The National Centre For Genetic Resources and Biotechnology (NACGRAB) says Nigeria will soon witness sufficiency and price reduction in food commodities.
NACGRAB officials at the 2023 Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting on Seed For Resilience (SFR)
The NACGRAB Acting Director, Dr Anthony Okere, stated this at the end of a 2023 Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting on Seed For Resilience (SFR) organised by NACGRAB in collaboration with Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust) in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
He said SFR came into existence in 2021 to improve the efficiency of NACGRAB genebank and enhance the use of conserved genepool by farmers and other users of genetic resources in Nigeria.
Okere said the project had exposed the diversity of sorghum, cowpea and other crops to farmers and other users in Nigeria in order to mitigate the effects of climate change and boost farmers’ productivity and ensure food and nutrition security in Nigeria.
He said that the project was successful, based on feedbacks from farmers and other users that the good quality seeds planted this season yielded well in multiples, compared to year 2022.
“Farmers now feeling free to come to NACGRAB genebank to demand more diversity of materials that could help them to get higher production which in turn would lead to food sufficiency and price reduction in Nigeria soon.
“There are availability of quality seeds in NACGRAB genebank that farmers can plant and generate good yield due to success of this project.
“Various farmers can now dwell in more crops instead of one or two crops; this project has made it possible for farmers to plant diversity of quality seeds and generate good yields which in turn will lead to food and nutrition security in Nigeria,” Okere said.
Dr Olabisi Alamu, the Activity Team Leader, User engagement of the project, said that NACGRAB and other stakeholders had been engaging with farmers about the project in the past three years.
Alamu said that farmers in Oyo, Niger and Kano states had been exposed to diversity of seeds of cowpea, sorghum accessions and other seeds conserved in the genebank.
He said that most farmers now had access to the seeds and were now using them to enhance production, increase their yields and income generation.
“In all the three states, we have 49 cluster groups; the Seed for Resilience (SFR) project has impacted over 1,000 farmers over the past three years.
“Some of them have been adopting it as a result of good quality, traits, early maturity varieties, high yields among others,” Alamu said.
The team leader said that some of the farmers had also multiplied the seeds they selected in year 2023 and as well disseminated it to other farmers, to enhance the use of the materials in the genebank.
The Oyo State Chairman of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Mr Abass Adewumi, said the project had exposed them to a lot of things they needed to know and apply on their farms for crops to germinate well.
Adewumi said that the research project had also exposed them to know suitable seeds for planting in certain environment which could give better yields, to maximise profit and shun the old ways of planting seeds.
Some oil and gas experts have said that the coming on stream of both Port Harcourt and Dangote refineries may lead to some marginal reduction in the cost of petroleum products and not a significant price crash.
Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobri
The experts, made this known in an interview on Sunday in Abuja, submitted that some ancillary costs such as freight and port charges, among others, would have been eliminated to achieve the marginal reduction.
The Federal Government had on Dec. 21, 2023, announced the mechanical completion and flare start-up of the Port Hacourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC) and the subsequent streaming of its phase two in 2024.
This, according to the Minister of State Petroleum (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, will herald the commencement of the production of petroleum products after the Christmas break.
The PHRC comprised of two refining units, with the old plant having a refining capacity of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) and the new plant 150,000 bpd, both summing up to 210,000 bpd.
Reacting to the development, an Associate Professor of Energy and Natural Resources, University of Abuja, Olanrewaju Aladeitan, said there should be some marginal reduction in petrol prices as some ancillary cost would have been eliminated.
However, he explained that the price of petroleum products may not come down significantly as to describe it as crashing.
“The price may not come down significantly considering the fact that crude oil and condensates supply for the domestic market under the Petroleum Industry Act is going to be based on a willing supplier and a willing buyer basis.
“And the fact that the supply of crude oil will be commercially negotiated having regard to prevailing international market price for similar grades of crude,” he said.
With this provision, he said there would be no dedicated percentage of crude for local refineries.
“Hence international market price which of course is denominated in dollars will still be the determinant of cost of the crude oil that would be refined.
“So I do not see how the price of Petroleum products will crash,” Aladeitan said.
Also speaking, Mr Yushau Aliyu, an economic expert, said reaching to a mechanical test of the refinery after a very long fruitless effort was an indication that part of our refined Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) deficit would be attended.
Aliyu described it as a good signal of recovering in the forex deficit which dominated the dwindling liquidity crisis.
“In addition, the new Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) is responding to the immediate solution for availability of PMS in the economy.
“We are expecting the NNPC Ltd.’s retail stations to reduce their pump price due to absence of landing cost in the short term effects,” he said.
Another oil and gas expert who preferred to remain anonymous said it was obvious that some people in the oil and gas sector were engaged in an act of sabotage.
He frowned at the situation where the government preferred to spend so much, including foreign currency, to import fuel, rather than fix it refineries.
“They claim that the 60,000 barrels capacity refinery in Port Harcourt is back on stream, while the 150,000 barrels capacity will work soon.
“We are waiting to see them work, including that of Warri and Kaduna. When they are put to use, let’s see why fuel prices will not crash,” the expert said.
Pump price of PMS has increased to N660 per litre at various fuel stations, while NNPC Ltd.’s retail outlets sell at N617 since the removal of subsidy in May 2023 due to high crude cost and high foreign exchange rate.
The after effect of the removal and high cost of fuel brought untold hardship and suffering on Nigerians due to inflation, increase in goods and services, among others.
Outgoing Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN), Ephraim Mwepya Shitima, has been named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 by New African Magazine.
Outgoing Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN), Ephraim Mwepya Shitima
With climate change at the top of the agenda, Shitima is one of several players in the environmental space, which includes James Mwangi, formerly from Dalberg Group who has set up his own venture fund investing in climate related businesses, and Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, the Deputy Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). Ms. Mrema served as the Executive Secretary for the Convention on Biological Diversity prior to her current role at UNEP.
Others in the environmental category include Wanjira Mathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and activist serving as Vice President and Regional Director for Africa at the World Resources Institute; Rashid Sumaila, a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Interdisciplinary Ocean and Fisheries Economics at the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, and the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, University of British Columbia; and Dr Musonda Mumba, a Zambian serving as the Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands.
On Shitima, the Magazine describes him as a “tough negotiator on climate change justice” in his role as Chair of the AGN, who led “tough negotiations for a much fairer deal for Africa from the developed world during the 2023 COP28 in the United Arab Emirates,” reads part of the tribute to Shitima.
And, accepting the recognition, Shitima said: “This is indeed humbling, but a collective achievement and I am only receiving it on behalf of all colleagues in the AGN and at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment. I am highly indebted to the Government of the Republic of Zambia for the massive support, in particular, the guidance and support from the Hon. Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP.
“I believe the recognition is also a testament to the importance of creating sufficient publicity and awareness of our work as a group, and in this regard, the role of our AGN Communications Assistant, Friday Phiri, has been instrumental. I thank all colleagues for the various roles played and urge all to support the next Chair in a similar manner.”
Shitima, who heads the Green Economy and Climate Change Department at Zambia’s Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and UNFCCC focal point person, has led the AGN since November 2021 when he was elected and is scheduled to step down on December 31, 2023, after a successful two-year tenure.
The New African Magazine 100 Most Influential Africans list features a diverse and inspiring group of men and women from various fields and sectors, who have made a positive impact on the continent and the world.
The list features a diverse and inspiring group of men and women, who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, leadership, resilience, and vision in their respective domains. They include politicians, entrepreneurs, industrialists, environmentalists, creatives, scientists, educators, sports personalities, and more.
The list also reflects the shifting trends and priorities in Africa, as the continent faces new challenges and opportunities in the post-pandemic era. Creatives dominate the ranking with 31 representatives, including singer Abel Tesfaye, aka The Weeknd, filmmaker Alice Diop and writer Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah.
On the political and public service front, the list features Kenya’s President William Ruto, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina and Nigerian-American economist, who has been serving as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation since March 2021, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, among others.
The 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 is a special edition of New African Magazine, which offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of the lives and achievements of the selected individuals. The magazine also provides a platform for the readers to learn from their stories, and to be inspired by their examples.
Simple actions like turning off lights, adjusting the thermostat, and using energy-efficient appliances can lower our energy consumption
Household energy efficiency
Energy is important in our daily life, and how to efficiently utilise and store energy is a hottopic recently. This not only provides financial advantages, helping us save money along the way, but also benefits the environment.
Simple actions like turning off lights, adjusting the thermostat, and using energy-efficient appliances can lower our energy consumption. In this article, we are going to share clever strategies for improving household energy efficiency.
Whether you want to reduce your monthly utility bills, contribute to environmental preservation, or create a cozy and eco-friendly sanctuary, these tips will guide you towards a more energy-efficient future. Join us on this exciting journey as we reveal the keys to a greener and more sustainable life at home.
Use energy-saving appliances
Using energy-saving appliances is one of the important measures to save household electricity. Energy saving appliances are designed with advanced technology, optimizing working methods and reducing energy consumption to achieve the same function with lower energy consumption. Choosing appliances with energy efficiency labels, such as refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, etc., with high energy efficiency levels, can effectively reduce electricity consumption.
Reasonable use of air conditioning
Air conditioning is an indispensable electrical appliance in summer, but excessive use of air conditioning can also lead to energy waste. To save electricity, you can moderately increase the indoor temperature to avoid setting the air conditioning temperature too low. Increasing the temperature by 1 °C can save approximately 10% of electricity consumption. To maintain the cool air, close doors and windows when using air conditioning. Additionally, use curtains and blinds, to help lower the indoor temperature.
Turn off the electrical standby mode
Many appliances still consume electricity in standby mode, so it is very important to turn off the standby mode of appliances such as TVs, computers, and printers in a timely manner. Long term standby mode not only wastes electricity, but also increases unnecessary energy consumption and environmental burden. Developing a good habit of turning off the power switch of electrical appliances in a timely manner can effectively save household electricity.
Reasonable arrangement of lighting
Lighting accounts for a considerable proportion of household electricity consumption, so the rational use of lighting measures is also one of the keys to saving electricity.
Firstly, you can choose energy-saving light bulbs or LED lights, which have higher light efficiency compared to traditional incandescent lamps and can provide brighter light with less energy.
Secondly, to save electricity, open curtains or blinds to let in natural light instead of relying on indoor lighting.
In addition, timely turning off unnecessary lighting equipment to avoid prolonged lighting time is also an important measure to save electricity.
Reasonable use of electric water heaters
Electric water heaters are often used in household life, but excessive use of electric water heaters can lead to energy waste. To save electricity, it is possible to control the water temperature and usage time well. Reasonably adjust the water temperature, do not set it too high, as it can meet daily needs and reduce heat loss. In addition, try to avoid using the electric water heater continuously for a long time, and flexibly use the switch as needed to avoid unnecessary energy waste.
Regular cleaning of household appliances
Regular cleaning of household appliances helps improve equipment efficiency and reduce energy consumption. The radiator, air filter, and TV dust can affect equipment’s heat dissipation, causing heat and reduced energy efficiency. Regularly cleaning these devices and maintaining them in good working condition can not only extend their lifespan but also save electricity.
Reduce the number of times refrigerated food doors are opened
Every time the refrigerator door is opened, it leads to the loss of cold air, resulting in energy waste. In order to save electricity, it is possible to arrange food intake reasonably and reduce frequent opening of doors. Before using food, make a list or plan to reduce the number of times you open the door. In addition, open the refrigerator door as quickly as possible to retrieve items, and do not let the cold air dissipate outside for a long time.
Try to avoid using high-power appliances during peak electricity consumption periods
During peak electricity consumption periods, the power system will experience high supply pressure and unstable voltage. Therefore, using high-power appliances during this period will increase the energy consumption of the power grid. To save money and energy, avoid using high-power appliances now. On the contrary, electricity consumption is dispersed by washing clothes and cooking at different times.
Reasonable use of induction cookers and microwaves
Compared to traditional stoves, induction cookers and microwaves are more energy-efficient. An induction cooker uses electromagnetic induction heating to directly transfer energy to the cookware, resulting in higher efficiency and faster heating speed. Microwave ovens use microwave radiation to heat food without the need for preheating, with short time and high efficiency. Therefore, when choosing the heating method, priority can be given to using induction cookers and microwaves to reduce energy consumption.
Stop unnecessary electrical accessories
Many electrical accessories, such as mobile phone chargers, socket extenders, etc., can consume power even without connecting the appliances. These unnecessary power consuming devices may bring unexpected energy waste. Therefore, we should promptly stop using these unnecessary electrical accessories, unplug them, in order to save electricity and reduce unnecessary power consumption loads.
Install an ESS (Energy Storage System)
This intelligent decision, exemplified by options like Hinen Pro Series ESS, can significantly improve your home energy efficiency. Here are the reasons why it holds such significance:
1) Contributing to a greener future:
Energy independence: By storing surplus energy generated by your solar panels, an energy storage system allows you to utilise this stored energy during periods of low sunlight or grid disruptions. This enhances your energy independence and reduces reliance on the traditional power grid, ensuring a continuous power supply.
Maximising solar energy: While solar panels generate electricity during sunny hours, your energy needs may not align with this schedule. Solar batteries store excess energy, enabling you to access clean, renewable energy day and night. This reduces dependence on grid electricity, leading to lower energy bills and significant cost savings.
Environmental benefits: Opting for solar energy and storage is an eco-friendly choice that opposes the use of fossil fuels. It directs us toward cleaner, renewable energy sources that are more sustainable for our planet.
2) Increased home value: Installing a solar battery storage system adds value to your home. Potential buyers or renters are often attracted to properties equipped with renewable energy solutions and backup power, increasing the appeal of your home in the real estate market.
Moreover, when you can ensure your lights and appliances remain functional during power outages while also benefiting from selling excess power back to the grid, solutions like Pro Series ESS offer an ideal combination.
Conclusion
Through the above eleven measures, we can effectively save household electricity, reduce electricity costs, reduce energy waste, and play a positive role in environmental protection. Integrating these measures into daily life can not only save household expenses but also contribute to sustainable development.
United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called for global unity to make 2024 a year for “building trust and hope” following the immense suffering, violence, and climate chaos that characterised 2023.
Secretary-General, António Guterres
Guterres, in his New Year message released on Friday, December 29, 2023, said that humanity is strongest when the world stands together, saying 2024 must be a year for rebuilding trust and restoring hope.
“Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope in all that we can accomplish together,” he urged, sending warm wishes for a happy and peaceful New Year.
The UN chief, however, reflected on the pain and suffering afflicting humanity.
Conflicts persist, claiming tens of thousands of civilian lives, many of them women and children. Millions have been driven from their homes, facing hunger and disease.
At the same time, “the planet is peril”, Guterres said, marked by record-breaking temperatures and worsening impacts of climate change.
“2023 has been a year of enormous suffering, violence, and climate chaos (…) 2023 is the hottest year on record; people are getting crushed by growing poverty and hunger; wars are growing in number and ferocity,” he said.
Guterres highlighted the scarcity of trust and emphasised that “pointing fingers and pointing guns lead nowhere.”
“Humanity is strongest when we stand together (…) We must come together across divides for shared solutions – for climate action, for economic opportunity and a fairer global financial system that delivers for all,” the UN chief said.
Addressing discrimination and hatred poisoning relations between countries and communities, he stressed the importance of ensuring that new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, serve as forces for good.
“The United Nations will keep rallying the world for peace, sustainable development and human rights.
“Let’s resolve to make 2024 a year of building trust and hope in all that we can accomplish together,” the UN chief said.
The Gombe State Executive Council (SEC) has approved payment of N389 million as compensation for residents that would be affected by the gully erosion control project at Federal College of Education (FCE) Technical and its surrounding communities.
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State
The Commissioner for Finance, Gombe State, Malam Mohammed Magaji, stated this at the end of the SEC meeting on Friday, December 29, 2023, in Gombe, the state capital.
Magaji said the payment, which would commence immediately, would be for individuals and organisations along the gully erosion site.
He said almost 1,000 persons were expected to benefit from the gesture.
According to him, the compensation is part of the requirements of the World Bank, which specifies that such payments be made to property owners.
Magaji said the payment would also be made to ensure seamless resettlement of affected persons.
“The beneficiaries are in hundreds, almost a 1,000 people; there is compensation for houses, and also for business premises.
“There is also stipends for the elderly living around that area so that they are able to have good livelihood,” he said.
The commissioner for Education, Hajiya Aishatu Maigari, also said the SEC approved upgrade of the five mega senior secondary schools in the state to sustain improvement in the education sector.
Maigari said the upgrade would be carried out based on the needs of each of the schools.
She stated that infrastructure in some of the schools were already being upgraded to global standards.
“We have seen construction of toilets, installation of solar-powered light, construction of roads, school clinics, boreholes and many more,” she said.
The state government had on Nov. 23 signed a N12 billion contract with Triacta Nigeria Ltd. for a 21-kilometre gully erosion control work in six communities within Gombe metropolis.
The project is under ACRESAL project, a World Bank-assisted project to address the challenges of land degradation and climate change in northern Nigeria.
The Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), in collaboration with the Wilder Institute, has donated equipment worth N8 million for the conservation of Cross River’s endangered gorillas.
Cross River Gorilla is an endangered species in Nigeria
The foundation said it was part of its efforts in contributing to the protection of the nation’s threatened species such as the Cross River gorillas found in wildlife sanctuaries in the state.
This is contained in a statement by the Head of Communication, Mr Oladapo Soneye, and made available in Calabar on Friday, December 29, 2023.
Soneye said the donation was to boost ongoing research on the conservation of the gorillas, in partnership with other organisations.
He said the donation was made to some of the partners of NCF including Cross River National Park, Cross River Forestry Commission and the University of Calabar (UNICAL).
“The equipment, which will aid researches, include digital cameras, desktop computers, laptops, projectors and projector screen, video conferencing gadget, 65-inch flat screen Hi-sense TV, professional Video Conference Cameras.
“Others include MC3000 USB HD PTZ auto rotate tracking voice camera, digital microphone array, walkie-talkies, still cameras for GPS handsets and drones.
“The television and computer equipment will support video conferencing for meetings at the UNICAL while the camera traps, drones and other equipment are for the students research projects,” he said.
He noted that the Cross River Gorilla Initiative commenced in 2022 and had awarded scholarships to two masters and a doctorate student all in the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management in UNICAL.
He said the students had resumed their three months internship programme with NCF to gain practical experience in the use of field equipment, conduct field surveys and familiarise themselves with project communities.
According to him, the students will also understand the role of gender in forest resource management with reference to gorilla conservation.
Similarly, Mr Emmanuel Owan, Head, Calabar Office of NCF, said to achieve the project goals, a two-day training on gender and conservation was held recently in the University of Calabar.
Owan stated that the essence was to give participants a robust understanding of the importance of gender in the conservation of Cross River gorillas and it’s applicability in field research.
The Cross River gorilla is a critically endangered subspecie of the western gorilla and lives in small areas of highland forest spanning the border of Nigeria and Cameroon.
It is estimated that there are at most 300 Cross River gorillas left in the wild due to threats associated with habitat loss and hunting.
The Alliance for Action on Pesticides in Nigeria (AAPN) with the support of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has presented a dossier shedding light on the widespread use of pesticides in the Nigerian market.
L-R: Donald Ikenna, AAPN coordinator; Marriam Bassey, Director, ERA/Friends of the Earth; Prof Simon Irtwange, Alliance for Action on Pesticide in Nigeria (AAPN) and National President, Yam Association of Nigeria; and Prof Johnson Ekpere of the AAPN, at the media briefing in Abija
With a comprehensive analysis of registered and unregistered pesticides, the report, which was unenveiled in Abuja at media briefing held on December 7, 2023, emphasises the crucial need for transparency and regulatory measures to safeguard public health and the environment.
The dossier begins by championing the “Right to Know,” asserting that individuals have the inherent right to access accurate and comprehensive information about the chemicals they are exposed to. It underscores the significance of informed choices in contemporary agriculture, where pesticides play a vital role in improving crop yield and contributing to food security.
The report argues that the three factors determining the likelihood of pesticide-related problems – exposure level, pesticide toxicity, and access to comprehensive information – underscore the importance of transparency and regulatory measures.
The dossier’s findings are reportedly alarming, revealing that 47% of active pesticide ingredients in Nigeria are banned in Europe. Moreover, 83.3% of the analysed pesticides are classified as Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs), presenting a clear threat to both human health and the environment.
The report categorises 16 insecticides, nine herbicides, and five fungicides as Highly Hazardous, a matter of concern given their prevalence in Nigerian agriculture. Disturbingly, 60% of the active ingredients are linked to cancer, while 73% are identified as endocrine disruptors. 63% of the active ingredients are toxic to the immune system, 60% are very toxic to the neurosystem – nervous system of mammals, while 60% of the active ingredients are toxic to reproductive system and fetus (unborn offspring).
These active ingredients are in agrochemical pesticides used in farming and storage, as well as household insecticides and fumigants.
In response to these alarming findings, the AAPN puts forth a set of recommendations directed at relevant stakeholders, urging regulatory bodies to adopt international guidelines on pesticide management. Specifically, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) have been called upon to enforce a comprehensive prohibition on the importation of internationally banned pesticides.
The dossier advocates for a phased-out approach to Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) and emphasises the need for stringent enforcement against unregistered sales. Furthermore, it calls for the promotion of safer alternatives, such as organic/biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches.
The AAPN concludes with a resounding call to action, urging collective efforts to ensure the safety of the environment, public health, and sustainable agricultural practices. The report highlights the significance of encouraging the adoption of safer alternatives that minimise harm.
According to the Alliance, the unveiling of the pesticide dossier marks a crucial step towards raising awareness and fostering positive change in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.
“As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to champion transparency, support regulatory reforms, and actively participate in building a safer and healthier agricultural future. Together, let us embrace sustainable practices that ensure the well-being of our communities and the preservation of our environment,” stated the Alliance.
Renowned farmer, Chief Afe Babalola, has beaten nine other nominees across sub- Saharan Africa to emerge the 2024 African man of the Year in food security.
Afe Babalola
The conferment of the award on the nonagenarian legal icon and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), was by the Global Food Security Committee of the Initiative for Green Sustainability.
The Award Committee Lead, Tim Grunguis, and Country Director, Caleb Osasona, who signed the letter, said Babalola defeated nine other leading African farmer nominees from Bostwana, Malawi, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Cameroon, Rwanda, Zambia and Liberia.
Briefing journalists at a news conference, on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Ado-Ekiti, Babalola, reputed to be one of the leading farmers in Nigeria, and the largest single farmer in his home state, Ekiti, and second largest employer of labour after the state government, said he was elated by the conferment of the award.
He said the award would spur him to do more in his singular efforts, aimed at returning agriculture to its rightful place, and lift it to the expected destination of competitive revenue earner.
The letter explained that the choice of Babalola was based on his many radical revolutions in agriculture and include ABUAD Bio-Diversified Farms and granting of millions of Naira under the Afe Babalola Annual Agricultural Grants to hundreds of farmers.
Others are ABUAD Talent Discovery Centre, ABUAD Planetarium, ABUAD Industrial Pack that houses over 132 Farm Industries and ABUAD FM Radio among several others.
“As part of my resolve to encourage agriculture among Nigerians, especially youths, I reduced school fees of students in my university studying agriculture by 50 per cent.
“In addition, I give a seed money of N250,000 to every graduate in agriculture.
“At the same time, in the last 10 years, I have been organising the Annual Agric Festival in Ado-Ekiti, with the best farmer in the state going home with N2 million, while others that came behind them, getting their own lump, in millions as well,” Babalola said.
He appealed to the Federal Government to tow his line of agricultural revolution, by commencing the process of reviving all moribund farm settlements across the country.
The pro chancellor of ABUAD said that revamping the moribund farm settlements in different regions of the country, would boost food security, agricultural production for local consumption, as well boost export and provide raw materials for industries.
According to him, this would also create job opportunities for the unemployed youths in the country and the level of insecurity reduced to barest minimum as they would be gainfully engaged.
Equally, he advised that governments at all levels to introduce agriculture into all levels of schools from primary to university, ensure that all allocations to local governments go to them directly, and not through their respective governors.
Babalola also advised the Federal Government to consider giving national honours to successful farmers and promoters of farming, and not only to politicians.
He recalled how the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as premier of the defunct Western Region, made use of the farm settlements in the region to promote its economy.
Babalola said that the revival of the farm settlements should be passionately considered as springboard to rediscover the country’s dying agricultural potential as the future of Nigeria lies in agriculture and not in crude oil.
He said Nigeria, which used to be one of the leading exporters of cocoa and palm oil, has lost its place, due to neglect of the sector.
“It may not be crime to abandon agriculture, but it is certainly a sin. Don’t forget, the place of the Garden of Eden, placed under Adam and Eve in Book of Genesis. This is a divine instruction that man must work and provide for whatever he needs,” Babalola said.
He also called for increased annual budgetary allocations to the agriculture sector, saying it had had potential to lead millions of Nigerians out of poverty and provide food security.
The Pro-Chancellor equally stressed that the government must as a matter of urgency, implement sustainable policies, and provide modern farm implements, improved seedlings and soft loans, to make agriculture more attractive so that the youths would develop interest in it.
Chief Executive Officer, 11 Plc, Mr Adetunji Oyebanji, says the company has commenced exploration of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) market with the construction of facilities in Ibadan and Lagos respectively.
CNG-powered mass transit buses
Oyebanji, who disclosed this in an on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Lagos, said that feat was part of the company’s commitment to intensifying the usage of the product and support for the new administration to further boost the economy.
“We have continued to see improvement in all the investments that have been made in the last few years by upgrading the company to higher pedestal.
He reiterated that the future of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), could not be emphasised in the growth and development of global economy, Nigeria inclusive.
The industry, according to him, is ready to collaborate with the Bola Tinubu administration to uplift the country’s economy to an enviable height.
Explaining the essence of the oil and gas industry to national economy, Oyebanji said his company, as a model, had invested massively on installations of LPG in 40 retail outlets nationwide.
Oyebanji said: “In terms of investment, we have done a lot as far as LPG installations is concerned.
“In several stations now, we are moving to close to 40 stations nationwide in our LPG installations, and we will continue to do this because we believe that LPG is the way forward.
“We have also invested in new gas station at the toll gate, lbadan, the Oyo State capitaland the station is now operational.
“With its massive investments in LPG storage and distribution infrastructure, 11 Plc. Gas is well-positioned to maintain a dominant presence in the country’s LPG industry for a long time.”
Oyebanji said that the company had expanded its filling plants across the country, noting that it had already expanded storage capacity to 8,000 metric tonnes.
He added that the company had already started exploring CNG market with the construction of facilities in Ibadan and Lagos.
“We continue to see improvement and all the investment that has been made in the last few years have been to upgrade the company and bring out more value.
“We are one of the six major petroleum products marketers in the country. Currently, we have over 250 retail outlets located in all 36 states of Nigeria.
“We are also respected in the industry for our high ethical standards and adherence to safety, health and environmental standards while playing a leading role in the promotion and sharing of best practices in the downstream sector of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry,” he said.
According to him, the firm has its fuel facility and an ultra-modern lube oil plant in Apapa Lagos, with a capacity of 300,000 barrels per annum and we are proud to be regarded as one of the most sophisticated in Africa.
Oyebanji said that millions of dollars had been invested in the company, resulting in significant improvements in all areas of its operations.
ExxonMobil sold its 60 per cent stake in former Mobil Oil Nigeria Ltd. to NIPCO Plc, the parent company of 11 Plc, on April 1, 2017.
Since then, 11 Plc has made significant investments in its facilities to increase productivity and meet market demands.
