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400 Olympians urge IOC candidates to make climate their top priority

Michael Simire
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400 Olympians urge IOC candidates to make climate their top priority

In the wake of climate change-driven impacts, including the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles (host city of the 2028 Olympic Games), more than 400 Olympians from over 50 different sports have come together to urge the incoming President to make the care of the planet their number one priority.

International Olympic Committee
International Olympic Committee (IOC) officies

With International Olympic Committee (IOC) Members gathering in Costa Navarino, Greece, to vote on the seven candidates from March 18 to 21, 2025, the letter underscores the pressing reality of climate change, stating that its impacts are “no longer a distant threat, but a current and growing harm to the sports we love and to the countries that make up our Olympic family”.

In the historic appeal, over 125 Olympic flag bearers have lent their voices to the letter, including many from some of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations: Argentina, Aruba, the Bahamas, Cabo Verde, Colombia, Cook Islands, Eswatini, Fiji, Ghana, India, Kenya, Laos, the Marshall Islands, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Sierra Leone and Zambia.

Recognising that extreme weather events are already disrupting the Summer and Winter Olympics, and impacting athlete performance and safety, the letter requests decisive action to ensure the Games remain accessible and safe for future generations.

The letter calls for a strengthening of the IOC’s existing commitments to cut carbon emissions, championing sustainability in Host Cities, setting an agreed standard around polluting sponsors, and using the IOC’s platform to advocate for environmental action. Paris 2024 successfully halved the carbon footprint of previous Games, but it is understood that the LA 2028 host committee is yet to confirm its climate related targets.

The letter was spearheaded by British Olympians, including Double Olympic Champion sailor and IOC Sustainability Ambassador Hannah Mills OBE, who emphasised the significance of this moment.

Mills said: “I’m not sure we’ve ever seen so many athletes from around the world speak with one voice. The terrible LA wildfires couldn’t have been clearer: the time is now to set a course for a safe, bright future. As a sailor and a mum, this hits close to home. The Olympics has held and fulfilled the dreams of so many over its history. But I can’t have any bigger dream than a future in which my children can thrive.”

Collectively, the signatories – who hold over 245 medals between them, 90 of them Gold – have requested an early meeting with the incoming President to discuss how the Olympic movement can further strengthen their leadership in tackling the climate crisis.

As the world’s most iconic sporting event, the Olympic Games have long been a symbol of unity and perseverance. Now, Olympians are using their platform to ensure that future generations can continue to chase their dreams – on a planet that can sustain them.

Thorsten Margis, Quadruple Olympic Champion (Bobsleigh, Germany), says: “In bobsleigh, every fraction of a second counts – you have to push with full power from the start, work as a team, and give every effort into reaching the finish line. Climate action and strong leadership from the IOC are no different: we need bold teamwork and a clear path forward to protect our planet – and with it, the future of the Olympic Games. If we wait too long or lose focus, we risk crashing into consequences we can’t undo.”

Saina Nehwal, Former World Champion and Olympic Medallist (Badminton, India), says:“As athletes, we push ourselves to be the best, but we also need to push for a better, healthier planet. The solidarity amongst athletes this letter shows is amazing, and makes clear that the next IOC President must prioritize sustainability to protect the environments where we train, compete, and live.”

Matt Wearn, Double Olympic Champion and flag bearer at the Paris 2024 Games (Sailing, Australia), says: “Sailors know that you can’t control the wind, but you can adjust your course. Climate change is already reshaping our oceans, weather patterns, and the sports we love – but just talking about the problem isn’t going to sort it. We need real action. The next IOC President has a responsibility to lead from the front, steering the Olympic Movement toward meaningful solutions that protect our planet for future generations.”

Ferdinand Omanyala, African 100m record holder and Kenya’s flag bearer at the Paris 2024 Games, says: “A healthy environment is essential—not just for athletes, but for everyone. Here in Kenya and around the world, we’re already experiencing the harsh realities of climate change, from extreme weather to rising temperatures. We can’t afford to wait. Protecting our planet must be a top priority so that both athletes and communities can thrive in a cleaner, more sustainable world.”

Adam van Koeverden MP, Olympic Champion, quadruple Olympic Medallist and flag bearer for Canada at the Beijing 2008 Games: “This letter from over 340 Olympians across the world couldn’t be clearer: the next IOC President must make climate action their top priority. Athletes see firsthand how environmental changes affect our sports, and increasingly our countries too. We need bold leadership that safeguards both the future of the Games and the well-being of communities worldwide.”

Elana Meyers Taylor, USA, Five-Time Olympic Medallist in Bobsleigh and flag bearer at Beijing 2022 Games: “As a winter Olympian and a mother of two, I feel so strongly that the next IOC President must prioritize care for the planet, ensuring that the sports we love – and the winter landscapes that make them possible – are preserved. We need leadership that champions real solutions, not just for the Games, but for the world our children will inherit.”

Miguel Tudela, Pro Surfer and Peru’s flag bearer at the Tokyo 2020 Games, says: “The best surfer looks for the biggest wave. That’s what protecting the planet is: it’s the biggest challenge this President will face, but it’s the one we have to face if we want the joy of sport to continue, and the wellbeing of communities more generally.”

Brooke Raboutou, two-time Olympian and Silver Medallist at Paris 2024 Games (Sport Climbing, USA),says: “The Olympics are powerful because they bring athletes and fans from around the world together. This is another moment to stand side by side, and a vital one.

“As athletes we see firsthand how our environment impacts performance and well-being. Future generations deserve the chance to compete, train and thrive in a healthy world so it’s essential that the next IOC President prioritizes actions that protect that future for us all.”

Tilali Scanlan, flag bearer at the Tokyo 2020 Games (Swimming, American Samoa), says: “I’ve learned that achieving our dreams requires dedication and a deep respect for the world around us. We need to cherish this planet that we have.

“The Olympic Movement has an opportunity to lead by example, and no-one has more responsibility for that than the incoming President. There is no greater sporting dream than a safe, healthy future for all – no race that is more important for us to win.”

CSW: UN launches gender equality plan

Michael Simire
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CSW: UN launches gender equality plan

The UN on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, launched a bold new action agenda to boost rights and achieve gender equality.

Sima Bahous
UN Women Executive Director, Sima Bahous. Photo credit: Lev Radin/Pacific Press/Shutterstock

The UN launched the plan at a high-level event on the sidelines of the ongoing Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) 69th session at UN headquarters in New York.

In a video message delivered by the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, she called 2025, a year for a “call to action” as women and girls face unimaginable challenges.

“Armed conflicts continue in many parts of the world and the scourge of violence claims the lives of women every day.

“With just five years left to achieve the SDGs, this must be our turning point to succeed in our aspirations to achieving gender equality,” she said, pledging the UN’s commitment to taking “bold actions”, including the UN chief’s clarion call.

“Let’s seize this opportunity. Let’s ensure our commitments translate into lasting impact.”

According to her, the agenda has adolescent girls and young women at its core and also focuses on financing for gender equality and mobilising gender data.

“From embarking on a digital revolution to fill the gaping gender divide to ensuring a seat at decision making tables, the new plan builds on the landmark 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, which presented a blueprint for achieving gender equality and advancing women’s rights.”

UN Women Chief, Sima Bahous, said, “Today, we take stock of the situation of women and girls. However, despite some gains, these are not enough.

“Women still face targeted violence, bear the brunt of climate change consequences and often remain on the sidelines of decision making.

“It is the moment to push forward,” she said. “We will not step back. Now, we must transform commitments into results.”

The Beijing+30 Action Agenda aims to achieve the following for all women and girls: a digital revolution, freedom from poverty, zero violence, full and equal decision-making power, an equal say in peace and security matters as well as climate justice.

High-level UN officials launched the new action agenda as the commission continues its 69th session (CSW69) – the world’s largest conference on women – which runs from March 10 to  March 21.

The overarching goal is to build on the UN Secretary-General’s latest review and the newly adopted CSW69 Political Declaration.

It also aims to align the Beijing+30 Action Agenda with national priorities and the ambitious push to achieve the internationally agreed 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

“Together, these six actions will help to realise the vision of the Beijing Platform for Action and accelerate delivery of the SDGs,” according to UN Women.

At the launch, Bahous said: “Together, we choose action over apathy. We choose to ignite the spirit of the Beijing Declaration once again.”

During the launch event, panel discussions with government representatives, experts and UN officials covered the six action areas, highlighting gains made and challenges ahead.

By Cecilia Ologunagba

AfDB, Eritrea sign $19.5m agreement for 12 MW mini-grid project

Michael Simire
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AfDB, Eritrea sign $19.5m agreement for 12 MW mini-grid project

The African Development Bank Group and Eritrea have signed an agreement for $19.5 million in grant funding for the Desert to Power Eritrea 12MW Mini Grid Project.

Solar mini-grid
A solar mini-grid system: The financing will support the rollout of mini grids that will generate 12MW of electricity

Eritrea’s Minister of Finance and National Development, who is also the Bank Group Governor for the country, Dr. Ghiorghish Teklemichae, signed on behalf of the government during a signing ceremony that held on Monday, March 10, 2025.  The Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for East Africa, Dr. Léandre Bassole, represented the institution.

The financing, to be sourced from the Bank Group’s Transitional Support Facility (TSF), will support the rollout of mini grids that will generate 12MW of electricity across the regions of Teseney (6MW), Kerekebet (3MW), and Barentu (3MW).

The project will be implemented by the national Ministry of Energy, the Eritrea Electricity Corporation (EEC) and local companies under the supervision and guidance of a design and engineering technical consulting firm to be contracted.

“We are proud to say that Africa is working with Africa to bring change to Africa,” Minister Teklemichae said during the signing ceremony. “This is for the good of our people and we are ready to work with you.”

The project is expected to provide improved energy access to more than 235,000 Eritreans, 20 percent of them women and youth. Beneficiaries will include residential households, small-scale farms, agro-processing zones, and water supply systems. The project will additionally benefit over 160 schools and 90 health centers in the Gash Barka region.

To build local capacity and ensure project sustainability, 25 local companies will be trained and equipped with tools and machinery.

“The African Development Bank, your Bank, is here to work with you for you,” Deputy Director General Bassole said in his opening remarks. “Our main objective is that we will accompany countries to drive their own development.”

“Capacity building and knowledge transfer are critical to the success of the project’s implementation,” Deputy Director General Bassole said further. “This will be a continuous process.”

The project is aligned with the Bank’s Interim Country Strategy Paper 2022-2024 for Eritrea, which prioritises developing quality and sustainable infrastructure to support agricultural value-chains for economic diversification and structural transformation.

The project also advances the objectives of the 2018 Eritrea National Energy Policy, which aims to increase electrification rates and ensure that renewable energy contributes 20% of electric power by 2030.

HYPREP applauds centre for Ogoni hydrocarbon remediation

Michael Simire
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HYPREP applauds centre for Ogoni hydrocarbon remediation

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has commended the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration (CEER) for its efforts in the remediation of hydrocarbon pollution in Ogoni and beyond.

HYPREP
HYPREP and CEER officials at the presentation of the Technical Planning Committee (TPC) Report

This was contained in a statement signed by Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, Project Coordinator of HYPREP, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Abuja.

He gave this commendation when Prof. Don Baridam, Chairman of the CEER Committee, led members to present the Technical Planning Committee (TPC) Report at the Project Coordination Office (PCO) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“This centre will serve as a hub for innovative research, skill development, and environmental management, providing sustainable pollution prevention, control, and ecosystem restoration solutions.

“For Ogoniland, this means a cleaner environment, improved public health, and opportunities for economic empowerment through skills training and employment.

“Nationally, the centre will position Nigeria as a leader in environmental remediation and restoration, fostering innovation and best practices in pollution management, primarily through the Integrated Contaminated Soil Management Centre housed within the CEER,” he noted.

Zabbey assured that the project would implement the recommendations of the Technical Planning Committee (TPC) Report on the Centre, a move targeted at actualising the sustainability framework of the CEER in Ogoni.

He stated that the report would be submitted to the HYPREP Governing Council and expressed optimism that the council would take swift action towards the immediate operationalisation of the CEER.

He commended the 13-member Committee for its commitment, expertise, and hard work in developing the report.

Zabbey announced the expansion of the Centre’s original remediation-related laboratories to include biotechnology, in compliance with the Federal Government’s directive that HYPREP should contribute to national food security.

“This will enhance phytoremediation studies and crop improvement research to contribute to national food security and sovereignty.”

Prof. Ibisime Etela, the Officer Overseeing CEER, said the report brief highlighted the key deliverables of the TPC-CEER, which include the development of an advisory document on a Bill for the CEER.

“Core curricula and Governing Council recommendations, an advisory document on co-financing, collaborations with institutions and sustainability, a staffing and recruitment strategy, and an advisory.

“Accordingly, the report made key recommendations, among which are a clear legal framework for the establishment of the CEER as an independent Centre of Excellence in Nigeria.

“At over 80 per cent completion, CEER will, among other things, serve as a data repository and a hub for cutting-edge research in environmental remediation in the region,” Etela said.

The TPC-CEER was inaugurated on May 31, 2024.

By Abigael Joshua

Edenhofer, Rockström outline pathway to more global climate finance

Michael Simire
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Edenhofer, Rockström outline pathway to more global climate finance

In their own interest, “coalitions of the willing” of industrialised countries should now step up climate finance for developing countries. The aim: to make their climate commitments, which must be updated in 2025 according to the Paris Agreement, as ambitious as possible. Proven CO₂ reductions in the Global South should be rewarded with massive public grants – which would be highly profitable for donor countries due to avoided climate damage.

Ottmar Edenhofer and Johan Rockström
Ottmar Edenhofer and Johan Rockström, scientific Directors of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)

This is the message of an article published on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in the top journal Nature, co-authored by Ottmar Edenhofer and Johan Rockström, scientific Directors of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK).

The article points to the inadequate results of the recent world climate summit in Azerbaijan and puts the necessary amount of climate financing at $500 billion annually between 2025 and 2035. That is how much is needed for developing countries to reduce their CO₂ emissions in line with the 1.5-degree limit.

The article quantifies how this would pay off for donor countries, using the example of a coalition of EU states with the United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland, Canada, Japan, Australia and South Korea. Their fair share would total $124 billion (0.3 percent of economic output) annually.

Based on a conservative estimate of avoided climate damage, the annual return would be 9 percent. Using a generous, scientifically based estimate, the figure could be over 500 percent.

“Climate finance is not foreign aid – it is a high-return investment in global economic stability and climate security for the benefit of all,” the article states.

In the past six months alone, climate-related damages from hurricanes Helene and Milton in the US, wildfires in Los Angeles and floods in Valencia in Spain are estimated to exceed $500 billion.

And there is the threat of even greater climate damage: “Exceeding the 1.5-degree limit makes crossing planetary tipping points more likely, including collapses of ice sheets, ocean currents, coral reefs and permafrost,” warns the research team. “This would threaten the lives and livelihoods of billions of people.”

The article’s lead author is Alissa Kleinnijenhuis, a visiting professor at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, and at Imperial College London. Other authors are Patrick Bolton, professor of finance at Imperial College Business School, and Jeromin Zettelmeyer, Director of the Brussels-based think-tank, Bruegel.

Enugu set to launch Climate Policy, Action Plan, Manual for schools

Michael Simire
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Enugu set to launch Climate Policy, Action Plan, Manual for schools

At a time when climate action is beginning to gain momentum at the subnational level in Nigeria, Enugu State has embarked on an ambitious initiative that is laying the groundwork for substantial socioeconomic transformation to elevate its GDP from $4.4 billion in 2023 to $30 billion by 2031.

Peter Mbah
Gov Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State

However, critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, and natural resources, which are essential for this economic advancement, are confronted with significant challenges exacerbated by climate change. It is imaginable that if these issues are not addressed promptly, they may hinder the state’s economic transformation objectives and worsen the vulnerabilities faced by marginalised communities and privileged groups.

In response to the pressing threats of climate change, the government has formulated the Enugu State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP) to facilitate a sustainable green economic transformation that is scientific, and evidence based. This policy and action plan enhances the recently enacted Environmental and Climate Protection Law, along with various other climate initiatives in the state. In addition, a comprehensive framework that aligns economic aspirations with sustainable development principles was also integrated into the policy and action plan.

The Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP) is a pioneering effort aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth while simultaneously addressing the challenges posed by climate change. These documents serve as a forward-thinking framework that seeks to harmonise economic development with environmental sustainability by 2060.

Grounded in scientific research, equity, and inclusivity, the Policy and Action Plan cater to the specific needs of Enugu’s economy and environment. Notably, it is the first subnational climate policy in Nigeria to incorporate long-term emissions modeling, microenergy audits, and extensive engagement with stakeholders.

Key advantages encompass: (i) integrating climate action within the economic development framework; (ii) promoting the creation of green jobs; (iii) improving climate resilience; (iv) aligning with and supporting national climate goals; (v) providing pathways for transitioning to green energy; (vi) establishing a systematic curriculum and manual for teaching climate change in the state’s premier Smart Green Schools; (vii) facilitating innovative green financing solutions; and (viii) reinforcing the institutional framework.

These initiatives align with the developmental agenda of the government currently in Enugu State, under the leadership of Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

As a complimentary to the policy and action plan, the Climate Education Handbook, on the other hand, has been crafted by the Society for Planet and Prosperity in partnership with the University of Bristol, United Kingdom. This handbook is a collaborative effort involving Nigerian students and their teachers, and it has received validation from the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Enugu State Ministry of Education, the FCT Education Secretariat, the Department for Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as various climate NGOs and activists.

Designed as a thorough resource, the Climate Education Handbook aims to empower students, educators, and school clubs with the necessary knowledge and tools to address climate change effectively. It aligns with both global sustainability objectives and local educational priorities, preparing young individuals to emerge as climate advocates not only within their schools and communities but beyond the shorelines of Nigeria.

This significant launch event is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the Old Governor’s Lodge, located along Abakaliki Road, Enugu State.

Distinguished guests anticipated to attend include the Executive Governor of Enugu State, state government officials, representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Council on Climate Change, development partners, donor agencies, climate finance institutions, teachers and students, private sector investors in renewable energy and green enterprises, civil society organisations, academic representatives, local community leaders, and members of the media.

By Elochukwu Anieze, Senior Policy Analyst at Society for Planet and Prosperity

NEITI commends S4C on advocacy in oil, gas host communities

Michael Simire
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NEITI commends S4C on advocacy in oil, gas host communities

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has lauded Spaces For Change (S4C) for its impactful advocacy, recognising the organisation’s role in strengthening local communities.

NEITI
Mrs. Nkechi Isigwe, a member of the NEITI Board, represented Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary of NEITI

NEITI specifically highlighted S4C’s success in enabling citizens to effectively hold duty bearers accountable, thereby fostering a culture of improved governance.

Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary of NEITI, gave this commendation in a goodwill message delivered at the 13th Anniversary of S4C on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Lagos.

Orji, represented by Mrs. Nkechi Isigwe, a member of the NEITI Board, spoke on how S4C’s collaboration with NEITI had enhanced the understanding of the challenges faced by host communities.

This, he said, had help in boosting NEITI’s commitment to pushing for reforms that address their concerns.

“NEITI values your contributions to bridging the gap between policy reforms and community empowerment,” Orji said.

He added that sustainable development can only be achieved when the voices of host communities are heard and their interests are protected.

He commended S4C’s remarkable milestone, reflecting its resilience and commitment to social justice.

Orji also lauded S4C’s role in promoting research, policy advocacy and citizen engagement across Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta.

“Today, we gather to celebrate a true trailblazer, Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, whose visionary leadership and relentless advocacy have transformed the landscape of host community engagement,” he said.

Ibezim-Ohaeri, the Executive Director of S4C, in her response, raised concerns over the energy transition.

He highlighted the risks of companies greenwashing their identities without addressing the environmental damage caused by previous practices.

Ibezim-Ohaeri stressed that many companies divesting from fossil fuel investments were not adequately addressing the required environmental cleanup.

“We are concerned about national policy arrangements that overlook the needs of communities,” she added.

She emphasised the importance of discussing alternative livelihoods for affected communities.

“Founded initially as an online discussion group, S4C has grown into a leading advocacy organisation with offices in Nigeria, Ghana, and soon, Banjul.”

Ibezim-Ohaeri reflected on S4C’s evolution, noting that the organisation’s pivotal shift from online to offline advocacy began with their hosting of the first-ever online conference on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

According to her, this sparked significant interest among civil society, media and industry stakeholders.

“S4C’s work has expanded beyond advocacy, focusing on enhancing financial integrity, institutional resilience and regulatory compliance within the nonprofit sector.

“It has also benefited over 1,000 organisations across West Africa.

“Additionally, the organisation has deepened local knowledge on the ethical concerns surrounding new technologies used for crime control,” she added.

Mr. James Savage, Programme Director for the Enabling Environment for Human Rights Defenders Program at the Fund for Global Human Rights, also commended S4C for its exceptional work in advancing human rights.

“Over the past nine years, we’ve witnessed S4C’s growth and effectiveness, particularly in leading legal reforms and defending victims of human rights abuses,” he said.

Savage highlighted S4C’s ability to reach communities at the grassroots level, underscoring the organisation’s profound impact.

He said that S4C’s anniversary celebration highlighted the group’s ongoing efforts to improve governance, advocate for environmental justice, and create meaningful change for communities affected by extractive industries.

By Yunus Yusuf

Expert urges reforms to combat pollution, climate change

Michael Simire
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Expert urges reforms to combat pollution, climate change

Prof. Ilemobayo Oguntimehin of Olusegun Agagu University of Technology, Okitipupa, has called for systemic environmental reforms in Nigeria to tackle pollution and mitigate the impact of climate change.

Malam Balarabe Lawal
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal

Oguntimehin made the call on Thursday, March 13, 2025, while delivering a public lecture organised by the College of Science and Computing, Wellspring University, Benin.

The guest lecturer, who is also the Director of the Centre for Research, Innovation, and Development (CRID) at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, warned that Nigeria faces severe environmental degradation unless urgent measures are taken.

He noted that climate change is exacerbating flooding, biodiversity loss, and respiratory diseases in the country.

“Our air, water, and soil are poisoned daily. The consequences will be dire.

“Nigeria’s development depends on balancing economic growth with environmental protection,” he said, citing Lagos’ rising air pollution and the desertification in the North.

Oguntimehin, a renowned expert in Chemistry, condemned indiscriminate waste disposal, gas flaring, and open burning, highlighting their detrimental effects on air quality and public health.

“We must act now before pollution kills more people,” he warned.

He praised Japan’s hygiene culture, emphasising its role in disease prevention.

“Simple habits like handwashing and waste separation can significantly improve public health. We need stronger policies and real commitment,” he noted.

While acknowledging the Ogoni cleanup as an example of environmental restoration, he stressed the need for stricter enforcement of environmental laws.

He urged individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles by using energy-efficient appliances, recycling, and avoiding indiscriminate pesticide use.

According to him, small actions can drive significant change across the country.

He advocated for immediate policy shifts, including strengthened environmental regulations, increased funding, and stricter enforcement of anti-pollution laws.

Oguntimehin also challenged the private sector to embrace a circular economy, where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimised, and products are designed to be recycled, reused, or biodegradable.

“Businesses must reduce waste, invest in green technologies, and prioritise sustainability,” he said.

In his remarks, Prof. Isaac Ajayi, Vice-Chancellor of Wellspring University, said the lecture served as a platform to share knowledge with the public.

Ajayi explained that the university was mandated to contribute to society through initiatives such as public lectures.

“This is an opportunity for us to disseminate knowledge, this time through a public lecture.

“It is specifically organised for everyone to attend, learn, and benefit,” he said.

Earlier, Prof. Dipo Komolafe, Dean of the College of Science and Computing at Wellspring University, said the lecture was part of efforts to enhance the university’s reputation through public engagement.

According to him, such events help to showcase research output, provide solutions to societal challenges, and demonstrate social responsibility.

“Public lectures are an effective way to highlight an institution’s academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to social impact.

“We believe that bringing together experts and enthusiasts for lecture series can foster a deeper understanding of the complex issues shaping the world,” Komolafe said.

By Usman Aliyu

VP Shettima welcomes £250,000 technology donation to drive afforestation

Michael Simire
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VP Shettima welcomes £250,000 technology donation to drive afforestation

The Federal Government of Nigeria has partnered with United Kingdom’s Zander Corporation Ltd. to transform agricultural practices and restore degraded lands in the country’s most vulnerable ecological zones.

Kashim Shettima
Vice-President Kashim Shettima during a meeting with the management of the bio-technology company at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

Vice-President Kashim Shettima stated this on Thursday, March 13, 2025, during a meeting with the management of the bio-technology company, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The management of the company was led by Lord Raymond Benedict Asquith, the Third Earl of Oxford, and Asquith OBE, a member of the UK House of Lords.

The Zander Corporation donated £250,000 worth of afforestation technology products to Nigeria.

Shettima expressed the commitment of the Federal government to afforestation as a key strategy in combating desertification, promoting sustainable land use, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

“There is a critical intersection between innovative technology and efforts at combating desertification and agricultural transformation in this country.

“As a nation committed to afforestation and sustainable land use, we recognise the value of partnerships that introduce cutting-edge technologies like those from Zander Corporation,” he said.

Shettima noted the need to maximise the potential of the five-hectare pilot project, suggesting diversification into vegetable production and tree crops such as cashew, which has a high global demand.

“We are in a unique position to take advantage of this opportunity. I want to assure you and your team of the federal government’s support.

“Sokoto State has already demonstrated commitment, and I believe that Borno and Katsina governments will also embrace this initiative.”

Shettima acknowledged Lord Oxford’s commitment to training Nigerian agronomists in best practices for implementing the technology.

He added that “there is an incestuous relationship between ecology and economy in the northern part of this country.

“This innovative technology by Zander Corporation can be our saving grace.”

Earlier, Lord Oxford reaffirmed the corporation’s dedication to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, adding that the company has been in the country for over 12 years.

“We have made a donation of our products to Nigeria for deployment in several northern states to demonstrate our capabilities and the remarkable results that can be achieved in agricultural and environmental projects.”

He explained that the corporation had recorded successes in desert states such as Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Libya, and Southern Spain.

Also, the Director-General, National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, confirmed the agency’s commitment to implementing Zander Corporation’s technology.

“We have established a committee to oversee the implementation of these products, which have proven highly effective in building resilience during the pilot programme.

“We are piloting this project in Katsina, Borno, and Sokoto states, with five hectares of land already prepared for deployment.

“We are committed to ensuring that the initiative directly benefits the communities affected by desertification with a view to building resilience and sustainability in agriculture and management of the dry land in the north.”

Also, Mr Rupert Bevan, Director, Zander Corporation Ltd., said that he was impressed with the commitment of the Federal Government to the project.

He reiterated the commitment of the corporation to support Nigeria to combat desertification and land degradation.

“We have spent a lot of time in Nigeria where we are trying to offer technology for the betterment of the problems facing the Nigerian people for the construction of the great green wall.

“We believe we have some very important things to offer which shall be of considerable use in getting the great green wall finished.

“We are able to plant important trees but later on we will be able to plant various crops either permanent ones or cereal and real crops to give a lot of employment to people up here.

“And to make the whole project self-sufficient,” he said.

By Salisu Sani-Idris

IWD 2025: Foundation to empower 5,000 people to accelerate growth

Michael Simire
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IWD 2025: Foundation to empower 5,000 people to accelerate growth

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD 2025) – “Accelerating “Action” – truly reinforces the urgent need for women to take their position in every society.

MSBON Foundation
Cross session of participants at the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 stakeholders event organised by MSBON Foundation in Abuja

As part of its efforts to promote the purpose of this year’s celebration, the MSBON Foundation has renewed its commitment to empowering 5,000 people through mentorship programs, sensitisation campaigns, and community services.

Co-founder of the MSBON Foundation, Helen Chikodi Nwanisobi, advised women to have a clear idea of their life goals because this is crucial for overcoming any obstacles that may stand in their way to success.

Speaking to a group of people gathered at an event hosted by her organisation as part of their activities to mark this year’s IWD on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Abuja, Nwanisobi stated that the theme of the celebration itself buttresses her point because it calls for women to do more than just talk.

Women in Nigeria, like in many other parts of the world, continue to encounter problems in different aspects of their lives, such as education, leadership, and careers, as well as socioeconomic benefits. These barriers, she claims, have hindered many of them from reaching their full potential in life.

In light of this knowledge, the MSBON Foundation brought together key players to discuss these issues and offer ideas that can actually accelerate practical and real-life action. By doing this, the social rights advocate added, her nonprofit organisation is contributing to empowering women, students, and young people in addition to corporate enterprises to advance the general welfare of citizens for the growth and benefit of the public.

“So, the first thing is knowing what you want and building your confidence. I tell every young lady, what you say you want to become, you could be. You can only not become that thing when you say you will not,” Nwanisobi stated.

She went on to emphasise the importance of the environment and stress its critical role in addressing the subject matter. Mentorship is another vital experience she believes every woman needs to excel and attain their God-given biological rights, which is why her establishment commemorated the IWD and used it to create a platform for stakeholders’ engagement with mentors who will inspire the participants no matter their diverse fields of endeavour.

“We own our future,” she tells her fellow women, “and that is why I said we are the table.”

As a result, MSBON’s co-founder invited all stakeholders to collaborate with her organisation and act as mentors to motivate and help people in attaining their life goals.

The CEO of Vivacity Development, Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, wants more women to be aware of the rapid changes in the world and what they can do to keep up with them.

According to her, there is need to identify female role models in the development space, and amplify the good things that they are doing to inspire and encourage other women to pursue opportunities to improve their self-development.

“It is very important that we get those good messages out there,” she said.

Consider information technology, for example; she advocated that women should be educated on new communication tools to help them change their perspectives and deploy them for social good.

The event began with opening statements by officials from development agencies, civil society organisations, and other thought leaders, who shared their opinions on the celebration’s topic and what can be done to help women accelerate action wherever they find themselves.

The highlevel panel discussion, which featured both men and women to maintain balance in the discussion, was a major highlight at the occasion.

In summary, the IWD 2025 is a rallying cry for gender equality, urging people, groups, and governments to work together to create a more equitable and just world for all girls and women.

By Etta Michael Bisong, Abuja

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