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Nigeria reaffirms commitment to clean cooking gas

Michael Simire
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Nigeria reaffirms commitment to clean cooking gas

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Dr Ekperikpe Ekpo, has reiterated plans to expand the use of cleaner cooking gas in rural Nigerian communities.

Ekpo made this known on Monday, August 4, in Lagos during the opening of the 48th Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) 2025.

NAICE
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Dr Ekperikpe Ekpo, with other delegates at the opening of NAICE 2025 in Lagos

The conference is with the theme: “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, Policy”.

He said the government’s LPG Penetration Programme would distribute cylinders nationwide, empowering women and youth to promote clean cooking in rural areas.

Ekpo reaffirmed the government’s target to transition five million homes to clean cooking by 2030.

“We have expanded gas supply for industries, prioritising manufacturing hubs, power generation, and industrial corridors,” he added.

He assured that all gas off-takers currently receive the volume required for their industrial processes.

Ekpo also highlighted achievements and ongoing projects, including growing investment in gas infrastructure such as the OB3 and AKK pipelines.

He listed modular and scalable gas projects like mini-LNG and CNG stations, aimed at boosting last-mile access and local economies.

Job creation is also being facilitated through public-private partnerships in construction, logistics, and retail within the gas value chain.

Ekpo praised NAICE for evolving into a leading platform for technical dialogue and energy policy development in Nigeria.

He said the theme aligns with the government’s push for a sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready energy sector.

“We are at a defining moment in the global energy transition,” Ekpo noted.

He stressed the challenge of balancing energy security and climate goals, particularly for countries like Nigeria.

“It calls for innovation, bold policy, and strategic investment,” he said.

Ekpo commended President Bola Tinubu’s focus on gas as central to Nigeria’s energy transformation strategy.

He said the phrase “From Gas to Prosperity” reflects the national ambition for gas-fuelled industrialisation and job creation.

He added that gas would also drive wider access to clean and affordable energy across the country.

Ekpo noted the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has provided a firm regulatory and fiscal base for progress.

The government, he said, is also pushing market-reflective pricing, deepwater development, and domestic supply obligations.

He stressed that collaboration is vital in achieving Nigeria’s energy vision and a sustainable energy future.

“Government alone can’t do this. We need professionals, private enterprise, youth innovation, and global partnerships,” he said.

He commended the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council for sustaining the NAICE platform.

“Your work is shaping the future of the energy industry and our nation,” Ekpo said.

He urged them to keep sharing knowledge, pushing boundaries, and developing practical solutions.

“Together, we can build a gas-powered energy future of inclusiveness, prosperity, and sustainability,” he added.

In his remarks, Lagos Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the conference theme as timely and forward-looking.

He was represented by Mr. Abiodun Ogunleye, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Lagos State.

Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that while oil and gas remain key, the future must be sustainable and innovation-driven.

He said Lagos is promoting clean energy, investing in human capital, and improving infrastructure for upstream and downstream operations.

He reaffirmed the state’s support for inclusive, sustainable energy initiatives and environmental responsibility.

The governor thanked SPE Nigeria Council for choosing Lagos to host the conference.

“We are proud to support this progressive conversation and welcome its transformative outcomes,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also noted state efforts in creating an investor-friendly climate for the oil and gas industry.

He cited the Lekki Free Zone and Deep Sea Port as strategic petroleum logistics and supply chain enablers.

He mentioned Lagos’ Electricity Policy and private-sector partnerships to promote off-grid and clean energy solutions.

“These measures help bridge the energy access gap and boost socio-economic development,” he said.

The conference drew about 2,000 participants and 70 exhibitors.

LASEPA releases latest air quality index

Michael Simire
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0
LASEPA releases latest air quality index

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency’s (LASEPA) latest Air Quality Index (AQI) shows most areas in the state are currently experiencing air quality levels categorised as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (UfSG).”

The AQI was released by the General Manager, LASEPA, Dr Babtunde Ajayi, on his verified X handle on Monday, August 4, 2025.

AQI
Lagos air quality index (AQI)

The highest AQI reading was recorded in Kosofe (LAMATA) with a value of 25, followed by Victoria Island (20), and Igando and UNILAG CRL (both 18).

The AQI showed that, while these levels were not immediately dangerous for the general population, they might affect individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and young children.

Other locations showing elevated AQI levels include Moloney Street, Akodo, Lagos Island, and Mushin, each recording values of 16, placing them within the same UfSG category.

However, two locations – Egbeda (11) and NiMET, Oshodi (10) – recorded “Good” air quality, posing little or no risk to the general population.

By Fabian Ekeruche

Gates Foundation announces $2.5bn funding to spark new era of women-centred research, innovation

Michael Simire
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Gates Foundation announces $2.5bn funding to spark new era of women-centred research, innovation

The Gates Foundation on Monday, August 4, 2025, announced a $2.5 billion commitment through 2030 to accelerate research and development (R&D) focused exclusively on women’s health. It will support the advancement of more than 40 innovations in five critical, chronically underfunded areas – particularly those affecting women in low- and middle-income countries.

“For too long, women have suffered from health conditions that are misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or ignored,” said Dr. Anita Zaidi, president of the Gates Foundation’s Gender Equality Division. “We want this investment to spark a new era of women-centered innovation—one where women’s lives, bodies, and voices are prioritized in health R&D.”

Anita Zaidi
Dr. Anita Zaidi, president of the Gates Foundation’s Gender Equality Division

Women’s health R&D remains chronically underfunded. Areas such as gynecological and menstrual health, obstetric care, contraceptive innovation, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) solutions (including HIV PrEP for women), and maternal health and nutrition receive limited investment.

According to a 2021 analysis, led by McKinsey & Company, just 1% of healthcare research and innovation is invested in female-specific conditions beyond oncology. Critical issues like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, and menopause, which together affect hundreds of million women, remain deeply under-researched.

“Investing in women’s health has a lasting impact across generations. It leads to healthier families, stronger economies, and a more just world,” said Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation. “Yet women’s health continues to be ignored, underfunded, and sidelined. Too many women still die from preventable causes or live in poor health. That must change. But we can’t do it alone.”

To close persistent gaps in funding and research, the foundation is urging governments, philanthropists, investors, and the private sector to co-invest in women’s health innovations, help shape product development, and ensure access to treatments for the women and girls who need them most.

“This is the largest investment we’ve ever made in women’s health research and development, but it still falls far short of what is needed in a neglected and underfunded area of huge human need and opportunity,” said Zaidi. “Women’s health is not just a philanthropic cause—it’s an investable opportunity with immense potential for scientific breakthroughs that could help millions of women. What’s needed is the will to pursue and follow through.”

The foundation’s investment will advance innovation across five high-impact areas of a woman’s lifespan:

Obstetric care and maternal immunisation: Making pregnancy and delivery safer

Maternal health and nutrition: Supporting healthier pregnancies and newborns

Gynecological and menstrual health: Advancing tools and research to better diagnose, treat, and improve gynecological health and reduce infection risk

Contraceptive innovation: Offering more accessible, acceptable, and effective options

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Improving diagnosis and treatment to reduce disproportionate burdens on women.

Areas of breakthrough potential include research into the vaginal microbiome, first-in-class therapeutics for preeclampsia, and non-hormonal contraception. Included in the commitment are investments that will support data generation and advocacy to help ensure product uptake and impact upon approval.

The five priority areas were selected based on a combination of data and evidence about where innovation can save and improve the most lives, direct insights from women in low- and middleincome countries about their needs and preferences, and the persistently high rates of misdiagnosis caused by gaps in medical knowledge and training. They also reflect the unique challenges faced in low-resource settings, making these areas especially ripe for broader public and private investment to drive meaningful, scalable impact.

“We see the consequences of underinvestment in women’s health innovation every day when women suffer needlessly, and sometimes lose their lives, because of the gaps in how we understand and treat conditions that uniquely affect them,” said Dr. Bosede Afolabi, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. “This commitment brings much-needed attention to the health challenges women face in places where resources are most limited and the burden is highest. It reflects a recognition that women’s lives – and the innovations that support them – must be prioritized everywhere.”

By addressing long-standing gaps in women’s health, the investment aims to unlock broader social and economic gains. Research shows that every $1 invested in women’s health yields $3 in economic growth, and closing the gender health gap could boost the global economy by $1 trillion per year by 2040.

This work supports the foundation’s long-term goals through 2045: helping to end preventable deaths of moms and babies; ensuring the next generation grows up without having to suffer from deadly infectious diseases; and lifting millions of people out of poverty, putting them on a path to prosperity.

It builds on a 25-year legacy of advancing maternal and child health and supporting women’s empowerment globally. The R&D commitment complements the foundation’s work supporting the scale-up and delivery of women’s health commodities, vaccines such as the HPV vaccine, and child health.

Tangier forum unites African cities to drive climate action

Michael Simire
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0
Tangier forum unites African cities to drive climate action

As climate risks intensify, African cities are stepping up. From mayors and policy makers to youth activists and business leaders, stakeholders from across the continent gathered in Tangier, Morocco, to chart a shared path toward low-emission, climate-resilient urban development.

The Regional Green Economy Forum 2025 brought together over 500 delegates from across Africa. The Forum concluded with the adoption of the Tangier Declaration on Accelerating Green Economy and Carbon Neutrality in African Cities, a united call to scale up urban climate action across the continent.

Tangier
Tangier, Morocco

The declaration acknowledged the severe and growing impacts of climate change on African cities, despite their historically low contribution to global emissions. It reaffirmed the important role of cities and local governments in implementing climate solutions, recognising their unique ability to shape urban planning, mobilize communities, and drive green investments.

It frames the transition to carbon-neutral cities as both an urgent climate priority and a development opportunity, with the potential to boost public services, foster local innovation and build lasting economic resilience.

Key outcomes of the declaration include:

  • A commitment to integrate carbon neutrality into urban development plans aligned with Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
  • Support for 11 African pilot cities under the World Green Economy Organization’s Carbon-Neutral Cities Initiative, including Chefchaouen, Nouakchott, and Jinja.
  • Emphasis on inclusive public-private partnerships, green job creation, and digital innovation.
  • Calls for enhanced access to climate finance, capacity building, and regional knowledge-sharing platforms.

The outcomes show that cities and local governments are key to climate action in Africa. They also highlight the wide range of actions needed, including nature-based solutions such as planting trees in cities and protecting coastlines, as well as making sure climate is considered in all urban planning decisions.

The Tangier Declaration is a timely step forward as attention now turns to implementation at the upcoming Climate Week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (September 1–6, 2025). The week will play a key role in translating global climate commitments into concrete action on the ground, with a strong focus on local priorities and solutions.

The progress shown in Tangier provides a solid basis for the discussions to come and signals Africa’s readiness to lead in shaping a sustainable, climate-resilient urban future.

Africa’s gas sector gains momentum through international partnerships

Michael Simire
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0
Africa’s gas sector gains momentum through international partnerships

As the global energy landscape shifts toward cleaner fuel sources, natural gas is taking centre stage in Africa’s energy transition, with international collaboration playing a key role in unlocking the continent’s vast gas potential.

Africa holds approximately 6% of the world’s natural gas reserves and is expected to contribute significantly to the global LNG supply by 2030, particularly through projects in Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal and Mauritania.

Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP)
Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP)

With global LNG demand forecast to rise at a CAGR of 1.5% through 2030, Africa is strategically positioned to meet this demand – especially from markets in Europe and Asia.

Signaling renewed investor confidence in the continent’s upstream natural gas potential, Austrian energy company OMV recently resumed exploration activities in Libya’s Sirte Basin. In partnership with Libya’s National Oil Corporation, OMV recently spudded the ESSAR well in Block C103 and is advancing an infrastructure-led campaign focused on unlocking reserves near existing production facilities.

OMV will participate in this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference – taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town –, where the company’s Executive Vice President Berislav Gašo will join NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, in a fireside chat to explore partnership models, cross-border collaboration and strategies for enhancing investment and technical capacity across Africa.

With major developments underway across Libya, Algeria, Egypt and Morocco, North Africa is rapidly advancing as a natural gas powerhouse in the continent. Libya is ramping up gas production through projects like Structures A&E and Bouri Gas Utilisation while Algeria targets a production rate of 200 billion cubic meters annually by 2027. Egypt is boosting output with a new licensing round and continued development of the Zohr field, while Morocco progresses with the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline to enhance regional supply.

Meanwhile, in the international space, Saudi Arabia’s growing engagement with Africa’s gas sector is emerging as a central pillar of its broader energy diplomacy strategy, with the country strengthening bilateral and multilateral partnerships to unlock gas potential across the continent. As part of this push, Saudi Arabia has prioritised infrastructure development, upstream participation and downstream collaboration, positioning itself as a long-term partner in Africa’s energy future.

Saudi Arabia’s state-owned Saudi Aramco is playing a key role in advancing Saudi-Africa gas cooperation, expanding its technical collaboration with African national oil companies to support gas monetisation, exploration and production. The country has also integrated natural gas into its broader financial and development strategy for Africa, with a $41 billion funding package for sub-Saharan Africa set to promote gas-related projects as part of a wider drive to expand energy access and industrial capacity.

“International engagement in Africa’s natural gas sector is fast-becoming a game-changer for the continent. By investing in infrastructure, exploration and production, regional and international players are strengthening Africa’s position in the global energy market. This kind of strategic partnership is exactly what the continent needs to full monetise its natural gas potential,” states Ayuk.

Renaissance CEO urges collaboration to improve policy, grow oil industry

Michael Simire
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0
Renaissance CEO urges collaboration to improve policy, grow oil industry

Managing Director and CEO of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Mr. Tony Attah, has identified extensive and deliberate collaboration with government and other stakeholders in the Nigeria oil and gas industry, to create an investment-attracting environment. This strategy, according to Attah, would enable Nigeria to better utilise its vast oil and gas resources.

Attah spoke on Monday, August 4, at the opening ceremony of the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ 2025 Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE), in Lagos.

Renaissance
L-R: Chief Technical Officer, Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Mr. Abdulrahman Mijinyawa; Olowu of Owu, Ogun State, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola; Executive Commissioner, Development and Production, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Mr. Enorense Amadasu; SPE Nigeria Council Chairman, Mrs. Amina Danmadami; The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo; and the Chief Executive Officer of The Nigeria Midstream Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Mr. Farouk Ahmed, during a visit to the exhibition booth of Renaissance, at the SPE 2025 Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) ongoing in Lagos… Monday.

Represented by Renaissance’s Chief Technical Officer, Mr. Abdulrahman Mijinyawa, Attah tasked stakeholders in the industry to imbibe strategic collaboration with government and other stakeholders to move Nigeria to the centre stage of Africa’s energy landscape.

Attah said, “This is our strategy at Renaissance, which operates Nigeria’s largest upstream joint venture alongside NNPC Limited, TotalEnergies, and Agip Energy and Natural Resources Limited (AENR), with a portfolio spanning onshore and shallow-water terrains, including the Bonny and Forcados crude export terminals.”

With such a diverse and promising portfolio and backed by an ownership that is determined to support its Afrocentric vision, Attah noted that Renaissance was set to become a continental leader, enabling energy security in Africa and the industrialisation of Nigeria in a sustainable manner.

He emphasised, “We believe that the Renaissance is one of the keys towards getting Nigeria to regain its continental pride of place. While we operate from the Niger Delta in Nigeria, our aspirations are continental, our vision is wholly Afro-centric.”

Speaking on the early milestone achievements of Renaissance, Attah said, “Within this short period of our existence, of about 140 days of taking over Shell’s shares in the defunct SPDC, Renaissance assets and people have increased oil production by about 40 per cent and returned us to a position where we now fulfil our contractual gas supply quantities to the NLNG – for the first time in over five years.”

Attah noted that Renaissance was working with renewed commitment to excellence, and an opportunity for Nigerians to drive industrialisation that would ultimately translate into job creation and overall economic growth.

He encouraged other organisations to imbibe Renaissance’s CRISP core values standing for Collaboration, Respect, Integrity, Safety and Performance.

Attah assured the SPE Nigeria Council of Renaissance’s continuous support which also helps to develop young Nigerians’ expertise. “This annual conference strengthens collaboration and fosters the exchange of best practices. It aligns with our vision and CRISP core values.”

He described the annual conference as a veritable platform where stakeholders address complex issues that challenge the energy sector and collaboratively seek solutions that advance Nigeria’s economy while helping in meeting national and global energy needs safely, securely, and sustainably.

Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation

Michael Simire
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0
Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation

As deforestation, poaching, and human encroachment threaten Nigeria’s remaining forest reserves, conservationists are calling for stronger support systems for the country’s forest rangers – those on the frontlines of environmental protection.

One such voice is Emmanuel Olabode, Project Manager of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation’s (NCF) Omo Forest Elephant Initiative. 

Park rangers
Park rangers

Speaking during the 2025 World Ranger Day commemorations, Olabode emphasised that training, re-training, motivation, and mental health support are essential to protect Nigeria’s most ecologically valuable forests.

“We’re down to just 40% of our natural forest reserves,” Olabode warned. “If our rangers aren’t empowered, we risk losing even more.”

Rangers Under Fire: The Risks on the Frontline

Omo Forest Reserve, located in Ogun State, is one of Nigeria’s most important conservation areas. It is home to some of the last populations of forest elephants, chimpanzees, white-throated guenons, African grey parrots, and endangered tree species.

But protecting this vast terrain comes at a high cost. Rangers patrol for hours daily – under harsh sun and through intense rains – navigating dangerous wildlife and confronting illegal loggers, poachers, and encroaching farmers.

“These are people who are trying to open new farmland or settle illegally,” Olabode said. “Sometimes they confront rangers violently.”

Rangers are also subject to human-wildlife conflicts, including venomous snakes, buffaloes, and scorpions. But beyond physical risks, the emotional toll is often ignored.

“They spend weeks in the forest without seeing their families,” he explained. “The emotional and mental stress is real, and we need to acknowledge it.”

Why Capacity Building Matters

For Olabode, the solution lies in structured capacity building.

His call is backed by Gbenga Oladeinde, Director of Forestry at the Ogun State Forestry Plantation Project, who described Omo Forest as a “blessing to mankind that must be managed sustainably.”

A Call to Collective Responsibility

Oladeinde emphasised that managing forest reserves cannot be left to rangers alone.

Clifford Omonu, Manager of Omo Nature Reserve, echoed this sentiment, praising rangers for what he called a “yeoman’s job”.

Why Omo Forest Matters

The Omo Forest Reserve isn’t just another green patch – it’s one of the few remaining biodiversity hotspots in Nigeria:

● Forest elephants – population declined by over 60% between 2002 and 2013 due to poaching.

● White-throated guenons, and white-bellied pangolins – all species of global conservation concern.

● Endemic trees like Milicia excelsa (Iroko), Cola nigerica, Khaya senegalensis (African mahogany), and Diospyros crassiflora (Ebony) are now restricted to isolated forest pocket

The Path Forward

To secure Nigeria’s forests for the next generation, conservation leaders are urging: increased funding for ranger training and welfare, collaborative forest management involving local communities and multiple agencies, legal and policy frameworks that reinforce ranger protection and support, greater public awareness on the ecological value of forest reserves.

By Ajibola Adedoye

This article (“Protecting Nigeria’s last forests: Training rangers is key to conservation”) was funded by a grant from the United States Department of State (via Wild Africa). The opinions, findings, and conclusions stated herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of State

Empowering African plant protection agencies to combat devastating potato pest

Michael Simire
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0
Empowering African plant protection agencies to combat devastating potato pest

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is empowering National Plant Protection Organisations in Africa to effectively detect and manage Potato Cyst Nematodes (PCN), a microscopic pest devastating potato crops across the region.

Nematodes are tiny worms that attack potato roots, stunting their growth and can wipe out potato yields by up to 100 percent.

irish potatoes
Potatoes

PCN has already been reported to be highly prevalent in four countries in East and Southern Africa. PCN is a quarantine pest that infects and feeds on potato roots, causing significant yield losses and threatening regional trade due to strict border phytosanitary controls. Early detection and management are critical to protect farmer livelihoods and regional potato markets.

A WTO’s Standards and Trade Development Facility project coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) involves technical training that is spearheaded by the IITA and icipe through the NemAfrica lab to equip national plant protection agencies in 12 countries with cutting-edge diagnostic tools and management strategies to tackle the PCN threat. The project is a collaborative effort that additionally involves the International Potato Centre (CIP), the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and CABI.

Potatoes are an essential staple food in Eastern and Southern Africa. The crop supports the livelihoods of an estimated 800,000 smallholder farmers, covering over 800,000 hectares of land. Nearly 9 million tons of potatoes are produced in the region annually. However, the future of the potato is in peril with the silent and deadly spread of PCN.

The PCN remains a hidden enemy to potato production however, it often goes unnoticed or is mistaken for other issues, such as sick or tired land that has poor soil fertility. Affected plants are stunted and become yellow, producing smaller tubers and significant damage to yield. The project emphasises the urgent need for creating awareness to guide effective management strategies.

The training programme focuses on the accurate assessment and diagnosis of PCN. Stakeholders across the potato value chain – from farmers to traders and policymakers – have been encouraged to learn how to recognise PCN symptoms. Furthermore, the project has underscored the need to promote regional cooperation to prevent the spread of PCN.

“By strengthening diagnostic capacity and fostering regional collaboration, this project is a vital step toward safeguarding potato production and trade in East and Southern Africa,” said Dr. Harun Murithi, Consultant Crop Health Specialist – Disease and Pest Management at IITA. “Accurate identification of PCN will enable timely interventions, protecting farmers’ livelihoods and contributing to food security.”

The project focuses on raising awareness and strengthening the capacity of public and private sector potato value chain organizations to collaboratively address phytosanitary risks of PCN and other emerging pests. The project is enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of plant health professionals and border inspectors to accurately identify PCN to effectively manage it.

Technicians and laboratory staff are being trained on sample collection, extraction, and identification of PCN. Essential diagnostic equipment and consumables to conduct this work, such as the key extraction tool known as the Fenwick can and sieves are provided to National Plant Protection labs.  In addition, the project is supporting detection surveys in major potato-growing regions in the target countries in Eastern and Southern Africa to map the presence of PCN.

Covering 12 countries selected for their regional importance and trade links, the project recently held a training workshop in Nairobi which brought together representatives from Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, South Sudan, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Lesotho to build foundational diagnostic skills for National Plant Protection Organisations.

Following this training countries have begun conducting national detection surveys with support from NemAfrica. Zimbabwe has completed sample extraction and identification, while Zambia and Malawi are currently in progress. Ethiopia has completed sample collection, with Lesotho, Mozambique and Uganda already planned.

PIGD launches nine-month GEF-supported scheme that applies nature-based solutions in forest restoration

Michael Simire
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1
PIGD launches nine-month GEF-supported scheme that applies nature-based solutions in forest restoration

On July 30, 2025, the community of Ikot Ukpong Iman in Akwa Ibom State witnessed a significant leap forward in environmental sustainability with the official launch of the UNDP GEF-SGP-supported project titled “Application of Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Forest Restoration and Livelihoods’ Resilience.” The event brought together various indigenous community leaders, chiefs, government dignitaries, and community members.

In the days leading up to the event, anticipation grew across Akwa Ibom State as the implementing organisation, Prime Initiative for Green Development (PIGD), hosted a radio session on Comfort 95.1 FM Uyo and ran a series of awareness jingles.

Prime Initiative for Green Development (PIGD)
Participants at the project launch in Ikot Ukpong Iman community in Akwa Ibom State

On the morning of the event, community members arrived early for registration, each receiving a branded shirt to mark their participation. The event began with a prayer, followed by an inspiring welcome address from the Obong of Ikot Ukpong Iman. He highlighted the importance of the project in repositioning the community for long-term development and encouraged the people of Ikot Ukpong Iman to take full ownership.

The first keynote speaker of the day, Ruth Akagu, the UNDP-GEF SGP Representative, emphasised the power of collaboration between UNDP and grassroots communities. She urged the community to actively engage with the project, recognizing its potential to drive broader developmental opportunities. Uko Umoh, the executive chairman, Etinan LGA, expressed his full support for the project and its potential to serve as a model for other communities.

The event also featured impactful presentations from leading experts. Professor Ekanem Ekanem, a renowned climatologist, expounded on climate change, illustrating the critical role of nature-based solutions in climate adaptation. Meanwhile, Professor Gabriel Umoh, an agricultural extension expert, discussed the ecological and economic value of agroforestry in building sustainable livelihoods. A representative from the Akwa Ibom State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development also spoke on the role of climate-smart agriculture in reviving rural economies.

Dr. Akpan Archibong, the project coordinator, then unveiled an ambitious nine-month roadmap from the inception to the completion of the project, one that promises community-led regeneration, capacity-building, and economic upliftment.

The youth leadership of the village further pledged their full commitment to the project, showcasing their eagerness to contribute to its success. The day ended on a high note with group photographs and refreshments served by the indigenous women of the community.

The official launch of the reforestation and agroforestry project in Ikot Ukpong Iman was more than another ceremonial event; it was a bold statement of collective partnership and a model for stronger nature-based climate action across Nigeria.

Kano inaugurates tree planting campaign, distributes 5m seedlings

Michael Simire
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0
Kano inaugurates tree planting campaign, distributes 5m seedlings

Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Sunday, August 3, 2025, inaugurated a large-scale tree planting campaign in Yanbawa community shelter belt, Makoda Local Government Area, as part of efforts to combat climate change and restore the environment.

The initiative, according to the Governor, would see the distribution of five million tree seedlings across the 44 local government areas of the state.

Tree planting
Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State involved in tree planting

Speaking at the event, Yusuf described the campaign as a “concrete step toward protecting our environment, preserving the natural resources, and securing the future of the children.”

He said that each of the 44 LGAs must ensure the seedlings were planted strategically in every ward, and he directed the establishment of tree monitoring committees to oversee the nurturing, watering, and protection of the trees.

“We must not only plant the trees, but we must also ensure they are nurtured, watered, and protected.

“Each local government must establish a monitoring committee, possibly under a designated group, to report regularly on the progress of the plantations,” he said.

The governor warned against reckless encroachment on green spaces and called on the citizens to take collective action against environmental degradation, including erosion, desertification, and illegal deforestation.

“This is the right time for us to breathe fresh air again and restore the health of our environment,” he said.

Yusuf called on traditional leaders, youth groups, civil society organisations, and the residents to actively participate in the campaign.

He urged, “Let each of us plant a tree not just as an act of responsibility, but as a commitment to guard and nurture it for the benefit of our physical health, social well-being, and future generations,”

The governor prayed for divine guidance and success in the initiative, urging that the campaign be seen as a “new beginning” in the quest for a greener, healthier Kano.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Dahir Hashim, said that the tree planting campaign was part of efforts to combat climate change and restore degraded ecosystems across the state.

He described the campaign as a bold step towards environmental sustainability and climate resilience in the state.

Hashim added: “This campaign is a testimony to the environmental vision of His Excellency’s administration.

“Just a year ago, we launched the Three Million Tree Planting Campaign. Today, we build on that legacy.”

He stated that the seedlings for the campaign were produced in state-run nurseries revived under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, specifically in Mainika, Gwarzo LGA, and Kafinciri, Garko LGA.

Hashim said: “These facilities were non-functional when this administration came into office.

“Today, they are key to achieving our five million tree target.”

He commended the governor’s consistent commitment to environmental issues, recalling that Yusuf’s first public engagement as governor in June 2023 was the commemoration of the World Environment Day at North-West University, Kano.

“The transformation of the Government House with green spaces and eco-friendly landscaping is not just about aesthetics – it reflects a deeper culture of sustainability being mainstreamed across the state,” the commissioner added.

According to him, the campaign will reach all the 44 local government areas of the state, with seedlings distributed to schools, religious centres, farms, homes, and public institutions.

Hashim lauded the contributions of development partners, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, and environmental stakeholders, adding that the campaign represented a shared responsibility to secure the future of Kano.

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

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