Climate change remains one of the most pressing global challenges, exacerbating vulnerabilities and threatening livelihoods.
Hamzat Lawal, CEO of CODE (second right), with other interfaith leaders during the conference in Abuja
Recognising the urgent need for faith-based solutions, Connected Development (CODE) hosted the Interfaith Climate Change Summit on Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Abuja.
Dubbed “Interfaith Symposium: Harnessing Faith for Climate Action”, the summit brought together religious leaders, climate experts, policymakers, and advocacy groups to explore the role of faith in driving environmental sustainability.
Mukhtar Modibbo, Secretary General of Follow The Money, emphasised the need for faith communities to actively engage in climate discourse.
“We are all people of faith who believe in God, yet climate change affects us all—something often overlooked in religious contexts,” he remarked.
Climate communication specialist Daniel Oladoja underscored the philosophical and moral responsibility of humankind.
Citing Socratic principles, he stated, “The perfect human being is all human beings put together. Interfaith dialogue seeks to unify this wholeness in the fight against climate change.”
He urged the youth to challenge narratives that make climate action seem impossible, advocating for strategic collaboration as a force for change.
The first keynote speaker, Sheikh Muhammad Nurudeen Lemu of Dawah Institute, stressed the shared responsibility of faith leaders and communities to protect the planet.
He identified climate-induced conflicts due to deforestation, unplanned urbanisation, and resource scarcity as critical concerns.
“We must integrate faith, science, and government to drive sustainable solutions,” he said.
He urged religious leaders to use faith-based platforms for climate advocacy and to stress sustainability in sermons.
Reverend Father George Omaku Ehusani of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation delivered a compelling visual presentation on human-induced climate change, highlighting the impact of plastic pollution on marine life.
He cited research showing that over 14 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean annually, devastating aquatic ecosystems. Calling for a renewed ethical framework, he stated, “The earth is God’s gracious gift, and we are meant to be stewards, not masters who exploit it.”
His address stressed the need for humility, solidarity, and sustainability as guiding principles in faith-driven climate advocacy.
A thought-provoking panel session, moderated by journalist Zainab Bala, featured:
Fr. Attah Barkindo, from The Kuka Centre (TKC), advocated for localised climate education, urging faith leaders to make policies more relatable for grassroots communities.
Also, Dr. Mike Terungwa, founder of the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), highlighted the influence of religious leaders in shaping public attitudes and political will toward climate policies.
Rifkatu Joseph Odeyemi of Eco-Friendly Sensitisation and Advocacy believes that there is need for increased collaboration between religious institutions and climate organisations to amplify awareness.
Key takeaways from the discussion included the necessity for faith leaders to break down complex environmental concepts using culturally relevant narratives and the power of collaboration in mobilising communities.
A highlight of the summit was the official launch of the Interfaith Dialogue on Climate Change Report, presented by Dr. Augustine Okere, Hamzat Lawal (the Chief Executive of CODE), Daniel Oladoja, and Mukhtar Modibbo.
The report underscores the importance of integrating faith-based leadership into climate policy discussions and calls for increased governmental support in faith-led environmental initiatives.
The summit produced key recommendations for fostering faith-based climate action:
Faith leaders should integrate climate education into sermons and teachings.
Government agencies must engage religious communities in climate policy discussions.
Climate change education should be incorporated into school curricula at all levels.
Religious institutions and civil society organisations should collaborate for broader community mobilisation.
Faith communities should encourage sustainable practices, such as tree planting and plastic waste reduction, to mitigate climate change impacts.
A structured interfaith climate action coalition should be established to monitor commitments and progress in religious climate advocacy.
The Interfaith Climate Change Summit reinforced the undeniable link between faith and climate action.
Sheikh Lemu stated, “Faith, science, and government must work together – everyone has a role to play.”
With growing interfaith collaboration, Nigeria’s faith communities are poised to become key drivers of climate justice and sustainable development.
A medical expert, Dr Ibrahim Wada, has suggested that advancements in modern medicine could extend human lifespan by up to 250 years within the next 40 years.
Dr Ibrahim Wada
Wada, Founder of Nisa Medical Group, made this assertion while delivering the Second Nimi Dimkpa Briggs Legacy Lecture Series at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
Speaking as the guest lecturer on the topic “The Longevity of Man”, Wada stated that such feat could be realised as scientists continued to make rapid progress in medical technology and genetic engineering.
He highlighted the breakthroughs in genetic science that have enabled researchers to create artificial eggs and sperm from human saliva, which could then be used to grow babies in artificial wombs.
“This technology has already produced live rats. It is only a matter of time before humans benefit from similar advancements,” he disclosed.
Wada, an Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Abubakar Tafawa Belewa University, Bauchi, further emphasised the potential of stem cells, artificial organs, and genetic reprogramming in prolonging human life.
According to him, science has now reached a stage where human genetic codes can be understood and manipulated to enhance longevity.
“Recreating stem cells from a person’s genes and reintroducing them into the body can regenerate dead cells and significantly extend lifespan.
“In another 30 to 40 years, it will be normal for individuals to expect to live for 200 or even 250 years.
“This will happen because humanity has now entered the age of computer reprogramming,” he added.
Wada lamented the fact that such advanced medical technologies are not yet available in Nigeria.
He also stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, healthy eating, regular exercise, and adequate rest in achieving longevity.
“Rest is essential for brain function. So, when it is time to rest, you must allow the brain to rest – no compromise,” Wada advised.
Reflecting on the legacy of Prof. Briggs, UNIPORT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, described Briggs as a visionary leader, philanthropist, and academic giant.
He questioned whether longevity was merely a measure of biological persistence or encompasses something more profound.
“This is because it is not the breath we take, but the fire we ignite,” Georgewill remarked.
Prof. Ngozi Orazulike, Chair Occupant of the Nimi Briggs Professorial Chair in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, noted that Briggs made immense contributions to the medical and teaching professions.
She stated that the late medical icon had a multifaceted career as a doctor, teacher, researcher, mentor, and philanthropist.
In response, the late icon’s son, Nima Briggs, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition of his father’s contributions in the country.
“It is humbling to see my father’s legacy lives on, with events still being organised to honour his memory,” Briggs concluded.
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has called for solutions to tackle global climate change challenges, saying Nigeria will remain committed in combating the menace.
L-R: Mrs. Rukayat El-Rufai (Special Adviser to the President on National Economic Council and Climate Change), Mr. Tokunbo Wahab (Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment), Mr. Simon Stiell (Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework for the Convention on Climatd Change – UNFCCC), Mrs. Nkiruka Maduekwe (Special Presidential Envoy & DG/CEO NCCCS and Dr. Joseph Onoja (DG NCF)
Shettima made this known during his keynote address at the symposium on climate change organised by the Climate Change Council of Nigeria Secretariat and the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.
The symposium, with the theme: “Intersecting Works of Climate Change, Mangrove, and Art,” was held at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
Shettima was represented by the Special Adviser to Mr President on National Economic Council and Climate Change, Mrs. Rukayat El-Rufai.
The vice president noted that all hands must be on the deck to address the issue.
“Climate change is not a distant threat; it is our lived reality. Each of you in this room, whether you craft policy or canvas, invest capital or work with communities, have witnessed its impacts, and felt the urgency. We can no longer afford to work in silos.
“That is why this symposium’s theme is so timely. It calls on us to think outside the box and work together in new ways.
“I stand before you not just as a public official, but as a fellow citizen who worries about the world, we will leave for future generations.
“I am convinced that by fusing our knowledge, our creativity, and our determination, we can turn that worry into hope and that hope into action,” he said.
Shettima stressed the need for a global solution to tackle climate change challenges for economic growth and development.
“The climate crisis knew no borders, a flood in Lagos, or a hurricane in the Caribbean, a drought in the Horn of Africa will affect all.
“No country, no matter how powerful, is immune; this challenge demands a global solution.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” says a popular proverb. Indeed, to go far and secure a livable planet, we must go together.
“Despite the geopolitic tensions, economic slowdowns, resurgence of climate scepticism and setback in international climate commitments, Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering global collaboration to combat climate change,” he said.
He added that in spite of these setbacks, Nigeria believed in international collaboration and shared responsibility.
“We are a proud party to the Paris Agreement and have consistently advocated for ambitious climate action on the world stage.
“We know that every nation must do its fair share, and those with greater resources and historical emissions must support those with fewer. Climate justice and equity must be our guiding principles.
“When developed countries fulfil their pledges to provide climate finance and technology transfer, they are investing in a safer future for all of humanity, including themselves,” he said.
The Executive Secretary, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Mr Simon Stiell, in his remarks, acknowledged that Nigeria was blessed with natural resources vital for clean energy.
“It is abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the two trillion dollars global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths.
“A new, strong national climate plan or Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement can supercharge the Nigerian economy, with green growth and sustainable development.
“Clean energy can power up your population, providing clean access for countless millions.
“Investing in green buildings, clean infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing can drive economic growth,” he said.
Stiell noted that sustainable agriculture was important for food security.
“Clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness.
“With 90 per cent of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every community and economy.
“Just as clean energy presents a massive opportunity, the risks and costs of climate inaction are already being felt.
“From floods in the south to droughts and desertification in the north, climate impacts are already carving up to five per cent of the GDP,” he said.
He said that there was much work ahead, to ensure the people of Nigeria, and all countries share in the monumental benefits of bold climate action.
“That is why it is so essential that people across Nigerian society have a chance to contribute to new national climate plans, to implement and benefit from them.
“UN Climate Change will be working with all of you and all other nations every step of the way,” he said.
In his remark, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, while welcoming Stiell to Nigeria, noted that his presence “reaffirms our shared commitment to fostering environmental resilience through collaboration and innovation”.
Represented by Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to Lagos State Government, he noted: “Our mangroves – nature’s silent protectors – serve as vital barriers against coastal erosion, carbon sinks that purify our air, and thriving ecosystems that sustain biodiversity and livelihoods. Yet these invaluable resources face mounting threats from urbanization, pollution, and deforestation.
“The event represents a fusion of culture, creativity, and commitment to addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time: climate change. Through art, we witness a powerful medium for advocacy – a means to highlight the fragility of our natural ecosystems while inspiring action.
“Mangrove forests are among nature’s most underappreciated ecosystems. In Lagos State, they act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and flood surges while supporting local fisheries and providing livelihoods for many communities. Beyond their ecological services, mangroves play a critical role in combating global warming by storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide.
“Protecting mangroves is not just about conserving biodiversity; it is about safeguarding our future. By preserving these ecosystems, we strengthen our defenses against climate threats while honoring an essential part of our heritage.
“As one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, Lagos faces the dual challenge of urban expansion and environmental conservation. Our administration has implemented policies that balance development with sustainability. Initiatives such as the Lagos Climate Action Plan and the Lagos Resilient Strategy outline clear goals for adaptation and mitigation while prioritizing green infrastructure and renewable energy.
“At the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit last year, I launched the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP). This comprehensive framework integrates advanced analytics for risk assessment and stakeholder engagement—a critical step toward fortifying Lagos against climate vulnerabilities,” the Governor noted.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, in his remarks, said the event represented a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to raise awareness, and foster collaboration towards environmental sustainability in Lagos State.
“The theme is particularly relevant to Lagos State, a coastal megacity on the frontline of climate change impacts.
“As a city defined by its waterways, with an extensive coastline and an intricate network of lagoons and rivers, Lagos is home to mangrove forests that serve as a natural treasure.
“These ecosystems act as protective barriers against coastal erosion, absorb carbon emissions, and provide habitats for diverse marine life.
“Unfortunately, these invaluable ecosystems face increasing threats from deforestation, pollution, and rapid urbanisation,” he said.
He added that the degradation of the mangroves exacerbated these challenges.
“We cannot afford to stand by while our natural defences disappear.
“This is why the Lagos State Government is committed to mangrove conservation, ensuring they remain a shield for our communities and a legacy for future generations.
“We remain committed to mangrove conservation, ensuring these ecosystems continue to shield our communities and serve as a lasting legacy for future generations,” he said.
He said the Lagos State Government would remain unwavering in its commitment to tackling climate change and preserving the natural environment.
“Our policies, including the Lagos Climate Action Plan, the Lagos State Climate Risk Assessment, and most recently, the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan, all of which prioritise ecosystem preservation and sustainability.
“It is also instructive to state that the state government has initiated mangrove restoration and afforestation programme, recognising the essential role these ecosystems play in stabilising our coastal regions.
“We will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders – local communities, environmental organisations, and international stakeholders to develop innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.
The event was graced by many dignitaries such as Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment; Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change, DG/CEO National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS); Prof. Eugene Ituah; and Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi, among others.
The Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwase III, has called for the protection of the Niger Delta mangroves from foreign interests seeking to exploit them under the guise of carbon credit offsets.
Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwase III
The traditional ruler made the call during an ongoing art exhibition showcasing the works of Art scholar and environmentalist, Dr John DeBebs, on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, in Lagos.
The solo exhibition, organised by Crimson Fusion Curators, runs from March 5 to March 13.
The exhibition is with the theme, “The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, the Mangrove and Art”.
The Olu of Warri said there was urgent need for indigenous communities to safeguard their land and heritage.
He said that the forests absorb and store carbon at an astonishing rate, offering a natural solution to climate crisis.
The traditional ruler said: “They are more than just ecosystems; they are the lungs of our heritage.
“They sustain our life, they protect our shores, they preserve our identity.
“While we have looked upon them for generations, others from far have begun to look at them differently through satellite images, through the lens of economic speculation and with intentions that threaten the collective sovereignty of the people of Niger Delta.
“The world now acknowledges what we have always known about, that mangroves are among the most efficient carbon sources on this planet.”
He noted that the Itsekiri’s, and the entire Niger Delta would not allow their heritage to be exploited by those who neither understood its significance nor bear the cost of its destruction.
The Curator of the works, Oriiz Onuwaje, said the exhibition was aimed at celebrating the beauty of the Niger Delta, and the beauty of the mangroves.
Onuwaje said that, in spite of the disaster and underdevelopment used in describing the Niger Delta, there is beauty in the region, one of which is the mangroves.
The curator, however, said that climate change was affecting the mangroves, such that there was need to protect, conserve and regenerate them.
“Everywhere you turn, they’re talking about the crisis in the Amazon in South America.
“The mangroves of the Niger Delta hold more value to the world than the Amazon,” Onuwaje said.
Describing a mangrove, Oriiz said: “This is a piece of engineering because as it grows, it brings out more roots from the top into the ground to secure the ground itself.
“So, that is why it is the barrier between the water, the ocean, the sea, and the land.
“You can see how strong the wood becomes because it takes in water in high tide and it releases water in low tide.”
Dr DeBebs said that that the role of the mangroves in the ecosystem, which takes carbon from the atmosphere to provide a cleaner atmosphere, inspired his works.
He expressed hope that the exhibition of his works would generate interest, and raise awareness of the vital importance the mangroves play in the extraction of carbon from the atmosphere, and provide a cleaner environment.
“Once the awareness grows, then the mangroves will thrive more because people will now be more interested in ensuring that they are not just destroyed,” he said.
Remarks delivered by UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, at the first session of the Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove and Art Symposium in Lagos, Nigeria, on Thursday, March 6, 2025
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, speaking during a session at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, Nigeria
I am excited by this event and by the nature and art I see around me. And the very, very warm hospitality that I have received here in Nigeria. They are an inspiration for climate action. Something I want to talk about today.
Being in Lagos for the first time, I am struck by the energy and dynamism of this incredible city.
This is the same energy that has led your government to set the ambitious goal of lifting 100 million people out of poverty.
To pursue a 7% growth rate target, building on the economic and social progress made in recent times.
These are ambitious, transformational targets. They are about changing lives on a huge scale, for the better.
Helping overcome the pressing challenges you face. Including providing power to over 85 million Nigerians who currently lack access to electricity.
Over the last 48 hours I’ve been here in Nigeria I’ve discussed the opportunities you have as Africa’s largest economy.
And I know about the leadership you’ve already shown, taking climate action often without sufficient international support.
So I think strong climate action is key to reaching your goals and setting you up for even better days to come.
Because climate action is not just about averting the disastrous impacts of global heating – which the best science and analysis now shows can wipe up to 5% off GDP and decimate nature.
It can be the gateway to a new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity, fueled by clean and affordable energy, available to all.
Why? Firstly, you are blessed with the resources that are vital for clean energy.
When I say resources, I mean sun and wind, and critical minerals too.
But above all of that though, I also mean your people – they have the dynamism and entrepreneurial drive that makes this city and this country buzz with potential and progress.
It’s abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the $2 trillion global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths.
A new, strong national climate plan – or Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement – can supercharge the Nigerian economy, with green growth and sustainable development.
Clean energy can power up your population – providing clean access for countless millions.
Investing in green buildings, clean infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing can drive economic growth.
Sustainable agriculture is essential for the 70% of Nigerians involved in the sector.
Clean cooking can protect the health of families.
But of course, this isn’t possible without finance. And that was mentioned earlier. And it would be unfair to expect Nigeria to act alone.
We must ensure that Nigeria and countries like it can access more finance from international climate funds, sooner.
Brazil, the COP30 President, is focused on ensuring that we find ways to increase global climate finance for the developing world now and out to 2035.
And we’re working with them to make this happen. Even in the face of real political headwinds.
Because clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness.
With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every community and economy.
As will the impact of resilience measures, which is why a National Adaptation Plan is also so important.
Because, just as clean energy presents a massive opportunity, the risks and costs of climate inaction are already being felt.
From floods in the south to droughts and desertification in the north, climate impacts are already carving up to 5% off GDP.
So, investment in climate change adaptation – in water management, flood protection, and initiatives like the Great Green Wall again mentioned earlier – are not just vital for your economy to survive and thrive, as global heating gathers pace.
They can pay for themselves many times over. And Nigeria already has the solution to so many of these adaptation challenges right across its coastline.
Nigeria boasts the largest mangrove forest in Africa and the third largest globally, covering approximately 7% of the world’s mangrove area.
Acting as a carbon sink.
Protecting people and nature from the impact of waves, from sea erosion, and from destructive storms. And the video we saw earlier outlined that perfectly.
The expansion of these mangroves that have protected the Niger delta since time immemorial, will strengthen more resilient communities, ensuring long-term growth and stability.
Friends, there is much work ahead, to ensure the people of Nigeria, and all countries share in the monumental benefits of bold climate action.
That’s why it’s so essential that people across Nigerian society have a chance to contribute to new national climate plans – to implementing and benefiting from them.
UN Climate Change – will be working with all of you and all other nations – every step of the way.
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.
