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Enugu set to launch Climate Policy, Action Plan, Manual for schools

Michael Simire
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Enugu set to launch Climate Policy, Action Plan, Manual for schools

At a time when climate action is beginning to gain momentum at the subnational level in Nigeria, Enugu State has embarked on an ambitious initiative that is laying the groundwork for substantial socioeconomic transformation to elevate its GDP from $4.4 billion in 2023 to $30 billion by 2031.

Peter Mbah
Gov Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State

However, critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, and natural resources, which are essential for this economic advancement, are confronted with significant challenges exacerbated by climate change. It is imaginable that if these issues are not addressed promptly, they may hinder the state’s economic transformation objectives and worsen the vulnerabilities faced by marginalised communities and privileged groups.

In response to the pressing threats of climate change, the government has formulated the Enugu State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP) to facilitate a sustainable green economic transformation that is scientific, and evidence based. This policy and action plan enhances the recently enacted Environmental and Climate Protection Law, along with various other climate initiatives in the state. In addition, a comprehensive framework that aligns economic aspirations with sustainable development principles was also integrated into the policy and action plan.

The Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP) is a pioneering effort aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth while simultaneously addressing the challenges posed by climate change. These documents serve as a forward-thinking framework that seeks to harmonise economic development with environmental sustainability by 2060.

Grounded in scientific research, equity, and inclusivity, the Policy and Action Plan cater to the specific needs of Enugu’s economy and environment. Notably, it is the first subnational climate policy in Nigeria to incorporate long-term emissions modeling, microenergy audits, and extensive engagement with stakeholders.

Key advantages encompass: (i) integrating climate action within the economic development framework; (ii) promoting the creation of green jobs; (iii) improving climate resilience; (iv) aligning with and supporting national climate goals; (v) providing pathways for transitioning to green energy; (vi) establishing a systematic curriculum and manual for teaching climate change in the state’s premier Smart Green Schools; (vii) facilitating innovative green financing solutions; and (viii) reinforcing the institutional framework.

These initiatives align with the developmental agenda of the government currently in Enugu State, under the leadership of Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

As a complimentary to the policy and action plan, the Climate Education Handbook, on the other hand, has been crafted by the Society for Planet and Prosperity in partnership with the University of Bristol, United Kingdom. This handbook is a collaborative effort involving Nigerian students and their teachers, and it has received validation from the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Enugu State Ministry of Education, the FCT Education Secretariat, the Department for Science, Technology and Innovation, as well as various climate NGOs and activists.

Designed as a thorough resource, the Climate Education Handbook aims to empower students, educators, and school clubs with the necessary knowledge and tools to address climate change effectively. It aligns with both global sustainability objectives and local educational priorities, preparing young individuals to emerge as climate advocates not only within their schools and communities but beyond the shorelines of Nigeria.

This significant launch event is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 17, 2025, at the Old Governor’s Lodge, located along Abakaliki Road, Enugu State.

Distinguished guests anticipated to attend include the Executive Governor of Enugu State, state government officials, representatives from the Federal Ministry of Environment and the National Council on Climate Change, development partners, donor agencies, climate finance institutions, teachers and students, private sector investors in renewable energy and green enterprises, civil society organisations, academic representatives, local community leaders, and members of the media.

By Elochukwu Anieze, Senior Policy Analyst at Society for Planet and Prosperity

NEITI commends S4C on advocacy in oil, gas host communities

Michael Simire
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NEITI commends S4C on advocacy in oil, gas host communities

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has lauded Spaces For Change (S4C) for its impactful advocacy, recognising the organisation’s role in strengthening local communities.

NEITI
Mrs. Nkechi Isigwe, a member of the NEITI Board, represented Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary of NEITI

NEITI specifically highlighted S4C’s success in enabling citizens to effectively hold duty bearers accountable, thereby fostering a culture of improved governance.

Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary of NEITI, gave this commendation in a goodwill message delivered at the 13th Anniversary of S4C on Thursday, March 13, 2025, in Lagos.

Orji, represented by Mrs. Nkechi Isigwe, a member of the NEITI Board, spoke on how S4C’s collaboration with NEITI had enhanced the understanding of the challenges faced by host communities.

This, he said, had help in boosting NEITI’s commitment to pushing for reforms that address their concerns.

“NEITI values your contributions to bridging the gap between policy reforms and community empowerment,” Orji said.

He added that sustainable development can only be achieved when the voices of host communities are heard and their interests are protected.

He commended S4C’s remarkable milestone, reflecting its resilience and commitment to social justice.

Orji also lauded S4C’s role in promoting research, policy advocacy and citizen engagement across Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta.

“Today, we gather to celebrate a true trailblazer, Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, whose visionary leadership and relentless advocacy have transformed the landscape of host community engagement,” he said.

Ibezim-Ohaeri, the Executive Director of S4C, in her response, raised concerns over the energy transition.

He highlighted the risks of companies greenwashing their identities without addressing the environmental damage caused by previous practices.

Ibezim-Ohaeri stressed that many companies divesting from fossil fuel investments were not adequately addressing the required environmental cleanup.

“We are concerned about national policy arrangements that overlook the needs of communities,” she added.

She emphasised the importance of discussing alternative livelihoods for affected communities.

“Founded initially as an online discussion group, S4C has grown into a leading advocacy organisation with offices in Nigeria, Ghana, and soon, Banjul.”

Ibezim-Ohaeri reflected on S4C’s evolution, noting that the organisation’s pivotal shift from online to offline advocacy began with their hosting of the first-ever online conference on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

According to her, this sparked significant interest among civil society, media and industry stakeholders.

“S4C’s work has expanded beyond advocacy, focusing on enhancing financial integrity, institutional resilience and regulatory compliance within the nonprofit sector.

“It has also benefited over 1,000 organisations across West Africa.

“Additionally, the organisation has deepened local knowledge on the ethical concerns surrounding new technologies used for crime control,” she added.

Mr. James Savage, Programme Director for the Enabling Environment for Human Rights Defenders Program at the Fund for Global Human Rights, also commended S4C for its exceptional work in advancing human rights.

“Over the past nine years, we’ve witnessed S4C’s growth and effectiveness, particularly in leading legal reforms and defending victims of human rights abuses,” he said.

Savage highlighted S4C’s ability to reach communities at the grassroots level, underscoring the organisation’s profound impact.

He said that S4C’s anniversary celebration highlighted the group’s ongoing efforts to improve governance, advocate for environmental justice, and create meaningful change for communities affected by extractive industries.

By Yunus Yusuf

Expert urges reforms to combat pollution, climate change

Michael Simire
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Expert urges reforms to combat pollution, climate change

Prof. Ilemobayo Oguntimehin of Olusegun Agagu University of Technology, Okitipupa, has called for systemic environmental reforms in Nigeria to tackle pollution and mitigate the impact of climate change.

Malam Balarabe Lawal
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal

Oguntimehin made the call on Thursday, March 13, 2025, while delivering a public lecture organised by the College of Science and Computing, Wellspring University, Benin.

The guest lecturer, who is also the Director of the Centre for Research, Innovation, and Development (CRID) at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, warned that Nigeria faces severe environmental degradation unless urgent measures are taken.

He noted that climate change is exacerbating flooding, biodiversity loss, and respiratory diseases in the country.

“Our air, water, and soil are poisoned daily. The consequences will be dire.

“Nigeria’s development depends on balancing economic growth with environmental protection,” he said, citing Lagos’ rising air pollution and the desertification in the North.

Oguntimehin, a renowned expert in Chemistry, condemned indiscriminate waste disposal, gas flaring, and open burning, highlighting their detrimental effects on air quality and public health.

“We must act now before pollution kills more people,” he warned.

He praised Japan’s hygiene culture, emphasising its role in disease prevention.

“Simple habits like handwashing and waste separation can significantly improve public health. We need stronger policies and real commitment,” he noted.

While acknowledging the Ogoni cleanup as an example of environmental restoration, he stressed the need for stricter enforcement of environmental laws.

He urged individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles by using energy-efficient appliances, recycling, and avoiding indiscriminate pesticide use.

According to him, small actions can drive significant change across the country.

He advocated for immediate policy shifts, including strengthened environmental regulations, increased funding, and stricter enforcement of anti-pollution laws.

Oguntimehin also challenged the private sector to embrace a circular economy, where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimised, and products are designed to be recycled, reused, or biodegradable.

“Businesses must reduce waste, invest in green technologies, and prioritise sustainability,” he said.

In his remarks, Prof. Isaac Ajayi, Vice-Chancellor of Wellspring University, said the lecture served as a platform to share knowledge with the public.

Ajayi explained that the university was mandated to contribute to society through initiatives such as public lectures.

“This is an opportunity for us to disseminate knowledge, this time through a public lecture.

“It is specifically organised for everyone to attend, learn, and benefit,” he said.

Earlier, Prof. Dipo Komolafe, Dean of the College of Science and Computing at Wellspring University, said the lecture was part of efforts to enhance the university’s reputation through public engagement.

According to him, such events help to showcase research output, provide solutions to societal challenges, and demonstrate social responsibility.

“Public lectures are an effective way to highlight an institution’s academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to social impact.

“We believe that bringing together experts and enthusiasts for lecture series can foster a deeper understanding of the complex issues shaping the world,” Komolafe said.

By Usman Aliyu

VP Shettima welcomes £250,000 technology donation to drive afforestation

Michael Simire
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VP Shettima welcomes £250,000 technology donation to drive afforestation

The Federal Government of Nigeria has partnered with United Kingdom’s Zander Corporation Ltd. to transform agricultural practices and restore degraded lands in the country’s most vulnerable ecological zones.

Kashim Shettima
Vice-President Kashim Shettima during a meeting with the management of the bio-technology company at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

Vice-President Kashim Shettima stated this on Thursday, March 13, 2025, during a meeting with the management of the bio-technology company, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The management of the company was led by Lord Raymond Benedict Asquith, the Third Earl of Oxford, and Asquith OBE, a member of the UK House of Lords.

The Zander Corporation donated £250,000 worth of afforestation technology products to Nigeria.

Shettima expressed the commitment of the Federal government to afforestation as a key strategy in combating desertification, promoting sustainable land use, and ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

“There is a critical intersection between innovative technology and efforts at combating desertification and agricultural transformation in this country.

“As a nation committed to afforestation and sustainable land use, we recognise the value of partnerships that introduce cutting-edge technologies like those from Zander Corporation,” he said.

Shettima noted the need to maximise the potential of the five-hectare pilot project, suggesting diversification into vegetable production and tree crops such as cashew, which has a high global demand.

“We are in a unique position to take advantage of this opportunity. I want to assure you and your team of the federal government’s support.

“Sokoto State has already demonstrated commitment, and I believe that Borno and Katsina governments will also embrace this initiative.”

Shettima acknowledged Lord Oxford’s commitment to training Nigerian agronomists in best practices for implementing the technology.

He added that “there is an incestuous relationship between ecology and economy in the northern part of this country.

“This innovative technology by Zander Corporation can be our saving grace.”

Earlier, Lord Oxford reaffirmed the corporation’s dedication to Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, adding that the company has been in the country for over 12 years.

“We have made a donation of our products to Nigeria for deployment in several northern states to demonstrate our capabilities and the remarkable results that can be achieved in agricultural and environmental projects.”

He explained that the corporation had recorded successes in desert states such as Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Libya, and Southern Spain.

Also, the Director-General, National Agency for the Great Green Wall (NAGGW), Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, confirmed the agency’s commitment to implementing Zander Corporation’s technology.

“We have established a committee to oversee the implementation of these products, which have proven highly effective in building resilience during the pilot programme.

“We are piloting this project in Katsina, Borno, and Sokoto states, with five hectares of land already prepared for deployment.

“We are committed to ensuring that the initiative directly benefits the communities affected by desertification with a view to building resilience and sustainability in agriculture and management of the dry land in the north.”

Also, Mr Rupert Bevan, Director, Zander Corporation Ltd., said that he was impressed with the commitment of the Federal Government to the project.

He reiterated the commitment of the corporation to support Nigeria to combat desertification and land degradation.

“We have spent a lot of time in Nigeria where we are trying to offer technology for the betterment of the problems facing the Nigerian people for the construction of the great green wall.

“We believe we have some very important things to offer which shall be of considerable use in getting the great green wall finished.

“We are able to plant important trees but later on we will be able to plant various crops either permanent ones or cereal and real crops to give a lot of employment to people up here.

“And to make the whole project self-sufficient,” he said.

By Salisu Sani-Idris

IWD 2025: Foundation to empower 5,000 people to accelerate growth

Michael Simire
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IWD 2025: Foundation to empower 5,000 people to accelerate growth

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD 2025) – “Accelerating “Action” – truly reinforces the urgent need for women to take their position in every society.

MSBON Foundation
Cross session of participants at the International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 stakeholders event organised by MSBON Foundation in Abuja

As part of its efforts to promote the purpose of this year’s celebration, the MSBON Foundation has renewed its commitment to empowering 5,000 people through mentorship programs, sensitisation campaigns, and community services.

Co-founder of the MSBON Foundation, Helen Chikodi Nwanisobi, advised women to have a clear idea of their life goals because this is crucial for overcoming any obstacles that may stand in their way to success.

Speaking to a group of people gathered at an event hosted by her organisation as part of their activities to mark this year’s IWD on Saturday, March 8, 2025, in Abuja, Nwanisobi stated that the theme of the celebration itself buttresses her point because it calls for women to do more than just talk.

Women in Nigeria, like in many other parts of the world, continue to encounter problems in different aspects of their lives, such as education, leadership, and careers, as well as socioeconomic benefits. These barriers, she claims, have hindered many of them from reaching their full potential in life.

In light of this knowledge, the MSBON Foundation brought together key players to discuss these issues and offer ideas that can actually accelerate practical and real-life action. By doing this, the social rights advocate added, her nonprofit organisation is contributing to empowering women, students, and young people in addition to corporate enterprises to advance the general welfare of citizens for the growth and benefit of the public.

“So, the first thing is knowing what you want and building your confidence. I tell every young lady, what you say you want to become, you could be. You can only not become that thing when you say you will not,” Nwanisobi stated.

She went on to emphasise the importance of the environment and stress its critical role in addressing the subject matter. Mentorship is another vital experience she believes every woman needs to excel and attain their God-given biological rights, which is why her establishment commemorated the IWD and used it to create a platform for stakeholders’ engagement with mentors who will inspire the participants no matter their diverse fields of endeavour.

“We own our future,” she tells her fellow women, “and that is why I said we are the table.”

As a result, MSBON’s co-founder invited all stakeholders to collaborate with her organisation and act as mentors to motivate and help people in attaining their life goals.

The CEO of Vivacity Development, Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, wants more women to be aware of the rapid changes in the world and what they can do to keep up with them.

According to her, there is need to identify female role models in the development space, and amplify the good things that they are doing to inspire and encourage other women to pursue opportunities to improve their self-development.

“It is very important that we get those good messages out there,” she said.

Consider information technology, for example; she advocated that women should be educated on new communication tools to help them change their perspectives and deploy them for social good.

The event began with opening statements by officials from development agencies, civil society organisations, and other thought leaders, who shared their opinions on the celebration’s topic and what can be done to help women accelerate action wherever they find themselves.

The highlevel panel discussion, which featured both men and women to maintain balance in the discussion, was a major highlight at the occasion.

In summary, the IWD 2025 is a rallying cry for gender equality, urging people, groups, and governments to work together to create a more equitable and just world for all girls and women.

By Etta Michael Bisong, Abuja

Ghana hosts 2nd Global Congress on new, emerging genetic biocontrol technologies

Michael Simire
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Ghana hosts 2nd Global Congress on new, emerging genetic biocontrol technologies

From Monday, March 17 to Thursday, March 20, 2025, Ghana is hosting a gathering of science, health and communication experts to deliberate on and contribute to innovative scientific exploits for Africa’s health sector.

Dr. Willy Tonio
Dr. Willy Tonio, head of GenBio Consortium Secretariat

The over 150 African national and international professionals from scientific institutions, academia, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology researchers, development and clinical organisations as well as science communicators would be brainstorming on new and emerging genetic biocontrol technologies that can tackle vector-borne diseases such as malaria, by sharing experiences and lessons across diverse disciplines related to genetic biocontrol technologies.

The four-day gathering is the 2nd Global Congress in Africa on new and emerging genetic biocontrol technologies. The 1st Global Congress was held in Nairobi, Kenya in August, 2023.

Ghana’s National Biosafety Authority (NBA) and the African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium (The Consortium) are jointly organising this 2nd Congress on the theme: “Harnessing genetic biocontrol potential solutions in a changing climate.”

Expert presentations and discussions will focus on topics including: “Expanding Capacity for Research, Development, and Use of Genetic Biocontrol Approaches in Africa;” “Malaria Control & NMCP Perspective of New Tool Introduction;” “Innovations and Implications in Vector Control;” “Requirements for Safe and Secure Development for Genetic Biocontrol Studies;” and “Regulatory and Decision-Making Processes for Genetic Biocontrol”.

This will be preceded by three parallel courses on: “Regulatory Frameworks and Decision-making Processes for Emerging Biotechnologies;” “Communicating Genetic Biocontrol Technologies;” and “Principles & Practices of Biosafety and Biosecurity for High Containment Facilities.”

Head of The Consortium, Dr. Willy Tonio is optimistic that it would be an engaging and stimulating event,

“focusing exclusively on the topic of genetic biocontrol and will serve to encourage cooperation, collaboration, communication as well as new and exciting science at a time, when new technologies such as gene drive and Wolbachia induced cytoplasmic incompatibility are being developed.”

In a pre-congress interview, he observed that the uniqueness of this 2nd Congress lies in the range of participants including researchers who are investigating genetic systems with potential applications to genetic biocontrol with technology developers and those implementing genetic biocontrol strategies to share knowledge, foster new research, compare lessons-learned and develop best practices.

“This Congress will feature discovery research along with technology development and ongoing operational experiences of those moving existing technologies to the field and bring those working on insects, plants, fish, mammals, and other organisms together,” he explained, adding that “this is an opportunity to bring researchers, developers, and practitioners together so that future genetic biocontrol activities will take place within a community with shared interests and values.”

The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s NBA and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the 2nd Congress, Kwame Dei Asamoah-Okyere, touched on the African centredness of the Congress in relation to the pre-congress courses in a telephone interview.

“The course will provide an introduction to the technical, regulatory, ethical and policy aspects of genetic biocontrol products like gene drives and gene editing from the African context,” he stated, and assured participant that the courses would be interactive and engaging.

Also, on the Africaness of the Congress, President of the 2nd Congress, Dr Misheck Mulumba says The African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium was established as an agreement among member organisations “committed to contribute and to expand African self-determination of the course of research, development, and use of Genetic Biocontrol approaches for animal, public health and for conservation of wildlife and the environment in Africa.”

In a statement, he recalled that The Consortium was officially launched on November 30, 2020 by not-for-profit member organisations based in Africa including the Africa One Health Network (AfOHNet), Africa Biological Safety Association (AfBSA), The Multilateral Initiative on Malaria (MIM), Network of African Science Academies (NASAC), Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) and the GeneConvene Global Collaborative (GeneConvene).

Dr. Mulumba explained that The Consortium works with a variety of stakeholders and collaborators to advance best practices and informed decision-making for development of genetic biocontrol technologies to improve public health.

So, The Consortium has since its inception been providing a platform for interaction among African experts and institutions to enhance opportunities for technical capacity strengthening, knowledge exchange and deliberation about the challenges and opportunities of genetic biocontrol technologies for the public good, which will strengthen African influence on their development and provide critical input for decision-making by product developers, policy makers, and other stakeholders.

This posture of The Consortium and focus of the Congress is in line with Aspiration 1 of Agenda 2063 – Africa’s 50-year strategic plan of action and blue print for the continent’s development, adopted at the 24th Ordinary Assembly of the Heads of State and Governments of the AU in January 2015, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Aspiration 1 captures the need for Africa to view science, technology, research and innovation as an important tool towards her socio-economic transformation.

Agenda 2063 is further supported by the 10-year blue print to achieve science and technology innovation in Africa, the “Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024” (STISA), a policy adopted for systematic implementation of activities from 2014 to 2024, which has now been extended for another 10-year period from 2024 to 2034 for all member countries to adopt and implement.

By Ama Kudom-Agyemang

Lagos LCDAs vow to sustain WASH projects

Michael Simire
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Lagos LCDAs vow to sustain WASH projects

Ojodu and Ikorodu North Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos have pledged to maintaining the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects implemented by WaterAid with support from Kimberly-Clark.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State

Representatives of both LCDAs made this commitment at the close-out workshop of the Integrated Hygiene and Health Project on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Kolawole Banwo, Head of Advocacy, Policy and Communications at WaterAid, emphasised that development is a shared responsibility.

Banwo noted that development partners have limited resources and cannot address all challenges alone.

According to him, the interventions in the two LCDAs demonstrate what is possible.

“We want to demonstrate that these things are possible,” Banwo said.

He urged the Lagos State Government to replicate WaterAid’s initiatives in other local government areas and communities.

He also called on the government to adjust its budgeting process to allocate more resources for similar projects across different LGAs.

In his goodwill message, the Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, Prince Adeniran Ogunbanwo, expressed gratitude to WaterAid and Kimberly-Clark for their support.

Ogunbanwo noted that the intervention led to the renovation of some primary healthcare centres and the provision of clean water facilities across the LCDA.

He added that WaterAid trained Safeguarding Champions for the LCDA and established a WASHCOM Federation.

Similarly, the CDC Chairman for Ojodu LCDA, Pastor Segun Fayemi, appreciated WaterAid and its partners for their contributions to the LCDA.

Fayemi noted that the LCDA chairman has plans to extend WaterAid’s work at Ogba PHC to other critical areas.

A key highlight of the workshop was the presentation of awards to the chairman of Ojodu LCDA, the CDC chairmen of both councils, and others in recognition of their commitment and leadership. 

Tinubu seeks support to accelerate Niger Delta development

Michael Simire
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Tinubu seeks support to accelerate Niger Delta development

President Bola Tinubu has called on leaders and stakeholders from the South-South and Niger Delta regions to support his administration’s efforts to develop the Niger Delta.

President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu

Tinubu made the remark in a statement issued by Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), to newsmen in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, March 12, 2005.

According to the statement, the President recently welcomed a delegation of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) which visited him in the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Tinubu told the delegation that the support from regional leaders and stakeholders for the NDDC would accelerate development in the Niger Delta.

He described the region as “the goose that lays the golden egg,” and emphasised the need for urgent attention and sustained development efforts in the region.

“We must care for the Niger Delta, otherwise, we lose the golden egg,” Tinubu stated.

The president also acknowledged ongoing political tensions in Rivers, noting that he had been working to restore peace among warring political factions.

“I got your (PANDEF’s) signal and concerns regarding Rivers State, and I have been on the issue for quite some time.

“I foresaw the crises festering for too long ‘before’ I intervened,” he explained.

Tinubu urged political leaders in the Niger Delta to work closely with developmental agencies to fast-track Niger Delta development.

He praised NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for his contributions to the region’s economic and infrastructural growth.

“We are all proud of Ogbuku because he is doing a great job.

“Community development is very close to my heart, and Ogbuku should be encouraged to do more,” Tinubu added.

The president advised Niger Delta leaders to prioritise selfless leadership and focus on revitalising the political and economic future of the region.

Expressing optimism about ongoing projects, Tinubu stated that the coastal road project would create new economic opportunities for both the Niger Delta region and the nation.

He revealed that the Federal Government had engaged international companies to develop new ports in the Niger Delta to further expand economic prospects for the region.

King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom in Bayelsa and Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s dedication to the South-South region’s development.

He also lauded the president’s appointment of Niger Delta indigenes to government positions.

“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are confident that you will succeed,” Diete-Spiff stated.

By Desmond Ejibas

Reps urge NNPCL to revive vandalised Ore depot

Michael Simire
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Reps urge NNPCL to revive vandalised Ore depot

The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to prioritise rehabilitation of the vandalised pipelines linking Ore depot in Ondo State for immediate resumption of operations in the facility.

Tajudeen Abass
Speaker of the House, Rep. Tajudeen Abass

The call followed the adoption of a motion moved by Rep. Festus Adefiranye (APC-Ondo) at plenary on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

Adefiranye noted depot was inaugurated in 1979, with a storage capacity of about 22 million litres.

According to him, the facility plays a vital role in the distribution and storage of petroleum pipelines across the country by ensuring availability and price stability.

He said that the depot was established to serve as a key hub for petroleum pipeline distribution to the South-West zone and parts of Edo, Kwara and Kogi by facilitating economic activities and reducing transportation costs for marketers and consumers.

Adefiranye said that the pipelines supplying or evacuating products to the depot had been vandalised for years without repair.

This, he said, had disrupted supply of petroleum products, increased costs of petroleum products and brought undue hardship to Nigerians.

The lawmaker said that the functionality of the depot would reduce unnecessary road accidents, wear and tear of vehicles, costs of fuel and diesel consumption as well as operational hazards.

He stated that the continued neglect of the facility had undermined the Federal Government’s efforts toward economic diversification, job creation and the ease of doing business, particularly for small and medium-scale enterprises relying heavily on petroleum products.

Adefiranye said that revamping the depot would not only improve availability and affordability of petroleum products in the zone, but also enhance economic activities, generate employment opportunities and boost government revenue.

In his ruling, the Speaker of the house, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, mandated the Committee on Petroleum Resources (Midstream) to liaise with relevant stakeholders, assess the current state of the depot and ensure prompt action and its restoration.

By EricJames Ochigbo

AfDB, IITA sign $27m agreement to boost agricultural transformation in Africa

Michael Simire
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AfDB, IITA sign $27m agreement to boost agricultural transformation in Africa

The African Development Bank (AfDB) and International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, signed a $27 million agreement to finance the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) Phase II programme.

AfDB
L-R: Dr Abdul Kamara, Director-General, Nigeria AfDB Group, and the IITA Director-General, Dr Simeon Ehui, during the signing agreement on Wednesday in Abuja

Dr Abdul Kamara, the Director-General, Nigeria AfDB Group, who said this at the signing ceremony, reaffirmed the AfDB’s commitment to advancing agricultural transformation across Africa.

Kamara said the agreement aligns with its Feed Africa strategy, which seeks to boost smallholder farmers’ productivity and enhance food security.

He said the additional financing built on the $40 million provided for Phase I of TAAT would focus on expanding access to agricultural technologies for over 40 million smallholder farmers across the continent.

According to him, the TAAT programme is not just an agricultural initiative but a transformational effort aimed at enhancing food security, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

“This Additional Financing of the TAAT Programme, is building on Phase I, which the Bank funded with $40 million and Phase II with $27 million implemented by IITА (as lead implementer), working closely with other CGIAR Centres and National Agricultural Research Institutions in many countries.

“This Additional Financing of the TAAT Phase II Programme is financed with €5 million grant from the Donor Contributions Window of the Transition Support Facility (TSF), thanks to the generous contribution of the Federal Republic of Germany.

“TAAT Phase II will focus on empowering low-income African countries by increasing productivity, strengthening food systems, improving farmers’ incomes, and positioning Africa to become a net food exporter.”

The director-general added that the programme would support activities such as farmer capacity building, digital agriculture solutions, extension services, and private sector investment in agricultural value chains.

He reiterated AfDB’s commitment to supporting agricultural research and innovation to drive Africa’s food security agenda, emphasising that TAAT remained a key instrument in achieving the continent’s long-term agricultural goals.

Also speaking, the IITA Director-General, Dr Simeon Ehui, commended AfDB for its sustained partnership and leadership in driving Africa’s agricultural transformation.

Ehui reaffirmed IITA’s commitment to working with CGIAR Centres, National Agricultural Research Institutions, and the private sector to ensure the success of the programme.

According to Ehui, TAAT has already demonstrated the power of science-driven solutions in improving productivity, strengthening food systems, and enhancing farmers’ resilience to climate change.

He highlighted the successes of TAAT Phase I, which included the facilitation of the scaling of improved seed varieties, climate-smart practices, and mechanisation solutions to millions of farmers.

For Phase II, he said efforts would focus on accelerating the deployment of agricultural technologies, strengthening partnerships, promoting youth and women engagement in agribusiness, and enhancing food and nutrition security.

“With this grant, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering impact-driven agricultural solutions. The journey ahead requires sustained investment, policy support, and strong collaboration,” IITA director-general said.

He said that IITA would continue working closely with AfDB and other stakeholders to ensure the programme contributes to reduction of food imports and unlocks Africa’s agricultural potential.

By Lucy Ogalue

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