Beneficiaries of various Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions projects in Lagos State have been implored to ensure maintenance of toilet facilities and protect them to serve the purpose of ending open defecation.
WaterAid WASH facilities intervention at Ikorodu North LCDA, Lagos
Mr AbdulMalik Giwa, representative of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, gave the advice when he inspected WASH facilities in Ikorodu and Ojodu LCDA, provided by WaterAid Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation.
Giwa said the inspection was to ascertain that the quality of WASH facilities interventions by WaterAid Nigeria meets the standard approved by the Federal Government.
After inspection of projects in Ojodu, Isiu, Agbede, Itamaga and Olorunda in Ikorodu, he implored WaterAid to ensure international specifications with a call on benefitting communities not to sell some of the WASH materials like water purification tablets, sanitation soaps and ORS tablets given to them but to distribute to affected households to curb the spread of Cholera.
“As part of our oversight functions, we have visited some areas like Agidingbi, Ojodu, now Isiu, Itamaga, Olorunda, and we can say WaterAid Nigeria has done well and it is worth commending but if distribution is not well monitored it can get to wrong hands who will sell at cheaper rate but I am glad the LCDA will be in charge with CDCs and CDAs directly involved,” Giwa said.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary, Ikorodu North LCDA, Mr. Niyi Odugbesi, assured that the WASH materials would be distributed to the nooks and crannies of the Council Area with promise to sustain the advocacy and sensitisation on regular hand washing with soap, environmental sanitation and improved water supply to fight against communicable diseases.
“On behalf of my Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, Mr Adeola Banjo, I want to say a big thank you to WaterAid Nigeria for all the various interventions too numerous to mention, we promised to ensure maintenance and protect the toilet facilities and ensure distribution of the materials to those concerned.”
The inspection and monitoring climaxed the 10 days rural advocacy and sensitisation by WaterAid Nigeria in over 20 communities in Ojodu, Ikorodu and Igando Ikotun LCDAs with over 500,000 direct and indirect beneficiaries.
On June 26, 2024, Nigeria witnessed a fire outbreak at the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos. Fortunately, the company successfully managed the fire outbreak, and a press release by Anthony Chiejina, the company’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, described the incident as a minor fire at the refinery’s effluent treatment plant with no casualties recorded.
Dangote Refinery gate
However, this event, minor as Anthony may have described it, highlights the gravity of potential environmental risks linked to refinery operations and increased carbon emissions. This refinery is just over a year old – inaugurated in May 2023 – and began operations barely six months ago. Thus, one cannot say the fire was due to ageing infrastructure, as it has been in some cases.
Refineries are high-risk environments by nature. They handle volatile substances that can lead to disastrous accidents if not carefully and meticulously managed. The Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in Africa, is no exception. Fires, explosions, and spills are just a few of the hazards that can result from refinery operations, posing significant environmental and public health risks.
A primary environmental concern during refinery fires is releasing a toxic mix of air pollutants, including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants can significantly worsen air quality, contribute to acid rain, and cause respiratory issues for people living near the refinery.
In the case of Dangote Refinery, the fire at the effluent treatment plant raises particular dread about potential water contamination. Effluent treatment plants are designed to treat wastewater before it evaporates into the environment. A fire at such a facility could release untreated or partially treated effluents into nearby water bodies, harming aquatic life and seeping into human water supply.
Globally, refinery fires are not uncommon. In 2019, a massive fire engulfed the Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery, causing significant air and water pollution and forcing evacuations in surrounding areas. Similarly, in 2012, a fire outbreak occurred at Venezuela’s Amuay Refinery, one of the largest in the world. The fire, triggered by a gas leak, caused an explosion that killed 47 people and injured over 80. The environmental impact was severe, with extensive air and soil contamination reported. These incidents show the potential for catastrophic consequences.
With its vast oil reserves, Nigeria has witnessed its share of environmental harm from refineries. Often, these incidents surface in illegal oil refineries, usually in the Niger Delta region. The region has several makeshift refineries, frequently concealed within the dense mangrove forests.
In 2023, there was an oil spill from the Trans-Niger Pipeline operated by Shell that crosses through communities in the Eleme area of Ogoniland, contaminating farmlands and a river in the Niger Delta region. Before that, in 2005, the Oruma community in Bayelsa State suffered an oil spill from Shell’s facility, which destroyed fishponds, farms and trees, losing their sources of livelihood.
The environmental impact of refinery fires and disasters transcends this isolated incident. Fossil fuel burning contributes to carbon emissions, driving climate change. It accounts for approximately 75% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and nearly two-thirds of all greenhouse gas emissions.
These emissions contribute to alarming rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and rising sea levels, posing a grave threat to the planet’s ecosystems and human populations. These effects are already evident in Africa’s most populous country.
Moreover, the Dangote Refinery incident unearths questions about the company’s commitment to environmental safety and transparency. While they described the fire as “minor,” a complete investigation into the cause is crucial for public knowledge. The incident calls for stricter regulations and independent monitoring of refinery operations in Nigeria.
It is unthinkable to see that since the fire outbreak, no government oversight agency, such as the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has gone to the refinery to find out what happened and inform the public about its findings. But it is back to business after just a press statement.
The only way to mitigate the risks associated with refineries is to begin a phase-out of fossil fuel usage in Nigeria. Decades of using fossil fuels for energy development in Africa have yet to yield the needed results. Instead, we should intensely pump investments into renewables. Africa is rich in renewable energy sources, including hydro, sun, wind and others.
Nigeria, especially, has abundant renewable energy sources. Renewables report by IRENA shows that renewable energy sources can meet nearly 60% of Nigeria’s energy demand in 2050. which could cut the country’s demand for oil by 65% and natural gas by 40%, and renewables could account for 47% of total energy demand by 2030 and 57% by 2040.
The Dangote Refinery fire should be a warning reminder for all stakeholders to be highly vigilant. It carries the weight of urgency of prioritising environmental safety and emission reduction within the oil and gas industry. It is more important in Nigeria, where regulatory frameworks are less stringent than those in more developed nations.
If we continue to burn fossil fuel, we must implement stricter regulations focusing on emission control and waste management practices, investing in safety measures, enforcing transparency policies and exploring cleaner technologies. We must not wait for another “minor” incident to bring about necessary changes. The health of our country’s ecosystems and the well-being of our communities depend on it.
By Israel Prince Orekha, Executive Director, Connected Advocacy
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, is grappling with a waste management crisis. State governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently announced a partnership with Dutch-owned Harvest Waste Consortium to build a waste-to-energy plant.
Lagos State government officials sign partnership with Dutch-owned Harvest Waste Consortium to build a waste-to-energy plant.
The commendable project, which aims to convert 2,250 tonnes of waste daily into 60-75 megawatts of electricity, promises to power 40,000 homes and significantly reduce the city’s carbon footprint. However, while this ambitious project is a step forward, it is not a comprehensive solution for the state’s multifaceted waste management challenges.
The primary benefit of the waste-to-energy plant is its potential to address two critical issues: waste management and energy production. Lagos produces between 13,000 and 15,000 metric tonnes of waste daily and the current waste management system struggles to cope with this volume. Transforming a portion of this waste into energy can help reduce the burden on landfills and provide a renewable energy source.
Moreover, the project aligns with global climate goals by promising to cut down 550,000 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, improving air quality and contributing to a healthier environment, which is significant considering Lagos is one of the most populous cities in Africa, with a population of over 21 million people. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has identified methane reduction as a key strategy for mitigating climate change, given that methane is over 25 times more effective than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere over a 100-year period.
But the project only scratches the surface of the larger waste problem in Lagos. The city’s waste management issues are deeply rooted and multifaceted, involving inadequate waste collection, poor recycling practices, and a lack of effective initiatives around public awareness and engagement. A waste-to-energy plant, while advantageous, addresses only a fraction of the waste generated daily. The remaining waste, which continues to pile up in landfills and litter streets, continues to pose grave environmental and public health risks. For example, environmentalists posit bad waste disposal management as one of the culprits that worsen perennial flooding for Lagos State.
Moreover, the success of the waste-to-energy plant hinges on efficient and consistent waste collection and sorting. Lagos has long struggled with inconsistent waste collection services, leading to illegal dumping and unmanaged waste in many areas. In research article by Kehinde Allen-Taylor and K.O., it was recommended that Lagos State puts in place a strong policy framework that incorporates waste hierarchy guidelines. First should be prevention; then reuse, recycling, recovery and (least desirable) disposal.
But it found that, in Lagos, this hierarchy wasn’t being followed. The research revealed that residents generate mixed waste without separation or sorting. Households store their waste primarily in plastic bags, sacks and buckets. Contracted waste collectors collect mixed waste and transport it directly to dumpsites. Without a significant overhaul of the waste collection system and substantial investment in infrastructure and manpower, the plant’s effectiveness may be hampered.
To truly tackle Lagos’ waste problem, a broad and integrated waste management strategy is required. This includes improving waste collection and recycling infrastructure, enforcing strict regulations against illegal dumping, and launching extensive public awareness campaigns to encourage waste reduction and proper disposal practices. According to the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), less than 10 percent of waste generated in Lagos State is being recycled as at 2022. Investment in other sustainable waste management solutions, such as composting organic waste is essential.
Lagos launched a second community recycling initiative in 2023 after the pilot scheme launched within the Ministry in Alausa was launched two years prior. The scheme is one of the fulfillments of the present Administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda serving as Environmental Sanitation Advocacy and Economic Empowerment Programme for the people of Lagos. The initiative is a simple placement of eight steel mesh receptacles at strategic locations where citizens of the community are encouraged to drop used PET bottles and containers. Such an initiative needs to be implemented in all communities statewide and quickly as possible.
In conjunction with these efforts, the second most populous state banned the usage and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics in January. This ban is expected to reduce plastic pollution, a major contributor to the city’s waste problem. However, the effectiveness of this ban will depend on rigorous enforcement, stakeholder relations, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives.
Promoting the use of biodegradable materials as an alternative involves much more than words, but productive relationships with businesses, incentives, technical assistance, supply chain support, policy measures, community programme and extensive public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the environmental benefits of biodegradable materials.
In essence, while the waste-to-energy plant is a positive step towards a cleaner and sustainable Lagos, it alone cannot solve the city’s complex waste management issues. The city’s waste management challenges necessitate a multifaceted approach that goes beyond a single technological fix.
It is imperative for the Lagos State government to adopt a holistic strategy that addresses the root causes of waste management issues while promoting sustainable practices across all levels of society. Only then can Lagos truly overcome its waste crisis and move towards a greener future.
By Abiodun Salako, Journalist and former Editorial Assistant at UK-based Divinations Magazine, @i_amseawater
The 39th Board meeting of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) has concluded in South Korea with a landmark approval of $1.0 billion in GCF financing for 17 projects in 35 developing countries. The decision expands GCF’s portfolio to 270 projects to an expected total of $58.7 billion, including $14.9 billion in committed GCF funding.
The 39th Board meeting of the Green Climate Fund (GCF)
Among the 17 projects, three projects involve first-time Accredited Entities (AEs), including a Direct Access Entity (DAE) in Bhutan set to implement a climate resilience project in the country. Eastern Europe and Central Asia received a boost with the first GCF-backed single-country project in Albania and the accreditation of a new partner from Tajikistan.
GCF signed Funded Activity Agreements for 10 projects immediately after approval. Projects in Bhutan and Malawi are expected to transition from approval to first disbursement in under 15 days, a new record for GCF.
The Fund sharpened its focus on climate adaptation, particularly in vulnerable regions. This includes initiatives in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and African nations. GCF approved its first-ever social protection project in Mozambique and a project enhancing resilience to extreme weather and food insecurity in the Horn of Africa.
The Board also approved the accreditation of six new organisations, including three first-time Direct Access Entities (DAE) from Tajikistan, Nigeria (Development Bank of Nigeria Plc), and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as the first regional DAE representing Indian Ocean SIDS. This brings the total number of GCF Accredited Entities to 134, including 86 regional or national DAEs. The accreditation agreement with the DAE from Tajikistan was signed immediately after approval, marking a record time for such an agreement.
In addition, the Board considered key policies and strategies including a new partnerships and access strategy that will set the stage for further discussions on enhancing access and streamlining accreditation, and a proposal to finance REDD+ results-based payments with a decision on its principles and ways forward.
Board Co-chair, Milagros De Camps German, from the Dominican Republic, said: “With the approval of $1 billion for 17 new projects that will increase direct access and build resilience in developing countries, GCF’s Board is committed to ensuring strong momentum on climate action for climate-vulnerable nations. I’m heartened by the progress GCF has made so far. As the Board, we will continue to lead the efforts in providing critical financial resources by enhancing the predictability, speed, and scale of climate finance.”
Board Co-chair, Sarah Metcalf, from the United Kingdom, said: “This has been a very productive Board meeting with the approval of $1 billion of investments in a highly diverse portfolio of projects. The results of this Board meeting, and the breadth of our discussions, including on improving access, demonstrate the continued evolution of the Fund and the Board’s ongoing commitment to support transformative climate action in developing countries.”
GCF Executive Director, Mafalda Duarte, said: “The approval of $1 billion for 17 projects in a single Board meeting is a significant milestone that demonstrates our commitment to supporting the highest aspirations of developing countries. I am thrilled that under our Board’s leadership, we have now expanded our overall portfolio to include a record 270 projects and will enable new partners to access GCF resources for the first time, for example, in Tajikistan, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and SIDS in the Indian Ocean. In another first, we’re also empowering local partners in Bhutan to drive climate action through finance disbursed in record time. I am equally grateful for our Board’s support of my vision and reform agenda for GCF.”
The 40th meeting of the GCF Board will be held from October 21 to 24, 2024, in Songdo, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
Apart from the Development Bank of Nigeria Plc (DBN), two other newly accredited Direct Access Entities (DAE) organisations are: Centre for Implementation of Investment Projects within the Committee for Environmental Protection (CIIP) under the government of the Republic of Tajikistan, and Fonds Interprofessionnel pour la Recherche et le Conseil Agricoles (FIRCA), in Côte d’Ivoire.
Direct Access Entities are sub-national, national or regional organisations that need to be nominated by developing country National Designated Authorities (NDAs) or focal points.
Organisations nominated to become Direct Access Entities may be eligible to receive GCF readiness support. This funding is designed to help organisations in developing countries prepare to become Accredited Entities, as well as helping those which have already been accredited to strengthen their organisational capacities.
As climate activists and thought leaders across the world commemorate this year’s edition of Climate Emergency Day on Monday, July 22, 2024, the need to intensify the fight against climate change is being collectively reinforced globally, once again.
Act in time: The world officially has four years to dramatically reduce fossil fuel emissions to stay below 1.5C degrees warming
This is very important as the Climate Clock will tick down below five years for the first time, a key milestone for humanity that will spark a wave of synchronised actions around the world, demanding an end to fossil fuels, and pushing leaders to #ActInTime to accelerate real climate solutions.
On this day, we will officially have 4 YEARS to dramatically reduce fossil fuel emissions to stay below 1.5C degrees warming. Every minute, every second counts. The deadline on the clock is sourced from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) data, the gold standard of climate science. The first monumental Climate Clock was co-created by Gan Golan, Andrew Boyd, Katie Peyton Hofstadter, and Adrian Carpenter.
The first Climate Clock was launched in Union Square, New York City, in September 2020. Basically, it is a countdown mechanism that tracks the deadline to stay below 1.5°C of global warming. Notably, it now has a global presence, with monument-sized clocks installed in London, Prague, Rome, Seoul, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and portable clocks in the hands of climate leaders across the world.
In addition, it is known for its 80-foot digital clock face in New York City’s Union Square, as well as its other large-scale clocks located across the globe in London, Rome, Seoul, Tokyo, Beijing and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Individuals and communities worldwide are encouraged to mark the moment the Clock ticks, which indicates that time is running out on us to take action to save our beloved planet.
Interestingly, it is a global symbol of urgency, melding art, science, tech, and grassroots mobilisation to alert people to the climate emergency and help enact hopeful, doable solutions in line with global commitments to the Paris Agreement that aims to keep global warming below 1.5°C to preserve a liveable world for all.
By and large, Climate Clock which has a global community of voices available for comment, including many local spokespeople and youth ambassadors, urges governments, corporations, and people in power to #ActInTime for the climate crisis. It exhibits a “Deadline” counting down the time remaining to prevent global warming from rising above 1.5°C and five “Lifelines” tracking progress on key solution pathways.
Why Climate Clock matters
The science is clear: Climate change is an urgent issue that affects us all. We are in a Climate Emergency. Decades of increasing carbon emissions are harming the natural and societal systems upon which humanity depends, threatening untold ecological and human devastation if we do not #ActInTime. If urgent steps are not taken the situation will only worsen and put us in more danger. The good news, however, is that there is still time. In other words, we can still have the chance to do something to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.
Dr Michael Terungwa David, founder and Executive Director of Global Initiative for Food Security and Preservation (GIFSEP), campaigns that the world officially has four years to dramatically reduce fossil fuel emissions to stay below 1.5C degrees warming
Backed by the latest science, the Climate Clock tells us what we must do, by when. The Deadline and Lifelines on the Climate Clock make explicit the speed and scope of action that political leaders must take in order to limit the worst climate impacts currently been experienced around the world including my native country, Nigeria.
The current climate impact in Nigeria is multifaceted and affects various sectors of the economy, environment, and society. Unpredictable and changing rainfall patterns have led to reduced agricultural productivity. Crops are either inundated by excessive rainfall or suffer from drought conditions, which disrupts planting and harvesting schedules.
Changes in rainfall patterns and prolonged dry seasons have led to water scarcity in many parts of the country affecting both rural and urban communities. Conversely, during the rainy season, heavy and intense rainfall can cause flooding as currently experienced in many parts of the country. Consequently, waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, are prevalent as clean water becomes scarce.
In the northern regions, desertification is accelerating due to increased temperatures and reduced rainfall, leading to loss of arable land and displacement of communities while rising sea levels and increased storm surges are causing coastal erosion, threatening coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems like mangroves.
The economic cost and impact of climate change on Nigeria’s economy is comparatively huge and is expected to increase. The Department for International Development (DFID) of the United Kingdom (UK) has, for example, estimated that climate change will cost Nigeria between 6 percent and 30 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2050 if no concrete adaptation action is taken.
There is also the problem of loss of livelihoods, particularly amongst a huge population of Nigerians who rely on agriculture, fisheries, and natural resources for their source of income. Climate impacts on these sectors can lead to loss of income and increased poverty.
Similarly, extreme weather events such as floods and storms can damage infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings, leading to high repair and replacement costs. Notably, in the energy supply sub-sector, hydropower, a significant source of Nigeria’s electricity, is affected by changes in water availability due to droughts and changing rainfall patterns.
It is equally pertinent to mention that the social and political impacts of climate change cannot be overlooked, conflict is on the increased in some parts of the country because of the competition over dwindling natural resources, such as water and arable land, which exacerbate existing conflicts or trigger new ones, particularly in regions already experiencing tension leading to displacement and migration of the people.
What are we supposed to do?
The big question now is what type of actions are expected to take collectively as a nation in order to create a chain reaction and a positive outcome for the current efforts and initiatives aimed at tackling climate change in our country, particularly in terms of reducing carbon emissions.
Firstly, we should all support and use more renewable energy, which is cleaner and more sustainable than fossil fuels. Experts say by the singular act of installing solar panels in our homes and offices or participating in community solar programmes, you can reduce emissions. Though we are yet the embrace the use of electric cars, if we do that, it will definitely go a long way in helping us secure a cleaner and brighter future.
To achieve this, we need to invest more on renewable energy, provide incentives and supportive policies that include not only workers and communities reliant on fossil fuel industries but also focusing on transforming economies to ensure equitable opportunities, sustainable livelihoods, and resilience in the face of climate change impacts.
Moreover, we need to finance real climate solutions ranging from renewable energy to regenerative agriculture, from mitigation to adaptation. On July 22 people-power movements will be pressuring governments to commit the financial resources behind the solutions we need.
We also can also reduce carbon emissions by reducing energy wastage, going on a more plant-based diet, reducing water wastage, by reducing, reusing, recycling your products, so that we can have a better and cleaner environment.
Conclusion
Given that Climate Clock is ticking and the need to reduce our carbon emission has become increasingly paramount, we must continue to protect our planet and make it better and safer for all of us and our future generations. It is up to us to take solution-based action aimed reducing our footprint as well as intensify our fight against climate change.
Believe you me, every action taken in this direction, no matter how little, counts. By taking proactive measures, Nigeria can enhance its resilience to climate change and secure a sustainable future for its people.
By Dr Michael Terungwa David, founder and Executive Director of Global Initiative for Food Security and Preservation (GIFSEP)
Flood has hit most parts of Makurdi, the Benue State capital, and rendered hundreds of the residents temporarily homeless.
Flooding in Makurdi, Benue State
A correspondent who went round Makurdi on Sunday, July 21, 2024, reports that worse hit areas include Achussah, Jerome Hwande Street, Ankpa quarters extension, Ankpa ward by Demekpe, Living Faith Church, Naka Road, Behind Customary Court of Appeal.
Others are Gboko Road, JS Tarka University of Agriculture Road, Nyiman Village, Wurukum Roundabout, Logo1 Akpehe Village, Ide Village and Kasho Village,
amongst others.
The disaster has not only rendered hundreds within the state capital homeless, but huge properties lost.
Flooding has over the last decade become a yearly routine, destroying properties and causing loss of lives in some cases.
These areas were among the worst hit areas of the 2017 flooding that displaced over 120,000, persons in the Benue capital, while in 2022, over 14 councils were affected.
Makurdi residents mostly experience challenges of flooding, whenever there is rainfall largely due to lack of proper and adequate drainage system and not always due to the overflow of River Benue.
At Agber Village, Mrs Hope Igbawua said that the situation was beyond their control, adding that the residents have reported the matter to relevant authorities over the years without positive response.
Igbawua said that, as a community, they couldn’t do much, saying the situation required hundreds of millions to be addressed.
“See my brother, our problem here is not the overflow of water from River Benue but lack of a proper and adequate drainage to collect water to the main drainage that was constructed by the Federal Government.
“The situation we face here is almost similar with many people in Makurdi. Not all of us are affected by the overflow of River Benue. We need drains,” she said.
The Executive Secretary (ES), Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), Mr James Iorpuu, said they are already mapping out areas and households affected by the flood for immediate intervention.
Iorpuu said SEMA had earlier carried out massive advocacy on flood and appealed to those living along flood prone areas to evacuate to safer areas.
On his part, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Mr Ugwu Odoh, said comprehensive drainage design of the affected communities would be carried out while the Urban Development Board would demolish buildings blocking water channels.
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Mr Aondowase Kunde, said a joint memo would be submitted to the Governor for necessary actions to address the issue of flooding in the state.
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has asserted that products refined at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, the world’s largest single train refinery, are of superior quality compared to imported equivalents and meet international standards. He expressed his confidence after the House leadership insisted on testing other diesel products, alongside Dangote’s diesel at its state-of-the-art laboratory.
Dangote Refinery gate
During a tour of both Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Dangote Fertiliser Limited complex by members of the House of Representatives, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and other members who observed the testing of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) from two petrol stations alongside Dangote Petroleum Refinery, praised the company for its significant investments and contributions to Nigeria’s development.
The diesel samples were procured from two well-known filling stations near Eleko junction along the Lekki Epe Expressway, by the honourable members. Chairman of the House Committee on Downstream, Ikeagwunon Ugochinyere, and Chairman of the House Committee on Midstream, Okojie Odianosen, oversaw the collection of samples from the Mild Hydro Cracking (MHC) unit of Dangote refinery for testing of all the samples.
Lab tests revealed that Dangote’s diesel had a sulphur content of 87.6 ppm (parts per million), whereas the other two samples showed sulphur levels exceeding 1800 ppm and 2000 ppm respectively.
Dangote emphasised that these findings debunked claims made by Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Authority, who recently asserted that imported diesel surpasses domestically refined products. Ahmed had alleged that Dangote refinery and other modular refineries like Waltersmith and Aradel produced diesel with sulphur content ranging from 650 to 1200 ppm — a statement criticised by many Nigerians as a tactic to favour imported products over local ones.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote
Dangote openly challenged the regulator to compare the quality of refined products from his refinery with those imported, advocating for an impartial assessment to determine what best serves the interests of Nigerians.
“We produce the best diesel in Nigeria. It’s disheartening that instead of safeguarding the market, the regulator is undermining it. Our doors are open for the regulator to conduct tests on our products anytime; transparency is paramount to us. It would be beneficial for the regulator to showcase its laboratory to the world so Nigerians can compare. Our interest is Nigeria first because if Nigeria doesn’t grow, we have limited capacity for growth.
“Right Honourable Speaker and esteemed members, you’ve witnessed the results of the credibility test. I appreciate your wise counsel in procuring samples from the filling stations alongside our refinery’s product. Ours shows a sulphur content of 87.6 ppm, approximately 88, whereas the others exceeded 1,800 ppm. Although the NMDPRA permits local refiners to produce diesel with sulphur content up to 650 ppm until January 2025, as approved by ECOWAS, ours is significantly lower. Next week, we aim to achieve 10 ppm, aligning with the Euro V standard. Imported diesel is capped at 50 ppm, but as you’ve seen, those from the stations, imported by major marketers, fall well outside this standard.”
Dangote pointed out that high-sulphur content diesel regularly imported into the country often comes with dubious certifications. He emphasised that the most effective method to verify the quality is to purchase the product directly from filling stations and conduct credibility tests. According to him, this issue has resulted in both health risks and financial losses for Nigerians.
“Dubious certifications often accompany the importation of high-sulphur diesel into Nigeria, causing both health risks and financial losses for Nigerians,” noted Dangote.
“The best method to verify this is to purchase the product directly from filling stations where end-users obtain it. I believe Farouk Ahmed speaks without sufficient knowledge of our refinery. We have successfully exported diesel and jet fuel to Europe and Asia without any complaints; in fact, we have received repeated orders, indicating satisfaction with our products,” he added.
Supporting Dangote’s assertion, VP of Gas and Oil at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, highlighted recent actions by European countries like Belgium and the Netherlands.
“These countries have expressed concerns about the carcinogenic effects of high-sulphur diesel being dumped into the Nigerian market, prompting them to impose bans on such fuel exports to West Africa.”
Edwin informed the federal lawmakers that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, designed to process a wide range of crudes including various African and Middle Eastern crudes, as well as US Light Tight Oil, conforms to Euro V specifications.
In addition, he said, it is designed to comply with US EPA, European emission norms, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) emission/effluent norms, and African Refiners and Distribution Association (ARDA) standards.
Noting that products from the $20 billion facility are of high quality and meet international standards, Edwin said it has the capacity to meet 100% of Nigeria’s demand for petrol, diesel, kerosene, and aviation Jet, with surpluses available for export.
The Group’s VP, Olakunle Alake, expressed disappointment over accusations of monopoly against the Dangote Group. He stressed that there are multiple players in the industry, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which operates four refineries.
Expressing concern over the controversy surrounding the quality of imported refined products into Nigeria, Speaker Abass stated that the Green Chamber would establish a committee to investigate the matter thoroughly. He emphasised that sampled products from various sources would undergo testing as part of this initiative.
The Speaker also expressed admiration for the infrastructure at the Dangote Oil Refinery, describing it as a significant asset in Nigeria’s quest for self-sufficiency in petroleum products. He noted that the refinery has positioned itself as a pivotal player, especially at a time when global concerns over energy security and sustainability are paramount.
“Today’s visit to the magnificent facilities of Dangote Industries Oil Refinery section has been nothing short of enlightening. It has afforded us a rare opportunity to witness first-hand the monumental strides that your organisation has made in transforming the landscape of petroleum production in Nigeria. The sheer scale and sophistication of this facility are awe-inspiring; it stands as a beacon of hope for our country as we navigate through the turbulent waters of energy supply challenges,” he said.
Commending the state-of-the-art technology implemented at the petroleum refinery, Abbas praised it as revolutionary and a shining example of engineering and innovation excellence.
“Each corner of this facility resonates with the echoes of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding pursuit of quality. It is evident that every drop produced here carries not just oil but also the hopes and dreams of millions who yearn for a brighter future. We are deeply impressed by what we have seen during this visit which confirms the rating of this industry as the single largest oil refinery in Africa. This remarkable achievement does not merely reflect corporate success; it symbolises national pride, a tribute to what can be accompanied when visionary leadership meets relentless determination,” he said.
Acknowledging the numerous challenges likely encountered during the construction of the refinery, the Speaker lauded Dangote for his steadfast commitment to achieving excellence.
“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the myriad challenges that have beset this remarkable facility. The regulatory hurdles that often loom like dark clouds over progress, the complexities surrounding crude oil supplies that can stifle even the most ambitious endeavours, and the daunting economic landscape we navigate especially in these times when our economy grapples with foreign exchange constraints are all formidable adversaries. Yet, despite these tribulations, your unwavering commitment to excellence shines through,” he attested.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) have donated 1.34 tonnes of improved rice, millet and sorghum seeds to farmers in Yobe State.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari
The donation was sponsored by USAID under the Feed the Future Nigeria Integrated Agriculture Activity (NIAA) project.
Mr Prakash Silwal, Chief of Party and Principal Specialist of NIAA project, stated this at the commencement of the seeds distribution in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, on Saturday, July 20, 2024.
He said the donation was part of efforts by the group to transform agriculture in North-Eastern Nigeria.
Silwal said, “Since 2019, the US Government, through the NIAA, has been steadfast in its commitment to fostering agricultural growth and enhancing food security in the region.
“Our journey has been one of collaboration, innovation, and resilience.
“In response to the secondary impacts of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, we expanded our scope in September 2022 to scale up interventions in seed system development across Borno, Adamawa, Gombe, and Yobe.
“This expansion was essential in ensuring that our efforts reached even more communities, empowering them with the tools and knowledge needed for sustainable agricultural success.”
He also said that certificates would be presented to 28 Community Based Entrepreneurs trained by the group in Yobe from 2022.
“A cornerstone of this initiative has been our partnership with the National Seed Council (NASC).
“Together, we organised our beneficiary seed producers into Community-Based Seed Cooperatives (CBSCs), training them in good agronomy practices and empowering them to elevate their status as seed enterprises.
“Through this collaboration, we facilitated their access to critical agricultural inputs, including foundation seeds, and ensured their seed samples underwent rigorous testing by the National Agricultural Seeds Council Laboratory in Gombe.
“Today, we celebrate the fruition of these efforts as 121 cooperatives receive their NASC certification, an important proof of their hard work, dedication, and adherence to the highest standards of seed quality,” the official said.
He added that there were vast opportunities in the seed development sector, pledging the groups’ commitment to setting an agricultural development and food security agenda for the Northeast region.
Silwal said: “Moreover, this event is a call to action. It seeks to build a robust network of committed international investors and development actors, connecting them with the opportunities and networks on the ground in Nigeria.
“Together, we can work towards a more sustainable and prosperous seed system, driving agricultural transformation and ensuring food security for all.”
Former Group Managing Directors (GMDs) of NNPC have expressed their support for the current leadership and commended efforts in advancing the company’s strategic objectives across key sectors.
Dr Jackson Gaius-Obaseki, former NNPC GMD
At a CEO Forum hosted by the NNPC on Friday, July 20, 2024, that provided insights on NNPC’s transition post PIA, the challenges and opportunities therefrom, the former GMDs commended Mele Kyari as the first Group CEO to implement the PIA, and noted with satisfaction the progress made with hope that its limitations will be addressed over time.
“We obtained insights into NNPC’s business activities in the context of global energy industry dynamics, strategic aspirations and operational updates. In particular, oil and gas production growth plan, gas infrastructure project delivery plan, progress on refinery rehabilitation and issues related to petroleum product supply and energy security were discussed,” the former GMDs disclosed in a communique released at the close of the meeting.
They also acknowledged with satisfaction the significant progress made in:
Increasing crude oil and gas production
Funding of upstream operations and investments
Gas supply and infrastructure development for domestic and export including CNG and LPG delivery
Refineries rehabilitation progress
Reduction in carbon emissions and commercialisation of Nigeria’s vast gas resources
They expressed their satisfaction in the achievements recorded and encouraged the management team to continue advancing strategies to improve operations, grow portfolio, and manage talent.
They noted with satisfaction the continuation of the policy on recruitment which takes into consideration the principles of diversity and inclusion as well as performance-based career progression via a transparent process.
“We also noted that limited information is in the public domain on NNPC’s operations since transition to a private commercial entity. This has led to misleading commentary which we believe is not in tandem with the strides achieved by the company.
“We empathise with the management team over the state of onshore operations with over seven thousand illegal refineries destroyed and over five thousand illegal connections removed.
“We reiterate that any attack on crude oil and gas facilities as well as illegal refining are acts of criminality and economic sabotage. Therefore, all activities hindering oil and gas exploration and production in Nigeria must be sanctioned.
“We appreciate that the PIA has made provisions for the Host communities’ development and also provided for sustainable funding. We trust that Government Security Agencies will do the needful and ensure that crude oil theft, illegal refining and activities of pipeline vandals are stopped to allow for investment and growth of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”
Lastly, they expressed appreciation to the support that all tiers of Government and the Nigerian citizens continue to give NNPC and trust that this will be sustained by the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The CEO Forum was attended by former GMDs like Chief Chamberlain Oyibo, Dr Jackson Gaius-Obaseki, Funsho Kupolokun, Abubakar Lawal Yar’adua, Austen Oniwon, Andrew Yakubu, and Abiye Membere (former GED E&P – Resource Person).
The Federal Government of Nigeria and stakeholders in Abuja on Saturday, July 20, 2024, developed a policy document that would mitigate the impact of climate change on health care delivery in the country.
Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare
Dr Chukwuma Anyaike, Director of Public Health, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, said this during a two-day National Stakeholders Validation Workshop, on Nigeria’s Climate Change Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment report.
Anyaike explained that there had been an upsurge of flooding with the attendant health complications in the country.
“For instance, the country has witnessed cases of cholera, some places where mosquitos do not breed, the effect of climate has made it warmer for the victors to breed in such places, which increases the burden of malaria.
“There is also the case of flooding with the attendance of increasing the breeding sites of lymphatic filariasis,” he said.
According to him, the 774 Local Government Areas visited, 583 of them have high burden of lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis.
The director said that the flooding had washed the farms and destroyed property in many places.
According to him, 40 per cent of complications of flooding come from drowning.
“There are lots of issues that have to do with climate change and its impact on health, so we are here to come up with development of a document to address the health issues caused by it.
“First, we need to find out the vulnerability and the impact on health, we have all the relevant stakeholders, and we are there to come out with a document that is implementable.
“This is because the country used to come out with documents and at the end it will not be implemented, maybe because we are not bringing stakeholders on board,” he said.
Anyaike said that the health system was built on the principle of primary health care and there was need to get it at the level.
“We will come up with documents that will support the health minister to address health issues in the country,” he said.
Also, Dr Walter Mulombo, Country Representative to Nigeria, World Health Organisation (WHO), said that the health sector was becoming highly vulnerable to climate change.
Mulombo, who was represented by Dr Edwin Edeh, National Technical Officer, Public Health and Environment, WHO, said that the country was faced with raising effects of flooding.
Mulomboi said he had witnessed cholera causes in some states and most of the health facilities were affected by climatic issues.
“So, with such issue of concern the health sector needs to be proactive to take certain measures.
“These measures, we need to know what the challenges and the gaps are and how the sector can respond to climate crises.
“Assessment has been conducted with partners to see how we can come out with priority interventions that can solve climate problems in the health centre,” he said.
According to him, the intervention will help protect Nigerians from health emergencies, it will also ensure there is adequate financing to support climate related issues in the health system.
Mulombo said that Nigeria was the first county to be driving the vulnerability assessment report.
Mr Rob Wood, Managing Director, International LTD Consultant, Halcyon, said they were hired with support from United Kingdom government to support the ministry of health to carry out first Nigerian climate change and vulnerability and adaptation assessment report.
Wood said that the project started in January and that data were collected from all the six political zones.
He said that they spoke with more than 300 stakeholders and carried out enough analysis.
“We are looking at the current issues and what will be the future risk on the health sector as Nigerians’ health in regard to climate changes needs the validation.
“So, we are here to validate report which will be launched in a few weeks’ time,” Wood said.
