The European Commission on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, say it will publish a new strategy to fight climate change threats after a stark report outlined the growing danger posed to the European Union.
European Environment Agency (EEA) Director, Leena Ylä-Mononen
“Our new analysis shows that Europe faces urgent climate risks that were growing faster than our societal preparedness,’’ European Environment Agency (EEA) Director, Leena Ylä-Mononen, said.
“To ensure the resilience of our societies, European and national policymakers must act now to reduce climate risks both by rapid emission cuts and by strong adaptation policies and actions.’’
The first EEA climate risk assessment found that multiple areas, from public infrastructure and finances to health and environment were in danger.
Some were in greater peril than previously thought from extreme heat, wildfires and worse flooding.
“Europe is the fastest warming continent in the world.
“Extreme heat, once relatively rare, is becoming more frequent while precipitation patterns were changing.
“Downpours and other precipitation extremes were increasing in severity, and recent years have seen catastrophic floods in various regions,’’ the report said.
The report found that there was an increased drought and rising heat not only endangers crop production in southern Europe but place central European countries at risk too.
Rising heat also poses a threat to energy transmission with heat impacting power lines and droughts affecting energy production in nuclear power plant systems.
Flooding could also impact energy production systems in southern Europe.
The EEA assessment called on EU member states to work together at a regional and local level to tackle climate change risks with precautionary measures.
Previewing the forthcoming strategy, a spokesman for the commission said the environment agency has given a very clear warning and very clear call to action of what’s to come.
However, Ronan Palmer, an economist from the climate change think tank E3G warned that EU countries could struggle to find the unity to support struggling countries in the south of Europe.
“Let’s just think of how the present politics in the EU is going to deal with it,’’ he said.
He said this during the EEA report and the uncertainty facing the bloc’s response.
“All those loving, austere people in the north of Europe, Finland, Sweden and Denmark, they’re not going to come rushing out with money to their friends in southern Europe,’’ he added.
Nigeria, often referred to as the giant of Africa, grapples with a myriad of challenges that hinder its progress and development. While debates persist about the primary issues afflicting the nation, ranging from economic structure to resource management and leadership concerns, this editorial posits that the fundamental challenge lies in the inefficient energy power sector.
Ibukunoluwa Otinwa
The contention is that Nigeria’s ongoing struggles can be attributed significantly to the inadequacies within its energy infrastructure, exacerbated by bad mindset understanding among those in positions of authority. Failure to address this critical issue promptly may perpetuate Nigeria’s status as a subject of ridicule among the international community.
Why emphasise the significance of electricity power supply and management as Nigeria’s primary concern?
Biblical Perspective: Drawing a parallel from the biblical narrative in Genesis chapter one, where God’s creative process commenced with the advent of light, underscores the pivotal role of light and energy in any developmental undertaking.
Job Creation: A robust and efficient energy sector can act as a catalyst for job creation, particularly fostering the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This, in turn, contributes to economic development and stability.
Mitigating Mass Migration: Adequate power supply has the potential to reduce the phenomenon of mass migration, often referred to as the “Japa syndrome”. A stable and thriving economy at home can dissuade citizens from seeking better opportunities abroad.
Attracting Foreign Investment: Reliable energy infrastructure is a key factor in attracting direct foreign investment. Investors are more likely to engage in a market with a stable and efficient power supply, leading to economic growth and diversification.
Reducing Production Costs: Access to affordable and consistent energy reduces the overall cost of production for businesses, making Nigerian products more competitive in the global market.
A reliable stable energy supply will bring down the high cost of building materials to a good percentage to enable real estate developers and real estate industry in Nigeria to close the gap housing deficit in Nigeria in a short period, and building manufacturing companies will produce large quantities of building materials to take care of the housing deficit in Nigeria, Dangote and other companies will be able to produce large quantities of their products into the system of real estate industry and other sectors.
Lowering Cost of Living: A well-functioning energy sector can contribute to a lower cost of living for citizens, positively impacting their quality of life.
A reliable stable energy supply will bring down the high cost of food and encourage farmers and agriculture sectors to produce and supply more food to take care of the food scarcity in Nigeria.
Addressing Insecurity: An adequate power supply can play a role in reducing insecurity, as economic stability and job creation often correlate with decreased social unrest.
Boosting Production and Export: A reliable energy supply enhances production capabilities, leading to increased export potential and a stronger presence in the international trade arena.
Strengthening the National Currency: A robust economy supported by an efficient energy sector contributes to a stronger national currency, further enhancing Nigeria’s economic stability.
Fostering a Strong Economy: Ultimately, a well-functioning energy power sector acts as a cornerstone for a strong and resilient national economy, capable of withstanding global challenges.
In conclusion, addressing Nigeria’s energy crisis is not merely about ensuring lights are on; it is about unlocking the nation’s full potential across various sectors and positioning Nigeria as a formidable force on the global stage. It is imperative that concerted efforts be made to overhaul and optimise the energy infrastructure to propel the nation toward sustainable development and prosperity. The writer contends that stable energy is the linchpin for Nigeria’s progress.
By resolving this critical issue, the country can witness a significant drop in the cost of living, thereby paving the way for a higher standard of living and fostering a robust and prosperous economy. The editorial implores Nigerians to prioritise discussions and actions geared towards solving the energy crisis, emphasizing that it is the key to unlocking the nation’s true potential.
Furthermore, the writer draws a historical parallel, recounting how Malaysia utilized palm oil trees introduced by the British from Nigeria to build a thriving economy, attributing much of their success to a stable power supply. The editorial argues that, similarly, Nigeria’s economic development hinges on addressing its energy challenges.
The writer passionately calls on Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to unite in supporting the federal government, state governments, and local governments in their efforts to ensure a stable energy supply. The editorial underlines the necessity of focusing national energy on resolving the energy crisis, emphasizing that without stable energy, Nigeria’s potential for greatness remains unrealised.
I hereby call on Mr. President Bola Tinubu, past President of Nigeria, Senate President Mr. Godswill Akpabio, Speaker House of Representatives Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, Chief of Staff of Nigeria Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, All Senators of Nigeria past and current, All Honorables of Nigeria past and current, All Ministers of Nigeria past and current, All Governors past and current, All House of Assembly of Nigeria past and current, All State Governments Appointees past and current, All Chief of Staff to Nigeria past and current, Local Governments Chairmen of Nigeria past and current, All Militaries past and current, Mr. Peter Obi, Former Vice President of Nigeria Atiku Abubakar, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, Mr. Adedeji Adeleke, Mr. Mike Adenuga, Mr. Femi Otedeola, Mr. Hakeem Olajuwon, Mr. Aliko Dangote, Mr. Dele Momodu, Mr. Jim Ovia, Mr. Tony Elumelu, Mr. Abdulsamad Rabiu, Mr. Igho Sanomi, Mrs. Folorunso Alakija, Hajia Bola Shagaya Mrs. Daisy Danjuma Mrs. Mo Abudu, Dr. Stella Okoli, Princess Fifi Ekanem Ejindu, Mrs. Bimbo Alase, Sen. Stella Oduah, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Mrs. Yvonne Orji, Mr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, Mr. Jimoh Ibrahim, Mr. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Mr. Ambrose Bryant Chukwuemeka Orjiako {ABC Orjiako}, Mr. Alafaa Karinoye Igbo, Mr. Benedict Peter, Mr. Emeka Offor, Mr. Razaq Okoya, Mr.Umaru Abdul Mutallab, Mr. Orji Uzor Kalu, Mr. Aminu Dantata, Mr. Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto, Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma, Mr. Obinna “Obi” Iyiegbu, Mr. Emmanuel Nnamdi Uba, Mr. Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, Mr. Ifeanyi Ubah, Mr. Mohammed Indimi, Mr. Cosmos Maduka, Alhaji Sayyu Dantata, Mr. Peter Otunuya Odili, Mr. Stanley Uzochukwu, Mr. Tunde Folawiyo, Mr. Rochas Okorocha, Prince Samuel Adedoyin, Mr. Oladele Fajemirokun, Chief Michael Ade Ojo, Mr. Allen Ifechukwu Onyema, Mr. Tony Ifeanyichukwu Ezenna, Prince Chinedu Munir Nwoko, Mr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, Mr. Akanimo Asuquo Udofia, Mr. Stephen Keshi, Mr. Augustine Azuka Okocha, Mr. Finidi George, Mr. Victor Moses, Mr. Chikezie Eze, Mr. Philip Emeagwali, King Sunny Ade, Mr. Wasiu Omogbolahan Olasunkanmi Adewale Ayinde, General Ayinla Kollington, Mr. Adewale Ayuba, Mr. Abass Akande Obesere, Mr. Akorede Babatunde Okunola, Mr. Wasiu Alabi Odetola, Sir Shina Peters, Ebenezer Remilekun Aremu Olasupo Obey-Fabiyi MFR, Mr. Adebayo Salami, Mr. Sunday Omobolanle, Jide Kosoko, Alhaji Akanni Olayinka Quadri, Mr. Dele Odule, Mr. Bolaji Amusan, Mr. Taiwo Hassan, Mr. Richard Eyimofe Evans Mofe-Damijo, Muyiwa Ademola, Chidi Mokeme, Femi Adebayo Salami, James Ikechukwu Esomugha, Ali Nuhu Mohammed, Ramadan Ado Muhammad, Sani Musa Abdullah, Mrs. Idowu Philips, Mrs. Joke Silva Jacobs MFR, Faithia Williams Balogun, Bukky Wright, Hadiza Aliyu, Maryam Ado Mohammed, Maryam Yahaya, Funke Akindele, Tiwatope Savage Balogun, Kate Henshaw, Rita Uchenna Nkem Dominic Nwaturuocha, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde MFR, Iniobong Edo Ekim, Tonto Charity Dikeh, Ini Dima-Okojie, Mercy Johnson Okojie, Chioma Chukwuka, Uche Jombo, Oge Okoye, Genevieve Nnaji, Helen Paul Bamisile, Yemi Alade, Michael Collins Ajereh, David Adedeji Adeleke, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, Tunde Olaoluwa Adekunle, Oluwatobi Wande Ojosipe, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, Chibuzo Nelson Azubuike, Augustine Miles Kelechi Okechukw, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, Chinedu Okoli, Inetimi Alfred Timaya Odon, Innocent Ujah Idibia, Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande, Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, Ayodeji Richard Makun, Francis Agoda, Bright Okpocha, Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, Azubuike Michael Egwu, Mark Angel.
All the Nigerian “kings and queens” home and abroad and all Nigerian celebrities home and abroad with several other well-meaning Nigerians and investors should come together as partners to address this critical urgent situation of stable power supply.
I believe that the Federal Government, State Governments, and Local Governments can come together as one team to help out on the issue of having stable electricity by partnering and making it easy for aspiring investors in the Nigeria energy sector to achieve their aims and objectives.
I express confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and believe that, together, we shall renew hope.
I stand, and I believe in the Nigerian National Anthem: and the National Pledge.
I call everyone’s attention to our National Anthem and National Pledge to be our stand to love each other as one family, one love and to serve our fatherland, we should not allow the labour of our heroes past to be in vain, let us continue to build a good nation for ourselves, our generation and upcoming generations.
The UN on Monday, March 11, 2024, highlighted the need to defend women’s rights which were under threat, citing a reversal in hard-won progress, increasing violence against women and a growing digital gender divide.
UN Secretary-General, António Guterres
UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, said this at the opening of the 68th session of Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), at the UN Headquarters, in New York.
CSW is a forum dedicated to promoting and safeguarding the rights of women and girls worldwide.
The 68th session of CSW has the theme, “Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.”
The UN chief, however, stressed the disproportionate impact of wars on women.
“In conflict zones around the globe, women and girls are suffering most from wars waged by men,” he said, urging immediate ceasefires and humanitarian aid.
Guterres emphasised the appalling situation in Gaza, where over two-thirds of those killed and injured during Israel’s offensive are reportedly women and girls.
He also noted shocking testimonies of sexual violence against Palestinian women in detention settings, house raids and checkpoints in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
In Israel, he added, last week’s report released by UN Special Representative, Pramila Patten, highlighted sexual violence against women and girls and indications of sexualised torture during the terror attacks launched by Hamas and other armed groups on Oct. 7, 2023.
Guterres also voiced concern over the situation faced by women in other countries, including Afghanistan and Sudan.
“In Afghanistan, the Taliban has issued more than 50 edicts suppressing women’s and girls’ rights. In Sudan, scores of women have reportedly been subjected to rape and other forms of sexual violence in the ongoing conflict,” he said.
Guterres also stressed that despite evidence that women’s full participation made peacebuilding much more effective, the number of women in decision-making roles was falling.
“The facts are clear: Women lead to peace,” he said, calling for more funding and new policies to boost women’s participation and investment in women peacebuilders.
The UN chief also emphasised a growing digital gender divide, noting the dominance of men in digital technologies, particularly in Artificial Intelligence.
He warned that male-dominated algorithms could perpetuate inequalities into various aspects of life, noting that women’s needs, bodies and fundamental rights are often overlooked in the design of systems by male leaders and technologists.
“It’s time for governments, civil society and the Silicon Valleys of the world to join a massive effort to bridge the digital gender divide and ensure women have decision-making roles in digital technology at all levels,” he urged.
Guterres also drew attention to the pressing need for women to hold leadership roles, particularly in financial institutions.
He highlighted the stark gender disparity in finance, with over eight of ten finance ministers and more than nine out of ten central bank governors being men.
The secretary-general emphasised that dismantling structural barriers was necessary to achieve gender parity in leadership roles.
“Overwhelmingly male-dominated financial institutions need to dismantle the structural barriers that are blocking women from leadership roles,” he said.
Drawing parallels with the UN’s successful achievement of full gender parity among senior management and leaders worldwide, he urged governments, banks and businesses to replicate these efforts, emphasising that change does not happen by accident.
The secretary-general concluded his address by urging the international community to unite in the fight for gender equality, adding that the CSW serves as a catalyst for transformative change.
He called for collaborative efforts to end poverty in all its dimensions.
“Let’s do it by investing in women and girls, betting on women and girls, and pushing for peace and dignity for women and girls everywhere,” Guterres said.
Also speaking, the President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, continued the call to action, highlighting the need to intensify efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
With the world currently lagging in attaining the Goals, particularly the Goal to eradicate extreme poverty (SDG1), Francis revealed a stark reality:
“Currently, one in every 10 women lives in extreme poverty – I repeat – one in every ten women,” he said.
Underscoring the need for a multidimensional approach, he called for equal access to resources, gender-responsive social protection policies, and measures to end gender-based discrimination inhibiting women’s leadership and decision-making roles.
CSW, which holds annually, is the largest global gathering of civil society representatives, government officials, policy makers and experts.
It takes stock of progress on gender equality, discusses pressing issues and agrees on actions to transform the lives of women and girls everywhere.
It consists of a wide range of meetings, panel discussions, interactive dialogues, ministerial round tables, intergovernmental negotiations and more.
Recently, the activities of informal waste collectors, also known as mai bola or mai shara, have come under heavy scrutiny by residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mai bola
These waste collectors push their carts while announcing their presence to residents who either invite them in or take out their refuse for them to collect.
Mai bola is however not to be mistaken for scavengers, who go about collecting sellable waste items such as plastics, scrap metals, electrical appliances and vehicle parts.
While some residents, especially in FCT satellite towns, believe that these informal waste collectors are offering essential services, others worry that a good number of them disguise as waste collectors to engage in criminalities.
A resident of Karu, a suburb of Abuja, who simply identified herself as Mrs Aliyu, agreed that informal waste collectors offer essential services.
“Without them, how do we dispose of our refuse? Unlike the city centre, there are no formal provisions for waste collection here, so what should we do but patronise them?” she asked.
Other residents say the fact that those informal waste collectors exist points to the failure of an efficient waste management system within the FCT, especially in satellite towns.
They say mai bola exists because the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), the agency charged with the responsibility of the protection and management of the FCT environment, has not been very effective.
“Even in town, where AEPB’s presence is felt, they collect waste maybe once a week. Most times, waste bins are overflowing with refuse before they go to collect.
“Our situation is different in satellite towns. We don’t get to see them at all, but we have mai bola whom we see daily and hand our refuse to for a token,” a resident of Nyanya said.
These submissions mean that informal waste collectors are more readily available and therefore have taken over the responsibilities of AEPB in many parts of the FCT.
As essential as their services is to FCT residents unserved or underserved by the AEPB, many tread with caution when patronising them as a result of their tendency to engage in criminal acts.
Mr Abdul Hassan, a resident of Jikwoyi, another suburb of Abuja, said his experience with mai bola has made him place them under scrutiny each time they come for waste collection.
“Sometimes, when it is quiet, they enter into your compound unsolicited and if they find any valuable item, they will steal it. Even when you invite them, you have to be cautious.
“Some years ago, I invited one in, and before I went inside to bring his payment, he had stolen my wife’s masa pan and my children’s school shoes.
“As we don’t have other options than to patronise them, what I do now is to take the trash to them outside the gate to deny them access into the compound,” he said.
Perhaps the most worrying aspect of informal waste collectors’ activities is how they negatively impact the environment by how they dispose of the waste they collect from door-to-door.
Residents who use the services of informal waste collectors feel relieved each time their trash is collected, but do they ask: “Where do these wastes end up?”
Environmentalists say while there are three stages of waste management, residents seem to only care about the first stage which directly concerns them.
The first stage is the waste management in the area where it is generated, the second is the management of collection and transportation of waste.
The last stage is the management of waste at its final destination or dumping grounds.
The last two stages should be the responsibility of the waste management establishment: in this case, the AEPB.
There used to be four major waste disposal sites managed by the board located at Mpape, Gousa, Ajata, and Kubwa.
However, the Mpape, Ajata, and Kubwa disposal sites are reported to be closed as a result of stench, air pollution, and fire outbreaks.
So, where do informal waste collectors take refuse to? The answer is simple: illegal dumpsites.
One such dumpsite is located around Karu Village, where heaps of refuse not only put the health of residents at risk but also threaten the environment.
Once intolerable, the dumpsite is set on fire and stinking smoke clouds the entire area.
Sometimes, the Abuja Municipal Area Council deploys trucks to collect refuse from the site only for the heaps to reappear in a matter of days.
A report said although the burning of refuse is a common practice in the FCT, the practice is not done in a properly controlled manner.
Indeed, incineration in illegal dumpsites such as the Karu Village is often carried out by scavengers and residents.
The AEPB says its operations are hampered by the failure of residents to pay their subscription fees.
“We cannot continue to give free services; the services rendered are already subsidised because what we are charging are the rates of 2012 which are very old rates.
“It is highly subsidised and so we expect residents to pay,” the media quoted Mr. Osi Braimah, AEPB Director as saying.
To demonstrate that it means business, the board in last year arraigned 65 defaulters at a mobile courting sitting at Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja.
The defaulters were arraigned for failure to pay the waste evacuation bill which is contrary to section 30 (4) of the Board Act.
Stakeholders say that as much as the AEPB lacks a proper waste management and recycling system, FCT residents will continue to patronise informal waste collectors.
The flip side is that their activities will continue to pose huge environmental, human health and safety risks.
The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to increase electricity megawatts from 4000 to 6000 within the next three to six months to improve power supply.
A power grid
The Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, said this in Abuja on Monday, March 11, 2024, while meeting with the Heads of Power Agencies and other stakeholders in the industry.
He said, “4000 megawatts is not acceptable and we have plans to increase the megawatts to a minimum of 6000 to 6500 within the next three to six months.
“What we are looking at is to have an agreement to ramp up to a minimum of 6000 megawatts within the next three to six months.
“I know that the highest we ever generated was 5,700 megawatts about three years ago, that was specifically in Nov. 2021.
“And these 5700 megawatts were also distributed. If we could achieve 5,700 at that time, I believe we still have infrastructure to generate between 6,000 and 6,500,’ ‘he said.
Adelabu said that he had visited a number of generation companies and confirmed that they had the installed capacity to generate the 6000 megawatts.
According to him, a large percentage of the installed capacity is operational, but they are not available because of low or shortage in gas supply.
“Once there is gas supply, we want to ramp up generation to minimum 6,000 megawatts,’’ he said.
The minister said that he received information about a couple of improvements in the sector but that is not still acceptable until there is a quantum leap in terms of stable electricity supply.
“We need to do what we need to do to get the power sector to the desired level. Nigerians deserve the right to ask for good governance from people that are elected to power.
“They deserve the right to ask for improvement in service. People cannot be paying for darkness. What they should be paying for is light. And there should be consistent improvement in supply on a daily basis.
“So, I also want to use the opportunity to reassure Nigerians that what we are experiencing is temporary. We are addressing the root cause of all these issues.
The minister said that the ministry of power and the agencies under it are working day and night to ensure that the situation is reversed within a very short time.
He said the ministry and its agencies would not relent until stable power is achieved adding that the meeting was called to address the issues in the power sector.
Adelabu said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to addressing the root cause of the issues and address them so that there can be consistent electricity supply to consumers.
“This is the only way, we can guarantee good life for our people and increase industrialisation, employment, economic growth, and industrial development.
“It is true that the Electricity Distribution Companies are in the hands of private sectors. We do not have direct control, but we need to compel them to perform.
“They must perform. If they do not perform, all our efforts in generation, transmission is zero. I had a meeting with the Chairman of Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on how to address DisCos performance,’’ he said.
Through resource efficiency, circular design, water reuse, repair and recycling, African nations can customise their economic systems to maximise both social benefits and sustainability
Henry Roman, Regional Representative for Southern Africa at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI)
Circularity models hold immense promise for fostering inclusivity in Africa, addressing pressing economic and social challenges while promoting sustainable development. By reimagining traditional linear models of production and consumption, a circular economy offers opportunities for growth that benefit all segments of society. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach: each African country needs to adapt its policies according to their particular needs and resources.
Henry Roman, Regional Representative for Southern Africa at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), spoke to journalists in Pretoria and online participants on this topic during an event on March 7, 2024.
According to Roman, circular economy represents an opportunity.
“In Africa, where resource scarcity and environmental degradation pose significant obstacles to development, embracing circular principles can unlock new avenues for job creation, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. Through initiatives such as designing out waste, resource cycling and innovative product design, the circular economy can harness the continent’s abundant resources and creativity to generate shared prosperity. Furthermore, by prioritising local production, resource efficiency, and social equity, the circular economy has the potential to reduce inequalities, empower marginalised communities, and promote resilient, self-sustaining economies across Africa,” Roman said.
In adopting the circular economy, Africa can chart a path towards a more inclusive and sustainable future, where economic prosperity is intrinsically linked to environmental stewardship and societal well-being.
“Circular economy is not just waste management, recycling, reuse or reduction alone. The principles of circular economy involve designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. It emphasises resource efficiency, circular design, product longevity, reuse, repair, and recycling to create a sustainable, closed-loop system that minimises environmental impact and maximises economic benefits,” Roman explained.
To ensure water security, we must consider circular approaches to its management: water reuse, recycling, and resource recovery in the form of nutrients from wastewater. The reuse of wastewater does not always have to be to potable standards – it can meet industrial or agricultural standards, minimising the cost of treatment.
Roman discussed stats from The Circularity Gap Report 2024 indicating that, despite the circular economy entering the mainstream, global circularity is in decline. The share of secondary materials entering the economy has declined from 9.1% in 2018 to 7.2% in 2023. In the last six years, we have consumed nearly as many materials as in the last century. It is, therefore, critical that circular solutions are designed with the developing world in mind.
“The very presence of media representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and other African countries in this talk shows that this is the time and season. For a just transition, we must take a system-thinking approach in implementation of the circular economy, because economic transformation has to be inclusive. Circular economy has the potential to create new forms of work and reduce societal inequalities in Africa, and the world at large,” concluded Roman.
Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, a prominent Nigerian scholar, has taken over the headship of the West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) as Chairman of the Board.
Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba
Nwajiuba’s election was announced after a unanimous vote from all 13 West African nations and the Republic of Germany, marking a significant milestone in regional leadership for climate services.
The ceremonial handover took place as outgoing Chairman, Prof. Lucie Quashie of Togo, successfully ended her term and officially passed the baton to Nwajiuba, a renowned agricultural economist, who had served as the Vice-Chancellor of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo, in Ebonyi, Nigeria.
According to sources, Prof. Nwajiuba’s unanimous election reflects the confidence and trust placed in his ability to steer WASCAL toward greater achievements.
The new WASCAL chairman, who is well-known for his expertise and wealth of experience, as well as his deep understanding of climate challenges in the region, expressed his gratitude and commitment to advancing WASCAL’s mission of providing crucial climate services for West Africa.
WASCAL is recognised as one of Africa’s premier science-based institutions, specialising in delivering climate services tailored for West Africa.
The institution plays a vital role in climate change adaptation and land use management across the region.
WASCAL currently runs two Graduate Studies Programmes in Nigeria at the Federal University of Technology Minna, and the Federal University of Technology Akure, thus making Nigeria stand out as the only country in West Africa with two fully participating universities in the WASCAL programmes. Other countries in the region have one university each actively engaged in WASCAL initiatives.
In addition, WASCAL collaborates with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). The institution supports various establishments in Nigeria and other countries in West Africa with facilities and equipment on climate science, and alternative energy, including green hydrogen, hydrology, and weather data.
As Chairman, Prof. Nwajiuba is poised to lead WASCAL in addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change in West Africa. His academic background and administrative experience appear to make him well-equipped to foster partnerships, drive research initiatives, and enhance WASCAL’s impact on climate resilience and adaptation.
It is said that the election not only elevates Nigeria’s standing in the international scientific community but also underscores the commitment of West African nations to collectively address climate challenges. Prof. Nwajiuba’s appointment is described as a testament to the region’s confidence in his ability to guide WASCAL towards new heights of excellence.
Through Nwajiuba’s headship of the regional body, West Africa anticipates a new era of strengthened collaboration, innovation, and impactful climate services under his visionary leadership. It is believed to be a positive step towards building a more sustainable and resilient future for the entire West African region.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), in collaboration with the Centre for Anti-corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), has encouraged the Lagos State Government to constructively engage citizens of the state in fashioning environmental laws in the state.
L – R: Director, Public Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Kunle Adeshina; representative of DG of LASEPA, Mr. Olakunle Adegunoye; and Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI)
They made the call at a maiden monthly stakeholders’ interactive roundtable on public policy making and execution organised by CDHR and CACOL.
The roundtable, which held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, in Lagos, had “Lagos State Environmental Laws: Implications and effect on human and socio-economic rights of the people” as its theme.
The event had in attendance members of the civil society, trade unions and the media and representatives of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, among others, and served as an avenue to cross-fertilise ideas on the environmental laws in Lagos especially the gaps in state-citizens and engagement.
Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), Philip Jakpor, who was one of the discussants, said the state environmental policies still lacked human face, drawing his conclusions from the eviction of citizens of the state from communities such as Otodogbame, the states’ water privatisation plans as well as the systematic eviction of residents of Makoko.
Jakpor pointed out that government is the same all over the world and will never accede to the demands of citizens except they adopted ingenious strategies of compelling government to listen such as peaceful protests, legal options and constructive use of the media.
In her remarks, the Chief Legal Officer, Lagos State Waste Management Agency, Adeyemo Oluwabukola, stated that the illegal dumping of waste in the state is caused by the public’s unwillingness to pay for private sector partnerships and urged the public to educate one another on appropriate waste disposal.
“We have over 420 private sector waste collectors in Lagos. During the time of (Governor Femi) Fashola, we were all complying, but now we have refused to pay the PSP, and that is why we are disposing illegally, and it is what we give to the environment that it gives back. We appeal that we all enlighten our people about proper waste disposal.”
Earlier, the Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, had said that the Lagos government recognised the pivotal role that the environment plays in shaping the quality of lives of citizens and the sustainability of communities.
The commissioner also said the state government regularly engaged citizens and that the environmental laws are designed to protect the health of citizens hence they will be enforced to the letter.
Dr Debo Adeniran of CACOL, who threw the event open, said the convening was a platform for healthy exchange of ideas between the state and citizens.
Adeniran urged the Federal Government to adopt environment-friendly laws to ensure healthy living for Nigerians.
Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases and Public Health Epidemiology in Nasarawa, Dr Ishaku Akyala, has underscored the impact of climate change on public health in Africa.
Flooding in Isheri North community in Ogun State
Akyala said in Abuja on Monday, March 11, 2024, that “the devastating effects of extreme weather, including floods and heat waves, led to increased disease burden and deaths across the continent.’’
He said that vulnerable populations such as women, children and the poor, were severely affected, facing challenges related to waterborne diseases, malnutrition and mental health consequences.
He, therefore, called for urgent action to mitigate the effects, and recommended enhanced sensitisation to educate the people.
He said health systems, governments and health professionals also required sensitisation on the health impacts of climate change.
“This includes understanding the relationship between climate change and human health and sharing knowledge with relevant stakeholders.
“There is also the need for interdisciplinary research across hierarchical levels and geographical and political boundaries to better understand climate-related health impacts and develop effective strategies to address them,” he said.
The associate professor said there was perceived need to raise awareness among the public and politicians about the health impacts of climate change “because support for the work of health professionals in addressing these impacts is crucial.
“Governments and health systems must adapt strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on public health.
“This includes measures to improve water and food security, enhance healthcare infrastructure, and strengthen disease surveillance and response systems.’’
He explained that by prioritising the recommendations, African countries would be better prepared to mitigate the challenges and safeguard the wellbeing of their populations.
Climate change presents a global threat to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals related to environmental sustainability.
Urgent actions are, therefore, needed to address climate change, as emphasised by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Paris Agreement.
Recent UN reports highlighted the severe impact of climate-related disasters, such as flooding in West and Central Africa, which led to human and physical losses.
Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change, experiencing various adverse effects such as sea-level rise, water resource reduction and increased disease burden.
Consequently, understanding the relationship between climate change and human health is crucial for preparedness and response to disease outbreak and prevalence.
The Lagos State Government says it will start enforcement operations in Apapa to re-establish the three-metre drainage right-of-way for all its drainage channels on Monday, March 11, 2024.
Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said this in a statement on Sunday, March 10, in Lagos.
He said the enforcement was coming after the expiration of notices and convening of stakeholders’ meetings with the property owners earlier in the year to voluntarily move their fences that fell within the drainage setback.
He said the Ministry had served contravention notices to the buildings on the drainage setbacks.
He added that for several years, the ministry had not been able to access the eight major collectors for maintenance purpose due to encroachment which was a major contributor to flooding in the Apapa area.
Wahab said the state government was determined to find a lasting solution to flooding in Apapa.
He directed enforcement officers to ensure that all contravening properties were removed from the drainage right-of-way in accordance with the three metres required by law.
He gave the assurance that the government would not cherry-pick properties during the enforcement process.
“We want to check the state of collectors in Apapa in order to evacuate and treat the collectors.
“The whole of the collectors in this area are blocked and the right-of-way taken over by individuals who moved their fences in order to acquire extra land thereby denying us access to the drains,” Wahab said.
