Wild Africa, a wildlife conservation organisation, has stated that Nigeria’s iconic species require substantial investment in conservation to ensure their protection.
Wildlife
This is contained in a statement signed by Festus Iyorah, Nigeria’s Representative at Wild Africa, on the occasion of World Wildlife Day 2025, marked on Monday, March 3, in Lagos.
Iyorah called on the Nigerian government, the private sector, and conservation organisations to increase their support for wildlife conservation initiatives to preserve the country’s iconic species.
According to him, the 2025 theme, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet”, reflects the role of innovative funding in protecting biodiversity and ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and humanity.
Citing the 2024 Living Planet Report, Iyorah noted that Africa’s wildlife populations have declined by an alarming 76 per cent over the past 50 years.
“In Nigeria, the situation is dire, with several species, such as lions, elephants, chimpanzees, and gorillas, on the brink of extinction.
“For example, the country’s elephant population has declined by 99 per cent, with only about 300–400 elephants surviving in the wild,” Iyorah said.
He stressed that without immediate investment in conservation, species loss would accelerate, leading to devastating consequences, not only for nature but also for economies that depend on natural resources.
“The stakes are high. In Africa, 80 per cent of tourists visit the continent for its wildlife, fuelling the ecotourism industry, which generates $12.4 billion annually and sustains local economies and communities.
“In countries like Kenya, wildlife tourism accounts for 10.4 per cent of the GDP, employing millions of people and generating $2.7 billion for the country in 2023.
“In Nigeria, the travel and tourism sector’s contribution to GDP is projected to grow at an average rate of 5.4 per cent between 2022 and 2032, underscoring its significant potential to drive economic growth,” Iyorah said.
He added that the sector is expected to create 2.6 million new jobs over the next decade and generate nearly ₦12.3 trillion ($8.2 billion) by 2032.
Iyorah emphasised that the sustainable management of natural resources, alongside the preservation of wildlife and wild spaces, is essential to fostering a profitable wildlife economy with further growth potential.
He quoted Dr Mark Ofua, Wild Africa’s West Africa Spokesperson, as saying: “Conservation is a symphony, and all hands must be on deck.
“Businesses must see conservation efforts as their corporate social responsibility, working with governments, conservation organisations, and individuals.
“Together, we can harmonise our efforts, mobilise resources, and create a resilient future for our planet’s precious biodiversity.”
Iyorah noted that Wild Africa is leveraging a combination of radio, TV, billboards, newspaper publications, and public service announcements (PSAs) to promote and protect Nigeria’s wildlife and wild spaces.
He added that the media campaign features influential Nigerian ambassadors, such as 2Baba and Nela Duke Ekpenyong, to highlight Nigeria’s wildlife tourism potential and the need to protect the country’s wildlife and wild spaces.
Iyorah also quoted Peter Knights, Chief Executive Officer of Wild Africa, as saying: “Without nature, we will not survive.
“Whether it’s countering our carbon footprints, safeguarding our watersheds, maintaining jobs in tourism, or keeping fishing at sustainable levels.
“Investing in conservation in Africa isn’t charity, it’s a necessity. A world without wildlife is not just an ecological disaster, it’s an economic one, too.”
Iyorah urged the Nigerian public to participate in sustainable ecotourism by visiting national parks and supporting local conservation organisations through donations or volunteering as part of the activities to mark the day.
Eco-justice organisations such as The Green Connection, Natural Justice, and Masifundise are sounding alarm bells about yet another fossil fuel project application underway, warning of potentially severe environmental risks to marine biodiversity and serious socio-economic concerns for the coastal communities that depend on it.
An offshore drilling rig at sea
After reviewing the Draft Scoping Report – for TotalEnergies EP South Africa’s (TEEPSA) proposed offshore oil and gas exploration drilling in the southern part of Block Deep-Water Orange Basin (DWOB), off the country’s West Coast – the eco-justice organisations also highlight the project’s impact on the country’s commitment to address the climate crisis and move toward a just energy transition.
The Green Connection’s Strategic Lead, Liziwe McDaid, emphasises government’s responsibility to make informed decisions that serve the public interest.
“If crucial data is missing – information essential for fair and sensible decision-making – then government must reject the reports and applications. Now more than ever, as the climate crisis worsens, energy poverty persists, and food insecurity grows, the risks associated with oil and gas exploration may simply be too high. South Africans, especially those who depend on the ocean for food, livelihoods, and their way of life, cannot afford to sacrifice vital marine ecosystems. We need government to recognise that the world is moving toward a new era of innovation and sustainable alternatives that do not compromise ecosystem health,” said McDaid.
The organisations say that TEEPSA’s argument, that the proposed project aligns with South Africa’s climate policies, is flawed. TEEPSA cannot ignore the full lifecycle of the project in its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) because exploration leads to production, which results in more oil and gas, and this means more carbon emissions and worsening climate change.
Therefore, trying to separate exploration from production, to avoid climate scrutiny, is legally indefensible. The science is clear: fossil fuel extraction drives climate change, making this project neither necessary nor desirable under National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA) principles.
David Mtshali from Natural Justice’s Defending Rights Programme says: “The Draft Scoping Report’s failure to identify oil and gas extraction activities as a factor to be assessed in the need and desirability evaluation, will result in an inadequate assessment of the proposed project’s overall need and desirability. This oversight will compromise the integrity of the environmental assessment process and will result in non-compliance with the country’s laws and regulations on climate change and the environment in general.”
As part of the DWOB South project, TEEPSA plans to drill up to seven wells in an area spanning nearly 30,000 km² between Saldanha Bay and Kleinzee, with drilling depths reaching 3,900 metres. Experts warn that exploratory drilling at such depths carries a heightened risk of blowouts, raising concerns about South Africa’s ability to contain an oil spill of this magnitude.
McDaid warns, “This project, because it goes deeper, seems more dangerous and even riskier than the infamous Deepwater Horizon well, where a catastrophic oil spill has caused long-term harm to marine ecosystems and local coastal communities.”
Mtshali adds: “The continued pursuit of oil and gas as demonstrated by this proposed project, undermines the fundamental right of individuals to have the environment protected for the benefit of both current and future generations. Such projects are neither needed nor desirable, especially now when the world is facing a climate crisis.”
According to Carmen Mannarino at Masifundise, “Fisher people in South Africa are already struggling with declining stocks of key fish species they depend on, compounded by the impacts of climate change. The last thing they need is another industry that disregards their wellbeing. Continued offshore oil and gas exploration will further threaten coastal livelihoods. The draft scoping report fails to acknowledge these realities; another reason for it to be rejected.
“It is critical that we learn from the devastating impact of similar activities in neighbouring Namibia, where tuna stocks have declined drastically since 2011 due to oil and gas exploration. This is why we need a thorough Fisheries Assessment that fully considers the long-term implications for our oceans and the people who depend on them.”
As the public participation process for this project unfolds, The Green Connection, Natural Justice, and Masifundise urge South Africans to hold decision-makers accountable. The future of the country’s energy system should not be dictated by corporate profits but by sustainable development that ensures economic and environmental justice for all.
“This is about our communities, our oceans, and our future,” say the organisations. “We cannot allow reckless fossil fuel expansion to rob the people of their rights and livelihoods, especially as life has already become harder, with the cost of living quickly becoming almost completely unaffordable for most.”
On January 18, 2025, Brazil announced the admission of Nigeria as a partner country to the BRICS bloc of developing economies, adding one of Africa’s largest economies to the growing alliance of emerging market countries. With this admission, Nigeria became the ninth partner country and the second African nation to achieve this status after Uganda.
Dr. Aliyu Audu
BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is a powerful alliance of emerging economies. The bloc has been steadily gaining prominence globally, offering a platform for economic and political cooperation among developing nations. While not yet a full member, Nigeria’s BRICS partner opens up new opportunities for economic growth that align with the country’s development objectives.
Given Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, including currency volatility, infrastructural deficits, food insecurity, energy scarcity and dependence on crude oil, the real work lies in how Nigeria can leverage this partnership to drive long-term economic transformation into a post-oil economy.
One immediate benefit of this partnership is the potential elimination of trade barriers between Nigeria and BRICS countries. Currently, Nigeria relies on imports for many products, from sugar to industrial machinery, with payment of high tariffs. A closer economic relationship with BRICS could lower these costs, making importing critical goods and exporting Nigerian products to member nations easier. Moreover, Nigeria’s over-reliance on the US dollar for international trade has weakened the naira and raised transaction costs.
BRICS countries have been exploring alternative trade settlements in local currencies. In 2024, China’s central bank renewed a bilateral currency swap agreement with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to boost trade between countries. Allowing direct Naira-to-yuan transactions means Nigerian traders can do business in China without relying on the dollar. This reduces demand for the dollar, preventing its appreciation at the expense of the Naira. In turn, a stronger Naira fosters local economic growth.
Nigeria’s economy is dealing with a significant problem: a lack of a strong manufacturing base. The country consumes far more than it produces, causing high imports, currency devaluation, and economic instability. Leveraging the blueprint and models of BRICS countries, particularly China and India, could transform the country from a consuming nation into a producing one. China’s economic rise is a case study in strategic industrialisation.
Nigeria should not just import Chinese products; it should attract Chinese industries to set up local production plants and build industrial hubs focused on textiles, electronics, and automotive production if we collaborate strategically. The concept of import substitution industrialization (ISI) should be at the forefront of Nigeria’s economic strategy. Producing goods currently imported locally lessens foreign exchange pressures, creates jobs and builds a more resilient economy. The country could, rather than import sugar, invest in local sugar production.
Nigeria’s industrial sector will struggle to compete globally without innovation and technology transfer. As a BRICS partner, Nigeria must secure joint ventures that bring digital infrastructure. The global economy is transitioning into frontier industries and technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, gene editing, 3D printing, blockchains, Internet of Things (IoT), etc. China, India and Brazil are already well-advanced in these technologies.
Nigeria should partner with these countries to build frontier industries and technology capabilities. Nigerian workers gain the skills needed for long-term industrial growth. India’s success in IT, digital finance and pharmaceuticals can be a vision map for Nigeria to expand its tech industry, manufacture essential medicines locally, and strengthen its digital economy through direct partnerships with Indian firms.
In terms of agriculture, Nigeria has long seen the possibilities within its agricultural sector, but efforts to maximize them have often fallen short. The country has vast arable land, yet it remains one of the world’s largest food importers. In 2023, the government spent about $10 billion on food imports, including fish. Brazil, a global leader in mechanized agriculture, is a key partner Nigeria can turn to. The South American country’s agricultural policies, particularly its public-private farming partnerships, have made it self-sufficient in food production, as such.
Nigeria can develop agricultural mechanisation projects with Brazil, absorb the integration of advanced technologies such as precision planting and the use of GPS-guided equipment, and forge a partnership between the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN) and Brazil’s Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) on knowledge exchange and development of farming systems tailored to Nigeria’s ecological zones. Doing these can revolutionise Nigeria’s farming sector, reduce food imports, and improve food security.
Transitioning to a post-oil economy will require significant investment in energy infrastructure. The country is facing an electricity deficit affecting over 85 million Nigerians despite having abundant renewable energy just waiting to be properly deployed. The cost of doing business is currently high due to unreliable electricity, forcing many businesses to depend on expensive diesel generators. A stable power supply, built on advanced energy technology and renewable energy, will reduce production costs and attract more foreign investment.
Nigeria commits to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060 under its Energy Transition Plan (ETP) If we look to East Asia, China’s leadership in solar and wind energy production creates a beneficial pathway for Nigeria’s renewable energy growth. For example, Nigeria’s estimated $34 billion lithium reserves, used for producing batteries for electric vehicles and solar panels, allow for an expansive collaboration with BRICS members to establish local battery manufacturing plants instead of solely exporting raw lithium. This would create jobs and position Nigeria as a key player in the global renewable energy supply chain.
Brazil’s ethanol industry is another model for developing biofuel alternatives into its economy, shifting reliance on petrol and supporting climate goals while boosting its agricultural sector. The country produces ethanol from sugarcane, using a public-private partnership model that supports farmers and ensures a stable fuel supply.
With its abundant agricultural resources, Nigeria produces around 6% of its own ethanol and imports the remaining 94%. Developing meaningful partnerships with Brazil can help the country explore a similar approach by advancing cassava-based ethanol production, as Cassava is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the country.
Moreover, Nigeria needs massive investments in infrastructure, energy, and technology. However, access to funding remains a challenge. BRICS established the New Development Bank (NDB) 2015 to finance sustainable projects in developing countries. Although Nigeria is just a partner, it may qualify for funding under specific conditions to finance infrastructure and development projects through its New Development Bank (NBD). Nigeria could position itself to access these funds by prioritising projects that align with the NDB’s goals, such as renewable energy infrastructure, sustainable agriculture and green transportation systems.
Nigeria’s BRICS partnership should be a strategic opportunity to redefine its economy in a post-oil world. Contrary to the celebratory cheers from some public sections, Nigeria must focus on building the necessary infrastructure, policies, and human capital to make good use of this partner status. If Nigeria fully leverages BRICS’ financial resources, technological and skills transfer and production, it could transition smoothly to a green economy, diversify revenue streams, improve agriculture, and develop local industries. However, success will depend on effective governance, well-thought-out policies, transparency, and a clear vision for sustainable development.
Dr. Aliyu Audu is an economist and public affairs expert. He has served as a consultant to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He is the Vice President of the Nigeria/Ireland Business Association
Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has announced that it will refund customers who purchase Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at rates higher than the advertised prices from any of its key partners – AP (Ardova Plc), Heyden, or MRS – across Nigeria.
Dangote Refinery
This move follows the refinery’s recent reduction of its gantry price from N890 per litre to N825 per litre.
The refinery stated that this is part of its ongoing efforts to ensure that Nigerians are the primary beneficiaries of the price reduction and in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to stimulate the economy.
In a statement issued over the weekend, the refinery confirmed it will refund N65 per litre on the over 200,000 metric tonnes of PMS purchased by marketers at the old gantry price of N890 per litre, prior to the new rate of N825 per litre. Dangote refinery also absorbed N16bn loss by refunding N65/litre to marketers for Nigerians to benefit from cheaper fuel.
“The step, effective February 27, 2025, guarantees that none of our valued business partners will experience a loss due to the price change. More importantly, it ensures that the new, lower rate takes immediate effect nationwide for the benefit of the Nigerian people,” the statement said.
The refinery emphasised that this initiative extends beyond MRS Holdings, Ardova Plc (AP), and Heyden. It urged other marketers sourcing stock from it to pass on the benefits of the new pricing to consumers at the retail level, encouraging a collective commitment to affordable, quality products.
Dangote also condemned any exploitation of the new pricing structure. “It is both unpatriotic and detrimental to the welfare of Nigerians for any party to purchase at a rate of N825 per litre and then sell to consumers at N945 or more per litre. This constitutes excessive profiteering, further burdening Nigerians for personal gain,” the statement added.
“Dangote Refinery in its effort to ensure good quality and affordable fuel for Nigerians, is working with its partners to make this price accessible. Consumers who purchase fuel above the advertised rate at any of its key partners – AP (Ardova Plc), Heyden, or MRS – anywhere in Nigeria, are encouraged to report to Dangote Refinery with their receipts for a full refund of the excess amount.
The approved rates per litre are as follows: MRS: N860 in Lagos, N870 in the South-West, N880 in the North, and N890 in the South-South and South-East; Heyden and AP: N865 in Lagos, N875 in the South-West, N885 in the North, and N895 in the South-South and South-East.
With the new gantry price set at N825 per litre, Dangote Refinery expects that no Nigerian will pay more than N900 per litre for PMS, regardless of location or petrol station. The refinery also underlined its commitment to providing high-quality, eco-friendly fuel that benefits vehicle performance and supports public health.
“Our commitment aligns with the objectives of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which champions self-sufficiency in critical sectors like energy. We remain dedicated to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth and ensuring every Nigerian has access to affordable, high-quality energy solutions,” the refinery said.
Dangote Refinery concluded, “This initiative is one of many ways Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals continues to contribute to a prosperous and sustainable future for our country. In this journey toward energy security, we stand united with the Nigerian people, always striving to provide lasting solutions and a more prosperous future for all.”
Shell companies in Nigeria underlined their participation at the 8th Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja with a high-profile exhibition that hosted dignitaries among them the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Henieken Lokpobiri.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Henieken Lokpobiri and other dignitaries visited the Shell exhibition booth at the just concluded 8th Nigeria International Energy Summit in Abuja
The Minister was briefed on the range of Shell businesses in Nigeria and recent investments in gas by The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) and in deep-water oil production by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, (SNEPCo).
Senator Lokpobiri expressed his appreciation for the continued confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector.
The exhibition featured a medical stand which was organised as part of Shell’s Health-in-Motion programme. A team of doctors, opticians, laboratory scientists, and nurses provided healthcare services to hundreds of visitors including conference attendees and members of the public, conducting health checks, tests and treatments. More than 300 medicated glasses were given out in addition to eyecare treatments for nearly 400 people.
The exhibition at NIES was part of the overall Shell support for NIES this year of which the company was a Platinum sponsor. Shell also won the Best Upstream Company 2024 award at the Summit.
“We’re pleased to be part of the Nigeria International Energy Summit which showcases the country’s oil and gas potentials to the world,” Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria and Managing Director SPDC, Osagie Okunbor, said.
“Consistent with our support for previous conferences, Shell was Platinum sponsor of the 2025 edition in addition to staging a well-received exhibition and our staff participating meaningfully in plenary and workshop sessions. We hope that the insights and suggestions at the conference will support efforts to reform the industry and attract investments,” he added.
The Federal Government has restated its commitment towards addressing the food security challenges to ensure that no Nigerian goes to bed hungry.
Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, said this at the Green Agric West Africa Expo (GAWA) 2025 on Saturday, March 1, in Lagos.
The agro expo, with the theme: “Green Agriculture: The Path to Food Self-Sufficiency in West Africa”, had in attendance farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
Kyari, represented by the Ministry’s Lagos State Coordinator, Mrs. Omolara Abimbola-Oguntuyi, said Nigeria needs long and medium-term sustainable plans to address food insecurity.
He said the Federal Government was investing in commercial agriculture, and adopting modern agricultural techniques such as irrigation, green technology, among others.
“What we are doing now, providing palliatives to Nigerians, will not solve our problems because these are shorter-term solutions.
“We are initiating medium and longer-term sustainable solutions that will address the problem of insecurity, food insecurity in Nigeria.
“The only alternative we have is to invest in commercial agriculture, modern agriculture, irrigated agriculture, green technology, emerging technology and so on.
“Our population is growing in quick geometrical ratio, while our food supply is dwindling, unless something is being done, we shall never get rid of these problems,” he said.
Kyari described agriculture as the backbone of West Africa’s economies and key to sustainable development.
The minister said the policies on nutritious food would promote sustainable farming methods and ensure the long-term viability of agricultural ecosystems.
He said the Federal Government would continue to promote sustainable farming methods to protect biodiversity, conserve natural resources, and ensure the long-term viability of agricultural ecosystems.
According to him, this also includes facilitating networking opportunities by creating valuable networking opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector.
“Further, attention is being paid to the aspect of food security; emphasising the need for sustainable agricultural practices and policies that ensure access to nutritious food for all.
“I would also like to emphasise that the private sector will remain in the lead as process drivers for the agricultural sector.
“While the government continues to facilitate as well as provide supporting Infrastructures, systems, control processes and oversight.”
Kyari said GAWA 2025 would expose stakeholders in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and prosperous agricultural sector in West Africa.
In his keynote, Prof. Lateef Sanni, the Executive Director, Nigeria Stock Product Research Institute, urged the government to prioritise timely release of credit facilities to farmers.
He said, “The government needs to encourage the youth to go into farming and for our youths to take up farming, they need credit facility.
“Therefore, the government need to make available credit facility at a single-digit interest rate to farmers.”
Earlier, in his opening remarks, Mr. Abiodun Olaniyi, the host and Executive Director, Agriquest Africa Network Ltd., said the expo was designed to address the development of agriculture in West Africa.
“We can see that there are lots of dynamics that have happened in agriculture in the past years and we are now taking it to the next level.
“People have to look at the sustainability of agriculture and we can see the climate change coming up.
“We are also talking about regenerative agriculture in terms of our soil and the planting session.
“So, it is a lot that we are using this expo to address technology that will put up our agricultural practices and future of agriculture in West Africa,” Olaniyi said.
The recent suspension of major US aid and development funding is affecting not just the world’s poorest people but its most threatened natural environments too. In 2023, USAID spent $375 million on conservation projects around the world. Stopping this flow of funds disrupts ongoing programmes but also erodes the trust and momentum built over years of hard work.
Wildlife conservation in Africa
This sudden shock has highlighted the vulnerability of relying too heavily on external and international funding, which can be unpredictable and subject to geopolitical shifts. With World Wildlife Day on Monday, March 3, 2025, focusing on sustainable finance for protecting nature, it’s a stern reminder that in Nigeria we need to shift from reliance on international donors to empowering local philanthropists and businesses to take the lead and pushing government authorities to adopt enabling policies.
As someone who has dedicated over 15 years to wildlife conservation in Nigeria, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of local funding alongside the impact of international recognition. This does not undermine the continuous need for international support. Some years ago, I was a finalist for the Tusk Conservation Awards, the world’s leading international prize recognising African conservation leaders. Nominations are open for this year’s awards, and I strongly recommend that my brothers and sisters in the conservation sector nominate their colleagues, peers, mentors, or other inspiring leaders at tuskawards.com.
While my recognition as a finalist brought the international spotlight and much needed credibility to our project in Yankari Game Reserve, it also raised our profile within my country Nigeria. Historically, government almost never provided much-needed investment for conservation because they don’t see the immediate returns, in the way they do from activities such as crude oil extraction. They don’t appreciate the unquantified returns through ecosystem services, carbon sequestration, security and many more. My nomination I believe was a wake-up call for Nigerians. It demonstrated that our work and what other colleagues were doing in conservation was not only legitimate but also worthy of global attention.
This national and international shift in perception due to the award had tangible benefits. Funding opportunities for our project increased. Partnerships became more accessible. It opened doors. It signaled to the world that Nigerian conservationists were as committed as their contemporaries around the world. Perhaps most importantly, it inspired confidence among local stakeholders, proving that conservation is not just a passion but a viable and impactful endeavor.
Nigerian philanthropists, businesses, and government officials are increasingly recognising the value of conservation and investing in it accordingly, though more needs to be done. When national parks and protected areas are well-managed, they can become engines of economic growth and development, providing jobs, supporting livelihoods, and attracting tourism and investment.
They also play a critical role in mitigating climate change while preserving biodiversity. When they are ignored, they can become potential breeding grounds for criminality and even terrorism. Boko Haram for instance grew from strength to strength out of the Sambisa Forest Reserve in north-east Nigeria.
African Nature Investors Foundation (ANI Foundation), the Nigerian-founded and led nonprofit where I now work, is focused on the sustainable management of protected areas of strategic biodiversity importance in partnership with government and communities. We believe that protected areas can be engines for local and regional development. We also aim to establish enabling conditions for private sector investment to sustain protected areas, reducing their dependency on philanthropy and government spending.
That is why we signed an agreement with the Nigeria National Park Service as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) to co-manage Gashaka-Gumti National Park – Nigeria’s largest – and Okomu National Park. These agreements are the first of their kind for national park management in Nigeria and enable the very private sector investment we believe will be transformational for conservation.
Today, the majority of ANI Foundation’s funding is generated from the Nigerian private sector. This is a testament to the potential of African philanthropy. Nigeria and the rest of Africa have immense wealth that could easily fund all the continent’s biodiversity conservation activities if it were made a priority.
Local funding offers several advantages. It is more flexible; it understands the local context and often comes with fewer strings attached. It also fosters a sense of ownership and pride among Nigerians, demonstrating that we are capable of leading our own conservation efforts.
ANI believes that indigenous philanthropy coupled with innovative funding mechanisms, such as carbon credits and ecotourism, can make conservation financially sustainable. We believe it is imperative that our protected areas begin to generate enough revenue to manage themselves, reducing our over reliance on external funding.
To do this, we need policies that support conservation efforts, such as allocating a percentage of oil revenues to fund protected areas. We also need to build partnerships with international organisations, not as primary funders but as collaborators who can amplify our efforts.
The time to act is now. Nigeria’s natural heritage is at risk, and we cannot afford to solely rely on international donors to come to our rescue, charity begins at home. To my fellow Nigerians, I urge you to support conservation efforts in any way you can. Whether through donations, advocacy, lifestyle choices, or partnerships, your little contributions cumulatively can make a difference. We must take the lead and demonstrate that conservation is not just a moral imperative but can also be a profitable and sustainable investment.
By Nacha Geoffrey, a conservationist; Nigeria Country Manager for ANI Foundation; and 2017 finalist for the Tusk Conservation Awards. See tuskawards.com/nominations for this year’s Awards nominations
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) and the Belgian government have reaffirmed their commitment to the Ogoni cleanup and to addressing environmental and socio-economic challenges in the region.
HYPREP and Belgium government officials
This commitment was reiterated in a statement following a visit by Pieter Leenknegt, the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, and Prof. Olof Linden, a renowned mangrove expert, to Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, HYPREP’s Project Coordinator.
Leenknegt stated that the visit aimed to assess the progress of the Ogoni cleanup programme and explore areas for further support.
He was accompanied by Dorien Laewnen, First Secretary to the Belgian Ambassador, who commended HYPREP’s efforts in environmental restoration and livelihood improvement in the Niger Delta.
Laewnen described the project as “a contemporary approach to caring for biodiversity and making the community dwellers custodians of the environment”.
Linden was also accompanied by Mike Cowing from the Post-UNEP team to inspect the HYPREP mangrove restoration site in Bomu, Gokana Local Government Area in Rivers State.
The United Nations (UN) and its agencies have committed to partnering with HYPREP in key areas.
Mohamed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, stated at a recent meeting with HYPREP that the UN and its agencies would provide technical support in mangrove restoration and climate change mitigation.
He added that the UN would also assist in food security, access to potable water, public health, and other areas.
Fall noted that the visit provided an opportunity to assess HYPREP’s progress in implementing the Ogoni Cleanup Programme.
He highlighted that HYPREP’s mandate aligns with the UN’s objectives, particularly in addressing human rights, environmental degradation, access to clean water, public health, and peacebuilding.
“I have seen that progress is being made on many fronts, the restoration of mangroves, the improvement of livelihoods, and better access to services such as safe water and healthcare.
“The UN will continue to lend its voice and provide support as the programme moves forward,” Fall assured.
In response, Zabbey expressed optimism that the visits reflected the growing national and international interest in the project.
“This project is fostering biodiversity recovery in previously degraded shoreline and mangrove areas, with over 1.3 million mangroves planted and shoreline restoration works reaching over 38 per cent to date,” he said.
He emphasised that HYPREP welcomes partnerships that drive sustainable development and contribute to key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 6, 13, 14, and 17.
Zabbey also appealed to the UN Resident Coordinator to mobilise further support from UN agencies to sustain the project’s momentum.
During the visit, the delegation received a project status briefing outlining key milestones achieved across various thematic areas.
They were also presented with HYPREP’s manuals on mangrove restoration, among other project documents.
Representatives from the FAO, WHO, and UNDP, as well as the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, were present during the visit to HYPREP’s office in Port Harcourt.
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has officially commenced the reconstruction and upgrade of the ₦80 billion Alau Dam in Borno State.
The groundbreaking ceremony of the Alau Dam in Borno State
Alau Dam is a critical infrastructure serving as a water source, irrigation system, and flood control facility for the region.
Originally built between 1984 and 1986, the dam collapsed on September 10, 2024, due to severe flooding, displacing thousands and disrupting agriculture and water supply.
Following the disaster, President Bola Tinubu approved an ₦80 billion intervention fund.
This decision was based on recommendations from a high-powered technical committee, led by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, which was tasked with assessing dam infrastructure nationwide.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Alau, Utsev emphasised that the reconstruction and upgrade of the dam would directly enhance water supply, flood control, and agricultural productivity in Borno state.
“This is not just another infrastructure project. This is a direct response to the devastating floods of 2024 and a demonstration of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and prosperity of Nigerians, particularly the people of Borno State.”
The minister explained that, before its collapse, the Alau Dam played a pivotal role in providing irrigation for thousands of hectares of farmland and supplying potable water to Maiduguri and its environs.
He noted that decades of neglect, climate change impacts, and increased demand had weakened its capacity.
The minister further disclosed that the reconstruction would be executed in two phases over 24 months, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term resilience.
“Phase one, which will begin between March and Sept. 2025, will focus on urgent interventions to mitigate flood risks and restore the dam’s basic infrastructure.
“Phase two, which will commence in Oct. 2025 and run until 2027, will focus on comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrade, including desilting, structural reinforcements, and expansion of irrigation channels to support sustainable agriculture and water supply.”
Utsev assured that the project would be executed transparently, with strict adherence to quality and safety standards.
In his remarks, Gov. Babagana Zulum lauded the Federal Government’s swift intervention, describing the reconstruction as a major step towards rebuilding lives, boosting the local economy, and ensuring long-term food security.
“This groundbreaking ceremony is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to not just rebuilding physical infrastructure, but restoring the livelihoods and dignity of our people,” Zulum said.
The governor noted that the dam’s collapse had dealt a significant blow to farmers, herders, and households in the state, making its reconstruction critical to food security, economic stability, and water availability.
While acknowledging that the project was divided into two phases, he appealed for both phases to be executed concurrently, particularly emphasising the need to urgently address the issue of silting in the water basin.
“I want to appeal to the honourable minister to consider executing both phases concurrently, especially to clear the silting and restore the full functionality of the dam,” Zulum stated.
He further commended President Tinubu’s administration for its post-flood relief interventions, including the deployment of 200 trucks of food grains, which he said helped to stabilise affected communities.
Zulum announced the approval for the construction of a primary school and hospital in Alau community.
“I have approved the construction of a primary school and hospital for Alau community to ensure the holistic development of the area,” Zulum stated.
The governor urged residents of Alau and neighbouring communities to cooperate with contractors and provide support for the smooth execution of the project.
Also speaking, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, emphasised the importance of expanding irrigation facilities alongside the dam reconstruction to enhance dry-season farming and boost food production.
He called on the Ministry of Water Resources to incorporate irrigation infrastructure into the project, adding that his ministry was ready to partner with the Borno government to support farmers in utilising the fertile land surrounding Alau Dam.
“The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is prepared to collaborate in maximising the agricultural potential of this project,” Kyari said.
The groundbreaking ceremony drew top dignitaries, including Senator Abdulaziz Yari, represented by Sen. Ken Emeka and Sen. Sada Soli, Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Water and Sanitation.
Others in attendance included Sen. Kaka Shehu, representing Borno Central; the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn El-Kanemi; and other top government officials.
The Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria in collaboration with UNICEF intends to plant 2,080 trees in three months to strengthen environmental sustainability and mitigate the negative impact of climate change in the area.
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
Prof. Kabiru Bala, Vice-Chancellor, ABU, disclosed this on the sideline of a workshop on Tree Planting, Waste Recycling and Sustainable Practices for ABU Students held at the institution in Zaria.
The workshop was organised by UNICEF in collaboration ABU in Zaria.
Bala, represented by Prof. Sahalu Junaid, said the partnership was hinged on tree planting and sustainable waste management under the Green Rising Initiative of UNICEF.
He noted that ABU had a long tradition of tree planting and the university had planted over five million trees across its campuses in five years.
“Under the recycling component of the partnership, UNICEF has supported the construction of 12 collection kiosks around the campus, buying waste for recycling purposes.
“UNICEF and ABU want these initiatives to be owned by young people so that they can use it as a means of entrepreneurship,” he said.
The vice-chancellor said the 2,080 trees would be planted on five hectares of land and UNICEF had provided a number of support for the volunteers.
“Each volunteer will receive N2,000 for transportation and N1,500 for refreshment; we are to be going to the field at least three times a week; for each visit we will require about 100 students,’’ he said.
Ms. Theresa Pamma, Water Sanitation and Hygiene Expert, UNICEF, Kaduna Field Office, said the partnership with ABU was very strategic.
Pamma said UNICEF’s Green Rising Project was aimed at engaging youth to be active participants in climate change interventions and “when one is looking at the critical mass of youth ABU is a strategic partner on this.”
She added that UNICEF was leveraging on the youth at ABU who were from different parts of the country to cascade Green Rising campaign down towards mitigating climate change impacts.
“We also consider the history of ABU, its number of students and what the institution has been doing on climate change (the tree planting initiatives).
“These among other reasons informed the decision to choose ABU for this strategic partnership,’’ Pamma said.
She further explained that the initiative was aimed at increasing awareness on issues around climate and making youth to be active participants in the implementation of the interventions.
She said the partnership initially targeted 200 students as volunteers, but the turnout was overwhelming; hence UNICEF would meet with the university towards increasing the number.
