The African Trade & Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI), an investment, trade and political risk mitigation institution, has approved a $84 million counter-guarantee to support three local Rwandan banks and one regional bank in issuing bonds and guarantees totaling over $322 million. These guarantees have been extended to a joint venture of three contractors undertaking the construction of the New Bugesera International Airport, a transformative project poised to elevate Rwanda as a strategic hub for trade and logistics in Africa.
An impression of Rwanda’s new airport in Bugesera
The project, jointly developed by the Governments of Rwanda and Qatar, is said to be a vital infrastructure that will accelerate Rwanda’s Vision 2050, its national strategy to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income economy by 2050. The airport is also aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, facilitating the free movement of goods, services and people across the continent.
The airport, which is valued over $2 billion, is scheduled for completion by mid-2028. ATIDI’s cover supports the three local banks including BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, Bank of Kigali (BK), and the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), benefitted directly from ATIDI’s risk mitigation, enabling them to issue guarantees beyond their Single Obligor Limits (SOL). The de-risking provided by ATIDI offers banks capital relief while ensuring smoother execution of infrastructure projects.
The lending consortium led by BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, acting as Mandated Lead Arranger and Facility Agent on behalf of the contractors, also includes KCB Bank Kenya, a regional lender, which participated in the syndicate without recourse to ATIDI’s guarantee.
Commenting on the deal, ATIDI Chief Executive Officer, Manuel Moses, said it was a great privilege for ATIDI to partner in Rwanda’s transformation and continental ambitions through this critical and catalytic project, a central piece of the country’s development strategy.
“The new airport is not just about infrastructure; it’s about unlocking regional value chains and ensuring Africa trades more with itself. Our support demonstrates the value addition of ATIDI’s de-risking solutions in scaling up lending capacity and unlocking financing by banks to Rwanda’s development priorities,” Mr. Manuel said.
Patience Mutesi, Managing Director of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc (the Mandated Lead Arranger), welcomed the deal saying, “We are honoured to lead this transformational financing effort. As Mandated Lead Arranger, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc is proud to play a pivotal role in unlocking capital for a project that will reshape Rwanda’s connectivity and competitiveness. This collaboration with ATIDI and our partner banks reflects our firm commitment to financing national development priorities and enabling long-term value through strategic infrastructure.”
The transaction is aligned with ATIDI’s strategic focus on empowering its member states to deliver impactful, transformative investments that spur growth, sustainability and regional integration. Rwanda, a founding member of ATIDI, has been a consistent partner in leveraging risk mitigation to unlock capital and de-risk essential sectors.
Currently, ATIDI has issued policies worth over $1.45 billion in transaction value and holds a gross exposure of over $611.9 million in Rwanda. These transactions span multiple sectors vital to the country’s development, including agriculture, forestry; fishing; construction; energy and gas; financial activities; information and communication; manufacturing; other services activities; public administration; trade and transportation; transporting and storage; as well as wholesale and retail trade.
This broad sectoral engagement demonstrates ATIDI’s critical and transversal role in de-risking investments and catalyzing trade, infrastructure and socio-economic development across Africa.
Cholera cases in Khartoum State in Sudan are declining following a 10-day vaccination campaign that reached more than 2.24 million people – achieving 96% coverage – in 12 hot spots in five at-risk localities. Together with response measures such as case management, surveillance, risk communication and community engagement, and improvements in access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene, the campaign contributed to a sustained fall in the number of new cases.
Cholera vaccination in Sudan
Before the campaign began, Khartoum State was registering up to 1,500 new cases a day. In the weeks following the campaign new cases continued to fall. There were just 10–11 new cases a day being registered by July 11, 2025.
A nationwide cholera outbreak
Though case numbers in Khartoum State have declined, the outbreak has spread to all but one – Central Darfur State – of Sudan’s 18 states. The spread to North, South, West and East Darfur states and to North, South and West Kordofan states is particularly concerning given limited access and the already dire humanitarian and health crises in these states.
“The World Health Organisation (WHO) is coordinating the response with Sudan’s health authorities and our teams are on the ground providing technical assistance and capacity-building. We are also dispatching cholera and other essential medical supplies to affected localities,” said WHO Representative in Sudan Dr Shible Sahbani. “We are exploring all possible ways to deploy medical supplies and technical support to the hard-to-reach Darfur and Kordofan states, including cross-border operations through Chad and South Sudan.”
By July 11, 2025, almost a year after the current wave of cholera outbreak started in late July 2024, the disease had infected 87 219 people and caused 2,260 deaths – a case fatality ratio of 2.6%. The outbreak is fueled by displacement, lack of access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene caused by the breakdown of water supply systems, and limited amounts of medical supplies for the management of cases. There have been two surges in cases since 2025, one in March and the second in May, likely linked to drone attacks on power and water system infrastructure which severely compromised access to safe water and adequate health care.
Expanding oral cholera vaccination coverage to curb the outbreak
WHO, with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), continues to support campaigns in other affected states, including a 10-day vaccination campaign in North Kordofan State in June, reaching more than 265,518 people and, since July 10, an ongoing campaign in Sennar targeting more than 500,000 people. An additional 3 million doses of vaccines have arrived in the country to cover three additional localities in Khartoum, and 500 000 doses are pending clearance to be deployed to South Darfur.
In light of the evolving epidemiological situation and the resurgence of cases in multiple conflict-affected regions, the International Coordinating Group on Vaccine Provision (ICG) Secretariat has approved the shipment of an additional 2.9 million doses of OCV vaccines for reactive campaigns in 11 high-risk localities in 7 affected states – Al Jazirah, East Darfur, South Darfur, North Kordofan, West Kordofan, White Nile and Sennar.
ICG has four member agencies: WHO, UNICEF, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).
WHO’s response to the cholera outbreak in Sudan, including vaccination campaigns, is possible through the financial support of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) and the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies (CFE).
Words cannot express the joy on the children’s faces at Wisdom Academy School in Igbudu, Warri, Delta State, following the installation of solar energy systems by Music Declares Emergency US and The ClimateMusic Project to enhance the pupils’ educational experience.
Students from Wisdom Academy School during the official unveiling of the Light-up Nigerian Rural Schools project in Warri, Delta State
It all started in 2024 when Nigerian musician Idowu Esuku, who resides in Lagos State, visited the school to launch the “Be Cool” Campaign. He has successfully established the “Be Cool Kids Club” both within the school and beyond as part of his efforts to enforce the objectives of this programme, a musical endeavour, which seeks to mobilise young voices in the fight against climate change and inspire them to advocate for a cooler planet.
Wisdom Academy, like many other schools in the majority of the nation’s rural areas, lacks access to essential amenities that facilitate efficient learning, such as electricity, fans and air-cooling conditions, and computers. During the tour, Esuku became irritated when he saw the students’ dehumanising learning conditions.
“I was inspired to light up Nigerian schools because when I see children in rural areas living without access to electricity, it really baffles me a lot,” he said in an interview on Friday, July 4, 2025, during the official launch of the Light-up Nigeria Schools Project in Delta State, which is supported by the Be Cool Campaign.
As an environmental rights activist who has travelled extensively to preach the message of climate change, he said he believes that renewable energy is a critical answer to the energy crisis that is currently threatening sustainable global development.
If the truth is to be told, the Wisdom Academy story is unquestionably one that requires urgent attention. The singer, who is popularly known as Mr. Climate-man, did, however, advise parents not to give up on their children’s academic situation because the solar power they have seen in the school is only the beginning of the project’s execution.
The campaign’s pop anthem – “I Wanna Be ’Cool” – was composed by award-winning songwriters Will Kimbrough and Brant Miller in collaboration with distinguished climate scientists. This song and music video, which has already received 136k+ YouTube views, featured Will Kimbrough and eight world-famous artists, including Jefferson Starship lead singer Cathy Richardson, six-time Grammy nominee John McCutcheon, violin pioneer Scarlet Rivera (formerly with Bob Dylan), and former “The Voice” contestant Raine Stern – plus 2,500 youngsters.
The video was shown at the 2025 EarthX Summit and on a daily basis at COP29 by We Don’t Have Time media. Be cool! The campaign advocates three global areas of action – civic engagement, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and climate education—and encourages everyone to engage with the following nonprofit organisations to help mitigate the growing climate crisis.
More than fifty Nigerian schools and thousands of Nigerian youths took part in the ‘I Wanna Be Cool’ song and music video.
So, it’s fitting that the Wisdom Academy’s low-cost solar power installation, the first of its kind in Nigeria, was carried out by Entric Power System Limited, a solar energy company that promises hope for many.
Jeru Ubrei-Joe, CODAF’s communication officer, is optimistic about the power of young voices and creativity to drive climate action.
According to him, this campaign demonstrates that youth can lead the charge for a cooler and more just planet by combining art and activism to campaign for emissions reductions, promote civic engagement, and demand systemic change.
“We’re not just dreaming of a greener future; we’re building it. Join us in amplifying these voices jointly,” Ubrei-joe stated in a press release made available to EnviroNews. “Let’s turn up the volume on climate justice and ensure every voice is heard because when youth lead, the world listens, and together there’s not one thing that we couldn’t do.”
Wetlands, which sustain life across the planet, are disappearing faster than any other ecosystem. A new report, the GlobalWetland Outlook2025:Valuing,conserving,restoringandfinancingwetlands(GWO2025), warns that, without urgent action, one fifth of the world’s remaining wetlands could vanish by 2050 – an ecological loss with massive social and economic consequences.
Hadejia Nguru Wetlands in Nigeria
The estimated cost of that loss is staggering: up to $39 trillion in benefits that support people, economies, and nature.
This warning comes from the GWO 2025, released on Tuesday, July 15, by the Convention on Wetlands, which builds on its 2018 and 2021 editions to offer the most comprehensive global assessment of wetlands to date. The report is being launched in the lead-up to the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Convention on Wetlands (COP15), which will take place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, from July 23 to 31, 2025.
Wetlands provide ecosystem services including clean water, food production, flood protection, and carbon storage that total more than 7.5% of global GDP, despite covering just 6% of the Earth’s surface. They also support a disproportionately high share of livelihoods across sectors like agriculture, aquaculture, and tourism. Yet every year, 0.52% of wetlands are lost, undermining efforts to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss.
“Wetlands bankroll the planet, yet we are still investing more in their destruction than in their recovery. The world is sitting on a $10 trillion opportunity – restoring wetlands could unlock these benefits, but we’re running out of time,” said Dr Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands.
The GWO 2025 presents the latest global data on wetland extent, loss, and degradation; the costs to society of losing wetland benefits; the targets required to conserve and restore wetlands; and the actions and financing solutions that can turn the tide for wetlands worldwide. It is intended as a resource for policymakers, investors, and practitioners working to align wetland action with climate, biodiversity, and development goals.
Drawing on the latest scientific data and economic valuations, the report finds that 22% of wetlands have been lost since 1970. That’s the equivalent of more than half a billion football pitches. One in four of the world’s remaining wetlands are already in poor ecological condition, and degradation is widespread across the world, with the steepest recent declines in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
“Wetlands are not a marginal issue. They are fundamental to the water cycle our planet depends on, for our global response to climate change, and are essential for the well- being of billions of people and protecting species under imminent threat of extinction. The scale of loss and degradation is beyond what we can afford to ignore. We have the knowledge and the tools to reverse these trends – what we need now is sustained investment and coordinated action,” said Dr Hugh Robertson, Chair of the Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP) of the Convention on Wetlands and lead author.
The report features a wide selection of case studies that demonstrate progress is possible – and prevention is cheaper than restoration, which can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $70,000 per hectare depending on the ecosystem. In Zambia’s Kafue Flats, an initial restoration project costing just $300,000 helped reactivate seasonal flooding and control invasive species.
Today, more than $1 million per year is invested in protecting biodiversity, water systems, and livelihoods for 1.3 million people – including artisanal fisheries valued at $30 million annually. It’s a costly fix, but far cheaper than losing those services entirely.
In East and Southeast Asia, the Regional Flyway Initiative is working to protect and restore over 140 priority wetlands along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, which supports 50 million migratory waterbirds and nearly 200 million people. Launched in 2021, the initiative brings together governments, development banks, and conservation partners to mobilise $3 billion in blended finance over 10 years. Early projects are already underway in Cambodia and China, with more set to follow across the region.
Four pathways to reversing wetland loss and unlocking nature-positive investment are outlined in the report:
Integrate wetland value in decision-making – treating wetlands as essential infrastructure in land-use, water, and economic planning.
Recognise wetlands as key to the global water cycle – for their role in storing, filtering, and regulating water.
Embed wetlands in innovative financing mechanisms – including carbon markets, resilience bonds, and blended finance.
Mobilise public and private resources for wetland restoration – through partnerships that fund action on the ground and support local communities.
The GWO 2025 makes it very clear: wetlands are disappearing, and with them, the water, food, and natural defenses that sustain life. The solutions exist and the roadmap is there – protect what remains, restore what has been lost, and secure a future where wetlands thrive.
The Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE) is asking citizens in Nigeria to contact their national negotiating Ministers and ask them to support a strong Plastics Treaty.
Plastic pollution
“Due to INC-5.2 being a high-stakes meeting, many ministers will be attending. We need to make sure that the ministers are feeling our pressure! We need everyone to help raise domestic political awareness so that ministers know what their citizens are demanding and that they know what to do to get a strong ambitious plastics treaty,” said Anthony Akpan, President of PAVE.
The second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-5.2), is scheduled to take place from August 5 to 14, 2025, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
The resumed session will be preceded by regional consultations on August 4, 2025.
Plastic pollution, has become a huge threat to the living environment, and the human health is not an exception. Evidence has shown that one-third of the plastic packaging that did not end in the landfill can circle the Earth as many as four times in a single year.
Plastic pollution has been noted to cause mortality of about one million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals every year. Considering the impact of pollution on the environment, it becomes imperative that the world takes concise actions in addressing it.
Akpand added: “Indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste affects the health of the environment in no small measure. Most used plastics litter the streets of most cities especially in developing countries where a waste management structure is often not in place. This litter of plastics pollute the natural environment, as well as reduces the aesthetics of our cities. In addition, plastic pollution is a major cause of ocean pollution.
“Evidence has shown that about 13 million tons of plastic wastes leak into our oceans. This causes a huge threat to biodiversity as it severely threatens marine wildlife. It saddens the heart to see how the marine ecosystem is being upset by the poor man-environment interaction.
“Beyond the deleterious effect on the environment, plastic pollution affects human health in no little way. Various research works have studied the impact of plastics on public health with overwhelming shreds of evidence. Plastics are often made of different kinds of chemicals and in various quantities. Many of these chemicals are of various concerns to the health of humans. When the plastics degrade in the environment, they often find their way to the food web and waterways where they can inadvertently enter our system (body), resulting in various health challenges.
“From the above, it is evident that plastic pollution is a serious concern both to the health of the environment and humans. It becomes necessary to have concerted measures to address this growing scourge. To address the effect of plastic pollution, we must begin to talk about it and be ready to change our attitude and behaviour towards plastic use in our daily lives and its associated waste disposal.
“Proper waste handling awareness and sensitisation programmes should be staged with the aim of changing people‟s behaviour. The government should improve plastic waste collection and processing systems so as to improve citizens‟ participation in the problem-solving process.
“The good news is that Heads of State, environment ministers and representatives from Nigeria and 174 other nations have endorsed a historic resolution at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA) in Nairobi to end plastic pollution and forge an international legally binding agreement, by the end of 2024.
“The resolution addresses the full lifecycle of plastic, including its production, design and disposal. The resolution, entitled, ‘End Plastic Pollution: Towards an Internationally Legally Binding Instrument’, was adopted at the conclusion of the three-day UNEA-5.2 meeting, attended by more than 3,400 in-person and 1,500 online participants from UN Member States, including 79 ministers and 17 high-level officials.
“The resolution, based on three initial draft resolutions from various nations, establishes an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), which has begun its work, aiming to complete a draft legally binding agreement by the end of 2024. But INC5 was not conclusive, hence the lead up to the second part of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-5.2), is scheduled to take place from 5 to 14 August 2025 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
“That in turn, is expected to present a legally binding instrument, which would reflect diverse alternatives to address the full lifecycle of plastics, the design of reusable and recyclable products and materials, and the need for enhanced international collaboration to facilitate access to technology, to allow the revolutionary plan to be realised.”
The Federal Government of Nigeria on Monday, July 14, 2025, began the understudy of the Lagos State Government Blue Economy project.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State
The understudy is being carried out by the participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC 57) of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the study tour at Ikeja, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG), said steps had been taken to harness the potential of the Blue Economy in an inclusive, innovative and sustainable manner.
The theme of the study tour is: “Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Prospects.”
Salu-Hundeyin said the theme of the tour spoke directly to the heart of Lagos’ development and aspirations as a coastal megacity and Centre of Excellence.
According to her, Lagos is blessed with over 180 kilometres of coastline, vast lagoons, creeks, and a thriving population of over 25 million inhabitants that depend on water-based resources for commerce, mobility, livelihood, and recreation.
“The Blue Economy, therefore, is not an abstract concept for us. It is a living and breathing part of our present and strategic future.
“Under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES PLUS Agenda, we have taken bold and practical steps to harness the potential of the Blue Economy in a manner that is inclusive, innovative, and sustainable.
“Some of our key achievements include the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which was inaugurated in 2023. It is West Africa’s most advanced deep-sea port, easing congestion in Apapa, attracting international maritime trade, and positioning Lagos as a logistics hub.
“Through our Lagos State Waterways Authority, we have expanded ferry services, constructed modern jetties, enforced water safety regulations, and strengthened marine emergency response under the State’s Inland Waterway Transportation,” she said.
Salu-Hundeyin said that this had greatly eased transportation system as it had created an alternative route for the people leaving across the water, improved the economy and manpower, and joined families together in a closer unit.
She said the ferry service, popularly called ‘Omi-Eko’ connected more communities daily, thus reducing traffic gridlock and contributing to carbon reduction goals.
Salu-Hundeyin said the government had invested heavily on shoreline defense projects, especially in erosion-prone areas like Lekki and Badagry, to safeguard assets and communities from the effects of climate change.
She said that Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s administration was also supporting Marine and Coastal Tourism Promotion by creating opportunities for local entrepreneurship and cultural experiences.
“This is through partnership with the private sector to boost investments in boat building, maritime logistics, fisheries, and waterfront infrastructure.
“In response to increasing demand for housing development, the state government in partnership with the private sector, created Island Estates from our waterfront to increase real estate and hospitality investment estates such as Orange Island, Gracefield Island, Lekki Foreshore, King Smart City, FBT Coral and Eko Atlantic City.
“Lagos State is committed to Waterway Sanitation and Marine Waste Management, as we constantly clean up our water ways to reduce pollution, and promote environmental sustainability.
“I am also proud to inform you that Lagos State is in the process of developing a formal Blue Economy policy framework that integrates economic growth with environmental stewardship and social inclusion.
“Distinguished participants, as you explore Lagos over the next four days, I encourage you to observe not only our infrastructure and innovations, but also our challenges, particularly in the areas of regulatory harmonisation, intergovernmental collaboration, funding mechanisms, and capacity development.
“These are vital considerations in shaping robust and implementable policy recommendations that can guide national progress,” Salu-Hundeyin said.
Also speaking, the Acting Director of Studies, NIPSS, Mrs Nima Salman-Mann, said the institute, as the foremost think tank of the federation, was assigned by the President to research important issues annually.
Salman-Mann said that going by the theme of blue economy, Lagos was highlighted as a crucial location for the study, due to its status as the Centre of Excellence and pace-setter for the country.
She said 14 participants from various backgrounds has been selected to spend a week, studying the blue economy strategies in Lagos.
According to her, the goal was to provide the Federal Government with content and recommendations on how Nigeria could diversify its revenue beyond oil.
“The blue economy is now the new gold, as it were, that is where countries are now looking into, to be able to expand their revenue base.
“We have been able to go on an African study tour, and some of us have gone on the intercontinental studies tour as well, and we have been able to see what other African countries have been able to do and do right.
“That is why we want to come and study Lagos, see what we can do. See your ports, see the aquamarine. There is a vast amount of knowledge and resources that can be made from the sea,” she said.
The Bauchi State Government says it has validated the Climate Change Policy to enhance food security in the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State
Mr. Danlami Kawule, Commissioner for Housing and Environment, stated this at a high-level workshop on climate change, on Monday, July 14, 2025, in Bauchi, the state capital.
The exercise was organised by the ministry in collaboration with the OXFAM and Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP).
He highlighted the devastating effects of climate change on agriculture and food systems precipitated by desertification and erratic rainfall, which reduced crop yields and threatened livelihoods.
“Our green areas are disappearing, farmlands are drying up, and food production is becoming increasingly uncertain,” he said.
According to Kawule, the Bauchi State Climate Change Policy is a strategic roadmap to mitigate these impacts, build agricultural resilience, and secure longterm food security.
“Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a threat to our food supply and economic stability.
“This policy will help us protect our people and their sources of livelihood,” he said.
Dr Michael David, Executive Director, GIFSEP, stressed the need for proactive measures to tackle climate induced food insecurity.
He noted that farmers in the state were already experiencing the consequences of reduced harvests, hunger and increased vulnerability.
The policy, he said, provided a framework for adaptive farming and climate smart agriculture to improved food systems.
Also, Kenneth Akpan of OXFAM, reiterated commitment to support grassroots climate resilience, adding that, “to end hunger, we must fight climate change.”
Earlier, Nasiru Umar, Director, Climate Change in the ministry, called for inclusive implementation of the policy, to engage women and youth, who made up the majority of the workforce in agriculture.
“They must be empowered with resources and training to adapt to the changing climate.”
The BRICS heads of state and government have endorsed the Tropical Forests Forever Fund, a Brazilian initiative designed to deliver large-scale, predictable, and performance-based payments to countries conserving tropical forests.
Tropical Forests Forever Fund: Participating countries will receive payments proportionate to the area of preserved tropical and subtropical moist forest
The heads of state and government of the BRICS bloc endorsed the initiative at the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro.
The fund aims to expand global forest cover while securing long-term environmental and climate stability, according to a report by the official website of the 2025 Brazil BRICS Presidency.
The Tropical Forests Forever Fund is set for official launch at COP30, scheduled for November 2025 in Belem, Brazil, under the country’s presidency.
The BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance, also released during the summit, highlighted the Tropical Forests Forever Fund as a promising blended finance instrument capable of generating predictable, long-term financial flows for forest protection.
Speaking at the summit, Brazil’s Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, Marina Silva, emphasised that the Global South is constructing a strategic mechanism that leverages public resources to attract private investment at a ratio of 1 to 4.
According to the source, unlike traditional mechanisms, the Tropical Forests Forever Fund functions as a revenue-generating investment mechanism rather than relying on donations.
It pays for measurable results, rewards preserved forests instead of avoided deforestation and integrates indigenous and traditional communities into decision-making processes.
At least 20 per cent of national payments will be allocated to these groups, in recognition of their essential role in forest stewardship.
Participating countries will receive payments proportionate to the area of preserved tropical and subtropical moist forest, with satellite-based verification ensuring deforestation remains below agreed thresholds.
Penalties will be applied for degraded or cleared land.
The Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) says it has concluded plans to establish an Emergency Operations Centre to boost its emergency response capabilities in the state.
L-R: Kogi SEMA Executive Secretary, Muktar Atima receiving souvenir from the Special Adviser to Kogi Governor on Media and Publicity
Executive Secretary of SEMA, Mr. Muktar Atima, said this while featuring on TalkTime, a current affairs programme on LugardTV on Monday, July 14, 2025, in Lokoja, the state capital.
Atima said that the centre, which would involve representatives from key ministries to ensure effective coordination, would be fully operational soon.
He said the agency had identified and prepared Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in strategic locations across the state, ahead of projected heavy rainfall.
“Over 258 communities along major waterways have been identified, and sensitisation campaigns are underway to disseminate vital information on relocation plans and precautionary measures.
“The agency has taken proactive steps, including engaging traditional rulers, youth groups, and religious leaders to educate communities on flood risks,” he said.
Atima said that while disasters couldn’t be completely prevented, proper education and timely preparation could significantly reduce their impact.
“During the 2024 flood, the agency activated 18 camps of the 42 camps initially prepared.
“The state Governor, Ahmed Ododo has ensured the provision of food, potable water, and healthcare, security and hygiene kits in all the camps.
“The agency, in collaboration with NEMA, has commenced the assessments of new areas such as Kabba and Ijumu Local Government Areas, where flash flood was recently recorded,” he added.
The SEMA executive secretary urged residents in vulnerable areas to heed early warnings, relocate when necessary, and cooperate with officials.
He also advocated improved community effort in maintaining drainages and relocating from high-risk areas.
He equally called for the construction of a dam around the Shintaku area of Lokoja to help divert water and reduce pressure from overflowing rivers.
Atima noted that the agency was working with the Ministry of Environment and other MDAs to strengthen its institutional response framework.
He assured that SEMA was committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of the people, and that the government was prepared to respond to emergencies.
Adebisi Opeyemi’s journey with Pemnia Wellness began as a simple NYSC project driven by her passion for food security and nutrition. Today, it has grown into a thriving agribusiness producing innovative, orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) products that tackle vitamin A deficiency while empowering women farmers in her community. Her success story was made possible by the BATN Foundation’s Farmers for the Future (F4F) programme, which provided the funding, business training, and mentorship that turned her vision into a viable enterprise
Adebisi Opeyemi
Tell us about Pemnia Wellness. How did your journey begin?
It was born out of a deep passion for food security, nutrition and community empowerment during my NYSC year in 2023. As a graduate of Crop Production, I was always concerned about the widespread issue of Vitamin A Deficiency (VAD) in Nigeria. During my service year, I discovered the potential of biofortified Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) to combat malnutrition and create economic opportunities.
I participated in the Farmers for the Future (F4F) and emerged as one of the winners. This win was the push that turned Pemnia Wellness from an idea to a real enterprise. What began as a small vision during NYSC is now a growing enterprise committed to sustainable nutrition and impactful agribusiness of providing nutritious OFSP-based products such as Vita Flour, Vita Meal, Vita Garri and Vita Crisps.
What role did the Farmers for the Future Grant play?
The Farmers for the Future (F4F) Grant was a game-changer for Pemnia Wellness. At the time we received the grant, we were still at the product development stage and struggling to find our place in the market. The grant provided us with the financial and strategic support needed to complete our product development, conduct trials and launch our Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP)-based products into the market.
Through the F4F programme, I also gained access to tailored business training, mentorship and practical exposure to food processing best practices, which helped me improve our production quality, develop proper branding and build systems for sustainability. We were also able to purchase essential equipment that allowed us to scale our operations modestly.
What’s the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
The most rewarding part of my journey has been seeing how Pemnia Wellness is creating real, measurable impact in people’s lives especially women and young people and creating market access to women in Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) cultivation. One unforgettable moment was when a respected entrepreneur recognized my brand before I introduced myself, it reminded me that our impact is being seen. Knowing that a product I started developing during NYSC is now helping to fight vitamin A deficiency and improve livelihoods in my community is fulfilling. That ripple effect of health, empowerment, and hope is the most priceless part of this journey.
What’s been your biggest win so far?
One of my biggest wins has been successfully taking Pemnia Wellness from product development to market launch, with over 256 units sold under 10 months purely through community marketing and referrals. This year, we proudly received the Outstanding Business Person Award by Business Women hub Nigeria, a powerful recognition of the impact we are making in agribusiness and nutrition. Another major milestone was securing our FDA approval, which has validated the quality and safety of our products and positioned us for wider market access. These wins, combined with our continuous efforts to empower women and youth in OFSP cultivation reflect the purposeful growth of Pemnia Wellness.
What was your experience like during the selection and training process?
The selection and training process for the Farmers for the Future Grant was transformative. From refining our business model during the pitch phase to going through the selection bootcamp, every stage challenged me to think deeper about Pemnia Wellness’s value, structure and long-term sustainability. The mentorship sessions helped sharpen our strategic thinking and product positioning, while the training provided practical insights into agribusiness management, branding and market access.
One of the most inspiring aspects was connecting with other young Agripreneurs who were equally passionate about transforming food systems in Nigeria.
What skill or lesson from F4F do you still use today?
One of the most valuable lessons I gained from the F4F programme is the importance of product market fit and strategic positioning. During the training, I learned how to refine my value proposition, validate market needs and tailor our messaging to target the right audience. This helped us align our OFSP-based products with health-conscious consumers and institutional buyers. The skills gained have enhanced our operational efficiency, minimized waste and made our business more attractive to partners and buyers.
What impact has the grant had on your business?
A lot! The Farmers for the Future (F4F) grant came in at the right time for Pemnia Wellness. At the time we received the grant, we didn’t yet have a market-ready product, just prototypes and a strong vision. The grant helped us complete product development for our orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) products; Vita Flour, Vita Meal, Vita Garri and Vita Crisps, and launch into the market with proper packaging, branding and initial market testing.
The funds enabled us to purchase critical processing equipments, conduct product nutritional analysis, register our trademark, and kickstart the regulatory processes. We began engaging paying customers, reaching over 100 people in first six months. We have since earned FDA approval and expanded brand recognition. The F4F grant funded our operations and gave us the credibility, exposure and momentum to grow an impactful agribusiness.
What do you tell people who say, “Agriculture isn’t for youth”?
I tell them they are seeing agriculture through an outdated lens. Agriculture today is a space for innovation, technology and real social impact. With the right mindset and platforms like Farmers for the Future, young people can build scalable, profitable, and purpose-driven ventures. Agriculture is the future and youth are the drivers of that transformation.
What challenges have you overcome, and how has the support from the program helped you navigate them?
One of our major challenges at Pemnia Wellness was completing product development without access to sufficient funding, setting up basic processing infrastructure and navigating regulatory requirements for market entry. We also struggled with limited market visibility and access to technical expertise. The Farmers for the Future (F4F) programme provided funding and clarity. The programme gave me the right tools, confidence, and network to transform our initial idea into a growing solution that addresses nutrition, food loss and youth empowerment.
Have you created jobs or mentored others?
Yes, today I employ three permanent staff who manage daily operations, production and logistics. Additionally, we engage 12 community women as seasonal workers during production periods, providing them with income opportunities and hands-on experience in food processing. Beyond employment, I actively mentor upcoming entrepreneurs who have been inspired by Pemnia Wellness. Many of them reached out after seeing our work and impacts and I have supported them with practical guidance, sharing insights on value addition, product development and navigating early-stage agribusiness challenges.
What does sustainable farming mean to you?
To me, sustainable farming means cultivating with care producing food in a way that nourishes people while preserving the environment and supporting local economies. It’s about minimizing waste, using clean energy and creating inclusive systems where women, youth and smallholder farmers can thrive economically.
What’s next for you and your business?
At Pemnia Wellness, the next phase is scaling our production capacity and expanding our reach beyond Oyo State into two new African markets in other states and countries through strategic partnerships. We are working towards getting NAFDAC and SON final approval to access larger retail chains, schools and hospitals. We also plan to set up a dedicated clean energy processing facility to improve efficiency and reduce post-harvest losses. Long-term, the goal is to become a model enterprise in biofortified food processing empowering youths, supporting smallholder farmers, and nourishing communities with nutritious food solutions.
What would you say to other youth or Corps Members considering applying for the next grant?
Go for it, this opportunity can be the turning point in your entrepreneurial journey. The Farmers for the Future (F4F) grant is a launchpad that provides training, mentorship, visibility and a supportive network. More details on the grant is available via the BATN Foundation mobile app or visit the website www.batnf.net/wealthishere I applied during my NYSC year with just a vision and today PEMNIA WELLNESS is a recognised brand driving nutrition, sustainability and youth empowerment. Be bold, stay clear on your goals and apply. Agribusiness is the future, and this programme is investing in the leaders who will shape it.
Any tips for new applicants?
Application for the 2025 edition is currently open and closes 20th July 2025. Focus on the problem you are solving, not just the product you are offering. Be clear about your value chain, your target beneficiaries, and how your idea creates real impact economically, socially, or environmentally. Use data or field experience to back up your claims. Show tractions, how your solution stands out and is scalable. And most importantly, be authentic, let your passion and purpose shine through.
