The Federal Government says it is collaborating with some civil society organisations (CSOs) to assess, track and rank the efforts put in place by states and Local Government Areas (LGAs) in addressing climate change issues.
Dasuki Arabi, Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR)
Mr. Dasuki Arabi, the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), said this at a one-day stakeholders’ workshop on Climate Action Index (CAI) on Wednesday, February26, 2025, in Abuja.
The workshop was jointly organised by BPSR in partnership with the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI) and Centre for Climate Action, Innovation and Engagement (CCAIE).
Arabi said the CAI would help drive accountability, encourage competition and highlight best practices to be replicated across the country.
“The Climate Action Index we introduce today is designed as a tool to assess, track, and rank sub-national climate efforts.
“This workshop aligns with Nigeria’s broader commitment under the Paris Agreement and Climate Change Act of 2021, towards ensuring that subnational climate actions are transparent, measurable and impactful.
“The CAI is an innovative initiative created to amongst others evaluate, rank and support subnational governments in Nigeria towards fulfilling the climate commitments,” he said.
According to Arabi, climate change remains one of the most defining challenges in the country, with direct consequences on the economy, environment and public well-being.
This, he said, was an indication that a wholistic action should be taken to mitigate global warming and limit global temperature rise.
“Nigeria, like many other nations, have made ambitious commitments towards climate mitigation and adaptation through national and international agreements, including the Paris Accord and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
“However, the success of these commitments depends not just on federal policies but also on the active participation of sub-national entities like the states and local governments.
“While some countries have made significant commitments towards net-zero targets, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development report 2024, indicates that current commitments are not enough to meet the Paris Agreement Goals,” Arabi said.
He added that the overall objective of the CAI was to ensure commitments towards addressing climate change and transitioning to a low carbon economy.
Mr A’Aron John, Executive Director, CCAIE, said the centre in collaboration with CeFTPI, developed the CAI to identify implementation gaps, promote accountability and develop actionable road map towards a net-zero future.
John regretted that Nigeria’s emissions increased by a Compound Annual Growth Rate of one per cent between 1990 and 2021.
He said to avoid further increase in emission, the CAI would evaluate states and LGAs based on three key pillars according to the NDCs framework.
“The pillars are climate action plan alignment with the federal targets, integration into state policies and implementation frameworks,” he said.
The National Emergency Management Agency of Nigeria and other critical stakeholders were part of the workshop.
The Federal Government on Thursday, February 27, 2025, reaffirmed its commitment to the Ogoni cleanup and inaugurated two additional water schemes in Beeri, Khana LGA, and Bunu, Tai LGA, in Rivers State.
Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, inaugurating a water scheme in Rivers State
This was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, the Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).
While inaugurating the water projects, the Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring Ogoniland.
He added that it reaffirms the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability and the well-being of communities affected by oil pollution.
“The provision of potable water to these communities is a critical step towards improving public health, reducing waterborne diseases, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
“It also signifies a renewed commitment to ensuring that the people of Ogoni reap the full benefits of environmental remediation efforts.
“We will continue to ensure that communities have access to clean, safe, and sustainable drinking water,” the minister pledged.
Lawal, while commending President Bola Tinubu for his dedication to environmental sustainability and the restoration of Ogoniland, noted that his leadership has expedited the implementation of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) recommendations for the benefit of the Ogoni people.
The minister also praised HYPREP’s management under Zabbey and the development partners for their commitment to realising these projects.
He urged the communities to take responsibility for protecting the facilities.
He assured that HYPREP is also addressing other critical needs, such as healthcare, education, and economic empowerment, to ensure a sustainable future for the region’s residents.
Earlier, Zabbey stated that the commissioning of the water projects is proof that HYPREP is making significant progress in implementing the Ogoni cleanup programme.
The PC emphasised that the project is focused on ensuring the timely and efficient execution of initiatives, reaffirming its core values of transparency and accountability in implementing the UNEP report’s recommendations.
He noted that the newly inaugurated water projects demonstrate a strong commitment to effectively carrying out the UNEP report’s recommendations.
“The Beeri water facility, which will distribute water to seven communities, has a combined tank capacity of 900,000 litres, while the Bunu facility, with a capacity of 850,000 litres, will supply potable water to three communities in the area,” Zabbey explained.
According to the statement, the minister and his entourage also visited other HYPREP projects, including remediation sites in Ogale and the 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital in Kpite, Tai.
They also visited the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration (CEER) in Wiiyaakara and the mangrove restoration site in Bomu, where they planted symbolic mangroves.
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has urged oil companies operating in Nigeria to prioritise the development of their host communities.
Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Executive Secretary, NEITI
NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr Ogbonnaya Orji, made the call at the official presentation of a Policy Brief on three per cent Operating Expenses (OPEX) for Host Communities on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Abuja.
The policy brief is titled: “Giving host communities their due: Revisiting the three per cent OPEX funding framework for host community development trusts in Nigeria”.
The unveiling, organised by the Spaces for Change, a civil society organisation (CSO), had in attendance stakeholders from the oil industries and representatives of the host communities, among others.
Speaking at the event, Orji emphasised the need for greater corporate commitment to community development.
“It is an honour to address you today on a matter of profound importance to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“And more importantly, to the communities that bear the direct impact of resource extraction—the Host Communities Trust Fund.
“This fund, established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021), is designed to enhance the welfare of host communities, ensure sustainable development, and promote peaceful coexistence between industry operators and their host environments,” he said.
Orji said the successful implementation of the initiative required a collective effort, involving not only government agencies but also the vital contributions of NEITI and non-state actors, including CSOs, community leaders, and the media.
“The Role of NEITI as the national representative of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector.
“Specifically, in the implementation of the Host Communities Trust Fund, NEITI’s role is multifaceted,” said Orji.
According to him, NEITI is mandated to ensure openness in revenue flows and financial transactions being pivotal in tracking funds allocated to host communities.
He also urged host communities to play their part by taking ownership of projects in their areas and ensuring their proper maintenance.
“The host communities must be willing to take responsibility by owning and maintaining the projects implemented for their benefit,” he emphasised.
Dr Dekor Robinson, Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities in the House of Representatives, pledged continued engagement to ensure the effective utilisation of funds allocated to host communities.
Represented by Mr Clement Jimbo, a fellow committee member in the House of Representatives, Robinson emphasised that the three per cent allocation was not insignificant.
He stressed the importance of host communities taking full control of the funds to achieve their development goals.
In her presentation, Mrs Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, Executive Director of Spaces for Change, highlighted her organisation’s role as a key partner in recognising both the achievements and gaps in the fund’s utilisation.
Ibezim-Ohaeri encouraged companies to engage host communities as partners and emphasised her organisation’s commitment to addressing the identified gaps.
The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has vowed to go after oil spillers, tankers and pipeline vandals in the country, irrespective of their position in the society.
The oil spill site
Mr. Edward Omo-Erewa, the newly appointed Chairman of the Governing Board of NOSDRA, said this on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Abuja during his familiarisation visit to the agency.
Omo-Erewa said that it was time to hold those who spilled oil, vandalised pipes, polluted the society and caused harm to the society responsible for their actions.
According to him, “we will go after those who spill oil irrespective of who they are. Over the years, there have been no discipline, and because our problem is indiscipline, we are ready to change the narrative.
“Few weeks ago, some tankers got spilled, now we will go after them so they will know we are serious.
“We need to make ourselves known and that is how to also draw the government’s attention to the agency,” he Omo-Erewa.
He also said that he was aware of the staff strength of the agency and the poor working conditions staffers were subjected to.
Omo-Erewa pledged to enhance the agency, improve staff welfare and boost overall productivity, while calling for robust collaboration between the agency’s management and the board.
In his remarks, Mr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director General, NOSDRA, welcomed the Chairman and expressed optimism that his presence would make a positive impact in the agency.
Woke stressed the need for synergy between the board and management of the agency with a view to achieving the mandates of the agency.
He urged the board not to work in silos and pledged the support of the management in providing all necessary information to guide the activities of the board.
He also promised that there would be no rivalry between the board and the management.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Felix Omatsola Ogbe, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, in Abuja charged oil and gas industry stakeholders in Africa to institute an Africa-wide local content framework that harmonises policies and fosters cross-border partnerships.
Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Felix Omatsola Ogbe, delivering a Keynote Address at the Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES 2025) in Abuja
He said such a framework would allow African nations to leverage collective strengths for mutual prosperity, while emphasising that “local content is not just a policy – it is a strategy for sustainable economic growth.” In his words, it is “the foundation of economic transformation and energy security across Africa.”
In a Keynote Address entitled “Unlocking Africa’s Potential through Local Content: Policies, Partnerships, and Progress” delivered at the Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES 2025), the NCDMB boss said, “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an opportunity to position local content as a driver of continental industrialisation.”
He drew attention to the critical role of policies, partnerships, and progress in unlocking Africa’s vast energy potential, noting that, “Across our continent, we are blessed with abundant natural resources, yet the true measure of wealth lies not in extraction but how we harness, retain, and multiply value within our economies.”
According to him, “Unlocking Africa’s potential through local content requires unwavering commitment to capacity building, policy refinement, and strategic partnerships,” just as the energy transition across the world and the dynamic global market dictate that African nations remain resolute in their efforts to maximise local value addition.
He assured stakeholders that “NCDMB remains committed to working with our African counterparts to share best practices, co-develop industrial hubs, and create synergies that benefit the wider energy landscape.”
Commenting on new investments, the Executive Secretary commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Executive Orders, which made Nigeria Africa’s top destination for oil and gas sector investments.
He noted that the Executive Order reduced the contracting cycle for oil and gas projects from 36 months to six months. “This directive sped up project approvals and removed bureaucratic delays. It has also boosted investor confidence and accelerated project execution.”
The NCDMB boss added that the Executive Orders led to four Final Investment Decisions (FID) within a year.
Throwing light on Nigeria’s experience in local content development, Ogbe said, “By maximising local participation in the oil and gas value chain, we have created jobs and enhanced economic development,” adding, “We have demonstrated how capacity building, policy refinement, and joint partnerships can create a thriving, self-sustaining oil and gas ecosystem.”
The NCDMB, which he described as “Nigeria’s pre-eminent local content regulator,” has thus far prioritised development of indigenous skills, asset and equipment ownership, and local manufacturing capabilities. To support the above-mentioned priorities, the Board has in place a number of initiatives, such as the Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) to provide affordable financing to support indigenous businesses in acquiring assets, expanding opertions, and delivering world-class services, he added.
The NCDMB boss also highlighted the Board’s Human Capacity Development (HCD) programmes, which continue to train thousands of Nigerians in specialised skills that align with industry needs, and the Project 100 Initiative, which targets capacity development for indigenous service companies some of which have become big-time industry players operating across international boundaries.
The Board, according to Ogbe, is developing Nigerian oil and gas industrial parks across seven locations in the country to provide infrastructure for the manufacturing of equipment, components, and spare parts to serve local and regional markets. Major construction work at the sites is expected to be completed at the end of the year, and interested investors in manufacturing are called upon to contact the Board for allocation of plots for development in the parks.
Among policy instruments and other initiatives of the NCDMB highlighted were the Nigerian Content Equipment Certificate (NCEC), which seeks to drive the growth of in-country value addition in the oil and gas industry through ownership of equipment and facilities, and the Marine Vessel Categorisation Implementation Strategy, which has yielded appreciable results with marine vessel ownership by indigenous companies growing from less than eight per cent in 2010 to more than 60 per cent presently.
The Federal Government has renewed its commitment to ensuring that Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, are provided with electricity for a more meaningful life.
Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, made this known on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the commissioning of a 990kwp solar hybrid mini grid that would benefit about 3,900 households at Lambata community in Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to him, it is the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that all Nigeria’s rural areas are illuminated with electricity either by the grid or renewable power option.
He said that President Tinubu’s commitment towards energising the country is demonstrated with his participation in the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB)’s Energy Summit to make electricity available to 300 million Africans by the year 2030.
“This commitment resonates strongly with the discussions at the recent Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania, specifically during the M3OO initiative. In Tanzania, we committed to drive transformative change in the energy sector across the continent.
“Nigeria, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is leading by example. Our participation in the M3OO and the presentation of Nigeria’s Energy Compact highlighted our dedication to scaling up renewable energy solutions and ensuring energy security.
President Tinubu’s administration recognises that energy is the bedrock of economic growth and social progress. His leadership has emphasised the need for strategic investments in sustainable energy infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural communities,” Adelabu said.
He expressed the gratitude of the Federal Government to the government of Germany and the European Union (EU), and the GIZ, for their, cooperation, collaboration and partnerships in making the project a reality.
“Furthermore, this project underscores the importance of international cooperation and knowledge exchange with the government of Nigeria and its development partners. The Ministry of Power and its agencies remain committed to working with EU, the German Government and other development partners to further advance progressive strides in the sector,” Adelabu stated, even as he promised the development partners that, henceforth, funded projects under his watch would be effectively monitored and fully delivered without questions.
“I have a word of encouragement for you here today, particularly all our stakeholders here. I assure all our development partners, especially, the EU, the German Government and the GIZ that we are initiating and institutionalising a framework to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation of all funded projects to ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved and devoted resources are effectively utilised. I want to assure GIZ that whatever has been our experience in terms of hiccups and obstacles at executing our funded projects have been a thing of the past. I can assure you that under my administration, it will never happen again. It is a new dawn, I can assure you of that,” he said.
He also admonished the development partners not to relent in their efforts towards the infrastructural development of Nigeria as the country has become the focus of the entire world in its development.
“It is a common saying that if you move fast, you move alone. But if you want to move very far, you move together. I want to thank the EU, the German Government and GIZ that together, we are going to move very far. The name of the game today is collaboration, partnership, and cooperation. The world today has become a global village, and all eyes are now on Nigeria on its development, and we must continue to move and work together,” he said.
He expressed his joy and happiness over the new project
“It gives me immense pleasure to stand before you today as we gather to mark the commissioning of a 990kWp interconnected mini-grid here in Lamabata, Gurara LGA, Niger State through the support of the German Government and the European Union to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards achieving universal energy access in Nigeria and a testament to our unwavering commitment to the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS) implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Power. This project is not just about installing solar panels and connecting wires; it’s about illuminating lives, powering businesses, and fostering sustainable development in this vibrant community.
“The ripple effects of this mini-grid will be profound. It will enhance agricultural productivity, support local enterprises, improve educational outcomes, and bolster healthcare services. By providing reliable and clean energy, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Lamabata.
“President Tinubu’s administration recognises that energy is the bedrock of economic growth and social progress. His leadership has emphasized the need for strategic investments in sustainable energy infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural communities. This mini-grid in Lamabata is a direct outcome of this vision. It exemplifies our commitment to decentralizing energy generation and promoting the use of renewable resources.
“The successful implementation of this project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including, the management and staff of REA, the community leaders, project developers, and government agencies. I commend the dedication and hard work that have brought us to this momentous occasion,” Adelabu said.
He disclosed that, more than before, Nigeria today has a vibrant power sector, which is being used to drive other sectors of the economy.
“President Tinubu is using the power sector to drive the other sectors of the economy be it education, and all other sectors, because there is practically nothing we can do without power.”
He called on the REA to replicate what it did in Lambata all over the country.
“Let us replicate the feat we have achieved here in all our rural communities. Every rural community deserves this. The opportunity is huge, and all eyes are on us as a nation. There is nothing we need that God has not provided for us in Nigeria to make a breakthrough in the area of Power. We have good sunshine, we have the coastal wind, we have the desert wind. The Lagos-Calabar highway will open up so many opportunities in these areas and so will the Badagry-Sokoto highway will open up our dams for use by the communities around these highways. These are good opportunities for us to utilise these God given natural resources to develop our country,” the Minister said.
He also commended the Niger State Government for being host to about 95 percent of the nation’s hydro power plants.
“Niger State is what I call the power state. They are host to 95 percent of our hydro power plants. These include Jebba, Kainji, Shiroro and the new Zungeru power plant,” he said.
He added: “As we benefit from the power of this mini grid, let us remember that this is another step in our ongoing journey. We will continue to work tirelessly to expand energy access to every corner of Nigeria, ensuring that no community is left behind.
He also charged the Lambata community to protect the project against vandals by keeping an eagle eye on it and also keep their little financial commitment in keeping it running.
“In conclusion, I want to reiterate President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape. We are building a nation where every citizen has access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy. This mini-grid in Lamabata is a shining example of what we can achieve when we work together.”
Among those who witnessed the commissioning were the Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria, Mr. Johannes Lennes; the Head of Cooperation of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Massive De Lucg; the Managing Director of the REA, Abba Aliyu; and a host of Niger State Government officials.
Eight former African Heads of State and Government, including Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo and Yemi Osinbajo, have signed the Cape Town Declaration, calling for the critical need for debt relief for highly indebted nations and advocating for lower borrowing costs for all developing countries.
Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Chair, African Leaders Initiative on Debt Relief
The Declaration was signed on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the launch of the African Leaders Debt Relief Initiative (ALDRI), which reflects the leaders’ commitment to rallying for a comprehensive debt relief strategy for countries in dire financial situations.
The launch of the initiative took place on the sidelines of the first G20 Finance Ministers’ meeting in Cape Town, where the South African G20 Presidency has made debt sustainability a central focus. The Declaration also aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, underscoring the continent’s long-term development aspirations.
The African Leaders Initiative on Debt Relief is led by a distinguished group of former African leaders, including:
Olusegun Obasanjo, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Chair)
Joyce Banda, Former President of the Republic of Malawi
Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania
Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, Former President of the Republic of Mauritius
Macky Sall, Former President of the Republic of Senegal
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Former President of the Republic of Ghana
Hailemariam Desalegn, Former Prime Minister of the Republic of Ethiopia
Yemi Osinbajo, Former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
The signatories called for intensified international cooperation to address the debt crisis and emphasized the urgent need to reform the global financial architecture to better support developing countries.
“Africa is facing unsustainable debt burdens. It is crucial that we come together to find a solution to this crisis. Africa’s future is intertwined with the world’s future, and we must work to resolve the debt crisis in order to drive sustainable economic development across the continent. South Africa’s commitment to prioritizing debt relief and collaborate with nations to address the root causes of high-cost debt is a welcome one,” said Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Debt Crisis and the Need for Action
In 2023, low- and middle-income countries collectively spent $1.4 trillion servicing foreign debt, with interest payments reaching a staggering $406 billion. Africa, in particular, is facing disproportionately high borrowing rates, making it harder to invest in the continent’s growth and development.
As the G20 Summit in 2025 draws nearer, the Cape Town Declaration offers a timely opportunity to focus attention on Africa’s debt crisis and the broader challenges faced by developing nations, including health, education, food and energy insecurity and the environment.
The African Leaders Debt Relief Initiative continues to advocate for policies that promote economic resilience and sustainable growth across the African continent. The signatories are committed to working collaboratively with international stakeholders to implement these crucial reforms, ultimately driving forward Africa’s development agenda.
“African countries are burdened with disproportionately high borrowing rates and debt costs, often requiring repayment within a short timeframe. A comprehensive solution to the debt crisis must be a priority for all. The resolution of this global issue benefits everyone, everywhere,” said Macky Sall, former President of the Republic of Senegal.
“Countries on the frontlines of the development crisis are the same ones grappling with record levels of debt. By 2030, these nations will need to invest up to $6.4 trillion annually to achieve sustainable development. However, this goal remains unaffordable given their overwhelming debt servicing obligations,” said Joyce Banda, former President of the Republic of Malawi.
“The debt crisis has been worsened by rising interest rates and a stronger dollar, making it increasingly difficult for African countries to manage dollar-denominated debt. A global solution to this crisis is not only vital for our economies but will also benefit everyone around the world,”said Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, former President of the United Republic of Tanzania.
“Ghana’s situation underscores the need for debt relief that is both fair and needs-based. Countries in debt distress must receive the necessary support to invest in sustainable solutions for their people,” said Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, former President of the Republic of Ghana.
“The Global South has suffered under crippling debt for far too long. This moment, and the years ahead, must mark a turning point. We must unite to find a global solution to this global crisis. Leadership from the Global South is essential in advocating for a comprehensive debt relief mechanism. Small Island Developing States (SIDS), like Mauritius, are particularly vulnerable to the climate crisis. Many of these nations are drowning in debt as they are forced to address the devastating impacts of climate change and rising sea levels,” said Dr. Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, former President of the Republic of Mauritius.
“Multilateral cooperation between countries, multilateral banks, the private sector, and other stakeholders is essential for reforming the global debt system. Africa must have a voice in shaping these reforms. We fully support the G20 presidency and the African Union’s efforts to find solutions to the debt crisis,”said Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Ethiopia.
“More than half of African countries now allocate more funds to interest payments than to healthcare, leaving them with little fiscal capacity to invest in sustainable development. Immediate action is critical, and a breakthrough must be reached as the G20 meets this year. South Africa’s presidency of the G20 offers a vital opportunity to forge a strong, unified stance on debt relief,” said Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
At the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2025 in Abuja, Olumide Adeosun, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Eterna PLC, participated in the panel session on the downstream sector, shedding light on the evolving investment landscape and the future of energy in Nigeria.
Olumide Adeosun
Adeosun emphasised that safety and regulatory stability are fundamental pillars for attracting investment in the downstream sector.
“If an investor believes that the rule of law does not apply, or that safety principles are compromised in a jurisdiction, they will be hesitant to invest,” he stated, underlining the need for a structured and secure environment for energy investments.
Reflecting on the sector’s evolution, Adeosun noted that modular refining and large-scale refining projects have traditionally been perceived as the most significant investment opportunities in the downstream industry.
However, he pointed out that the dynamics of energy consumption and mobility are shifting, necessitating a forward-thinking approach to investment.
Addressing the future of transportation energy, Adeosun highlighted the rise of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a viable alternative fuel, particularly for commercial transportation.
He acknowledged the growing role of batteries and renewable energy, stating that young Nigerians are increasingly considering electric and alternative-fuel vehicles.
However, he noted that large-scale electric vehicle (EV) adoption remains constrained by power infrastructure challenges.
Adeosun further pointed out the potential for investment in battery technology and solar-powered charging systems, referencing the increasing prevalence of solar-powered devices and storage solutions.
He provided a compelling insight into Nigeria’s two-wheeler and three-wheeler market, which currently consumes a significant portion of the country’s petrol supply – estimated at 25 million liters per day.
Given that commercial motorcycles and tricycles account for a large share of fuel consumption, he identified an opportunity to transition these vehicles to battery-powered alternatives, reducing reliance on petrol and enhancing energy efficiency.
“There is a major investment opportunity in the electrification of commercial transport, particularly for those who have already invested in the necessary infrastructure,” Adeosun stated. “It is a chance for industry players to leverage existing assets and distribution networks to drive this transition.”
In conclusion, the Eterna PLC CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, calling for strategic investments in alternative energy sources and infrastructure to ensure a resilient and competitive downstream sector in Nigeria.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals has slashed the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), or petrol, for the second time this month. It has cut N65 off the previous price of N890, bringing it down to N825 per litre at the gantry (ex-depot). This follows a N60 reduction on February 1, 2025.
Dangote Refinery
The ex-depot price has thus decreased from N950 per litre in January to the current price of N825 per litre, representing a reduction of N125 per litre within 26 days.
This recent price reduction will also ensure that Nigerians pay between N860 and N865 per litre for petrol at the pump in Lagos.
In a statement from the first privately owned petroleum refinery in Africa, it was announced that the price adjustment will take effect from Thursday, February 27, and is intended to provide essential relief to Nigerians.
“This strategic price adjustment is designed to provide essential relief to Nigerians in celebration of the Ramadan season, while also supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic recovery policy by alleviating the financial burden on the Nigerian populace.
“It is important to note that Dangote Petroleum Refinery has consistently lowered the prices of petrol and other refined petroleum products to the benefit of Nigerians. This marks the second reduction of PMS prices in February 2025, following a previous decrease of N60 earlier in the month. Additionally, in December 2024, during the yuletide period, the refinery reduced the price of PMS by N70.50, from N970 to N899.50 per litre, as part of its commitment to easing the cost of living and providing relief to Nigerians during the holiday season,” the statement read.
The refinery highlighted that previous reductions have positively impacted the overall cost of living, benefiting various sectors of the economy. They also helped ensure that Nigerians did not experience the typical fuel scarcity and price hikes associated with the yuletide season.
Dangote reiterated that its high-quality products, which have become a favourite in both domestic and international markets, will remain available nationwide, particularly through its key partners – MRS Holdings, AP (Ardova Petroleum), and Heyden – at market-friendly rates.
“Nigerians will be able to purchase high-quality Dangote petrol at the following prices across our partners’ retail outlets: For MRS Holdings stations, it will be sold for N860 per litre in Lagos, N870 per litre in the South-West, N880 per litre in the North, and N890 per litre in the South-South and South-East regions, respectively.
“The same product will also be available at the following prices in AP (Ardova Petroleum) and Heyden stations: N865 per litre in Lagos, N875 per litre in the South-West, N885 per litre in the North, and N895 per litre in the South-South and South-East,” it added.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery assured the public of a consistent supply of petroleum products, with sufficient reserves to meet domestic demand and a surplus for export, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
The refinery called on marketers to support this initiative, ensuring that Nigerians remain the primary beneficiaries of this effort.
“This collective action will contribute to the broader economic recovery plan led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub,” it concluded.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which has exported its products to Europe, America, Asia, and other regions, recently supplied jet fuel to Saudi Arabia. The refinery has confirmed it holds over 500 million litres of petrol in storage, enough to meet Nigeria’s petrol demand for several days. Additionally, the refining capacity of the 650,000 barrel per day refinery has surpassed Nigeria’s average daily requirement of 385,000 barrels.
The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has decried the ineffective implementation of the Urban Regional Planning Law and rampant disregard for approved master plans in Nigeria’s major towns.
NITP National President, Dr Ogbonna Chime
The NITP new Chairman, FCT Chapter, Queen Phillips, stated this during her inauguration on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in Abuja.
Phillips stressed that inadequate implementation of urban planning laws hinders Nigeria’s progress toward sustainable development.
She outlined her plans to include, strengthening professionalism and capacity building.
Phillips also said that providing ongoing professional development through workshops and training to equip members with contemporary planning skills among others would be part of her administration’s focus.
She said that effective sensitisation of citizens and strict enforcement of urban regional laws are essential to bringing order to the cities and promoting socio-economic growth.
Phillips said that the issue of ongoing demolition of illegal structures in the FCT would persist until the elites in the society change their mindset.
She called for a collaborative effort to address the issue of illegal structures that have become widespread in the FCT, saying that proper implementation of physical plans was crucial for economic growth.
According to her, there is the need for orderliness in urban development, because sustainable cities and environments can only be achieved through meticulous planning and adherence to master plan.
“The institute has faced significant challenges in fulfilling its official responsibilities due to some residents’ refusal to comply with the Abuja master plan.
“We urge residents to fully support the FCT administration’s current efforts to develop Abuja into a world-class city,” she said.
Philips assured that the new executive would prioritise capacity building for town planners to ensure effective service delivery.
She also assured that the new executive would collaborate with the national body of the institute to ensure that relevant government authorities adhere to the physical plans and address the operations of unqualified practitioners in the country.
Earlier, the NITP National President, Dr Ogbonna Chime, stressed the importance of town planners in any society.
Chime emphasised the urgent need for the protection of professionals in the field, citing the recent violent attacks on town planners during routine duties.
He, however, commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his timely intervention in handling the situation.
In his remarks, a former FCT Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusegun Adekunle, emphasised the importance of all professionals supporting the current administration’s initiatives to attract foreign investment into the country.
In her valedictory speech, the immediate past chairman, Mrs. Lami Ayuba, expressed gratitude for the support she received, emphasising the importance of continued dedication to sustainable urban planning.
She said that the historic moment of Phillips’ inauguration held additional significance as it marked a milestone in gender representation within the NITP.
“With me and the incoming chairperson being women, this is an accomplishment that has been rare in the organisation’s history,” she said.
