The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced that up to 25 countries are expected to include malaria vaccines in their childhood immunisation programmes by the end of 2025.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, World Health Organisation (WHO)
Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, the WHO’s Director-General, shared this update on Monday, March 17, 2025, during an online media conference focused on global health issues.
He emphasised that these vaccines could save tens of thousands of young lives annually.
However, Ghebreyesus also raised concerns over the risks posed by recent cuts to U.S. funding for global health initiatives.
“Many of the gains in malaria that have been made over the past 20 years are now at risk due to these funding cuts,” he said.
While he refrained from commenting on the U.S. withdrawal from WHO, Ghebreyesus clarified that the cuts he referred to were those affecting direct U.S. funding.
According to him, this includes funding through agencies such as USAID and the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Ghebreyesus warned that the impact of these cuts was already being felt, with severe disruptions in the supply of malaria diagnostics, medicines, and insecticide-treated bed nets due to stockouts and delayed deliveries.
“The U.S. has been the largest bilateral donor to the fight against malaria for the past two decades, helping to prevent an estimated 2.2 billion cases and 12.7 million deaths.”
If disruptions continue, he predicted an additional 15 million cases of malaria and 107,000 deaths this year alone, potentially reversing 15 years of progress.
A similar situation is unfolding with HIV, where the suspension of most funding to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has halted services for HIV treatment, testing, and prevention in more than 50 countries.
Ghebreyesus noted that eight countries were facing severe disruptions to antiretroviral therapy, with some likely to run out of medicine in the coming months.
He said this could lead to more than 10 million additional cases of HIV and three million HIV-related deaths.
The WHO Director-General also highlighted the impact on tuberculosis (TB) programmes, with 27 countries in Africa and Asia facing significant disruptions.
“These include shortages of healthcare workers, diagnostic tools, and collapsing data systems.
“Nine countries have already reported problems with the procurement and supply chains for TB drugs, threatening the lives of affected individuals.
”Over the past two decades, U.S. support for TB services has saved nearly 80 million lives, but this progress is now at risk.
”Additionally, the WHO’s Global Measles and Rubella Network, funded solely by the U.S., faces an imminent shutdown, just as measles outbreaks are increasing globally.
”In 2024, 57 large or disruptive measles outbreaks were reported, continuing a trend from the previous three years,” he said.
Ghebreyesus warned that these cuts were also affecting efforts to eradicate polio, monitor emerging diseases like avian influenza, and respond to disease outbreaks and humanitarian crises.
”Nearly 24 million people living in such crises are at risk of losing access to essential health services.”
Ghebreyesus stressed that other donors must step up, and countries that have relied on U.S. funding must also increase their domestic health spending to maintain progress in disease control and health services.
A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Green Janitors Sustainable Initiative, has urged Nigerians to cultivate the habit of waste recycling in order to ensure a cleaner and safer environment.
Alhaji Abdulsalam Ashade, the Founder and Executive Director of Green Janitors Sustainable Initiative, addressing the public on the importance of recycling
Alhaji Abdulsalam Ashade, Founder and Executive Director of Green Janitors, gave the advice in a message on Tuesday, March 18, in commemoration of 2025 Global Recycling Day in Lagos.
“As part of the circular economy, recycling helps conserve our precious resources and reduce pollution.
“By reusing materials instead of extracting new resources, recycling prevents waste from piling up and keeps our environment cleaner and safer.
“Already, the Seventh Resource recyclables saves over 700 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. By 2030, that number is expected to reach 1 billion tons.
“This is not just statistic, it’s a vital component in the fight to save our planet for future generations
“Every bottle recycled, every piece of paper repurposed, every ounce of plastic diverted from landfills contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world.
“Every year, the planet yields billions of tons of natural resources, but the harsh reality is that these resources are finite,” he said.
Asade warned that the natural reaources would reach a point where it would start to run out, sooner than expected.
He also urged Nigerians not to view waste as something to discard, but as an opportunity to preserve, repurpose, and restore.
“The last decade was the hottest on record, a clear signal that we are facing a climate crisis unlike anything humanity has seen before.
“If we do not act swiftly and decisively, we will continue to witness rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, raging wildfires, and deforestation at an alarming rate.
“At Green Janitors, we are proud to be part of this global movement, driving change and making a lasting impact.
“Together, we are on the front lines of a war for the future of our planet and humanity.
“Thank you to all our recycling champions who help turn waste into resources and are instrumental in protecting our planet.
“Your dedication gives hope for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future,” the executive director said.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has invested over $8 billion in water infrastructure across 40 African countries since 2000, benefiting more than 92 million people.
AfDB building
Mr. Johannes Chirwa, Director, Water Development and Sanitation Department, AfDB, said this at the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) West Africa sub-regional meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Chirwa was represented at the occasion by Emily Kilongi, AfDB Principal Water and Sanitation Engineer.
He said the meeting was an essential opportunity to review progress, overcome challenges, and develop future strategies for water management in Africa.
“Since 2000, the AfDB has invested over $8 billion in water infrastructure across 40 African countries, benefiting over 92 million people,” he said.
Chirwa revealed AfDB’s ongoing efforts in policy dialogue through platforms such as African Water Week and AfricaSan.
“Looking ahead, the Bank is actively involved in developing a post-2025 Africa Water Vision, contributing expertise to ensure a comprehensive and impactful strategy,” he said.
He reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to strengthening water governance through initiatives such as the Pan-African Water Sector Monitoring and Reporting System (WASSMO).
He also said the forthcoming Africa Water Vision and Policy, alongside the bank’s 2026-2030 Action Plan, would play a key role in addressing emerging challenges.
Dr Jihane El Gaouzi, a representative of African Union Commission (AUC), said the impact of the Africa Water Vision 2025 in raising awareness of water and sanitation challenges was enormous.
“Africa still faces significant challenges in achieving equitable and sustainable water management.
“This is in spite of progress from initiatives like the UN Water Conference 2023 and the Africa Water Investment Programme.
“The AUC is gathering stakeholder input for the post-2025 Africa Water Vision, focusing on poverty reduction, economic growth, regional cooperation, and environmental sustainability,” she said.
El Gaouzi outlined key upcoming events, to include the Africa Water Summit in August 2025 in South Africa and the UN Water Conference in 2026 to be co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal.
They aim to advance Africa’s water security agenda.
She said that water and sanitation have been designated as the AU’s official theme for 2026 under Agenda 2063.
She said: “The 5th Specialised Technical Committee and the 44th Executive Council of the AU urge the AUC to develop a climate-resilient, inclusive water security framework.”
El Gaouzi said Africa needed a continental governance framework to ensure sustainable and equitable water access and reaffirmed that access to water is a fundamental right.
She urged stronger collaboration among governments, the private sector, and regional organisations and reaffirmed AUC’s commitment to Africa’s post-2025 water vision through strategic planning and policy-driven investment.
Founded in 2002, AMCOW promotes cooperation, security, economic development, and poverty eradication through effective water resource management and supply services.
In 2008, at the 11th ordinary session of the African Union (AU) Assembly in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Heads of State and Government of the AU committed themselves to accelerating the achievement of water and sanitation goals in Africa.
AMCOW was mandated to develop and follow up an implementation strategy for these commitments.
Nigeria’s Minister for Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has called for urgent measures to address Africa’s water security and sanitation challenges, citing slow progress toward the Africa Water Vision 2025.
Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation
Utsev made the appeal at the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW) West Africa sub-regional meeting and consultation on the post-2025 Africa Water Vision and Policy in Abuja on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, the minister expressed concerns over the region’s water and sanitation situation.
“Africa remains off track in realising the Africa Water Vision 2025,” he stated, citing data from the 2024 Water Sector and Sanitation Monitoring and Reporting (WASSMO) report.
According to Utsev, the report revealed that financing for the water and sanitation sector is inadequate, with heavy reliance on Official Development Assistance (ODA), making sustainable funding difficult.
He further noted that 800 million people in Africa lacked access to safely managed sanitation services, while over 400 million people lacked access to safely managed drinking water.
“Open defecation remains a significant challenge, with 23 per cent of the population still practicing it, far from the five per cent target by 2025.
“The situation calls for action to inject new approaches into existing strategies to attract commensurate financial resources to the water and sanitation sector at all levels,” he said.
Utsev also warned that the continent’s growing population and climate change would further strain water resources.
“Africa’s population is expected to exceed 2.5 billion by 2050, and with an expected 1.5°C rise in average temperature, we face an increase in water-related natural disasters and economic losses,” he said.
The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening water security, improving sanitation and hygiene, and enhancing food security.
He outlined several key projects being implemented by his ministry to improve livelihoods, promote sustainable water management, and maximise socio-economic development.
He also announced plans for a National WASH Policy, developed in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment and other stakeholders, to align Nigeria’s water and sanitation efforts with global standards.
The minister commended AMCOW, the AU Commission, the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and the African Development Bank (AfDB) for leading the development of the post-2025 Africa Water Vision and Policy.
He urged stakeholders to align the new framework with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and the African Union Agenda 2063, ensuring regional cooperation and better access to funding.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of AMCOW, Dr Rashid Mbaziira, stressed the need for increased investment in Africa’s water sector as the continent reviewed progress on the Africa Water Vision 2025.
He noted that the initial vision, established in 2000, aimed for equitable water resource utilisation to drive development, reduce poverty, and protect the environment.
“Now we are in 2025, which was the target year for achieving that vision. We have assessed what we have accomplished, what remains unachieved, and what needs to be prioritised moving forward.
“Ultimately, water is key to our socio-economic development,” Mbaziira stated.
He explained that in 2022, African water ministers decided to evaluate progress and use the findings as a foundation for shaping a new vision aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
He highlighted that the meeting provided a platform for West Africa to identify its regional priorities, which would be integrated with insights from other African regions to develop a post-2025 Africa Water Vision.
“One of the key challenges that has emerged is insufficient financing for the water sector, which has limited its contribution to development. Addressing this gap will be crucial in shaping the way forward,” he added.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of AfDB, the AU Commission, Chairman of the Technical Advisory Committee and others.
Founded in 2002, AMCOW promotes cooperation, security, economic development, and poverty eradication through effective water resource management and supply services.
In 2008, at the 11th ordinary session of the African Union (AU) Assembly in Sharm el-Sheikh, Heads of State and Government of the AU agreed on commitments to accelerate the achievement of water and sanitation goals in Africa.
AMCOW was mandated to develop and follow up an implementation strategy for these commitments.
The Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, dismissed the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) objection against a suit filed by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE over oil import licence dispute.
Dangote Refinery
Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a ruling, dismissed the objection on the grounds that the application was incompetent.
Justice Ekwo held that the NNPCL ought to have filed a defence in the form of a counter affidavit to the Dangote Refinery’s originating process before raising an objection.
“It is pertinent for parties to note the distinction between ‘demurrer proceedings’ and ‘proceedings in lieu of demurrer’.
“The difference is that, in the former, the defendant need not file statement of defence but, in the latter, a statement of defence is a sine qua non for an applicant wishing to raise preliminary issues for trial,” he said, citing previous cases to back the decision.
The judge said under the procedure in lieu of demurrer, any party is entitled to raise, by his pleading, any point of law and any point so raised may be disposed of by the trial court at or after the trial.
“Unlike in the abolished demurrer procedure, where the applicant does not need to file a statement of defence before raising the point of law in contention. This is not so under the procedure in lieu of demurrer.
“The point of law must be raised first in the statement of defence before the applicant can proceed to file his objection in which the point of law is again raised for determination before the trial.
“The essence of pleading the objection in the statement of defence and filing a motion to raise the same is to give the adverse party notice of what to expect at the trial by way of defence or preliminary objection to the suit.
The judge observed that the NNPCL, in its preliminary objection, challenged the jurisdiction of the court, among the six issues it raised.
He said grounds one to five of the objections are referred to as points of law.
Justice Ekwo, however, held that where a defendant seems to challenge the jurisdiction of the court, it is the provision of Order 29 of the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules (FHCCPR), 2019, that would be applicable, and which the NNPCL failed to comply with.
He said that the NNPCL, having not complied with the provisions of the FHCCPR 2019, had not filed a competent preliminary objection.
“The preliminary objection must be struck out and I so hold,” he ruled.
Also delivering ruling on the Dangote Refinery’s motion on notice filed to amend its originating motion by correcting the name of the Nigerian National Corporation Limited to read Nigerian National Company Limited (NNPCL), the judge dismissed the company’s argument.
Justice Ekwo held that the issue of a mistake in names was just a misnomer in law, which can be corrected at any stage, even while on appeal.
He said: “Where the court is faced with application for amendment, there are relevant issues for consideration which include the attitude of the parties, nature of the amendment, question in controversy,” among all other relevant considerations.
He said the law does not allow a party to file a preliminary objection to stop an application for amendment.
According to him, technical errors, like mistakes in writing, are treated as misnomer.
Besides, the judge held that NNPCL would not suffer any miscarriage of justice if the refinery is allowed to amend the suit.
Justice Ekwo, consequently, made an order directing Dangote to amend its suit by correcting the NNPCL to read Nigerian National Company Limited (NNPCL) instead of Nigerian National Corporation Limited.
He also ordered the refinery to file the amendment within 14 days of the order and granted each defendant 14 days each to file and serve their responses.
The judge also dismissed the application filed by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) seeking to join the suit as a defendant.
The judge held that the issues raised in the suit did not affect the commission and that FCCPC was not a relevant party to the case.
Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter until May 6 for further mention.
Justice Ekwo had, on Feb. 5, fixed Tuesday, March 18 for ruling on the NNPCL’s objection.
The judge fixed the date after counsel to the NNPCL, Ademola Abimbola, SAN, and lawyer to Dangote Refinery, George Ibrahim, SAN, presented their arguments and adopted their processes for and against the suit.
Dangote Refinery had sued the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) as 1st and 2nd defendants.
Also joined in the suit are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, 2015 Petroleum Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited.
The oil company, through its lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, prayed the court to nullify import licences issued by NMDPRA to the NNPCL and the five other companies for the purpose of importing refined petroleum products.
The company (plaintiff) also prayed the court to declare that NMDPRA was in violation of Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by issuing licenses for the importation of petroleum products.
It stated that such licenses should only be issued in circumstances where there is a petroleum product shortfall.
It equally sought a N100 billion in damages against NMDPRA for allegedly continuing to issue import licences to NNPCL and the five companies for importing petroleum products, among other reliefs.
The NNPCL, in its preliminary objection, prayed the court to strike out the case for being incompetent.
The NNPCL argued that the suit was premature and it disclosed no cause of action against it.
“This honourable court lacks the jurisdiction to hear this suit,” the NNPCL said.
In the affidavit in support of the application deposed to by Isiaka Popoola, a clerk in the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co, counsel to the NNPCL, he said one of their lawyers, Esther Longe, who perused Dangote’s originating summons, affidavit and written address, told him that an examination of the processes showed that NNPC as sued by the refinery was non-existent entity.
Popoola averred that the court lacked jurisdiction over the 2nd defendant sued as Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
“A simple search on the CAC website shows that there is no entity called “Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).”
According to Popoola, the 2nd defendant/objector is not one and the same with the 2nd defendant sued by the plaintiff.
He urged the court to strike out the suit.
Also, the NMDPRA, in its counter affidavit deposed to by Idris Musa, a Senior Regulatory Officer in the office, prayed the court to dismiss the suit as it was misconceived, unmeritorious and incompetent.
Musa argued that Dangote Refinery is not entitled to any of the reliefs sought.
The official, in the application dated and filed Dec. 13, 2024, said the current production of Dangote Refinery is yet to meet the national daily petroleum products sufficiency requirement.
He said based on this and in compliance with Section 317 [9] of the PIA (Petroleum Industry Act), NMDPRA issued licences to import petroleum products to bridge product shortfalls to companies with good track records of international products trading.
Besides, he said the agency is also mandated to promote competition and prevent abuse of dominant market positions and unhealthy monopoly in the oil and gas sector.
He denied the allegation that NMDPRA is partaking in any purported “grand conspiracy and concerted efforts” against the refinery, describing it as “an allegation for which the plaintiff has provided no facts or evidence in support.”
The oil marketers, in a joint counter affidavit filed on Nov. 5, 2024, told the court that granting Dangote’s application would spell doom for the country’s oil sector.
According to them, the plan to monopolise the oil sector is a recipe for disaster in the country.
The three marketers; AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited, in their response, said the plaintiff did not produce adequate petroleum products for the daily consumption of Nigerians.
They argued that there was nothing placed before the court to prove the contrary.
Anambra State Government has announced the commencement of “Operation Clear Your Waterways” enforcement to mitigate flooding across the state.
Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra State
The Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, in a statement on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, said the enforcement would begin on March 31 “to ensure free flow of water channels during the rainy season.”
Odimegwu stated that the enforcement was in line with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s vision to transform Anambra into a smart mega city, in pursuant of Public Health Law, Drainage Management Policy and Environmental Management, Protection and Administration Law.
He added: “This proactive measure is in response to the 2025 weather prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, which identified Anambra as one of the states likely to experience both early and heavy rains.
“To prevent potential flooding and associated risks, the Anambra Government has declared zero-tolerance policy on blocked or silted drains.
“I urge stakeholders, including religious organisations, landlord associations, market unions, motor parks, schools, estates, churches, abattoirs, shopping malls, streets, and neighbourhoods to undertake massive desilting and clearing of water channels in their respective areas.
“The goal is to ensure free flow of rainwater, prevent flooding and spread of waterborne diseases.”
Odimegwu warned: “Enforcement and prosecution of offenders will follow, with severe penalties for non-compliance.
“All desilted debris must be promptly evacuated from adjoining roads to avoid littering.”
“Together, we can ensure a safer, cleaner, and healthier Anambra State,” Odimegwu said.
The Enugu State Government has launched its pioneering Climate Change Policy, Climate Action Plan and a Climate Manual for Schools at an event held in Enugu, the Enugu State capital, on Monday, March 17, 2025.
The unveiling of the Climate Policy and Action Plan and Climate Manual for Schools
The event marked a crescendo in events leading to the official approval of the Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP), which was endorsed in January 2025 by the Government of Enugu State, led by Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to serve as a template which will drive strategic momentum for climate action, and sustainable investment and development in Enugu State.
Delivering his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Enugu State, Professor Sam Ugwu, highlighted the effects of climate change on the environment, emphasising that Enugu State is at the forefront of combating climate change through the introduction of the Climate Policy and Action Plan, as well as the Climate Education Manual for schools.
“The climate policy and action plan will promote green investments and generate green jobs, while the climate manual will prepare future leaders to advocate for climate action,” he stated.
Professor Ugwu concluded by urging all participants to contribute to creating an environmentally sustainable Enugu State.
In his presentation, Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, the Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, Project Lead and Coordinator for the Climate Policy and Action Plan, provided an overview of the methodologies employed in developing the policy document.
He noted that the analysis utilised historical data on climate change impacts from 1985 to date, incorporating energy modeling, economic modeling, and micro-counting techniques. Professor Okereke warned that if proactive measures are not taken, the agricultural sector will face the most severe consequences of climate change in the future as highlighted in the document.
In her remarks, the First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, represented by Barrister Chidi Egeonu, emphasised that climate change is both a social and economic challenge that necessitates a collective response, urging that everyone must contribute to the effective execution of the policy and action plan.
In his goodwill message, the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Uche Ugwu, represented by Pius Ezeugwu, referenced the 2015 Paris Agreement and the commitments of its signatories. He praised Enugu State for being at the forefront of subnational climate action, leading the way with the unveiling of three significant documents on the same day. He assured that the State House of Assembly would support the swift approval of legislation aimed at addressing climate change in Enugu State.
“We will ensure prompt approval of budget allocations that facilitate the fight against climate change,” he assured.
The event was also attended by several key stakeholders who praised the Climate Change Policy and Action Plan as a resourceful and timely document which will help to streamline Enugu State’s climate action and drive its sustainable economic growth.
The Director General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS), Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, represented by Mr. Ayodeji Falemu, expressed the NCCCS’s openness to collaborate with the people of Enugu State on projects that promote climate activism. Dr. Maduekwe stated that the introduction of both the policy and action plan signifies Enugu State’s commitment for climate action and readiness to commence immediate implementation.
The Nigerian representative of the African Climate Foundation, Zira Quaghe, conveyed in his goodwill message that Enugu State is setting an example for other states to follow, and encouraged the full implementation of the policies and action plan.
In her goodwill message, the UNICEF Chief of field office Enugu State, Mrs. Juliet Chiluwe, noted that the policy document, along with the accompanying manual, are timely resources that will provide students with essential information regarding climate change.
Also adding her voice, Mrs. Joy Egolum, the Corporate Affairs Manager of Nigeria Breweries (East), highlighted that NBL is collaborating closely with the Enugu State Government through the Ministry of Environment to promote sustainable practices. She noted that the brewery sources 20% of its energy from solar power and currently generating 4 megawatts of electricity through solar energy, and that efforts are underway to promote good agricultural practices.
“We are enhancing an agricultural programme aimed at cultivating our raw materials within Nigeria, alongside initiatives to raise awareness about energy conservation,” she said.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, expressed gratitude to the project funders, the African Climate Foundation and the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, for their support in financing the Climate Policy and Action Plan, and the Climate Manual for Schools respectively.
He emphasised that the climate policy and action plan would be incorporated into the state’s economic agenda, while the climate manual will be implemented in secondary schools throughout the state. He assured that the advancements in Enugu State under the current administration would prioritise environmental sustainability.
The Governor also urged development partners and researchers to explore the stranded assets in Enugu State, highlighting the region’s significant coal reserves and the necessity to identify alternative uses for coal that are environmentally friendly. He encouraged the people of Enugu to engage in tree planting.
“We must initiate efforts to restore Enugu’s greenery. For every tree cut down in Enugu State, we should plant 20,” he added.
In his closing remark, the secretary to the state government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, stated that the Enugu State Government had already inaugurated an implementation team for the Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP), which will become visible in a matter of time.
The launch was attended by diverse stakeholders, including state and local government officials, academics, civil servants, private sector representatives, business owners, community leaders, civil society organisations, and international partners.
ByElochukwu Anieze, Senior Policy Analyst, SPP and Ugochukwu Uzuegbu, Communication Specialist, SPP
The President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said his company returned to invest in Ogun State due to Gov. Dapo Abiodun’s investor-friendly policies.
Aliko Dangote
Dangote made this known on Monday, March 17, 2025, during a courtesy visit to the governor at his office in Abeokuta.
He noted that the state had become one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations by positioning itself as the manufacturing ‘bedrock’ of the nation.
The Dangote Group President praised Abiodun’s vision and policies, which deliberately supported private sector growth and encouraged enterprise through immense cooperation with investors.
“Our factory at Itori was demolished twice. During the second incident, not just the factory but the fence was pulled down, so we abandoned the project.
“However, due to Governor Abiodun’s efforts, we have returned. Anyone visiting the factory now would be amazed at the progress achieved,” he said.
He revealed that the company had earlier abandoned its plan to invest in the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun Waterside Local Government due to previous setbacks.
“Thanks to your policies and a favourable business climate, we are returning to Olokola. Plans are underway to construct Nigeria’s largest port,” Dangote pledged.
Providing an update on projects, Dangote disclosed two new cement plant lines with a combined capacity of 6 million metric tonnes per annum had been built in Itori.
A 12 million metric tonnes per annum cement plant, he added, is also sited at Ibeshe, boosting the group’s production capacity in the state.
Upon completion, the combined output of the company’s plants in Ogun would reach 18 million metric tonnes annually, making it Africa’s top cement-producing region.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s growing economy required private firms to support government initiatives, and Dangote Group remained committed to national development.
He affirmed his company’s dedication to investing in Nigeria and transforming the economy by showing unwavering belief in the country and its people.
In response, Abiodun thanked Dangote for the visit, and for his trust in the state and continued commitment to Nigeria’s economic progress.
He also commended Dangote for creating jobs and significantly contributing to national development through business expansion and global advocacy for Nigeria.
“Your selfless promotion of Nigeria globally is commendable. Your life story remains an inspiration to many young Nigerians striving for success.
“Ogun welcomes your renewed investment. Today, March 17, is historic – the same month you broke ground for the Lagos refinery project.
“You have not only completed the Itori factory but also chosen to develop Nigeria’s largest port here. For this, I express my profound gratitude,” he said.
The Ogoni Dialogue Committee on the Resumption of Oil Extraction in Ogoniland has concluded its consultations and will soon submit its findings to the Federal Government.
Ogoni Dialogue Committee during a town hall meeting with Ogoni people over planned resumption of oil extraction in Ogoniland
The committee’s Chairman, Prof. Don Baridam, disclosed this on Sunday, March 16, 2025, during a final town hall meeting with stakeholders in Bori, Khana Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State.
Baridam stated that the report to be presented to the Federal Government would reflect the collective views of the people of Ogoni.
According to him, the committee will harmonise its findings to produce a final position that will serve as the basis for negotiations with the government regarding the planned oil extraction.
“The dialogue committee remains committed to a robust consultation process that ensures Ogoni voices are not only heard but also considered before oil activities resumes,” he said.
Baridam assured that the perspective of residents from Nyo-Khana, Ken-Khana, and Babbe would also be incorporated into the committee’s negotiations with the government.
He noted that while grassroots consultations had been concluded, engagements with women, youths, and other interest groups would continue.
“We are pleased that our Ogoni diaspora community is also submitting their memoranda as we conclude our consultations with Ogoni communities today.
“It is essential that the final charter of demands we will present encapsulates the collective views of the Ogoni people,” he added.
Baridam commended President Bola Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Saakpenwa.
He also praised the government for the accelerated construction of the Eleme Junction-Onne Section of the East West Road project, describing it as a proof of its commitment to addressing long-standing injustices in the region.
The dialogue chairman further expressed gratitude to the Ogoni people for their active participation throughout the consultations process.
Mr. Dumnamene Dekor, the member representing Khana-Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, urged Ogonis to remain united in pursuit of a common goal.
He encouraged residents not to disregard the olive branch extended by President Tinubu to correct historical wrongs inflicted on the Ogoni people.
“The president cares about Ogonis and has invited us to meet with him to discuss our issues so we can heal the wounds of the past.
“So, I commend residents for participating in this process and assure them that the dialogue committee will be fair and transparent in submitting our views,” Dekor stated.
The federal lawmaker also thanked the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his commitment to the negotiation process between the government and the Ogoni people.
Dr Joi Nunieh, a former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), expressed confidence that the views of the people would not be compromised.
She praised the Federal Government for choosing dialogue over force in the proposed resumption of oil extraction in the area.
“The government has chosen to consult with the people rather than imposing the resumption of oil activities, which is commendable.
“Ogonis must now come together and seize this opportunity to present their demands and conditions for oil resumption.
“The dialogue committee has done an excellent job of ensuring inclusivity, and we can see the general consensus emerging from these discussions,” Nunieh added.
King Solomon Ndigbara, the Menebua of Bori, urged Ogoni youths to take ownership of the dialogue process and actively participate in the discussions.
Okomu National Park, a biodiversity gem nestled in the Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State, had long suffered the required attention.
Okomu National Park
In spite of its values to national development in tourism sector, concerned citizens note that illegal logging, poaching, and encroachment by farmers once threatened its rich ecosystem, home to the endangered African forest elephant and the white-throated monkey – one of the world’s rarest primates.
In a bid to secure the park, the Okomu National Park Service (NPS) and the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, collaborated to restore the park’s integrity.
The collaboration, which began in 2022, is not just about conservation; it is a holistic effort to secure the park, empower surrounding communities, and foster eco-tourism development.
From reinforcing security through ranger recruitment to initiating community-driven alternative livelihoods, the partnership is redefining conservation in the country.
In spite of its vast ecological significance, the the 200-square kilometre protected area, designated as a national park in 1999, has struggled with illegal activities inimical to its values.
Reports from conservation groups have highlighted how timber merchants exploited the forest for its valuable hardwood, while poachers targeted endangered species for bushmeat and illicit trade.
A 2020 study by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) revealed that widespread deforestation within the park was driven by commercial interests, with criminal syndicates felling ancient trees and smuggling timber to international markets.
In addition, the unchecked hunting of wildlife, including elephants and primates, pushed several species to the brink of local extinction.
“The threats to Okomu were enormous; when I resumed duty in November 2022, illegal logging was a major challenge, and we had to find a sustainable solution,” Mr. Lawrence Osaze, the Conservator of Park, observed.
Recognising the urgent need for intervention, the National Park Service sought partnerships with conservation organisations that had a proven track record of success.
This led to the involvement of the Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, which had demonstrated effective eco-tourism and conservation models in Gashaka Gumti National Park in Taraba and Adamawa state.
The partnership between ANI Foundation and Okomu National Park began in 2022 and, within two years, significant progress had been made in tackling the park’s longstanding problems, Osaze noted.
He said that one of the foundation’s first actions was to enhance the park’s security infrastructure.
“ANI Foundation hired and trained 38 additional rangers, equipping them with modern surveillance tools and deploying them for regular anti-poaching patrols. This move drastically reduced illegal logging and wildlife hunting.
“We joined forces together, and the story today is entirely different. The park is relatively peaceful, and logging activities are at the barest minimum.
“Before the partnership, rangers were often outnumbered and under-resourced, making it difficult to curb illegal activities. But ANI’s intervention has transformed the situation.
“The foundation has not only provided financial and logistical support but has also introduced intelligence-driven security measures, ensuring that poachers and loggers face swift consequences.
“Beyond enforcement, the foundation recognised the importance of winning over local communities. Many of the park’s challenges stemmed from economic hardship, as nearby villagers relied on the forest for survival.
To address this, ANI introduced several empowerment initiatives, encouraging residents to adopt sustainable livelihoods.
“We have had a series of engagements with communities to gain their support. We are working to ensure they do not rely solely on forest resources for survival,” Osaze explained.
He noted further that the initiatives included savings and loan programmes for women and youth, enabling them to establish small businesses, expand their farms, or invest in alternative sources of income.
Similarly, the Iyase of Udo, Chief Patrick Igbinidu, a respected traditional ruler in the area, said that the impact of these interventions was evident.
“ANI Foundation has been a great partner since they arrived at Okomu National Park. They have not only improved security but have also empowered our people. Many of our youths have been employed as rangers, and women have been supported with interest-free loans,” he said.
According to him, these programmes have been instrumental in shifting local perceptions of conservation.
He also said that communities viewed the national park as a government-imposed restriction on their livelihoods, but now, they could see it as an opportunity for economic growth and stability.
By most accounts, Okomu National Park is one of Nigeria’s most important biodiversity hotspots, hosting species that are rarely found elsewhere.
ANI Foundation, meanwhile, prioritises protecting these species to promote eco-tourism as a sustainable revenue model for the park.
Peter Abanyam, ANI Foundation’s Project Manager for Okomu, emphasised the park’s ecological importance.
“Okomu is the primary home of the white-throated monkey. Apart from a small population in south-western part of the country, this park is where you find them in the world. The African forest elephant is also a flagship species here,” he noted.
By boosting conservation efforts, Abanyam insisted that the foundation would attract both domestic and international tourists, positioning Okomu as an eco-tourism destination.
According to the project manager, plans are underway to upgrade park facilities, improve visitor experiences, and market Okomu as a must-visit site for nature lovers.
Both the National Park Service and ANI Foundation acknowledge that long-term success will depend on maintaining vigilance against illegal activities while expanding alternative livelihood programs.
“Our goal is to make Africa’s nature and wildlife a source of pride. We want to show that conservation can be sustainable and beneficial to local communities through private sector investment,” Abanyam said.
Amidst the sustainable efforts, the Iyase of Udo, also reaffirmed the community’s commitment to the partnership.
“We will continue to support ANI and the National Park Service. They have shown a genuine interest in developing our area, and we stand with them,” he said.
Observers note that for Osaze and his team, the vision is clear. It is to make Okomu National Park Nigeria’s premier eco-tourism hub, a model for conservation success across the country.
They note further that the transformation of Okomu National Park is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in conservation.
According to them, by combining security reinforcement, community engagement, and eco-tourism development, the collaboration between ANI Foundation and the National Park Service is setting a new standard for environmental protection.
What was once a forest under threat is now a beacon of hope for conservationists, researchers, and nature lovers alike, they note.
Stakeholders in tourism industry also agree that if sustained, Okomu model could be replicated in other national parks across the country, ensuring that the country’s rich biodiversity is preserved for future generations.
As efforts continue to safeguard Okomu’s natural heritage, one thing is clear. When conservation is done right, it benefits not just the environment but also the people who depend on it, stakeholders believe.
