The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the increase in rig count from 19 to 40, with projections of reaching 50.
Ahmad Sajoh, Chairman, Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF)
Mr. Ahmad Sajoh, Chairman of the group, said in a statement on Thursday, March 6, 2025, that the achievement underscored the administration’s commitment to reviving Nigeria’s oil production capacity, strengthening economic resilience and fostering national prosperity.
“The activation of oil rigs is akin to drilling new wells, signifying renewed investment and confidence in the sector.
“This development is a clear indicator that oil production is on the rise, and with the projected increase in rig count, Nigeria is set for enhanced crude oil output, translating to greater national revenue and economic stability.
“It is also noteworthy that the increase in operational rigs suggests a reduction in oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which have long hampered production,” said TSF.
It added that the administration’s policies and actions in curbing illegal activities in the sector were yielding positive results, allowing rigs to function optimally and contribute to national output.
“The implications of this resurgence are far-reaching. With increased crude production, Nigeria stands to gain improved foreign exchange inflows, bolstering the Naira and easing the economic strain on citizens.
“The increased revenue stream will also facilitate more infrastructural development, job creation, and social investment programmes aimed at alleviating hardship and improving the standard of living for Nigerians.
“We remain confident that with sustained reforms and proactive governance, Nigeria’s oil industry will regain its position as a key driver of economic growth and national prosperity,” said the group.
It also reaffirmed its call for continued support for the administration’s efforts in revitalising the oil and gas sector.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to reduce greenhouse gas and carbon emissions in the industrial landscape in the country.
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, stated this at a stakeholder engagement workshop on the National Industrial Decarbonisation Programme (NIDP) on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Abuja.
Lawal, who was represented by Mr. Mahmud Kambari, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, said the workshop aimed to transitioning the country’s industrial sector towards a low-carbon economy.
He said that the engagement demonstrated government and stakeholders’ collective commitment to a sustainable and environmentally responsible industrial sector in Nigeria.
Lawal said that industrial activities played a significant role in driving economic growth, employment and national development.
“However, they also contribute substantially to greenhouse gas emissions, leading to climate change and environmental degradation,” he said.
The minister said that the inauguration of the NIDP marked a strategic step in Nigeria’s journey to achieving net- zero emissions.
“Through this initial, we aim to facilitate the adoption of cleaner technologies, promote resource efficiency and support industries in transitioning towards low- carbon operations.
“On our part, the federal government, through the ministry of environment and it’s agencies, remain committed to creating an environment for industries to thrive sustainably,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr Innocent Barikor, the Director-General, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), said the event marked a pivotal moment toward a sustainable and resilient future for Nigeria.
“The National Industrial Decarbonisation Programme represents our firm commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning our industrial sector towards a low-carbon economy,” he said.
Barikor said the initiative was in line with Nigeria’s international obligations under the Paris Agreement, as well as the country’s ambitious domestic target of achieving net zero emissions by 2060.
“By adopting decarbonisation strategies and establishing a clear regulatory framework, we can significantly mitigate these emissions while simultaneously enhancing our competitiveness in international markets.
“The road to industrial decarbonisation is challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities that promise to deliver long-term environmental and economic benefits.
“By working together, we can ensure that our industries not only comply with global standards but also thrive in a low-carbon economy,” he said.
Earlier, Rep. Garba Mohammed, Chairman, NESREA’s Governing Board, said that the event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable industrial development and environmental stewardship.
He said that the initiative aimed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and transitioning the country’s industries toward a greener future.
“Our industrial sector is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, yet it is also a significant source of carbon emissions.
“It is incumbent upon us as custodians of the environment to lead the charge in transforming industrial practices, adopting cleaner technologies, enhancing energy efficiency, and establishing robust mechanisms for compliance and carbon credit trading,” he said.
Programme Officer of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) Nigeria, Dr Abraham Isah, has urged Northern governors to adopt the planting of Tela maize seeds in their states to enhance food security.
Tela maize farm
Isah, who also serves as the Public Relations Officer of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria, made this call during a chat with newsmen after inspecting a Tela maize farm in Mashanono community, Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
He expressed satisfaction with the crop’s growth and encouraged other farmers to cultivate it for maximum profit at the end of the season.
According to him, Tela maize is a transgenic, insect-resistant, and drought-tolerant variety that should be widely adopted, particularly in Northern Nigeria, to help farmers mitigate the challenges posed by climate change.
“We are here to gather farmers’ experiences with planning transgenic crops, especially the resistant coffee beans and the Tela maize on how it has impacted on their lives and the community.
“And to find out on speculation that farmers may not want to plant local crops after planting transgenic crops”, he said.
According to Isah, the northern region experiences a high percentage of favourable climatic conditions, making it suitable for drought-resistant crops that require minimal water.
“And of course, this is beneficial for any region with insufficient rainfall,” he said.
He urged Northern governors to take advantage of these crops by ensuring their availability to farmers in their respective states and by educating them on the benefits of cultivating Tela maize.
He also reassured farmers that these crops were safe and healthy, advising them not to heed misinformation claiming that transgenic crops caused infertility, cancer, or other health issues.
Alhaji Usman Abubakar, a farmer, shared his success story with transgenic crops, stating that he planted improved cotton and maize seeds and had been recording significant profits at the end of each season.
According to him, when he previously planted local cotton seeds, he harvested only eight kilogrammes per hectare. However, with the improved seed variety, his yield increased to 4.5 tons per hectare.
Abubakar added that his profits enabled him to sponsor his three children at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), with two already graduated. Additionally, Abubakar said he had funded the drilling of eight boreholes in his community and undertaken other charitable projects through his foundation.
He noted that his success led to his appointment as an adviser to the Adamawa State Governor on Agriculture and Entrepreneurship Development.
“And for the maize, you have seen the difference for yourself. The local maize was damaged by pests, while the Tela maize remained pest-free and grew much better,” he stated.
The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has urged the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to commence the clean-up of communities affected by its oil spill and fire incident.
The Nigerian House of Representatives in session
Rep. Julius Gbabojor, Chairman of the committee, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Abuja, said this was the resolution of the committee, following a hearing over a petition against activities of the NNPC Eighteen Operating Limited (NEOL).
The spillage happened at Well 8, Bukuma, in the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Gbabojor directed the NNPCL and NEOL to immediately provide an urgent intervention by supplying relief materials to the affected communities.
The chairman explained that the committee had granted the request for a three-week extension to NNPCL and NEOL, for a fair hearing and the right of reply on the engagements.
“As you may be aware, this Hearing is convened by the Committee on Environment, to address a formal complaint against NNPC Eighteen Operating Limited (NEOL).
“This is regarding the spill and fire incident at Well 8, Bukuma, Degema LGA in Rivers, filed by Messrs Anosike Egbuchiwe & Associates, Legal Practitioners on behalf of the Friends of Eco Life and the affected communities.
“A gas leak was reported on Dec. 1, 2024, at OML 18, Well 8, Bukuma, Degema LGA in Rivers.
“Thereafter, a Joint Investigation Team (JIT), comprising the NNPC NEOL, NOSDRA, NUPRC, Rivers State Ministry of Environment, and the representatives of Bukuma community visited the site on Dec. 6, 2024, during which certain directives were issued to the operators to forestall further escalation”
“The incident had resulted in air pollution and significant contamination of bodies of water and farmland, leading to the loss of biodiversity and marine habitats.
‘’This had exposed both Indigenous people and residents of Bukuma and its environs to grave health risks and environmental hazards,” he said.
Gbabojor explained that the devastation occasioned by the incident could only be imagined.
According to him, the affected communities have been languishing in squalor, considering that for over three months, economic activities centred on farming and fishing came to an abrupt halt.
He lamented that the community as a result had no access to safe drinking water, medical care, or the basic necessities of life.
“In response to our invitation to today’s Hearing, the NNPCL in a letter dated March 4, conveyed their inability to attend today’s engagement and sought an extension for three weeks, to enable them provide necessary information and appear accordingly,” Gbabojor said.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has reiterated its commitment to boosting investments in Africa’s energy sector and scaling up climate financing through its newly launched “Mission 300 initiative” ahead of COP30.
AfDB Vice-President, Nnenna Nwabufo
AfDB Vice-President, Nnenna Nwabufo, made this known in a statement on the bank’s website at the 2025 Finance in Common Summit.
She stressed the need for urgency to address energy access challenges, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 600 million people remain without electricity.
She underscored the critical role of Local Finance Institutions (LFIs) in bridging the energy financing gap and promoting sustainable solutions.
“LFIs are the lifeblood of our economies, possessing a unique understanding of local contexts, needs, and opportunities.
“They are essential for mobilising the necessary capital, fostering local entrepreneurship, and scaling sustainable energy projects,” she said.
Nwabufo highlighted that Mission 300, backed by the World Bank, AfDB, and other development partners was aimed at providing electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030.
”The initiative builds on commitments made during the Mission 300 Energy Summit in January, where 48 African Heads of State pledged to accelerate policy reforms and 12 countries outlined National Energy Compacts,” she said.
In spite of significant progress, she said financing remained a major challenge, particularly for last-mile connectivity and off-grid solutions.
Nwabufo said that experts at the summit underscored the need for innovative financing models, concessional funding, blended finance, and risk-mitigation mechanisms to attract private investment.
“Traditional financing models often fall short in meeting the specific needs of local communities and small-scale energy project, this is where LFIs, with their local expertise, can make a transformative difference,” she added.
With the Mission 300 initiative gaining momentum, stakeholders remain optimistic that concerted efforts and strong partnerships will drive Africa toward universal energy access by 2030.
Ogun State Government says it has sealed two firms over industrial accidents that resulted in fatalities.
Gov Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State
Chairman of the State Task Force on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, Farook Akintunde, made this known in a statement on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Abeokuta, the state capital.
Akintunde names the firms as: Quantum Steel Industry in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area and Xinfeng Plastics Limited on the Lagos -Ibadan Expressway.
He said that Quantum Steels was shut down over an industrial explosion which resulted in fatalities, with some victims still hospitalised while Xinfeng Plastics was equally sealed after a machine operator lost his life due to electrocution.
Akintunde said that government took the decision to seal the companies in order to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the incidents and proffer solutions to avert future occurrence.
“As a government, we are determined to conduct credible and diligent investigations, including inviting external safety experts to get to the root cause of these incidents in the overriding public interest and safety.
“What is even painful is that despite state government’s regular visits to these companies to educate them on the need to adhere strictly to safety procedures, such incidents still occurred within their production lines, hence the need to close them down,” Akintunde said.
According to him, the two companies would remain shut until investigations are concluded and new safety protocols entrenched in them.
Akintunde warned other companies in the state to take safety of their workers seriously, especially those in the production line.
Africa’s role in global climate discussions recently got a boost, with conversations between the African Union (AU) and Russia signaling a new phase of collaboration.
Ongoing talks to advance equitable climate policies and ensure that Africa’s interests are better represented internationally
Mr. Ali Daoud Mohamed, Chair of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change and Special Climate Envoy of the President of Kenya, recently led high-level discussions in Moscow, meeting with key Russian officials, including Mr. Ruslan Edelgeriyev, the Russian Presidential Representative on Climate Issues, and Mr. Alexander Novak, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia. The talks centred on bridging the gap between African climate priorities and global climate action mechanisms.
Climate Justice Takes Centre Stage
A significant point of discussion was the historical responsibility of Western nations for climate change and how Africa, despite contributing only 3% of global emissions, is being asked to make disproportionately ambitious commitments.
Mohamed stressed that many current global policies favour industrialised nations while unfairly restricting Africa’s right to develop using its natural resources.
“It is noteworthy that Africa’s historical contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is minimal. Yet, we face mounting pressure to set ambitious targets while being denied the fair use of our resources. A truly equitable approach should ensure development opportunities for all,” he said.
Russia and Africa Push Back Against Climate Trade Barriers
Another crucial topic was the impact of climate-related trade policies, particularly the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
The mechanism, which imposes additional costs on carbon-intensive imports, is seen by many African leaders as a form of economic discrimination against developing nations.
“This policy places an unfair burden on African exporters while allowing high-emission countries to maintain their advantage,” Mohamed stated.
Russia, which has also been critical of the CBAM, expressed alignment with Africa in resisting such trade barriers.
Mr. Andrey Melnichenko, Chair of the Committee on Climate Policy of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP), reinforced the need for joint action, stating that Africa’s 1.4 billion people, combined with Russia’s diplomatic and technological resources, could form a powerful force for fairer climate policies.
A Shift Towards Science-Driven Climate Action
A key takeaway from the visit was the potential for scientific and technological collaboration between Africa and Russia in climate monitoring and emissions tracking.
Russia presented findings from its National Climate Monitoring System, which suggest that its ecosystems absorb twice as much CO₂ as previously estimated.
Africa expressed interest in developing reliable carbon data systems to help strengthen its position in global negotiations.
“Accurate data on emissions and removals will be crucial in shaping Africa’s climate policies and ensuring fair climate finance allocations,” Mohamed noted.
Next Steps: A Joint Climate Action Plan
Following the discussions, both sides agreed to develop a joint work plan that will include collaboration between African and Russian businesses, technology transfers, and a fairer approach to carbon markets.
Russia emphasised the coexistence of renewable and conventional energy sources, rejecting calls to eliminate fossil fuel investments.
This aligns with Africa’s energy strategy, where a balanced transition to green energy remains crucial to economic growth.
A New Strategic Alliance?
The AU’s engagement with Russia on climate matters comes when African nations seek to diversify their international partnerships beyond traditional Western allies. As the global climate landscape evolves, this partnership could redefine Africa’s role in climate diplomacy and set a precedent for future collaborations that prioritize fairness, economic development, and sustainability.
With Africa’s voice growing louder on the global stage, the continent is making it clear: climate action must be just, inclusive, and reflective of Africa’s right to development.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, approved the construction of First Bank’s 43-storey building headquarters within the Eko Atlantic City
Vice President Kashim Shettima with other dignitaries during the groundbreaking ceremony for the First Bank 43-storey headquarters at Eko Atlantic City, Victoria Island in Lagos on Wednesday
Sanwo-Olu, while presenting the certificate of approval to First Bank, commended the effort of the management of the bank toward sustaining the bank’s legacy over the years.
He gave the commendation during the groundbreaking ceremony of the First Bank’s 43-storey headquarters performed by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The governor appreciated Mr. Gilbert Chagoury and his brother, Mr. Ronald Chagoury, owners of Eko Atlantic City, for the transformative role they played in developing the city.
He invited other financial institutions to emulate what First Bank had done while promising thqt the state government would continue to create the right environment for businesses to thrive.
“We want to see the tower on a month-on-month rising out of the sun of the aquatic city. I will be presenting the certificate of approval for the bank to begin the construction of the 43-storey building.
“I invite the Managing Director of First Bank to come forward and receive the certificate, so that they know that we are doing it properly. From tomorrow, start the construction.
“We want the Chagoury brothers to give other financial institutions approval as well. If they have not bought their land.
“You will be given generous payment plan so that you can start your own development as well.
“Lagos and First Bank have had about 13 decades of relationship and I must state that this Eko Atlantic City is one of the wonders of Lagos. It is going to accommodate more corporate organisations,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr. Olusegun Alebiosu, Chief Executive Officer of First Bank Holdings, said the journey of the bank could be defined by resilience, adaptability and commitment to its customers.
He described the groundbreaking ceremony as a momentous occasion which signifies the bank’s commitment to repositioning it for the future.
“This groundbreaking ceremony is a momentous occasion for us, signifying our commitment to repositioning sturdily as ‘the’ Bank for the future.
“This new head office complex is not just about a modern architectural masterpiece; it is about reimagining banking for generations yet unborn.
“It will serve as a hub for financial innovation, digital transformation and operational excellence; ensuring that FirstBank remains ahead in an era where technology is reshaping the industry.
“The 43-storey edifice will become the tallest building in Nigeria and West Africa upon its completion.
“It will be a symbol of strength, embodying the progress we have made as an institution and reflecting our ambition to set new benchmarks in service delivery, operational efficiency and customer experience.
Mr. Femi Otedola, Chairman, Board of Directors, First Bank Holdings, said that the building represented a significant milestone in the history of Lagos and Nigeria.
He assured everyone that First Bank would continue to build a legacy to behold as it moves further to focusing on becoming customer-centric bank
He said: “I am extremely grateful to President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their unalloyed support for this project and for creating a conducive environment for doing business in Lagos.
“I also appreciate the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, for his remarkable effort in maintaining the stability and growth of Nigeria’s banking industry.”
Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State promised to continue to support the bank.
“This is a bold and audacious move by First Bank. This is what tenacity does. Even with over 700 branches across the world, it stands as a financial institution with the largest network.
“This building, upon completion, can be an incubation centre for learning in the financial sector. We will continue to support First Bank, and I congratulate Odetola and Alebiosun for being dodged.”
Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State also lauded the effort of the bank.
He saluted those who had contributed to the growth of the bank since its creation in 1894, noting it had evolved to being a generational bank.
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), on Tuesday, March 4, 2024, hosted students and faculty members from the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel, and the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The visiting students
The Director, Public Affairs, LAWMA, Mrs. Folashade Kadiri, who said this in a statement, added that the visit was part of the two universities study tour on urban challenges and environmental sustainability.
She said the delegation, led by Prof. Lynn Schler, Head of the African Studies Department at Ben-Gurion University, Israel, was welcomed by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin.
She said that Gbadegesin provided the visitors an overview of LAWMA’s role in ensuring cleanliness across Lagos and its efforts to promote environmental sustainability.
She quoted Gbadegesin as saying that LAWMA, established in 1977, emerged from the need to address the state’s waste crisis experienced earlier.
He added that the agency’s operations aligned with the THEMES+ agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, with emphasis on health and environment.
Gbadegesin identified climate change as a major challenge, contributing to the influx of migrants to the state.
He noted that LAWMA was working on integrating them into the waste management system in the state, through the “Last Man Collector” initiative.
“We have approximately 3,000 scavengers at the Olusosun dumpsite alone. So far, we have enumerated about 5,000 of them, and our goal is to transition them to be better structured in the waste collection roles,” Gbadegesin said.
He disclosed LAWMA’s plan to establish an upcycling centre in Otto, one of the state’s oldest communities, with the aim of training young people in upcycling and other sustainable waste management practices.
He said the initiative was geared at shifting from simply cleaning the state to implementing sustainable solutions that prevent waste from reaching public spaces.
Kadiri quoted Schler as commending LAWMA’s waste management and environmental sustainability initiatives, applauding the authority’s leadership and forward thinking strategies.
“If this were the only activity on our study tour, it would have been entirely worthwhile. The leadership and forward-thinking strategies at LAWMA are truly inspiring,” Schler said.
Kadiri said Shira Lahav, a student of Ben-Gurion University, expressed her excitement about the programme, emphasising the importance of international collaboration.
“This experience exceeded my expectations. Learning about Lagos and its waste management system has been incredibly insightful,” Lahav said.
Kadiri also quoted a history and strategic studies student from UNILAG, Femi Anjola, who joined the Israeli students on the tour, admitted that she knew little about how waste collection worked in Lagos before the visit.
Anjola said, “I have seen PSP operators in my area, but today, I have gained a much deeper appreciation of the system.”
Kadiri said the event also featured a question-and-answer session, where the students and faculty members engaged with Gbadegesin on critical issues bordering on LAWMA’s operations.
She added that the session provided valuable insights into the challenges and solutions shaping waste management in one of Africa’s most populous cities.
In what looks like a groundbreaking initiative, Climagraphy, a leading media organisation dedicated to climate and environmental storytelling, is set to host its first-ever community-centred photo exhibition.
Mayowa Adebote
The exhibition, featuring the works of Nigerian documentray photographer, Mayowa Adebote, is titled “The Current: Lagos is rising, the sea too!” and aims to bring climate change realities to the forefront through powerful visual storytelling, placing the voices of affected communities at the heart of the narrative.
Unlike traditional photo exhibitions that are often held in galleries and upscale venues, The Current will take a unique, immersive approach by transforming dilapidated structures into exhibition spaces, bringing climate stories directly to the communities most impacted by environmental changes. This initiative is designed to not only showcase compelling imagery but also to create a platform for dialogue, engagement, and advocacy among policymakers, climate experts, and local residents.
Bridging the Gap Between Policy and People
Nigeria’s coastal and riverine communities are on the frontlines of climate change, facing challenges such as rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and displacement. Through vivid photography, firsthand accounts, and interactive sessions, The Current will provide an in-depth look at how these environmental changes are reshaping lives and livelihoods.
Adebote, who is the Creative Director of Climagraphy, said: “This exhibition is more than just a display of images; it is a movement to ensure that the people experiencing climate change firsthand are not only seen but heard. We aim to bridge the gap between climate science, policy, and public engagement by creating an experience that is accessible and impactful.”
A Platform for Collective Action
Beyond photography, the exhibition will feature panel discussions, workshops and training for locals and aimed at fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. The event is expected to draw participation from environmental organisations, policymakers, researchers, and the media, all working together to drive solutions for climate resilience and adaptation.
As part of its commitment to accessibility, The Current will take place in an open, community-friendly setting from April 4 to 5, 2025, in Akodo-Ise Community, ensuring that local residents can engage directly with the exhibition and contribute to the conversation.
Call for Partnerships and Support
Climagraphy is actively seeking partnerships with organisations, institutions, and individuals who are passionate about environmental advocacy and community-driven solutions. “This is a call to action for all stakeholders committed to climate justice and resilience,” said Adebote, adding: “We invite potential partners, funders, and media allies to join us in making The Current a success.”
