research and innovation.

“As a student matriculating into forestry education, you need to accept the responsibility to protect, manage, and advance Nigeria’s forest resources for generations to come,” Sanni said.

Earlier, the Provost of the College, Dr Ibraheem Lawal, in his remarks, said that the College had developed a strategic blueprint aimed at repositioning the institution to align with modern tertiary education standards through massive infrastructural development.

He added that the College had undergone a resource inspection as part of efforts to secure approval to commence the Science and Laboratory Technology (SLT) programme, an initiative aimed at significantly boosting student enrollment.

The provost warned that the College has zero tolerance for cultism, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, and other forms of misconduct.

“Our programmes are practical oriented, and failure in any practical component amounts to failure in the course.

“Also, our certificates are awarded only to students found worthy in character and learning.

“As you have worked hard to reach this stage, I encourage you not to relent. Maintain focus, discipline, and a high academic spirit, and ensure you finish strong,” he said.

The highlight of the occasion was the signing of oath of allegiance by the matriculating students and recognition of outstanding students from various departments in the college.

By Olumide Ajayi

Failure of REA boss to appear before Reps described as ‘disrespectful’

Michael Simire
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Failure of REA boss to appear before Reps described as ‘disrespectful’

The House of Representatives committee on Renewable Energy has mandated the Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, to appear before the committee in person on Tuesday, March 2, 2026.

The Chairman of the committee, Rep. Afam Ogene, gave the mandate during an investigative hearing in Abuja on Wednesday, February 25.

Ogene, who cautioned against trivialising official duties, directed the agency to send a written response on issues raised by the committee and present it within 48 hours.

Abba Aliyu
Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu

“We as lawmakers are elected to hold public officers accountable in line with sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 constitution as amended,” he said.

Earlier, a member of the committee, Rep. Kwamoti Laori, representing Demsa/Numan/Lamurde, Adamawa State, described the failure of the REA MD to appear before it as highly disrespectful.

Laori said that such act of disrespect must not be condoned any more as he called for a warrant of arrest to be issued through the Inspector General of Police.

Also speaking, a member of the committee, Rep. Shina Oyedeji, representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa constituency, Oyo State, expressed the imperatives of giving account stewardship by public officers.

According to him, the MD of REA has no excuse not to appear in person here in view of the huge amount of money in terms of grants and others involved.

Meanwhile, The Executive Director, Cooperate Services, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Mr. Gboyega Ayoade, pleaded with the Committee to give the MD some time to appear before it.

Ayoade, who tendered an unreserved apology on behalf of the Agency, said that the absence of the MD was not deliberate or meant to disrespect the committee.

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is the Federal Government agency established to enhance electricity access in unserved and underserved rural communities.

The aim of the Agency is to uplift more than 100 million Nigerians from energy poverty.

CSOs demand reform of Cross River forestry laws to curb deforestation, empower communities

Michael Simire
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CSOs demand reform of Cross River forestry laws to curb deforestation, empower communities

Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Cross River State have declared as obsolete the state’s forestry laws, citing this as reason for the lack of sustainable afforestation culture.

The 19 CSOs, after a six-month review of the Cross River Forestry Law 2010, called for urgent reforms to curb deforestation, strengthen institutions and empower forest communities.

Addressing a news conference on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Calabar, the state capital, representatives of the organisations said that fault lines were identified, and recommendations made to amend the law.

Prince Bassey Edet Otu
Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State

Mr. Ken Henshaw, Executive Director of We the People, identified commercial agriculture among others as major drivers of deforestation in the state.

Henshaw said the recent cocoa boom triggered massive forest clearing, warning that monoculture plantations were creating “green deserts” with little biodiversity or livelihood value.

He argued that cocoa, largely grown for export, should not justify destruction of indigenous forests, stressing that standing forests offer greater long-term economic benefits.

“Climate finance, carbon sequestration and ecotourism provide more sustainable revenue opportunities than logging, if backed by sound policies.

“I fault Cross River’s Forestry Law 2010 for treating communities as passive recipients of government decisions rather than active stakeholders in forest governance,” Henshaw said.

He added that the proposed review should allocate seats to community representatives and academics on the board of the Forestry Commission to strengthen transparency and expertise.

Also, Dr Martin Ergot, founder of Padic Africa, said that the reform sought to reposition the Forestry Commission with clear mandates for reforestation, regeneration and afforestation.

Ergot noted that existing penalties for forest offences were weak and enforcement institutions often failed to act against illegal loggers.

He stressed that communities must benefit directly from forest resources and be involved in decision-making processes affecting their ancestral lands.

Similarly, Mr. Nelson Ofem, a former member of the Cross River House of Assembly, said that the Forestry Commission needed to harmonise policy proposals, adopt a legal framework that prioritises sustainability, accountability and community participation.

He appealed to the media to sustain advocacy on the protection of the state’s forest until comprehensive reforms were undertaken to protect Cross River’s forests for future generations.

By Christian Njoku

Environmental Health Council unveils initiative to cut greenhouse gas emissions

Michael Simire
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Environmental Health Council unveils initiative to cut greenhouse gas emissions

The Federal Government has unveiled a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction Initiative aimed at strengthening environmental health governance, improving emissions monitoring and protecting public health.

Dr Yakubu Baba, Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), said at the unveiling on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in Abuja that the initiative would also support Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and advance sustainable development.

Baba explained that the project, known as Oxygen Fuel Energy, had the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 70 per cent.

EHCON
Dr Yakubu Baba, Registrar of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON)

“The aim of the initiative is to achieve cleaner air, reduce smoke and particulate matter, lower greenhouse gases and improve fuel efficiency, resulting in economic savings for businesses,” he said.

He described it as an environmental solution that also made economic sense.

According to him, the programme is being implemented under the National Air Quality Programme of the Federal Ministry of Environment, in line with the provisions of the National Environmental Health Practice Regulations, 2024.

Baba added that the initiative aligned with the environmental sustainability goals of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the event, he said the project demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to protecting citizens’ health and safeguarding the environment while fulfilling global climate obligations.

He identified climate change as a present public health emergency, linking air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, cancer and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

“Clean air is not a luxury. This initiative represents a proactive way to prevent diseases and reduce the healthcare burden on communities,” he said.

Baba noted that the programme supported national climate policies and relevant Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to health, energy and sustainable cities.

He added that reducing emissions from oil usage would help Nigeria meet international commitments while protecting domestic resources.

The registrar called on transport unions, oil marketers, fleet operators, manufacturers, and state and local governments to embrace the initiative as a shared national responsibility.

By Felicia Imohimi

State of the Union Address: ‘Golden Age’ rhetoric can’t cover up rising energy costs – Group

Michael Simire
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State of the Union Address: ‘Golden Age’ rhetoric can’t cover up rising energy costs – Group

Speaking for an hour and 48 minutes on Tuesday, February 24, US President, Donald Trump, delivered a full-throated defence of his first year back in office in his 2026 State of the Union address, touting his record on immigration, the economy, tariffs and more.

The president claimed responsibility for a “turnaround for the ages” while calling on Congress to enact several of his administration’s initiatives.

Among several submissions, he announced his administration has made agreements with major tech companies that will allow them to construct power plants for data centres that power artificial intelligence, with the goal of avoiding price spikes for electricity in surrounding communities. 

State of the Union Address 2026
President Trump concludes his remarks during the State of the Union address in the House chamber of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 24, 2026. Photo credit: ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images

“Many Americans are also concerned that energy demand from AI data centres could unfairly drive up their electric utility bills,” Mr. Trump said. “Tonight, I’m pleased to announce that I have negotiated the new ‘rate payer protection pledge.'”

The president said “we’re telling the major tech companies that they have the obligation to provide for their own power needs” so that “no one’s prices will go up.”

“This is a unique strategy never used in this country before,” Mr. Trump said. “We have an old grid – it could never handle the kind of numbers, the amount of electricity that’s needed. So, I’m telling them they can build their own plant, they’ve got to produce their own electricity.”

Responding, observers say that Trump’s “Golden Age” rhetoric masks a hard truth: his administration’s defence of fossil fuels is costing everyday people, who face soaring energy bills and ever-higher utility debt.

Environment campaign group, 350.org, pointed out that while President Trump boasted of record-high oil and gas production during his first year, he has failed to fulfill his campaign promise to cut energy prices by half.

On the contrary, added the group, average electricity prices over the past year in the US have risen by 6.7%, according to an analysis of data by the Energy Information Administration. Meanwhile, around 21 million American families were in arrears on their utility bills, with the average overdue amount climbing by nearly a third since 2023, according to the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.

Experts say that the increase in electricity prices is driven by rising LNG exports, delayed closure of costly coal plants, AI-driven energy demands, blocking of solar and wind projects, and elimination of energy-efficiency tax credits.

350.org called President Trump’s so-called “ratepayer protection pledges” asking AI data centres to provide their own power as a “theatrical stunt” with no enforceable mechanism, and which risks ramping up costly fossil fuel production to meet unchecked energy demand.

“It is a Golden Age – but only for fossil fuel companies that poured $96 million into the Trump administration. For the millions of Americans who cannot afford to pay their energy bills, it is like heading back to the dark ages. The Trump administration cannot claim to stand for American consumers while blocking progress in renewables, the cheapest form of energy available today. It cannot champion affordability while doubling down on a highly volatile gas market and driving conflicts that inevitably increase energy prices everywhere,” Anne Jellema, 350.org executive director, said.

350.org also cites a recent poll that shows 97% of nearly 1,500 business executives across 15 major global economies support the transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy, citing competitive edge and long-term energy security.

“Trump’s bravado cannot disguise the fundamental insecurity at the heart of his administration: fossil fuels are increasingly unviable, and even businesses want to move on. Around the world, people are demanding and building a clean, affordable energy future, with or without the US government,” Jellema added.

Farmers excited over World Bank $500m loan, seek proper implementation

Michael Simire
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Farmers excited over World Bank $500m loan, seek proper implementation

Lagos State farmers have expressed joy over the World Bank proposed $500 million loan to the Nigerian agriculture sector, while calling for appropriate implementation.

The agriculture experts made the call in separate interviews on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Lagos.

The World Bank plans to approve a new $500 million loan to Nigeria in March 2026.

Abubakar Kyari
Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security

The fund will be disbursed to improve agriculture, increase food production, strengthen value chains, and create jobs in different states.

The entire $500 million will come from the International Development Association, which is the World Bank’s arm that gives low-interest loans to developing countries.

With the Federal Government as a borrower, the project will be carried out by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and participating states.

Reacting to the proposed loan, the acting Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Shakin Agbayewa, who described the loan as a welcome development, called for transparency in its implementation.

“We are excited to hear about the proposed World Bank loan, the truth of the matter is that with the high rate of inflation and the cost of securing loans in Nigeria, this loan is coming at the right time and it cannot be overemphasised.

“However, our concern is the implementation and execution of the loan when approved.

“If the loan is implemented and executed properly, it should boost local agriculture production because the truth is that nobody, no sector or even a country, can survive without a loan.

“So, when we see a World Bank coming to assist us, maybe at a very reduced interest rate or a zero interest rate, that will serve as a big boost in the Nigerian agriculture sector across all boards.

“From inputs to logistics, to production, or processing, and value addition, the loan is a very good initiative for the sector,” Agbayewa said.

He said the farmers were afraid of execution and implementation of the loans.

“The fear is execution and implementation of the loans. We want to urge the Ministry of Agriculture or whoever is responsible to disburse the loan to go through AFAN, as a national chapter, that is the umbrella body of all farmers in Nigeria.

“This is because AFAN has a structure, from the national to the state, to zonal coordinators and local government chapters that work as far as the structure.

“And we have all our members in the different commodities and produce sectors that can benefit from the loan.That way the loan will be well targeted to enable us mitigate or fight food insecurity.

“The loan will help because our banks in Nigeria are not wired or billed towards agricultural loans. So, if you now see someone offering us the olive branch for the sector, I think it is a work of development.

“We just hope that it gets to the farmers and is well implemented,” he said.

On his part, an agriculture analyst and farmer, Mr. Omotunde Banjoko, called for transparency in the disbursement of the loan.

“This World Bank loan is workable if disbursed appropriately, but the challenge is always how it is disbursed, so we wait until we see the full details.

“The question we ask is how have these funds been used because in the past they will tell you that the funds are directed towards areas where they are having security issues in the North.

“Most of the interventions have always been going in that direction. What we have noticed is that most times, the loan is not entirely for all farmers in Nigeria. It is always directed towards specific subsectors at times.

“So, we want to get the details to know what area they are targeting. There has always not been transparency in all these funding. So, we have $500 million but I am not sure even $1 million goes to the farmers.

“We want to wait till we get the full details of how the loan will be shared. We want to know which sector they are targeting, and then we’ll look at what method they want to use for implementation.

“We are just worried about the implementation,” Banjoko said.

By Mercy Omoike

Scientists harness AI to boost rice resilience to climate change

Michael Simire
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0
Scientists harness AI to boost rice resilience to climate change

Australian and Indian scientists say they have launched a research collaboration using artificial intelligence (AI) and genome editing to help protect rice crops from rising global temperatures.

The project, “Designer crops: engineering thermo tolerance for agricultural productivity,” is led by Australia’s Monash University in partnership with India’s National Institute for Plant Genome.

The Research under the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund is worth 3.76 million Australian dollars ($2.67 million), according to a Monash statement.

rice-farming
Rice farming

Researchers will use AI and CRISPR-based genome editing to identify how plant proteins respond to heat stress and make precise genetic changes to improve thermo tolerance, it said, adding promising lines will be tested in diverse environments to evaluate performance and productivity.

The project aimed to deliver practical solutions for farmers facing a changing climate, said Monash Professor Sureshkumar Balasubramanian.

“As global temperatures rise, crops like rice are increasingly exposed to heat stress that can dramatically reduce yields,” he said.

Sridevi Sureshkumar from Monash School of Biological Sciences said the theoretical designer crops will be a league above modified crops already in use around the world.

“Now that we have been able to identify exactly which elements within the plants are temperature-responsive, we can genetically manipulate them with greater accuracy,” she said.

Oil and gas: NSCDC, NUPENG-LPGAR, retailers partner to promote safety

Michael Simire
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0
Oil and gas: NSCDC, NUPENG-LPGAR, retailers partner to promote safety

The Anambra State Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it will collaborate with key stakeholders to curb illegal activities and promote operational safety in the oil and gas sector.

It said the partnership would involve the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers – Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers Association (NUPENG-LPGAR) and petroleum retailers.

Mr. Edwin Okadigbo, the Head, Media and Tactical Operations, NSCDC Anambra Command, in a statement on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, quoted Mr. Maku Olatunde, NSCDC Commandant in Anambra, as saying this in Awka, the state capital.

Maku Olatunde
NSCDC Commandant, Anambra State, Maku Olatunde

He spoke during a courtesy visit by the Executive of NUPENG-LPGAR, Anambra Chapter, led by Mr. Tochukwu Ngini, its chairman.

Okadigbo said the collaboration was to promote safety and prevent unethical practices in gas storage, sales, and distribution.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenge posed by unregistered gas retailers in the state.

Olatunde urged LPG retailers to prioritise safety measures and avoid practices that risk lives and property.

He said agencies such as NSCDC would not shy away from their responsibility of ensuring sanity in the oil and gas sector.

Ngini expressed concern over the circulation of substandard cylinders and the hazardous presence of high-propane LPG, which he said posed risks to both operators and consumers.

Ngini pledged the union’s cooperation to promote safety and security in the sector.

He also frowned at some sharp practices of unregistered gas retailers operating outside the NUPENG regulatory framework which posed risks to members of the public.

“We are here to solicit and perfect arrangements with the NSCDC in conducting joint enforcement operations against unregistered gas retailers.

“Also, we want to see and ensure maximum compliance with best practices, and protect the public,” he said.

By Joy Mbachi

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