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EnviroNews bureau chief receives award at Future of Science Communication Forum

Michael Simire
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EnviroNews bureau chief receives award at Future of Science Communication Forum

The Alliance for Science (AFS) has honoured Mr. Etta Michael Bisong, the Abuja Bureau Chief (ABC) of EnviroNews Nigeria, for his contributions in promoting environmental governance.

Alliance for Science
Etta Michael Bisong (middle) and other fellows during the gala dinner and award ceremony

As part of his achievements, Bisong, an AFS Fellow, established Nigeria’s first Science Café to advance science literacy and sustainable development in the country and beyond.

The event, organised by the AFS on Tuesday, February 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, brought together scientists, communicators, and donor agencies to celebrate a decade of advancing science communication and advocacy globally.

According to Bisong, the prize is a clear proof that hard work pays.

The award-winning journalist and climate literacy advocate continued, “As I consider my small part in this admirable achievement, I am also deeply aware of the challenge that lies ahead as we come together to reimagine the future of science communication.”

Even though many people refer to it as science communication, he went on to remark that as a professional communicator, he understands that this term just depicts the new dynamics of modern society.

Bisong said climate change has brought humanity to its knees, making scientific solutions necessary to combat this new global trend. Whether it’s revolutionising the food systems or tackling health challenges, scientific breakthroughs continue to present a clear picture of how humans can best live in harmony with the environment.

The environmental rights campaigner disclosed that this is why the terms “science literacy” and “communication” have become more widely used to help people understand the reasons behind these ecological disruptions and their responsibilities in addressing them.

Using football as an example of how he plans to communicate to address this situation, Bisong said that he plays number five on the football pitch as a defender due to his unwavering commitment to keeping the ball out of the net.

“My goal is to bring the same skill and precision to this new science community of champions, in the hopes of leaving the world a better place than I found it,” he told the participants who had gathered to witness the landmark event.

Bisong expressed gratitude to the AFS for acknowledging his contributions and deeming him deserving of this remarkable honour in spite of the numerous distractions that marked his ascent to the top.

Speaking during the forum, Dr. Sheila Obim, Executive Director of the AFS, hinted that the AFS has championed evidence-based decision-making, science communication, and policy advocacy around the world over the last ten years.

She explained that AFS has empowered a network of vibrant fellows that have sparked important change in science policy, agricultural innovation, climate action, and community engagement through its Global Leadership Programme (GLP) and grassroots projects.

“As we mark 10 years of impact, the Notable Mentions Awards celebrate outstanding fellows whose work has shaped the future of science and society,” Dr. Obim said.

AFS is a global science communication organisation that seeks to form a coalition of science advocates that use frontier biotechnologies to address global concerns.

The award was divided into five categories: science communication and research, policy impact, grassroots and community engagement, youth and gender empowerment, and beyond legacy, which recognised Bisong’s outstanding work in promoting environmental governance.

By Nsikak Emmanuel Ekere, Abuja

Alliance for Science hosts landmark conference on Future of Science Communication Forum

Michael Simire
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Alliance for Science hosts landmark conference on Future of Science Communication Forum

The Alliance for Science is hosting the Future of Science Communication Forum, a two-day conference taking place in Nairobi, Kenya, from February 25 to 26, 2025. The landmark event celebrates 10 years of groundbreaking achievements in advancing science communication and advocacy worldwide. 

Alliance for Science
L-R: Director international Programmes Michigan State University, Prof. Karim Marieda; Former Energy Minister Ghana, Hon. Dr. Mathew Prempeh; Executive Director Alliance for Science, Dr. Sheila Obim; Special Envoy Technology Republic of Kenya, Amb. Philip Thigo; and Executive Director Farming Future Bangladesh, Arif Hossain, keynote speakers at the future of science communication forum at the event held in Nairobi, Kenya

It also marks the launch of an exciting new chapter in the organisation’s growth, expanding its mandate to address pressing global challenges such as food systems transformation, climate action, and improved health communication.

Over the past decade, the Alliance for Science has been at the forefront of promoting understanding and acceptance of agricultural biotechnologies. Building on this expertise, the organisation is now broadening its scope to tackle misinformation and foster informed decision-making across critical areas of science and technology.

In his keynote speech, Dr. Mathew Prempeh, former Energy Minister of Ghana, emphasissed, “Environmental sustainability starts with education. Prioritizing mainstream science from an early age equips future generations to champion sustainable development.”

Dr. Sheila Obim, the Executive Director at Alliance for Science and a leading voice at the forum, highlighted the urgency of combating misinformation: “We live in an era where misinformation and disinformation are among the most significant threats to science and progress. The sheer volume of misleading content can drown out common sense and push people back into outdated, inefficient ways of thinking. To combat this, we must build a strong network of allies dedicated to fighting misinformation.”

Prof. Karim Maredia, the director of international programmes at Michigan State University, outlined the forum’s ambitious goal: “Our aim is to build a cadre of over 100,000 science communication champions worldwide to serve as ambassadors for science, technology, and innovation, helping to eliminate misinformation.”

Amb. Phillip Thigo, Special Envoy Technology for the Republic of Kenya, added, “Technology is a cultural abstract. It doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and many AI tools are not neutral. Misinformation cannot be eliminated using one tool alone.”

The forum will emphasise the role of science and technology in improving food security, health security, nutrition security, energy security, and building climate-resilient food systems.

Key Objectives of the Forum

Celebrate Achievements: Reflect on a decade of milestones in building global science communication capacity.

Strengthen Collaborations: Highlight opportunities for partnerships in flagship programs targeting misinformation in food security, health, and climate change.

Explore Emerging Technologies: Examine the transformative potential of Quantum AI and its implications for science communication, diplomacy, and global systems.

The forum will feature expert discussions on critical topics, including:

Amplifying science voices in the Global South.

Challenging misinformation in the age of AI.

Energy, environment, and the future of science communication: Trends, drivers, and signals from the global south.

This conference represents a transformative step toward addressing global challenges through the power of science communication. The Alliance for Science looks forward to convening thought leaders, stakeholders, and advocates from across the globe to drive meaningful change.

Kaduna to provide effective urban sanitation management services

Michael Simire
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Kaduna to provide effective urban sanitation management services

The Kaduna State Government says it has concluded plans to provide effective urban sanitation management services in the state.

Uba Sani
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure, Abdu Na Abdu Ashiru, stated this at the opening of a two-day advocacy and sensitisation workshop on Tuesday in Kaduna.

The workshop aimed to designate the Kaduna State Water Corporation (KADSWAC) as the State Urban Sanitation Authority.

The initiative is part of the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation (SURWASH) programme.

Ashiru said the workshop would focus on critical issues aimed at providing solutions for effective urban sanitation management, ensuring access to clean water and a safe, healthy environment.

“Today, we gathered to discuss a critical issue that affects us all, which is the provision of an effective urban sanitation services.

“During this workshop, we will engage in discussions, share experiences, and explore strategies for effective urban sanitation management,” he said.

He said participants would explore the rationale behind the designation, including its benefits to communities across the state.

According to him, the workshop aims to strengthen KADSWAC’s capacity to deliver efficient and sustainable urban sanitation services and is a critical step in streamlining the plan to ensure its effective management.

“This workshop is not merely a formality, it is an opportunity for open dialogue, constructive feedback, and collaborative decision-making.

“We encourage you (participants) to actively participate, share your perspectives, and contribute to the development of a robust and sustainable urban sanitation framework.

“Your expertise and insights are invaluable as we forge a unified approach to addressing the challenges of urban sanitation, “ he said,

According to him, the SURWASH programme is part of efforts to ensure access to clean water and improved sanitation, creating a more sustainable and healthier environment for Kaduna residents.

He, however, said that achieving the goal required a cohesive and well-structured institutional framework.

He described the participation of the Chairmen of Chikun, Igabi, Jaba, Jema’a, Kaduna North, Kaduna South, Soba, Sabon Gari, and Zaria Local Government Areas as crucial, given their leadership in service delivery.

“These LGAs are at the forefront of service delivery, and their understanding and support are essential for the successful implementation of this programme,“ he said.

On his part, the Director of Water Resources at the ministry, Hashimu Ja’afaru, said the workshop’s primary purpose was to advocate for and raise awareness of the importance of designating KADSWAC as the urban sanitation authority.

Jafaru explained that the designation aims to enhance urban sanitation management, promote public health, and ensure sustainable environmental practices in the state.

He explained that the workshop aims to lay a solid foundation for improved urban sanitation systems, contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, and enhance living standards for residents of Kaduna State.

By Stella Kabruk

120,000 seeds from 13 native African tree species deposited into Norwegian seed vault

Michael Simire
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120,000 seeds from 13 native African tree species deposited into Norwegian seed vault

In what appears to be a major step toward safeguarding Africa’s rich tree biodiversity, the Centre for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) has deposited 120,000 seeds from 13 native African tree species into the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. This latest deposit, which includes the iconic baobab, pushes CIFOR-ICRAF’s total contributions since 2008 to over 1.1 million seeds from 177 species.

CIFOR-ICRAF
IFOR-ICRAF CEO, Éliane Ubalijoro, outside the Svalbard Global Seed Vault ahead of depositing 120,000 seeds from 13 native African tree species. Photo credit: CIFOR-ICRAF

The Svalbard Global Seed Vault, located deep within Norway’s Arctic permafrost, is the world’s most secure backup for global crop and tree diversity. For Africa, where climate change, deforestation, and land degradation threaten ecosystems and livelihoods, preserving native tree species is a crucial investment in food security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability.

“Trees are the backbone of many of Africa’s landscapes, supporting millions of people with food, medicine, and livelihoods,” said CIFOR-ICRAF CEO, Éliane Ubalijoro, who personally delivered the seed box from the CIFOR-ICRAF genebank to the vault. “By safeguarding these seeds, we are ensuring that African communities have access to the genetic resources needed to restore degraded land, enhance biodiversity, and adapt to climate change.”

Why this matters to Africa

  • Food and nutrition security: The African baobab, often called the “Tree of Life,” is a key component of local diets, providing nutrient-rich fruit, leaves, and seeds. Other species in the deposit play vital roles in traditional diets and agroforestry systems.
  • Climate resilience and reforestation: Many of the deposited species contribute to carbon sequestration, soil restoration, and sustainable land management, helping to combat desertification and land degradation across Africa.
  • Livelihoods and economic benefits: Native trees underpin sustainable industries, from medicinal plants to timber and non-timber forest products, supporting rural economies.

With an estimated 15 billion trees lost globally each year and 38% of the world’s tree species at risk of extinction, CIFOR-ICRAF advocates for an approach that prioritises native species over fast-growing exotic trees. Its “Right Tree in the Right Place for the Right Purpose” strategy ensures that Africa’s forests and farmlands remain productive, diverse, and resilient for future generations.

Since its first deposit in 2008, CIFOR-ICRAF has been at the forefront of tree conservation efforts, working with African researchers, farmers, and policymakers to integrate native species into restoration initiatives.

A call to action

With increasing global recognition of the importance of trees in tackling climate change and food insecurity, CIFOR-ICRAF urges African governments, research institutions, and funding partners to support the conservation of native species. By investing in seed banks, agroforestry, and reforestation programmes, Africa can build more resilient landscapes that sustain both people and nature.

Nigeria approves minimum performance standard for air conditioners to boost energy efficiency

Michael Simire
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Nigeria approves minimum performance standard for air conditioners to boost energy efficiency

The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the rollout of new Minimum Energy Performance Standard (MEPS) and energy labelling for air conditioners (ACs) so cooling is more energy efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly.

ECN
UNEP-U4E’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment expert (middle) instructing technicians and engineers on end-of-life management of Air Conditioners during a workshop at Government Technical College, Kano State, Nigeria

Air conditioners are among the highest energy-consuming appliances, accounting for over 40 percent of household electricity usage and much of that is wasted due to outdated technology, which is common, locally. The newly approved standard, aligned with international best practices, will help ensure that Nigeria is home to modern appliances which use electricity more optimally than outdated models with power savings that can be redirected to other sectors of the economy.

The standard also helps ensure that more climate-friendly refrigerant gasses are used in the equipment, consistent with the government’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the Paris Climate Agreement.

The new standard was developed under the project “Scaling Up Energy-Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling in Nigeria’s NDC Revision” implemented by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) with technical support from the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) United for Efficiency (U4E) team and funding from the Clean Cooling Collaborative (CCC), and in collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

The MEPS will be implemented in phases, enhancing energy efficiency and transitioning refrigerant gasses used in the equipment. Three efficiency steps will come into effect over time using the Nigeria Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (NSEER), an international test method tailored for local weather conditions. From a current performance baseline, energy efficiency must improve 6% by 2026, 36% by 2029, and 48% by 2031.

“Nigeria’s new energy efficiency standard for air conditioners, set to save 11.5 TWh of energy annually by 2040, are a game-changer for Africa. By reducing energy consumption and emissions by 39 million tonnes of CO₂ over the next 15 years, Nigeria is not only lowering costs for consumers but also leading the way toward a more sustainable and greener economy for the continent,” said Dr. Rose Mwebaza, Africa Director and Regional Representative, UNEP.

The transition to climate-friendly refrigerants will also be guided by an upper limit on global warming potential, set to take effect in 2029.

Commenting on this development, the Director-General of the ECN, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, described the newly approved MEPS as a game changer.

“For ECN, we believe that many Nigerians are paying excessive amounts for operating cooling systems. By setting an efficient standard for air conditioning, we are taking steps make use of this vital equipment more affordable and accessible while caring for the environment,” he said.

Following approval of the MEPS, the ECN Director-General emphasised that enforcement would be key. This includes ensuring that labels are provided to manufacturers and importers of air conditioning systems, a process that is currently under discussion by the government He also highlighted the importance of raising awareness among Nigerians about the benefits of energy-efficient products, helping consumers make informed decisions about their energy use.

“The people who consume large amount of electricity, need to understand the benefits of purchasing energy-efficient and climate friendly air conditioning systems.  To enhance awareness campaigns, the ECN plans to expand its outreach to sub-national regions, educating consumers about the new MEPS and the impact of their current energy usage on electricity costs. We will also engage vendors, assemblers, and marketers to present solutions,” said Dr. Abdullahi.

“In fact, we are already taking action. We recently held a meeting with Daikin which is one of the largest air conditioner manufacturers globally. Like many companies operating in Nigeria, Daikin recognises the importance of adopting and enforcing the new MEPS and labelling. Given the size of Nigeria’s market, aligning with rigorous international requirements ensures consistency and competitiveness.

“We are confident based on our in-depth market review and consultations with industry that by 2026, all air conditioners entering the country will meet the standard set by the ECN and SON in collaboration with UNEP U4E. This is a significant step in addressing one of the major challenges in the power sector – reducing energy waste in an affordable manner for consumers and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions,” added Abdullahi.

Abdullahi further emphasised that the government remains committed to driving the energy efficiency agenda and promoting environmentally sustainability in the cooling sector. He also revealed that plans to develop a standard and labelling for refrigeration appliances, currently the second-largest consumers of household energy in Nigeria, are already underway.

“UNEP U4E is proud of this accomplishment following years of hard work supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria in its pursuit of sustainable cooling and environmental solutions. We look forward to building on this solid foundation to address additional opportunities around new products and proper training on handling of equipment at the end of its useful life. Alongside regulatory efforts, we are supporting a new consumer finance programme with UNDP to help make the most efficient products more affordable and accessible through the newly launched AGORA project,” noted Brian Holuj, Programme Manager of UNEP U4E.

“As Africa’s largest cooling market and one of the fastest-growing cooling markets in the world, Nigeria’s new standard are a big deal and will ensure that every new air conditioner sold is an efficient one and that the country is no longer a dumping ground for energy-wasting models,” said Noah Horowitz, Senior Director of the Clean Cooling Collaborative which provided funding support for this work.

“By significantly reducing cooling-related energy consumption, this standard will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also lower household utility bills across the country, and we hope this bold action serves as a blueprint for other nations in the region to follow,” added Horowitz.

Togolese agency, ODEF, accredited as National Implementing Entity by Adaptation Fund

Michael Simire
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Togolese agency, ODEF, accredited as National Implementing Entity by Adaptation Fund

The Adaptation Fund (AF) Board has officially accredited a government agency in Togo, the Office de Développement et d’Exploitation des Ressources Forestières (ODEF), as a National Implementing Entity (NIE) for the Fund.

Mikko Ollikainen
Mikko Ollikainen, Head of the Adaptation Fund

The accreditation enables ODEF to access funding for climate adaptation projects in Togo through the AF, affirming its capabilities to design, develop and implement such projects for vulnerable communities while empowering country ownership in adaptation.

ODEF achieved accreditation through the AF’s innovative streamlined accreditation process, which is designed to help smaller institutions access climate finance. The process simplifies the application and assessment criteria while maintaining the Fund’s high fiduciary standards. The streamlined approach provides crucial support for institutions with limited resources to fight climate change, particularly those in small island developing states or least developed countries-as is the case with Togo, to demonstrate their capacity and address urgent adaptation needs.

The accreditation is the 6th to be made through the Fund’s streamlined accreditation process.

“The accreditation of ODEF will greatly help Togo access urgently needed grants through the Adaptation Fund to address their climate change needs,” said Mikko Ollikainen, Head of the AF. “Being a national agency, ODEF is able to receive resources directly from the AF without international intermediaries, which will enhance national ownership and capacity, and boost longer-term sustainability of Togo’s climate adaptation efforts. The streamlined process is a good example of the Fund’s innovation in opening doors to climate finance for vulnerable countries that may not have other recourse.”

As the national body responsible for managing Togo’s forestry sector, ODEF has demonstrated effective systems in financial management, procurement and project monitoring, as well as compliance with the AF’s Environmental and Social Policies – which foster human rights, biodiversity, and gender safeguards, among other principles.

Under the Ministry of the Environment and Forest Resources, ODEF focuses on sustainable forest management, including tree planting, overseeing logging operations, and collaborating with local communities to protect forest ecosystems. With this new partnership, ODEF will enhance Togo’s climate resilience, such as focusing on tackling deforestation and promoting sustainable natural resource management. By implementing projects that directly address climate impacts, ODEF will support vulnerable communities across Togo in adapting to climate change.

Since 2010, the AF has committed $1.25 billion in grants for adaptation and resilience programs in developing countries that are vulnerable to climate change, including 183 concrete projects on the ground serving 46 million total beneficiaries. About half are in Least Developed Countries or Small Island Developing States.

With new climate plans, countries could supercharge growth, fight poverty

Michael Simire
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With new climate plans, countries could supercharge growth, fight poverty

Later this year, dozens of countries that have signed the Paris Agreement are due to submit new national climate plans, or Nationally Determined Contributions. Done right, experts say these plans could not only rein in the greenhouse gases driving climate change. They could also serve as blueprints for reducing poverty, improving human health, bolstering food security and expanding energy access, all while creating trillions of dollars in investment opportunities.

Martin Krause
Martin Krause, Director of the Climate Change Division at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

“When we talk about climate change, we usually talk about what we stand to lose as the planet warms,” says Martin Krause, Director of the Climate Change Division at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). “But we need to talk more about the society-altering gains we could make by addressing climate change.”

With that in mind, here are some of the biggest benefits of climate action, according to the experts.

Climate action can create jobs and generate investment opportunities

The transition to clean energy has been called one of the greatest business opportunities since the Industrial Revolution. In 2024 alone, investments in climate-friendly energy projects reached $2.1 trillion, according to Bloomberg, and still have room to grow. Meanwhile, reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 could drive global gross domestic product 7 per cent higher, says the International Monetary Fund, and create 14 million clean energy jobs, finds the International Energy Agency.

Climate action can save lives and improve human health

Extreme weather events, which are being turbo-charged by climate change, have caused over 2 million deaths and $4.3 trillion in economic losses over the last 50 years. Slowing global warming and adapting to the impacts of climate change would reduce this growing burden. In fact, it could head off an estimated 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in economic losses, finds the World Economic Forum.

The benefits don’t stop there. Many sources of outdoor air pollution – like cars – are also sources of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. Limiting this pollution would save millions of lives and hundreds of billions of dollars in healthcare costs each year.

It can save people money

Every year, consumers and businesses waste staggering amounts of energy. That not only costs them money but also contributes needlessly to climate change.

According to the International Energy Agency, energy efficiency measures could save households globally $201 billion on electricity and gas by 2040.

Accelerating the transition to renewable energy also helps countries economize. The costs of renewable energy, such as wind and solar, are often below those of fossil fuel-fired alternatives. For example, Canada could save up to 15 billion Canadian dollars ($10.5 billion) per year in energy costs by transitioning its electricity grids to net-zero by 2050, found the International Institute for Sustainable Development. That would save the average Canadian household 1,500 Canadian dollars ($1,000) annually.

It protects nature and biodiversity

Humanity relies on nature and biodiversity for everything: from food and water to breathable air and building supplies. Over half of the world’s gross domestic product is in fact moderately or highly dependent on nature, according to the World Economic Forum.

But climate change and the loss of nature are inextricably linked. Conversion of nature, such as deforestation, is responsible for a large chunk of greenhouse gas emissions, while climate change drives phenomena such as wildfires and desertification, which destroy nature.

Sustainably managing and restoring ecosystems is a major solution to the climate crisis. According to UNEP’s Emissions Gap Report 2024, reduced deforestation, increased reforestation and improved forest management alone could deliver around 20 per cent of the cuts needed by 2030 to meet the Paris Agreement goals. Meanwhile, restoring 15 per cent of degraded land and halting conversion could avoid up to 60 per cent of expected species extinctions.

It builds national security

Climate change is a threat multiplier to security concerns, increasing conflict over scarce resources such as water and land, and driving forced migration. At least 25 million people are predicted to migrate by 2050 as a result of climate change. Acting to lower emissions and build resilience will create better conditions for peace and reduce forced migration – easing pressures on borders and budgets – by protecting natural resources.

In addition, countries that invest in renewables and energy efficiency become less vulnerable to volatile fossil fuel prices by reducing imports.

NCDMB advocates African-wide local content framework to harmonise policies

Michael Simire
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NCDMB advocates African-wide local content framework to harmonise policies

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has advocated for an African-wide local content framework to harmonise policies and foster cross-border partnership for mutual prosperity in the continent.

Felix Omatsola Ogbe
Felix Omatsola Ogbe, head of the NCDMB

Mr. Felix Ogbe, Executive Secretary, NCDMB, stated this at the 2025 Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), on Monday, February 24, 2025, in Abuja.

The theme of the summit is: “Bridging Continents: Connecting Investors Worldwide with Africa’s Energy Potential,” billed to hold from Feb. 24 to Feb. 27.

The summit provides opportunities for energy industry leaders, investors, policy makers and stakeholders for global sharing of technology, expertise, products and best practices.

Ogbe spoke on “Unlocking Africa’s Potential through Local Content: Policies, Partnerships, and Progress.”

He said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presented an opportunity to position local content as a driver of continental industrialisation.

“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.

“Unlocking Africa’s potential through local content requires unwavering commitment to capacity building, policy refinement, and strategic partnerships.

“I call on all industry stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and invest in initiatives that will make Africa self-sufficient in energy development,” he said.

Ogbe said the NCDMB, as Nigeria’s pre-eminent local content regulator, had been at the forefront of implementing initiatives that drive local capacity development in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

He said that some of the government policies had helped to shape the landscape and enabled pivotal public private partnerships.

“Local Content is not just a policy – it is a strategy for sustainable economic growth.

“At NCDMB, through strategic initiatives, we have become a model for the continent. We have demonstrated how capacity building, policy refinement, and joint partnerships can create a thriving, self-sustaining oil and gas ecosystem,” he said.

Ogbe said the board prioritised developing indigenous skills, assets and equipment ownership, and local manufacturing capabilities.

He said one of its flagship initiatives to support the above priorities was the Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF), which provided affordable financing to support indigenous businesses in acquiring assets, expanding operations, and delivering world-class services.

He said the board’s Human Capacity Development (HCD) programmes had also continued to train thousands of Nigerians in specialised skills that aligned with industry needs.

These efforts, he said ensured that Nigeria’s energy sector was not only driven by local talent but also sustained by indigenous expertise.

He said board had developed the Project 100 Initiative, targeting capacity development for indigenous service companies with the aim to grow them to become multinational firms in the future.

“The Board provides opportunities by linking Project 100 companies to major operators. We also have business-to-business and market opportunities for these companies across the sub region.

By Emmanuella Anokam

Govt constructs 12 reference labs to monitor water quality

Michael Simire
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Govt constructs 12 reference labs to monitor water quality

The Federal Government of Nigeria has established 12 water quality reference laboratories across Nigeria as part of efforts to improve water quality monitoring and surveillance.

Prof. Joseph Utsev
Prof. Joseph Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, announced this at the opening ceremony of the inaugural Annual Water Quality Conference in Abuja on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Utsev, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, said the laboratories were established under the National Water Quality Reference Laboratories and Monitoring Network Programme.

He also noted the introduction of the Freshwater Restoration and Source Water Protection Programme, aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s water sources, including rivers, lakes and artificial reservoirs.

Utsev said access to safe water is a priority under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with the government committed to tackling sector challenges through partnerships and innovation.

He added that quality plays a vital role in public health, socio-economic development and environmental sustainability.

He recalled that “according to the 2021 Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene National Outcomes Routine Monitoring (WASHNORM) Report, 67 per cent of Nigeria’s population has access to basic water supply services.

“However, a significant proportion still lacks access to safely managed drinking water, with 25 per cent of the population relying on unimproved or surface water sources, which pose a high risk of waterborne diseases.”

He acknowledged that poor sanitation remains a major concern, as open defecation and indiscriminate waste disposal continue to contaminate water sources.

The minister stated that the ministry is leveraging modern technologies and collaborating with both local and international partners to enhance water quality management.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to eradicating open defecation and ensuring improved water and sanitation standards across the country.

“To further enhance water quality assurance, the Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality, the Nigerian Standards for Ambient Water Quality, and the soon-to-be-finalised Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality have been established.

“Additionally, the Community Water Safety Plan has been introduced to empower rural communities with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent water contamination.

“The ministry has also commenced the production of hydrogen sulphide vials for microbial water quality assessment, which is currently being tested in UNICEF-supported states,” he said.

Mrs. Elizabeth Ugoh, the Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation, reaffirmed government’s commitment to providing safe drinking water for all Nigerians, promoting public health and economic productivity.

She emphasised that ensuring water safety is a public health, economic and environmental priority.

“We all know that contaminated water is a major cause of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhoea, which hinders socio-economic development.

“It is our collective responsibility to develop and implement robust policies, institutional frameworks and innovative solutions to improve water safety nationwide,” she said.

UNICEF WASH Manager, Mr Chiranjibi Tiwari, warned that two-thirds of Nigeria’s water sources are contaminated with E. coli and Salmonella, causing severe waterborne diseases like cholera.

He cited a 2021 WASHNORM data, reporting 111,000 cholera cases and 3,600 deaths, with outbreaks persisting, including in Lagos, a traditionally low-risk area.

He warned that contaminated water threatens public health, education and productivity, stressing the need for urgent, coordinated action to achieve SDG 6 on Universal Clean Water Access.

He also linked safe water access to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, warning that failure to act would hinder national progress.

Tiwari called for stronger collaboration among development partners, NGOs, civil society, academia, media and the private sector.

He urged stakeholders to form structured partnerships, particularly with the private sector, to develop household water treatment technologies and public awareness campaigns to promote safer water practices.

The UNESCO representative, Dr Enang Momah, warned that water pollution could pose serious risks to health, food production, ecosystems and economic growth.

She highlighted the impact of untreated wastewater, industrial chemicals and emerging pollutants, exacerbated by climate change.

Without improved water monitoring, she cautioned, 4.8 billion people could face health risks by 2030, stressing the urgency of pollution control and better wastewater treatment to prevent diseases like cholera and schistosomiasis.

She reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through its Intergovernmental Hydrology Programme (IHP) and technical expertise.

Representatives of WaterAid, ministries of health and environment, and other partners delivered goodwill messages.

By Tosin Kolade

UK pledges £204m for Nigeria’s agriculture growth

Michael Simire
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UK pledges £204m for Nigeria’s agriculture growth

The United Kingdom (UK) Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has expressed readiness to leverage £204 million in private sector finance and investment into agriculture in Nigeria.

Adiya Ode
Mrs. Adiya Ode, Country Representative for Propcom+

Mrs. Adiya Ode, Country Representative for Propcom+, a programme funded by the UK FCDO, disclosed this in Katsina on Monday, February 24, 2025, during a stakeholders’ meeting.

According to her, Propcom+ is UK Aid’s eight-year climate-resilient agricultural market development programme.

It aims to support economic growth for smallholders and SMEs in conflict- and climate-affected regions.

“We’re improving the resilience of smallholders and small-scale entrepreneurs to climate change while increasing productivity and incomes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining natural ecosystems.

“The programme, which runs from 2023 to 2030, supports climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture and forestry that benefits people, the climate and nature.

“It also aims to transform Nigeria’s rural economy by addressing environmental, social and economic challenges in the country’s food and land-use system,” Ode said.

Ode explained that the programme will achieve this by increasing productivity, improving nutrition and food security, enhancing climate resilience, reducing emissions, and protecting nature.

“It will also help tackle some of Nigeria’s underlying drivers of conflict and insecurity, supporting sustainable, pro-poor, climate-resilient growth in selected rural markets.

“We work as a ‘market facilitator’, identifying constraints in market systems and enabling changes that help rural markets benefit poor and climate-vulnerable smallholders and entrepreneurs.

“Propcom+ aims to increase the incomes and climate resilience of 3.79 million poor and vulnerable Nigerians, 50 per cent of whom will be women.

“The programme aims to support over four million people in adopting sustainable agricultural practices while about £95 million was earmarked for the programme,” she added.

She revealed that the programme is already active in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Bauchi, Plateau, Gombe and Adamawa. Katsina has just been approved as a beneficiary.

Ode said this development followed a meeting between Gov. Dikko Radda and the FCDO, where they discussed the programme’s implementation in Katsina.

“Today, we had a very good meeting with farmers, businessmen, processors, academics, women’s groups and cooperatives.

“They support the decision to implement the programme in Katsina.

“In the coming days, we’ll meet government officials to better understand the challenges and how we can address them,” Ode stated.

According to her, Propcom+ aims to tackle three major challenges: low agricultural productivity, conflict over natural resources, and the impact of climate change.

She noted that the programme seeks to transform the rural economy and increase smallholder farmers’ and SMEs’ incomes, ensuring people can earn a decent living and reduce poverty.

By Abbas Bamalli

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