The First Lead Author Meeting of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report on Climate Change and Cities taking place in Osaka, Japan, from March 10 to 14, 2025, brings together almost 100 selected experts from more than 50 countries.
Winston Chow, Co-Chair of Working Group II, IPCC
The meeting, hosted at the Osaka International Convention Centre by the Ministry of Environment of Japan, brings together experts with backgrounds in physical science, impacts, adaptation, vulnerability, and mitigation, including researchers and practitioners from urban communities designated to serve as Coordinating Lead Authors and Lead Authors on the report, who have been selected by the scientific bureaus of the three Working Groups.
“The IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities will provide a foundation for all of us to harness the full potential of our cities in tackling climate change, ensuring that they are resilient, inclusive and sustainable for generations to come. We look forward to the insights that our invited experts will bring to developing a robust and actionable report,” said Winston Chow, Co-Chair of Working Group II.
The meeting marks the beginning of the drafting process for this Special Report, which is the only Special Report of the seventh assessment cycle and is scheduled to be finalised in March 2027. Selected authors will work on developing the report based on the outline agreed by the Panel during its 61st Session held in Sofia, Bulgaria from August 27 to July 2, 2024. In this lead author meeting, authors will discuss the literature to be assessed in the report, and how the different chapters will complement each other.
The Special Report on Climate Change and Cities will provide a timely assessment of the latest science related to climate change and cities, including climate impacts and risks, as well as adaptation and mitigation solutions.
“It is exciting to meet the leading experts selected from all corners of the world and diverse fields who come together to draft this Special Report. We applaud the commitment of the scientists and practitioners who volunteer their time and work towards a more liveable future of our cities.” said Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, Chair of the Scientific Steering Committee for the scoping of the Special Report and Vice Chair of the IPCC.
The Jigawa State Government has begun the training of 600 women in environmental sustainability to enhance their social and economic wellbeing.
Gov. Umar Namadi of Jigawa State
The beneficiaries would receive training through the Waste to Wealth Initiative being implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Mr. Adamu Sambo, Managing Director, Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency (JISEPA), stated this at an event to mark the 2025 International Women’s Day, on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Dutse, the state capital.
The theme of the event is: “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” aimed to unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all.
Sambo said the state would partner with the UN agency to expand the scope of the programme and mobilise participation across the 27 local government areas of the state.
“We want to ensure that more women in Jigawa State can participate and benefit from the upcycling and waste-to-wealth programme,” he said.
He said the occasion was not only to celebrate the strength, resilience and achievements of women, but also highlighted the role they play in environmental sustainability and economic development.
According to Sambo, the inclusion of women in environmental sustainability is not just a matter of equity but a necessity for creating sustainable solutions.
Sambo described women as agents of change in their communities and beyond, stressing that when empowered, they would implement practices that foster environmental conservation, waste reduction and climate resilience.
He stressed that through upcycling and the waste to wealth initiative, women could be provided with the chance to protect the environment and secure a better future for their families.
Sambo said the programme provided opportunities to convert waste into wealth in spite of global challenges in waste management that threatened the environment.
The exercise, he said would encouraged integration of upcycling waste into marketable products, to ensure economic empowerment and environmental impact.
According to him, the initiative will bridge gender gap by providing marketable skills in waste upcycling, entrepreneurship and sustainability, to enable young women to contribute to household income and national economic growth.
Sambo said the training exercise would leverage on the Youth Opportunities Marketplace (YOMA), also an initiative of the UNICEF.
The director said that YOMA was an innovative digital platform ecosystem aimed at connecting young people to learning, earning and social impact opportunities.
He said the programme would enable the youths to access online courses, mentorship, skill building challenges and employment opportunities.
“YOMA will equip young women with digital and entrepreneurial skills, connecting them to real world economic opportunities beyond their immediate environment.”
Sambo commended the state government, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) and other stakeholders for their supports to the agency.
He retreited commitment to ensure women inclusion to transform waste into valuable and marketable products.
The Wife of Jigawa State Governor, Amina Namadi, lauded the initiative, adding that women inclusion in environmental sustainability would provide a visible impact in the state and across the globe.
Namadi urged the participants to avail themselves the opportunity to sanitise their environment and change their lives for the better.
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has sealed a deal to acquire 20 per cent equity in a 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) refinery project being established by African Refinery Group Ltd, in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC Ltd).
3rd from left: Managing Director, African Refinery Port Harcourt Limited, Mr. Tosin Adebajo; Executive Secretary NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe; Director Legal Services, NCDMB, Mr. Naboth Onyesoh, Esq; Director Finance and Personnel Management, Mr. Ifeanyi Ukoha and General Manager, Commercial Ventures, Mr. Ejiro Dortie, at the
signing of share purchase agreement in African Refinery Port Harcourt Limited in Abuja on Thursday
The share purchase agreement for this investment was signed on Thursday, March 7, 2025, and it will make NCDMB a key partner in the African Refinery Port Harcourt Limited (ARPHL), being co-located with Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, operated by the NNPC Ltd, in Alesa Eleme, Rivers State.
The Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe signed the agreement at the Board’s liaison office in Abuja, while the Managing Director, African Refinery Port Harcourt Limited, Mr. Tosin Adebajo, signed on behalf of the company.
The NCDMB boss remarked that the equity investment is the first to be sealed under his leadership. He confirmed that the Board subjected the proposal through rigorous technical, commercial and regulatory reviews and decision gates, in line with NCDMB’s Commercial Ventures Investment Policy.
The Board has also instituted a robust corporate governance procedure that will safeguard its investment and ensure optimal performance of the refinery project, he added.
The deal is part of the Board’s commercial venture programme, which is supported by section 70 (h) of the NOGICD Act, where NCDMB is charged to “assist local contractors and Nigerian companies to develop their capabilities and capacities” in furtherance of Nigerian content development in the oil and gas industry.
The Board’s commercial venture investments are also geared to catalyse Federal Government’s strategic policies, provide job creation opportunities in the construction and operation phases, and add value to the nation’s hydrocarbon resources.
The shares for the African Refinery Port Harcourt Limited project were purchased under the Nigerian Content Intervention Company LTD/GTE, a company limited by guarantee, and wholly owned by the NCDMB.
Details of the investment indicate that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) holds a 15 per cent equity investment in the refinery project, having executed a share subscription agreement in 2024.
The promoters of the project, African Refinery Group, had in 2016 won a competitive bid to co-locate a crude oil refinery within the site of the Port Harcourt Refinery Complex (PHRC), and it executed an agreement to run and operate a 100,000 BPD refinery on 45 hectares of vacant land within the battery limit of the refinery complex.
The company also signed a sub-lease agreement with NNPC in 2019, giving her 45.466 hectares of land within the refinery complex for a tenure of 64 years.
According to the investment plan, NCDMB will divest from the refinery at the end of the seventh year, counting from the commercial operations date.
Some of NCDMB’s investments in refining of petroleum products include the Waltersmith 5000 barrels per day (bpd) modular refinery located at Ibigwe, Imo State, Azikel group’s 12,000 barrels per day (bpd) hydro-skimming modular refinery, at Gbarain, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and Duport Midstream’s 2,500 bpd modular refinery at Egbokor, Edo State, and they are at different levels of operations and development.
The Board’s investment with Waltersmith modular refinery was executed in 2018, and it served as the proof of concept. It operates optimally and provides refined petroleum products to its environs, creating hundreds of direct and indirect job opportunities.
The project is also a commercial success, as the holding company, Waltersmith Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited, posted a profit-after-tax of N23.6 billion in April 2024, for the year 2023, and total dividend of N4.5 billion, pending final approval at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
NCDMB holds 30 per cent share in the company, and it received an interim dividend payment of N450 million out of the N1.5bn that was declared for the year ended 2023.
It is unfortunate that, despite the important role that women play in society and their achievemes, many of them still face several barriers in accessing some socio-economic benefits and exercising basic fundamental human rights.
Cross section of Adamawa Advocate Women’s Inclusion group during an advocacy visit to the State Assembly
In Nigeria, for example, females are still under-represented in leadership positions and have limited access to equal education, a problem that has been largely attributed to widespread gender discrimination and a lack of financial resources.
This setback has restricted their chances to compete with their male counterparts and also prevented many of them from reaching their full potential.
According to Hyellagiziya Naiwa Fakuta, women in the northeastern region of the country are often left behind due to deeply rooted societal norms, cultural beliefs, and systemic exclusion.
Fakuta, who is the founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of the Sustainable Education and Livelihoods Foundation (SELF), said that this rat race must end if accelerated action is to be achieved.
“However, we must not allow these challenges to define our future,” she stated, in a circular that EnviroNews obtained from her organisation,
Her strong determination to overcome these boundaries and fulfil her aspirations, like any other man’s, inspired her to establish SELF, a non-profit organisation she uses to promote gender equality, empower women, and build a society in which every girl and woman has an equal chance of success.
The politician and social rights advocate believes that an educated and empowered woman helps not only herself, but also her family, society, and the nation, as they play key roles in driving growth.
Taking into account her comments and relating them to this year’s celebration’s theme, “Accelerating Action,” it is important to go beyond simple conversations and start implementing audacious, tangible steps that will lead to real-world change.
She took advantage of this beautiful event to honour all of the hard-working, exceptional women who continue to push boundaries, inspire others, and make a difference in their respective fields of endeavour.
“To the women who wake up every day to fight for their dreams, to those who support and empower others, and to the women making sacrifices for their families and communities – we see you, we celebrate you, and we stand with you,” Fakuta stated.
The campaigner hopes that this year’s anniversary will inspire governments, lawmakers, NGOs, and individuals to take action in all areas impacting women’s lives.
Truth be told, this would mean that gender equality should not be a distant dream – it should be a present reality, which is why the founder of SELF is vehemently appealing that “we must work together to create a world where women are not just included but are empowered to lead and succeed.”
This would mean stepping up efforts in the areas of leadership to remove obstacles preventing women from sitting at the table, education to guarantee that all girls have access to high-quality education, and governance to guarantee that policies reflect genuine gender inclusion and create an atmosphere where women can thrive.
Similarly, Gloria Kasang Bulus, Executive Director, Bridge That Gap Initiative, emphasised that on the International Women’s Day, the world has come together to celebrate the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” highlighting the essential roles that women and girls play in promoting environmental sustainability and combating climate change.
“As the world grapples with escalating environmental challenges, the rights and empowerment of women and girls are more crucial than ever. Climate change does not affect everyone equally; it disproportionately impacts women and girls, particularly in vulnerable communities. This inequity underscores the urgent need for their voices and leadership in climate action,” she disclosed in a statement made available to EnviroNews.
She listed the intersection of gender and climate action to include:
Empowerment through Education: Educating girls about environmental issues equips them with the knowledge and skills to become future leaders in sustainability. When girls are empowered with education, they can drive change in their communities and advocate for their rights.
Equal Participation in Decision-Making: Women bring unique perspectives to environmental challenges. Ensuring their equal participation in decision-making processes leads to more effective and sustainable solutions. We must create spaces where women’s voices are heard and valued.
Rights as a Foundation for Action: Protecting the rights of women and girls is fundamental to achieving environmental goals. When women have access to resources, land, and opportunities, they can implement sustainable practices and contribute to climate resilience.
On the International Women’s Day, Bulus urged governments, organizations, and communities to:
Promote Gender Equality: Implement policies and programs that ensure equal rights and opportunities for all women and girls, particularly in environmental sectors.
Support Women’s Leadership: Foster leadership programmes that empower women and girls to take active roles in climate action and decision-making.
Raise Awareness: Continue to create awareness campaigns that highlight the critical intersection of gender and climate issues, and showcase the contributions of women and girls in environmental stewardship.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let us commit to advancing the rights, equality, and empowerment of all women and girls. Together, we can build a more sustainable future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” she stated.
As Nigeria moves forward in updating its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0) under the Paris Agreement, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Simon Stiell, has engaged with Nigerian civil society organisations (CSOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in a high-level roundtable discussion on how to address climate financing, transparency, and grassroots engagement in Nigeria’s climate policy.
L-R: Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative of UNDP Nigeria; UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Malickfall; Simon Stiell, the Executive Secretary of UNFCCC; and Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) during the high-level meeting held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital
Hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the United Nations House, in Abuja, the discussion was moderated by Geoffrey Omedo, UNDP technical specialist, who emphasised the significance of strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive Nigeria’s climate commitments forward.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Malick Fall, provided a united remark, underscoring the need for a concerted effort in implementing Nigeria’s climate policies.
Also, Elsie Attafuah, Resident Representative of UNDP Nigeria, delivered a welcome address, reaffirming UNDP’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s transition towards a sustainable and resilient future.
Simon Stiell, in his highlight address, stated the critical importance of transparency, accountability, and financing in the implementation of NDCs.
He stressed that Nigeria’s economic growth and climate ambition must go hand in hand, stating, “Nigeria has an astonishing opportunity to prosper through its climate leadership, adding that green growth in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture will drive economic opportunities and attract foreign investments into the country.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, emphasised the indispensable role of NGOs and CSOs in climate action.
“Civil society organisations are the foot soldiers of government, reaching areas that policies often fail to impact directly,” she said, advocating for stronger integration of grassroots perspectives into national policies.
Speaking on behalf of the NGOs/CSOs in the room, Dr. Mike Terungwa of the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) outlined key concerns regarding the delayed submission of Nigeria’s NDCs.
“Few countries have submitted their NDCs, and Nigeria is yet to do so. We need clarity on the level of transparency and accountability, will there be any penalties for countries that miss submission deadlines?” he asked.
He also highlighted financing as a major challenge, calling for clear mechanisms to support the implementation of NDCs.
Key Issues raised by NGOs/CSOs
The roundtable discussion provided a platform for NGOs and CSOs to voice pressing concerns, focusing on agriculture, energy, education, gender inclusion, and the role of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Among the critical issues raised by NGOs and CSOs were:
1. Finance and Accountability – Participants inquired about the enforcement mechanisms for countries that pledge climate action but fail to meet their commitments. They also sought clarity on the implementation strategies for monitoring these pledges to ensure compliance.
2. Grassroots Engagement and Representation – A recurring concern was the limited reflection of grassroots realities in global and national climate strategies. Participants emphasised the need for climate policies that genuinely incorporate local voices, including rural communities that face the direct impacts of climate change.
3. Gender and Climate Action – Discussions explored the intersection of climate change and gender-based violence, emphasising the importance of female representation in functional leadership roles rather than relegating women to minor administrative positions. Participants also called for targeted training programmes to equip women and youth with negotiation skills in climate diplomacy.
4. Technology and Climate Monitoring – The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in tracking and monitoring climate activities was highlighted as a potential game-changer. Calls were made for Nigeria to integrate AI-driven solutions into its climate-tracking mechanisms to enhance data accuracy and policy effectiveness.
5. Climate Education and Cultural Beliefs – one of the significant challenges identified was the persistence of traditional beliefs that hinder climate adaptation efforts. Many communities still attribute climate events to ancestral influences rather than scientific causes. Those in attendance also advocated for robust climate education initiatives to address these misconceptions, ensuring that local populations understand the realities of climate change.
6. Women-Led Climate Solutions – There was a strong push for innovative incentives to support women-led climate approaches, particularly in the areas of sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and environmental conservation. Participants urged for gender-responsive strategies in just transitions, ensuring that women are not left behind in the shift towards greener economies.
Key takeaways and the way forward
The meeting yielded three major takeaways that will shape Nigeria’s climate agenda moving forward:
1. Finance and Accountability: Nigeria faces significant financial constraints in meeting its NDCs. Stakeholders emphasised the need for transparent financial mechanisms to track the flow of climate funds and ensure effective utilisation.
2. Amplifying Local Voices: Greater collaboration between UNFCCC, the Nigerian government, CSOs, and NGOs is required to ensure grassroots communities are actively engaged in climate policy design and implementation.
3. Inclusive Leadership and Education: Climate leadership should focus on tangible action rather than mere commitments. The proposal for a simplified “Child’s NDC” aims to empower young people to understand and participate in climate solutions.
In addressing these concerns, Simon Stiell stressed the need for quantifiable and verifiable climate action, stating, “We must shift our focus from rhetoric to results. There is an opportunity to redefine global leadership by filling the gaps left by past shortcomings.”
The UNFCCC executive secretary reiterated that financing and technical support are crucial in pursuing climate solutions and that the global stock take would ensure accountability among nations.
Following the event, Simon Stiell shared reflections on his visit via LinkedIn, underscoring Nigeria’s immense potential for green growth.
He wrote, “Nigeria has an astonishing opportunity to grow and prosper through its climate leadership. Green growth from renewable energy and sustainable agriculture will drive economic opportunities, attract foreign investment, and improve living standards.”
He reiterated the need for swift climate financing, emphasising that the future of Nigeria’s sustainable growth depends on strong climate policies backed by adequate funding.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe hinted that the idea of a Child’s NDC, which would simplify climate commitments for younger generations, making it easier for them to grasp and contribute to climate solutions.
The roundtable discussion marked a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s climate governance, reinforcing the essential role of multi-stakeholder engagement in advancing the nation’s NDC 3.0 process. With continued collaboration, Nigeria is poised to take bold steps toward a greener, more resilient future.
As Nigeria advances its NDC3.0 process, the roundtable discussion reinforced that while challenges persist, opportunities for impactful action are within reach. Stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that Nigeria not only meets its climate commitments but also leverages climate action for economic growth and sustainable development.
From March 4 to March 7, 2025, Mr. Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, spent four impactful days in Nigeria.
Throughout his visit, Mr. Stiell, who also engaged with diverse stakeholders, emphasised the collaborative efforts needed to address climate change and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.
Stiell said: “A strong national climate plan can supercharge Nigeria’s thriving economy, driving jobs and progress right across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs0, fueled by affordable clean energy.
“Nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration further boost resilience and pay for themselves many times over.”
Mr. Simon Stiell with the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Abbas Lawal
Simon Stiell with government and UN officials
Simon Stiell with government and UN officials
Simon Stiell at a session with civil society representatives in Abuja
L-R: Mrs. Rukayat El-Rufai (Special Adviser to the President on National Economic Council and Climate Change), Mr. Tokunbo Wahab (Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment), Mr. Simon Stiell (Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework for the Convention on Climatd Change – UNFCCC), Mrs. Nkiruka Maduekwe (Special Presidential Envoy & DG/CEO NCCCS and Dr. Joseph Onoja (DG NCF)
Simon Stiell at a breakfast meeting with esteemed business leaders at the NESG Secretariat. Flanking him on the left in this picture after the meeting are: Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General and CEO of The National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) and Presidential Special Envoy on Climate Change; Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG); and Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director-General of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation. To his right are Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank Nigeria, and Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital and Lead of NESG’s Taskforce on Climate Change.
Simon Stiell with Federal Government, Lagos State Government and Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) officials at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos
Simon Stiell being interviewed by the Press at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the energy challenges plaguing the North-East region, ensuring that clean energy becomes accessible and affordable for all.
The gas minister, Ekperikpe Ekpo (second left), leading the distribution of LPG cylinders to beneficiaries
Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, made this pledge during the launch of the North-East Decade of Gas Clean Cooking (LPG) Grassroots Penetration Programme in Maiduguri, Borno State.
“The Decade of Gas Initiative is designed to transform Nigeria into a gas-powered economy, and this event demonstrates our unwavering commitment to ensuring no region is left behind,” Ekpo said. “As we distribute these LPG cylinders today, I urge beneficiaries to seize this opportunity for a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.”
Ekpo acknowledged the significant energy challenges faced by the North-East and expressed determination to make clean energy accessible and affordable.
“The government’s commitment to making LPG available and affordable for all Nigerians is unwavering,” he said. “Through collaborative efforts, we can achieve our vision of a gas-powered Nigeria.”
Ekpo lauded Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State for his unwavering support towards the initiative. He noted that the clean cooking initiative, conceived by President Bola Tinubu, aims to convert 250,000 homes per year to the use of LPG, also known as cooking gas. This follows the call to address maternal and youth deaths caused by inhaling carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases from traditional cooking fuels with heavier carbon chains.
The gas minister, who led the distribution of LPG cylinders to beneficiaries, noted that adopting LPG goes beyond convenience; it’s crucial for cleaner air, reduced deforestation, and mitigating health risks from traditional fuels like charcoal and firewood. He said the switch to LPG supports the national strategy for a sustainable energy mix and reduced carbon emissions.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman, shed light on the daunting struggles women face when relying on firewood as a primary energy source in their homes. She emphasised the government’s commitment to transitioning one million households to clean cooking gas by 2030, tackling environmental pollution, creating job opportunities, and boosting socio-economic activities through collaborative efforts with various sectors.
Coordinating Director, Decade of Gas, Mr. Ed Ubong, reiterated the industry’s support for the Gas to Prosperity theme of the Federal Government. He thanked MEMAN, NNPCL, and all Decade of Gas sponsor groups for making the event a success.
UN Women Executive Director, Sima Bahous, has called on world leaders to choose rights, equality and empowerment for all women and girls.
UN Women Executive Director, Sima Bahous. Photo credit: Lev Radin/Pacific Press/Shutterstock
Bahous made the call at UN Headquarters in New York, at an event to commemorate International Women’s Day (IDW), celebrated annually on March 8.
According to her, IDW is a powerful moment, and for 2025, more than ever, the call for gender equality is important.
“The cause of gender equality has never been more urgent, nor the obstacles in our way more apparent, but our determination has never been more unshakeable.
“Today, we celebrate equality for all women and girls, and we celebrate coming together, here, now, everywhere.’’
According to her, 2025 is a call for ALL women and girls – “Rights. Equality. Empowerment”, because equality with exceptions is not equality.
Bahous said that the promise of equality for women and girls, rights, and empowerment to all girls must be realised.
“The pushback against those promises is nothing new. We have faced it before; we will face it again.
“Until gender equality is our shared reality and shared reward, we will not stop.
“Make no mistake: our movement is powerful, and it is growing. It is all of you here, all those who are remotely connected and listening, all those who commemorate International Women’s Day in different ways.
“It is all of us who understand that equality is not to be feared, but instead to be embraced, because an equal world is a better world,’’ she said.
According to her, 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
“We hope to see its commitments reaffirmed in a strong, forward-looking political declaration, to be adopted at CSW69 [the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.
“This year, we commemorate the 25th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325.
“We look also forward to the final stretch this year of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals. What better reminders to energise and guide us all?.
The top UN official said from governments to boardrooms, from classrooms to households, women’s equality is the greatest solution, and we know that.
She said: “Every study we do, every project we do, every programme we do, every effort and partnership we have tells us that women’s equality is the greatest solution.
“Real solutions require that women be at the heart of decision-making. From Afghanistan to the DRC, from Palestine, Gaza to Haiti to Myanmar, Sudan and beyond, women bear the heaviest burdens of conflict, displacement, hardship, and loss.
“Yet, we know that when women are at the table, peace is broader, more inclusive, and more enduring.
“We know that when women’s voices are heard equally, societies thrive. We know that when women lead, economies prosper.
“We know all this. Now, we must act on it. So that the promises we have made are fulfilled for ALL women and girls, and so that all women can lead and thrive.’’
As the world celebrates the 2025 International Women’s Day, Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) is calling for visible action towards women empowerment in Nigeria, to acknowledge women as valuable contributors to policy making and development in the society.
Women. Photo credit: UN Women/Joe Saade
This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasises the urgency of advancing gender equality and the need for collective action to accelerate progress towards a more just and equitable world. Despite progress made, women and girls continue to face significant barriers to equality, which EDEN has listed to include:
Limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities
Persistent pay gaps and unequal representation in leadership positions
Pervasive violence and harassment, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking
Intimidation and oppression in the workplace, limiting the rights and freedom of women
To address these challenges, the group called on governments, organisations, and individuals to:
Promote inclusive policies and laws that benefit all women and girls
Support women’s leadership and participation in all areas of life
Address intersectional inequalities and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion
End violence against women and girls and ensure access to justice and support services
The group submitted: “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we must recognise that women’s empowerment is essential to achieving a more prosperous, peaceful, and sustainable world. We reaffirm our commitment to promoting women’s rights, equality, and empowerment.
“Let us all continue to speak and take swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality, and increased pace and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face, both in personal and professional fields.”
As the world marks the International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security.
Women farmers
In a statement signed by Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, the Executive Secretary of HEDA, Arigbabu reaffirmed HEDA’s commitment to advocating policies and practices that would promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers.
“Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks.
“To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers,” Arigbabu said.
Arigbabu said HEDA would continue to empower women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information.
He said the empowerment would enable them to make informed decisions and minimise losses and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
“We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture.
“HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” Arigbabu said.
“By focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation,” he said.
