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NCDMB rallies NNPC, oil producers to boost in-country manufacturing of line pipes

Michael Simire
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NCDMB rallies NNPC, oil producers to boost in-country manufacturing of line pipes

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) on Thursday, March 6, 2025, achieved a much-needed consensus among critical oil and gas industry stakeholders and manufacturers to ramp up in-country production and utilisation of line pipes in oil and gas operations, as part of the strategy deepen local content, and conserve foreign exchange and create jobs.

Stakeholders Workshop
Participants at the Stakeholders Workshop in Yenagoa

The Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), comprising all international oil companies, and their indigenous counterparts under the aegis of the Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), met with the leading pipe manufacturing companies and pipe coaters as well as the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) at the instance of the NCDMB to take stock of progress made since 2011.

In opening remarks at the one-day “Stakeholders Workshop on Manufacturing of Line Pipes in Nigeria: Processes, Challenges, and Opportunities,” which held at the Nigerian Content Tower (NCT), Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, described line pipes as “a major driver in oil and gas industry operations,” adding, “without line pipes you cannot evacuate products.”

He said the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, 2010, envisages 100 per cent in-country manufacture of line pipes (seamless and welded pipes) and that the Board, in conjunction with the OPTS, had agreed on an initiative in 2011 to work towards attainment of that target.

The NCDMB boss noted that a lot still has to be done and that status reports of projects on line pipes would have to be presented and discussed at the workshop so as to determine appropriate measures by all stakeholders to intensify efforts to overcome teething problems if any.

Ogbe, represented by the Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Alhaji Abdulmalik Halilu, disclosed that, in realisation of the potential of in-country manufacture of line pipes for retention of significant revenue and job creation, the Board had introduced different policies and remains determined to work with industry players for meaningful progress.

In setting the tone for the workshop presentations and deliberations, he posed six questions to which he sought answers from the participants: Should we continue to focus on making line pipes in Nigeria? Where are we on the ‘Made in Nigeria’ line pipes projects? Are there still opportunities for Made-in-Nigeria line pipes? What should be the main considerations for ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ line pipes (infrastructure imperatives, investment incentives, etc.)? Who should invest and who are the buyers? What policies would drive the delivery of ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ line pipes?

In his own remarks, the Director, Capacity Building, NCDMB, Dr. Ama Ikuru, explained that the Board and the entire oil and gas industry are focused on Made-in-Nigeria line pipes, because it is “the key to Nigeria’s industrial development and a critical requirement of the NOGICD Act, 2010, and the Presidential Executive Order on Local Content.”

He noted that Made-in-Nigeria line pipes are a “reputation driver for the NOGICD Act” and are “central to the attainment of the 70 per cent objective of NCDMB’s (Nigerian Content) 10-Year Strategic Road Map.” In addition, the initiative would reduce costs and eliminate mark-up by middlemen.

Dr. Ikuru pointed out that there are major oil discoveries across Africa as well as opportunities in Nigeria and other parts of the continent, supported by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Line pipe opportunities in Africa highlighted include the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, African Renaissance Pipeline and Transmed Gas Pipeline.

On interventions by the NCDMB toward establishment of pipe mills in the country, he said the Board, among other things, introduced the Equipment Component Manufacturing Initiative (ECMI) and issued guidelines on it, which “birthed issuance of the Nigerian Content Equipment Certificate (NCEC).”

The NCEC scheme of the Board is designed to promote and enforce the utilisation of locally manufactured goods, services, and equipment in the oil and gas industry.

Before presentations by key manufacturers of line pipes, representatives of the leading IOCs and Independents, all industry holders in attendance had to state their individual responses and viewpoints regarding the six posers earlier raised by the NCDMB Executive Secretary.

In unison, all declared that Nigeria should continue to focus on making line pipes in-country to meet the target of 100 per cent. Key manufacturers then proceeded to explain where they are in their respective projects, highlighting status reports as well as challenges (in some cases), and what should be main considerations.

The Managing Director, Brentex Petroleum Services Limited, Mr. Chidi Nzerem, disclosed that his company has made appreciable progress in developing an LSAW Line Pipe Mill in Calabar, Cross River State, but has faced difficulties in securing long-term funding from the banks after investing over $64 million. To take the project to completion stage, an additional $176 million would be required.

He pointed out that “Nigeria sits on oil and gas and there must be commitment to manufacture line pipes” to eliminate capital flight through importation of pipes. He assured stakeholders that “within the next 36 months, line pipes will start rolling out from the mill if the required funds become available.”

For another industry player, Frigate Pipe and Tubulars Limited, whose seamless pipe mill plant has progressed without hiccups, status report was that the bulk of the manufacturing line has been acquired and that installation of the facility would be completed within the next 24 months.

The Chief Financial Officer of the company, Mr. Bankole Olugbile, said industry demand for seamless line pipes in Nigeria is 120,000 metric tonnes per annum, which could be easily met, but he pointed out that “projects like this require long-term cheap funding.” He called for incentives, such as pioneer status, among others, from government.

From Yulong Steel Pipes Limited, a pioneer in the industry that had suspended production operations in Nigeria for five years after supply of 2,000 metric tonnes of line pipes to Dangote Refinery, Lekki, Lagos, was news of its reentry into the country. Its representative declared that the company is looking forward to business from Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and Shell Petroleum Development Company’s Bonga North, among others.

Pipe coating companies, including Solewant Group, Monarch Alloy, and Tenaris, also gave their respective status reports and highlighted what they expect from oil and gas industry operators.

International oil companies affirmed that there are opportunities for Made-in-Nigeria line pipes and expressed keenness to do business with manufacturers in the country. Mrs. Chioma Okpoechi, Supply Chain Manager (Production and Logistics) of Shell Petroleum Development Company, provided procurement data on line pipes from her company indicating that $43 million was spent between 2019 and 2014.

According to her, “steadily our operational requirements are growing” and that $115 million is to be spent in the next four years. Mrs. Okpoechi expressed hope that “this should encourage Made-in-Nigeria manufacturers,” although she cautioned that quality and timeliness of delivery cannot be compromised.

Assurances were also received from Exxon Mobil, which urged local manufacturers to strive for cost competitiveness and ensuring that they understand what the oil and gas industry upstream needs. TotalEnergies also gave assurance of support for local manufacture.

Seplat Energy Plc, a leading independent operator from among the indigenous upstream players, represented by its Nigerian Content Development Manager, Mr. Simeon Ogari, declared: “We are 100 per cent in support of Made-in-Nigeria line pipes,” stating that the company is “a product of local content.”

Another leading indigenous oil company, First Exploration & Production (First E&P), represented by its Project Manager, Soyemi Ayodeji, also pledged total support.

In rounding off presentations and deliberations, Dr. Ikuru, reminded participants that responsibilities for advancement of the programme for Made-in-Nigeria line pipes needed to be assigned.

Manufacturers commended NCDMB for its practical role as business enabler, citing a number of the Board’s interventions that have facilitated the emergence of many big indigenous companies, but said the Board could do more by helping to eliminate illegal importation of coated line pipes, particularly by marginal field operators. Also that the Board should play a role in facilitating access of manufacturers to credit facilities from banks.

Dr. Ikuru acknowledged that the suggestions made were appropriate but advised that the manufacturers could employ whistleblowing as a way to bring such illegal importation to the knowledge of the Board and Government. “We’ll follow up,” he assured.

Also contributing, the Director, Project Certification and Authorisation Department (PICAD), of NCDMB, Abayomi Bamidele, said the Customs and Excise Department has a role to play, and that manufacturers and coaters of line pipes could team up and prepare a draft bill, which should be submitted to the National Assembly for a law to bring in the Customs Department to play a role.

The NCDMB and all stakeholders agreed that platforms like the Stakeholders Workshop should hold regularly, and that it would be desirable for similar platforms where financial institutions could participate, given the critical importance of funding.                    

UN requires $620m to ensure continued support for Nigeria, Central Sahel

Michael Simire
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UN requires $620m to ensure continued support for Nigeria, Central Sahel

The UN food agency, World Food Programme (WFP), says it urgently requires $620 million to ensure continued support to crisis affected people across the Sahel and in Nigeria over the next six months.

Margot van der Velden
Margot van der Velden, WFP’s Regional Director for Western Africa

The UN food agency, in a statement on Friday, March 7, 2025, warned that potentially life-saving food and nutrition assistance in Central Sahel and Nigeria would have to end next month, unless emergency funds could be secured.

The crisis is being exacerbated by the expected early arrival of the lean season – the period between harvests when hunger peaks.

Chronic hunger is being driven by conflict, displacement, economic instability and severe climate shocks, WFP said, with devastating floods in 2024 affecting over six million people across West Africa.

Funding shortfalls will force the agency to suspend food assistance for two million crisis affected people, including Sudanese refugees in Chad, Malian refugees in Mauritania, internally displaced persons  (IDPs) and vulnerable food-insecure families in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Nigeria.

“With millions expected to face emergency levels of hunger at the peak of the lean season, the world must step up support to prevent this situation from getting out of control,” Ms. Margot van der Velden, WFP’s Regional Director for Western Africa, said.

An estimated 52.7 million women, men and children are projected to experience acute hunger between June and August 2025, according to the latest projected regional food security analysis.

Despite the ever-increasing needs in West and Central Africa, the proportion of the population facing extreme hunger is projected to increase by over 20 per cent by June 2025.

Needs are chronically underfunded. As a result, WFP underscores that it is being forced to regularly make the difficult decision to cut rations, effectively taking from the hungry to feed the starving.

In Chad, the influx of refugees arriving from Sudan is placing enormous pressure on already limited resources, fuelling tension and competition between communities.

This is particularly concerning as the country enters its sixth consecutive year of severe food insecurity in 2025, with more than a 200 per cent increase since 2020.

In neighbouring Nigeria, the prolonged humanitarian crisis, worsened by high inflation and weather-related shocks, is endangering the lives of children, pregnant women and entire communities.

During the June-August lean season, 33.1 million Nigerians are expected to face severe food shortages.

WFP is working with national governments to assess and adapt its response to ensure urgent assistance reaches the most vulnerable, while also calling for safe and unhindered access to crisis-affected families.

“We need to act now to allow WFP to reach those in need with timely support.

“Inaction will have severe consequences for the region and beyond, as food security is national security,” Velden said.

By Cecilia Ologunagba

Centre seeks increased advocacy against GMOs

Michael Simire
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Centre seeks increased advocacy against GMOs

The Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR) has called for increased education and advocacy on the ills of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) crops and seeds in Nigeria.

GMO rice
GMO rice

The Deputy Director of CEFSAR, Dr Segun Adebayo, who made the call in an interview on Friday, March 7, 2025, in Lagos, noted that the African Union (AU) is against the takeover of GMOs in the continent, hence the need for individual countries to be wary of its proliferation.

“If the AU is against the proliferation of GMO seeds and crops in our agriculture space, then African countries should be wary against its adoption.

“The adoption of GMOs by local farmers will not be beneficial to our food security or agriculture sector in the long run.

“Unfortunately, the adoption of GMOs is already legalised, without appropriate education of local farmers on what they are cultivating,” he said.

Adebayo said the need for continuous advocacy of the ills of GMOs should be prioritised.

The expert called for the education of local farmers on the components of GMOs and advocacy against its adverse effects on humans.

“Currently, most knowledgeable agriculture stakeholders have been making agitation to undo the signing into law of GMOs in the Nigerian constitution.

“These agitations against GMOs should go beyond lip service because people do not even know the components of what they are consuming daily.

“Not in a bid to sound alarmists on the dangers of GMOs to human health and the agric space as a whole, but people need to be aware of what they are eating, it is fair enough that people know what they are using their money to buy.

“That is why we are very vocal and we are educating people, via every medium to advocate a against GMOs, so people understand exactly what is going on.

“As a centre, we are doing a lot of work, but the media also needs to join in the advocacy against GMOs,” the expert said.

By Mercy Omoike

NNPC, FIRST E&P announce oil discovery in OML 85

Michael Simire
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NNPC, FIRST E&P announce oil discovery in OML 85

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture (JV) have made a significant hydrocarbon discovery in the Songhai Field, located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 85. The milestone is seen as a critical step in the JV’s ongoing efforts to boost oil production and sustainability over the next five years.

Mele Kyari
GCEO, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari

The well, which was spudded on November 18, 2024, has been drilled to a total depth of 8,883 feet in 30 meters of water. It encountered hydrocarbons across eight reservoirs, logging over 1,000 feet of hydrocarbon-bearing sands, most of which exhibit excellent reservoir properties. Preliminary analysis indicates substantial oil and gas volumes, confirming the field’s significant commercial potential.

Segun Owolabi, General Manager of Exploration and Development at FIRST E&P, described the discovery as a major achievement for the JV.

“This discovery marks a major milestone in our efforts to unlock the full potential of our assets,” Owolabi said. “The success at Songhai Field underscores the effectiveness of our exploration strategy and our commitment to delivering sustainable value to all stakeholders.”

NNPC Limited, as the majority partner in the JV, emphasised the strategic importance of the find, particularly in supporting Nigeria’s production growth and cost optimisation targets.

Seyi Omotowa, Chief Upstream Investment Officer at NNPC Limited, highlighted that the success aligns with the company’s broader upstream objectives.

“This aligns with NNPC Limited’s mandate to drive production growth and cost optimization,” Omotowa said. “The success at Songhai Field reflects our commitment to strategic partnerships, advanced technology, and efficient operations to maximize Nigeria’s hydrocarbon potential sustainably.”

Mallam Mele Kyari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, further stressed the significance of collaboration in expanding Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves.

“This discovery reaffirms the potential of Nigeria’s offshore assets and the importance of collaboration in boosting reserves and production,” Kyari noted. “NNPC Limited remains committed to driving efficiency and long-term value creation for the nation.”

Currently, the JV maintains a steady daily production of approximately 57,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) from its OML 83 and 85 assets. The new discovery in the Songhai Field is expected to further enhance production and contribute to Nigeria’s energy security.

The discovery also highlights the importance of operational excellence and safety. The JV has achieved over 9 million man-hours of Lost Time Injury (LTI)-free operations, setting a high standard for safe and responsible hydrocarbon development.

This achievement strengthens Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and underscores the JV’s role in supporting the Federal Government’s goal of increasing national hydrocarbon production and reserves while ensuring sustainable energy growth.

NAF to investigate Ikeja Electric invasion, apologises for officers’ actions

Michael Simire
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NAF to investigate Ikeja Electric invasion, apologises for officers’ actions

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has vowed to investigate and sanction officers involved in the invasion of Ikeja Electric’s premises in Lagos on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Nigerian Air Force (NAF)
Ikeja Electric and Nigerian Air Force (NAF) officials

Speaking at a press briefing, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Adeniran Kolade Ademuwagun, Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Logistics Command, condemned the incident and reassured the public of the NAF’s commitment to discipline and professionalism.

“We will investigate what happened and impose appropriate sanctions. The Nigerian Air Force takes the safety of citizens very seriously, and Ikeja Electric should continue providing services without fear of disturbance,” Ademuwagun said.

He further apologised to Ikeja Electric, describing the invasion as unfortunate.

“The Nigerian Air Force is a disciplined force, and any action that undermines our integrity will not be tolerated,” he added.

Chairman of Ikeja Electric, Kola Adesina, revealed that at least 10 employees were injured, while company assets were vandalised or taken.

“About 200 staff were on-site when the incident occurred. Reports confirmed that 10 individuals were brutalised, and several office assets were destroyed or removed,” Adesina stated.

He linked the invasion to a long-standing N4 billion debt dispute between NAF and Ikeja Electric but confirmed ongoing discussions to resolve the matter.

“We recognise the Air Force’s importance, but electricity services must be paid for,” Adesina emphasised.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue and finding a sustainable solution for stable electricity supply.

African national oil companies drive exploration, production through IOC collaboration

Michael Simire
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African national oil companies drive exploration, production through IOC collaboration

Africa’s national oil companies (NOCs) are moving beyond operating as state-representatives by transforming themselves into competitive upstream players. By strengthening their balance-sheets through partial privatisation, transferring their regulatory roles to independent entities and acquiring more assets, NOCs are emerging as strong partners for foreign firms.

ConocoPhillips
Libya’s NOC is working with IOCs Repsol, bp, TotalEnergies and ConocoPhillips

Boosting Production

Major oil producers in Africa are striving to boost production and NOC-IOC collaboration is at the forefront. Libya’s NOC is working with IOCs (international oil companies) Repsol, bp, TotalEnergies, ConocoPhillips and more to increase output to two million barrels per day (bpd). In collaboration with the NOC, TotalEnergies has achieved a 20% increase in production at the Waha field; Repsol plans to drill nine new prospects in 2025; while Eni is planning four exploration wells in 2025.

Algeria’s Sonatrach will increase hydrocarbon production by 2.5% this year, actively pursuing international partnerships following a revision of its Hydrocarbons Law in 2029. Negotiations are underway with ExxonMobil and Chevron to boost exploration. These efforts reflect a broader trend across the continent, where NOCs are leaning on foreign partnerships to advance oil and gas production.

Advancing Gas Monetisation

Amid a surge in gas monetisation, Africa has emerged as a major LNG producer. Collaboration between NOCs and IOCs have been at the forefront of this gas drive, leading to the emergence of new LNG exporters.

Senegal’s Petrosen and Mauritania’s SMH worked alongside bp and Kosmos Energy to develop the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project – situated on the maritime border of the two countries and producing first LNG in January 2025.

Mozambique’s ENH is working closely with foreign operators to develop several LNG projects, including TotalEnergies (Mozambique LNG); ExxonMobil (Rovuma LNG) and Eni (Coral South and Coral North). The 3.4 mtpa Coral South FLNG project has been operating since 2022 while ExxonMobil plans to make FID on Rovuma LNG in 2026.

The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation is developing the Tanzania LNG project, working with Shell and Equinor to monetise resources in Blocks 1, 2 and 4. While development has been delayed, the operators remain committed to collaboratively bringing the project online.

In Angola, which has been an LNG producer since 2013, the NOC Sonangol is working with its New Gas Consortium partners Azule Energy, Cabinda Gulf Oil Company and TotalEnergies to increase LNG production capacity. The partners completed the offshore platform for Angola’s first non-associated gas project in February 2025, with production on track for early-2026.

Unlocking New E&P Markets

A slate of discoveries in recent years have opened up new oil and gas plays across the continent. Following an increase in its oil and gas budget from $120 million to $246 million for the 2024/2025 period, the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) is driving exploration across underexplored areas in the country. In partnership with TotalEnergies and CNOOC, the company will start production at the Kingfisher and Tilenga oilfields in 2025. UNOC is also advancing exploration in the Moroto-Kyoga basins, with preliminary studies aimed at uncovering new oil fields.

In Namibia, NAMCOR is working with IOCs toward first oil production from the Orange Basin by 2029. Major projects include the Mopane field, which made its third discovery last month, and the Venus field, which targets FID in 2026. The company aims to secure higher stakes in future oil and gas projects – increasing its share from the minimum 10% to between 20-30% – underscoring a commitment to greater participation in field development.

Meanwhile, the South Africa National Petroleum Company (SANPC) – launched in September 2024 – strives to facilitate greater investment in exploration, natural gas monetisation and infrastructure development.

While major gas deposits were found in the Outeniqua Basin in 2019 and 2020, operational challenges have impacted development. The SANPC seeks to address these challenges through IOC collaboration and foreign investment. The company also strives to unlock the potential of the Orange Basin.

Fostering Collaboration at African Energy Week 2025

As the largest energy event in Africa, African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies facilitates collaboration between Africa’s NOCs and international operators. Taking place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3, 2025, the event offers a platform for strategic dialogue, networking and dealmaking.

“African NOCs are driving the continent’s next wave of innovative oil and gas developments. By partnering with global operators and strengthening their operational capacity, NOCs are not only driving projects forward but showcasing the competitiveness of African operators,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.  

UN-Habitat launches waste-to-energy project in Tunisia

Michael Simire
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UN-Habitat launches waste-to-energy project in Tunisia

UN-Habitat has launched a pioneering waste-to-energy project in Tunisia, converting landfill biogas into clean electricity. The initiative, implemented at the Oued Laya controlled landfill, marks a significant step in addressing the country’s waste management and energy challenges.

Tunis
Tunis, Tunisia

Tunisia has been facing a growing waste management crisis, with accumulating waste since 2022 deteriorating air and water quality. Landfill emissions, particularly biomethane, pose severe environmental and health risks. At the same time, Tunisia imports nearly 60 per cent of its electricity, underscoring the need for alternative energy sources.

The new project, implemented in collaboration with national and international partners, utilises a 50 kW micro-cogeneration unit to capture and process landfill biogas. The system generates 60 kWh of electricity daily – enough to supply power to 500 homes annually. If expanded, it has the potential to provide electricity for 22,000 homes each year, reducing dependence on imported energy and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Advancing sustainability and energy security

The project demonstrates how waste can be transformed into a valuable energy source, contributing to a circular economy. By mitigating toxic emissions and generating clean electricity, it improves air quality, reduces environmental hazards, and supports sustainable urban development.

The official launch event brought together key stakeholders, including the Japanese Ambassador to Tunisia, representatives from the National Agency for Waste Management (ANGED), the National Agency for Energy Management (ANME), and other partners. Attendees toured the landfill and witnessed the first-ever connection of a biogas unit to Tunisia’s national electricity grid, marking a milestone in the country’s renewable energy transition.

“Transforming waste into renewable energy not only reduces emissions but also establishes a model of resilience and sustainability that can inspire similar efforts across Tunisia and beyond,” said Mr. Majdi Frihi, project lead at UN-Habitat Tunisia.

Japan’s Ambassador to Tunisia, Mr. Takeshi Osuga, highlighted the initiative’s significance: “This project marks Tunisia’s first initiative to convert waste into renewable energy. I am pleased to see the recommendation of the Tunis Declaration from TICAD 8 materializing in collaboration with our trusted partners, including UN-Habitat, the Ministry of Environment, Tunisian Company of Electricity and Gas (STEG), the Governorate of Sousse, and ANGED.”

The waste-to-energy project sets the foundation for similar initiatives across Tunisia, demonstrating the potential of innovative solutions to tackle environmental challenges while advancing clean energy and sustainability.

IWD 2025: Forum champions gender equality, economic growth, environmental action

Michael Simire
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IWD 2025: Forum champions gender equality, economic growth, environmental action

In celebration of International Women’s Month 2025, UNIDO Philippines, in partnership with Artisanal Gold Council Philippines, BAN Toxics, and Clean Air Asia, hosted “Unite for All Women: A Just, Green, and Inclusive Economy!” – a forum that spotlights women’s leadership in driving environmental sustainability and economic development.

Unite for All Women
Participants at the Unite for All Women forum

The event at Novotel Manila Araneta City Hotel gathered around 200 representatives from government agencies, local government units, local and international development organisations, private sector groups, academia and grassroots communities.

It highlighted the vital role women play across various industries – from artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) to healthcare waste management, to electric vehicle and public transport industries – in advancing inclusive and sustainable industrialisation in the country.

“Women are powerful agents of change. By championing gender inclusion in environmental sustainability and industrial development, we unlock women’s potential as innovators and decision-makers – driving solutions that accelerate climate action, strengthen community resilience, and create a greener, more equitable future for all,” said Teddy Monroy, UNIDO Philippines Country Representative

The forum featured three UNIDO implemented projects funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF): the planetGOLD Philippines Project on mercury-free artisanal small-scale gold mining, the Philippine Healthcare and Mercury Wastes Management Project (HCW Project), and the Accelerating the adoption and scale-up of electric mobility for low-carbon city development in the Philippines (e-mobility ASAP Project) promoting the development of electrification of our transport sector.

Through panel discussions, and parallel sessions, women leaders from these sectors shared their experiences, challenges and achievements, and visions for a more inclusive future.

“Women’s leadership in the ASGM sector goes beyond breaking stereotypes – they are at the forefront of promoting mercury-free mining practices, protecting natural resources, and uplifting mining communities.

“Their participation ensures that small-scale mining becomes formalised, safer, more responsible, and community-centered,” said Abigail Ocate, National Project Manager for the planetGOLD Philippines Project of Artisanal Gold Council Philippines.

The event’s parallel sessions focused on women’s contributions in key sectors: artisanal small-scale gold mining, healthcare waste management, and automotive and public transport sectors. BAN Toxics facilitated discussions on the impact of healthcare waste on women and their role in driving solutions, while Clean Air Asia engaged participants on gender dynamics and challenges in the transport sector.

“Women make up 75% of the health profession and as a result, improper healthcare waste management can significantly impact women’s health. Women’s involvement in addressing healthcare waste management is critical in building more resilient and healthier communities.  Their leadership drives solutions that safeguard both the environment and public health,” shared Jam Lorenzo, Deputy Executive Director of BAN Toxics and HCW Project Manager.

Ahn Meg Adonis, Sustainable Transport Lead of Clean Air Asia, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in e-mobility, stating, “As we work to jumpstart the local electric vehicle manufacturing industry and advocate for public transport electrification, integrating gender perspectives and empowering women in critical industries ensures that the benefits of e-mobility are accessible and equitable for all.”

During the closing ceremonies, Artisanal Gold Council Philippines together with women miners from project sites, Paracale, Camarines Norte and Sagada, Mt. Province, launched an original song “Isulong ang Pagkilos (Ginto ng Bayan)” – a call to support and accelerate action for women to achieve holistic change in the industries. The song highlights women’s vital contributions and the need to advance gender equality in small-scale mining and other sectors.

By amplifying women’s voices and leadership, “Unite for All Women” reinforces the essential role of women in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The forum served as a platform for collective action – encouraging partnerships and concrete solutions to break down gender barriers and promote women’s equal participation in environmental action and economic development and ensure no one is left behind.

Nigeria close to achieving food security – Minister

Michael Simire
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Nigeria close to achieving food security – Minister

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of President Bola Tinubu to ensuring that every Nigerian citizen has unfettered access to abundant and nutritious food.

Sen. Abubakar Kyari
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security

Kyari made this known at the launch of 2025 dry season farming and distribution of Ramadan Palliatives to people of Kebbi State by Gov. Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, March 6.

“President Tinubu has consistently provided conducive environment and empowerment to farmers to increase yields towards the attainment of food security which is already on the horizon.

“The Federal Government will continue to work together with states and local government councils to bring prosperity through agricultural production.

“I commend the initiative of our amiable and esteemed Kebbi Governor, Nasir Idris, for placing premium on developing the agricultural sector which witnessed bumper harvests and reduction of food prices.

“The emphasis attached to dry season farming is a portent vehicle for food security,” the minister said.

Kyari expressed delight over the distribution of thousands of water pumping machines, sprayers and power tillers as well as thousands of litres of herbicides, pesticides and organic fertilisers by the present administration.

Launching the distribution exercise, Gov. Idris, said the government was aware of the challenges of dry season farming by farmers that necessitated his administration to provide them with the required agricultural inputs to reduce hardship in cultivation.

“Last year, I launched the KADAGE programme in tandem with the policy of Tinubu administration to revolutionise the agricultural sector towards food sufficiency and improve the wellbeing of farmers and youths.

“The agricultural landscape has witnessed positive changes in Kebbi with the distribution of free fertilisers to farmers, provision of inputs including improved rice seeds as well as pests control that destroy crops, especially millet and rice.

“My administration is fully aware that agriculture is the major platform for economic development of our nation.

“I am thankful to President Tinubu, the Minister of Agriculture and the National Council on Agriculture, for approving the use of residual moisture for Agricultural production in Kebbi for 15,000 farmers affected by flooding last year to mitigate losses incurred,” he said.

On Ramadan Palliatives, Idris, announced that all segments of the society had been considered for allocation.

“Civil Servants, teachers, local government staff, House of Assembly, NLC/TUC, members of the executive council, security services, traditional institutions, army widows, police widows, boards and agencies as well as residents of all the polling units in the state are beneficiaries.

“Commissioners and other top government officials involved in the distribution have been taken care of.

“No commissioner, Adviser or any political appointee should touch anything out of these palliative items.

“Some commissioners or otherwise are reported to be saying that, they are not benefitting from office, but that’s untrue; all rights and privileges of government functionaries are well protected by my administration.

“Whoever feels that he’s not getting enough, should resign from his/her position and vacate the office,” the governor said.

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, warned that security agencies had been empowered to arrest any person selling off the agricultural items provided to them.

The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Shehu Ma’azu, recalled that the state started its dry season farming’s drive, sustained and intensified during the tenure of former Governors Adamu Aleiro, Sa’idu Dakingari, Sen. Atiku Bagudu respectively.

“Kebbi is indeed a hub for agriculture, and agricultural bright  landscape of the country by sustaining and intensifying the initiative by Gov. Idris-led administration,” he said.

Muazu urged the beneficiaries to utilise the gesture to cushion the effects of challenges faced during Ramadan as well as dry season farming in the state.

By Ibrahim Bello

Concern as US withdraws from Just Energy Transition Partnership

Michael Simire
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Concern as US withdraws from Just Energy Transition Partnership

The United States has announced its withdrawal from the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) with South Africa, signaling what looks like a troubling retreat from global climate leadership and an abandonment of vital financial commitments to the world’s most climate-impacted nations.

Donald Trump
President Donald Trump signs an executive order as he attends an indoor Presidential Inauguration parade event at Capital One Arena, on January 20, 2025, in Washington. Photo credit: Evan Vucci/AP

South Africa, the first country to secure a JETP agreement, was set to receive over $1.5 billion in financial support from the US to transition from coal to renewable energy; however, their exit now leaves a significant funding gap.

This decision follows a troubling pattern of the United States rolling back its climate commitments, including its earlier announcement to exit the Paris Agreement.

According to 350Africa, the US’s pullback from the JETP marks a dangerous precedent, particularly as the world faces an escalating climate crisis and growing inequality.

Landry Ninteretse, 350Africa’s Regional Director, said: “By withdrawing from the JETP, the United States is abandoning its responsibility to support countries like South Africa, which are on the frontlines of the climate crisis and will now face an even steeper climb in achieving its clean energy commitments.

“This is a regressive step, and a betrayal of the trust placed in wealthy nations to honour their financial obligations towards the global transition to clean energy. The US must recognise that climate justice requires concrete, sustained support for developing nations, not retreat from multilateral commitments.”

Tshepo Peele, South Africa Team Lead, said: “While the US withdrawal from JETP certainly impacts the financial framework for South Africa’s energy transition, the urgency of a just, renewable-powered future remains unchanged. South Africa must continue to honour its climate commitments, and this moment should push the government to accelerate its plans for a green economy, moving away from coal and scaling up renewables.

“With South Africa hosting the G20 this year, it presents a crucial opportunity to strengthen the country’s climate leadership, advocate for increased international support, and prioritise forging new, stronger partnerships with countries and institutions committed to ensuring a just and equitable energy transition.”

350Africa calls on South Africa and its remaining international partners to ensure the momentum of the energy transition is not stalled.

“South Africa’s commitment to a clean and equitable energy future is more important than ever, and efforts must be made to secure alternative sources of funding to fill the gap left by the US’s retreat,” submitted the group.

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