The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors on Thursday, May 15, 2025, approved $270 million in financing to bolster Bangladesh’s flood recovery efforts and enhance its resilience to future disasters.
Flooding in Bangladesh
It included support for constructing and rehabilitating critical infrastructure, strengthening agricultural system and improving livelihoods in areas devastated by the August 2024 floods.
The Bangladesh Sustainable Recovery, Emergency Preparedness and Response (B-STRONG) Project will build and reconstruct rural and flood protection infrastructure in the Chattogram and Sylhet Divisions.
To also provide protection to 1.6 million people, said the Washington-based lender.
Taking a comprehensive approach, it said in a statement that the project would also promote climate-resilient agriculture and help the vulnerable communities with livelihood support.
“Bangladesh is regarded as a leader in climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness.
“But the increasing climate risks and more frequent and severe natural disasters take a heavy toll on communities and the economy.
“Building resilience against natural disasters is both a development and an economic priority for Bangladesh,’’ said Gayle Martin.
Martin is the World Bank interim country director for Bangladesh.
According to the bank, the project will construct and rehabilitate 79 multipurpose flood shelters and repair and climate-proof connecting roads and bridges.
These shelters would operate as primary schools in normal weather, said the bank, and added it will also construct, repair, and rehabilitate flood protection infrastructure, including embankments and re-excavate canals.
Apart from this, the project will also support improving flood forecasting systems and helping communities improve disaster preparedness through providing boats, equipment, training, and drills.
Over 380,000 people would benefit from economic inclusion programmes and cash-based interventions.
At least 65,000 farm households would receive support to improve agricultural productivity through the adoption of high-yielding, climate-resilient.
They will also receive sustainable crop production technologies, access to agricultural machinery and improved irrigation and storage facilities.
The project would set up seed villages to supply quality seeds and seedlings, support women in homestead and community gardening, and create farmer groups to share knowledge on sustainable agricultural practices.
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling noise pollution through strengthened enforcement, stakeholder engagement, and public education
Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said this at the 10th edition of the annual “Noiseless Lagos Advocacy Campaign” at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
Represented by the Special Adviser to the governor of environment, Mr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Wahab emphasised the urgent need to address the growing impact of noise pollution on human health and the environment in an ever-expanding mega city like Lagos.
According to him, the noiseless Lagos initiative is a core element of the state’s broader environmental sustainability agenda, aimed at raising awareness about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high noise levels – including hearing loss, cardiovascular issues, sleep disruptions, and reduced productivity.
He noted that the 10th year theme, “Curbing Noise in a Mega City,” is a clarion call to all individuals, religious institutions, businesses, and entertainment operators to comply with approved noise level regulations.
He said that in the past 18 months alone, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) received 1,616 noise pollution complaints, with over 610 cases enforced through closures, fines, or other regulatory measures.
The Commissioner reiterated the government’s resolve to clamp down on violators and outlined specific noise limits applicable to various locations across the state:
Schools: 35 decibels (day and night), Residential areas: 55 dB (day) / 45 dB (night), Commercial centres: 70 dB (day) / 60 dB (night), Industrial areas: 85 dB (day) / 65 dB (night), and Mixed-use areas: 65 dB (day) / 55 dB (night).
To strengthen enforcement, Wahab said the Ministry has empowered LASEPA to intensify monitoring efforts and ensure stricter compliance across all sectors.
Key directives issued by the government at the event include: Mandatory permits for events involving amplified sound, Use of soundproof and enclosed spaces for noisy activities, and Strict adherence to regulated noise levels.
He called for a collaborative approach among stakeholders – including religious organisations, entertainment operators, event planners, and residents – to report violations and promote environmental responsibility.
“As we strive toward sustainable development and a livable Lagos, this campaign is a collective call to action for all stakeholders to embrace noise-reducing practices,” Wahab said.
He urged residents to support the Noiseless Lagos campaign and work with the government to create a cleaner, healthier, and more serene environment.
The General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Mr. Tunde Ajayi, said that the agency has continued to engage religious houses in the on the need to reduce noise pollution in the state.
Ajayi said that there are various apps from the app store that give the minimum regulation of noise level for various areas and institutions.
He added that religious organisations contribute about sixty six per cent to the overall noise pollution in the state because of their proliferation.
The event was attended by representatives of various religious houses in the state.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has restricted construction activities across the state to between 7.00 am and 6.00 pm., Mondays to Saturdays.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, announced the new directive in a statement on Thursday, May 15, 2025, by the agency’s Director, Public Affairs, Mr. Mukaila Sanusi.
Olumide said the measure became necessary to safeguard the environment, curb incidences of building collapse, and enhance the overall well-being of residents.
“This restriction must be strictly adhered to by all stakeholders in the construction sector.
“It is in the public interest and will be enforced by relevant government agencies.”
He added that while the state recognised the dynamic nature of building projects, any request to work beyond the stipulated hours must be made through a formal application and would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
“Concessions may be granted but only after due diligence and evaluation,” he said.
The commissioner also urged residents to be vigilant and proactive by reporting construction sites that flout the directive.
“We encourage the public to take ownership of their environment. If you observe construction activities going on outside the approved hours, please report them to the appropriate authorities,” Olumide said.
A construction worker at a site in the Agodo-Egbe area in Alimosho Local Government, who gave his name simply as Musa Tola, said that while the policy might affect project timelines, it was a welcome development if it would help reduce hazards.
“Sometimes we work overnight to meet deadlines but safety is important. If government is serious about this, we will have to adjust,” Tola said.
Similarly, Mrs. Ifeoma Uche, a resident of Idimu, described the move as timely.
“Some sites work all night and the noise disturbs everyone. I think this will bring some sanity,” she said.
Lagos has witnessed several building collapses in recent years, prompting renewed attention to regulatory oversight in the construction sector.
The government said enforcement of the new working hours would commence immediately.
The 2025 meetings of the Conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS COPs), held in Geneva from April 28 to May 9, 2025, was an opportunity for the secretariat of the Minamata Convention on Mercury to build partnerships and promote action to address mercury pollution.
Rolph Payet, executive secretary of Basel Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions (middle), with executive secretary of the Minamata Convention, Monika Stankiewicz (right), at the BRS COPs in Geneva
A key outcome of the BRS COPs of relevance to mercury was a Basel Convention COP decision to update the technical guidelines on mercury waste to align them with the thresholds adopted at Minamata COP-5. The COPs also adopted a framework for cooperation between the Minamata and BRS secretariats including an outline of activities planned for 2025 and the 2026-2027 biennium.
Under the Rotterdam Convention, the Chemicals Review Committee recommended adding mercury to Annex III to the Convention to require prior informed consent for its international trade, but the COP did not reach a consensus on its addition, and this will be further discussed at the next COP in 2027.
Executive Secretary, Monika Stankiewicz, joined four key high-level events, including the GEF–MEA Exchange, which brought together the heads of seven MEAs alongside Carlos Manuel Rodríguez in his role as GEF CEO. This first-of-its-kind exchange on strategic and practical matters related to the 9th replenishment of the GEF General Trust fund (servicing as a financial mechanism of several MEAs including the Minamata Convention), highlighted the importance of strengthened cross-sector collaboration, experience sharing, and joint efforts in addressing the triple planetary crisis. This dialogue is expected to continue at Minamata COP-6, from November 3 to 7, 2025 in Geneva.
Stankiewicz also attended the Environment Management Group roundtable, the leadership dialogue on the power of synergies, and the side event on the key role of key role of the Science-Policy Panel to tackle chemicals, waste, and pollution. In a video produced by the BRS secretariat, the Executive Secretary emphasized that this is not only about collaboration between the secretariats of MEAs, but also about the importance of ensuring coherence at the national level, noting that over the years a growing number of Parties have been observed championing the integration of policies across biodiversity and chemicals.
The secretariat also engaged in high-level bilateral meetings with representatives from Bangladesh, Finland, Guatemala, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mauritania, the Philippines, Sudan, Ukraine and other Parties and non-Parties to the Minamata Convention, reinforcing national-level engagement and shared priorities.
Reflecting on the momentum built during the COPs, the Minamata Convention secretariat delivered a statement on behalf of Monika Stankiewicz that highlighted that “the future of chemicals and waste governance lies in integrated action, science-based cooperation, and strong digital and institutional linkages. As we look ahead to COP-6 of the Minamata Convention, we are more determined than ever to support Parties in translating this vision into impactful action”.
“There is still a lot we can do together to demonstrate and maximize the co-benefits arising from the implementation of the Minamata Convention, BRS Conventions and the Global Framework on Chemicals on one hand and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework on the other,” she said. “The Minamata Convention secretariat is looking forward to further collaboration and coordination with the secretariats of BRS, GFC and the CBD secretariat in this regard.”
In addition to the Executive Secretary’s participation, the secretariat supported several technical side events on mercury in products, digital tools for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the work of compliance committees, while also engaging with youth and civil society.
At the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change (AGN) first Strategic Meeting that held in Zanzibar from April 28 to 30, 2025, under the chairmanship of the United Republic of Tanzania, AGN Chair, Richard Muyungi, called for a “Just Transition” that addresses Africa’s energy poverty.
AGN Chair, Dr Richard Muyungi
Dr. Muyungi, who emphasised the “Africa First” agenda, said Africa cannot talk about just transition while over 600 million people in Africa are without access to energy and 900 without clean cooking solutions.
Dr. Muyungi, said, “It is for this reason that the inclusion of the Clean Cooking agenda, which is being championed by Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania in the just transition work programme, is key.”
“I am delighted to note that the African Union, at its last assembly, adopted both the AU declaration on Clean Cooking and the Dar-es-Salaam Declaration on Mission 300 Energy Summit that focuses on providing energy access to at least 300 million people in Africa by 2030. At this meeting we have resolved to ensure these two important decisions by the AU Assembly are embedded in the Just transition and mitigation work programmes towards Belem and beyond,” added the AGN Chair.
In the context of climate change, a “just transition” refers to a strategy that ensures a fair and equitable transition to a low-carbon economy, minimising negative impacts on workers and communities while maximising social and economic opportunities. It aims to balance climate action with social justice, creating decent work, reducing inequalities, and ensuring no one is left behind.
At its fourth session, the Conference of Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA), decided to establish a work programme on “Just Transition” pathways to advancing the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The decision emphasised that just transition pathways must be based on nationally defined development priorities and include social protection so as to mitigate potential impacts associated with the transition.
Other priorities discussed and agreed at the AGN meeting included:
Finalising Africa’s approach towards the new round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0), ensuring they are ambitious, equitable, and supported by adequate means of implementation;
Securing clarity and operationalisation of the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance, building upon AU and CAHOSCC relevant guiding decisions and the “Baku to Belém Roadmap to $1.3 trillion by 2035”;
Ensuring decisive progress on adaptation, including the adoption of robust indicators under the Global Goal on Adaptation, and tangible progress on National Adaptation Plans;
Defending Africa’s equity-centred positions in the evolving global climate governance, particularly in loss and damage, technology transfer, just transition work programmes, and transparency frameworks;
Reaffirming the critical importance of youth and gender inclusion in advancing an equitable, inclusive, and sustainable climate future for the African continent, recognising that youth and women are not only disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change but are also powerful agents of change and innovation in driving transformative climate action; and
Reaffirming that Africa’s natural wealth presents a transformative opportunity to drive global climate change mitigation while catalysing inclusive, sustainable economic growth across the continent, with particular attention to how Africa’s endowment of 60% of the world’s highest-quality solar potential, significant wind, vast hydropower capacity, could enable Africa to leapfrog into a low-carbon future while contributing meaningfully to global emissions reductions;
Meanwhile, the AGN Chair reaffirmed the group’s crucial role in technically advising the African Union’s key institutions notably, the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) and Committee of African
Heads of State on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), ensuring that Africa’s priorities are consistently, coherently, and effectively articulated within the UNFCCC process and beyond.
“Our Group remains the only technical backbone that sustains Africa’s political decisions on climate change,” said Dr. Muyungi. “It is for this reason that this meeting is designed, among other objectives, to address decisions emanating from the February 2025 CAHOSCC meeting in Addis Ababa, and to provide clear technical advice that will guide the African continent throughout this year towards COP30 and beyond.”
Generally, the meeting reaffirmed Africa’s unwavering commitment to a unified, science-driven, and justice- centred approach to climate negotiations, emphasising the centrality of adaptation, climate finance, clean energy access, just transition, and institutional strengthening anchored in mandates from the African Union, AMCEN, and CAHOSCC as essential pillars of Africa’s climate agenda.
Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Executive Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), said:“At the recent 5th Board meeting, the Board established the Barbados Implementation Modalities, which marks the initial operationalisation of the Fund. USD 250 million has been set aside. Under the guidance of the co-chairs, the secretariat is designing the initial modalities with the aim to launch a call for proposals in the coming months. In the coming days, I look forward to hearing from you the experiences, challenges and lessons learned from the region and I will be closely engaging with you in this regard.”
Dr. Mithika Mwenda, Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) Executive Director: “…Africa’s adaptation and resilience building must remain at the heart of our conversations, both in Africa and globally. Our countries and communities are on the frontlines of climate impacts – yet we have contributed the least to the crisis. Belem must deliver stronger commitments that prioritise the urgent needs of vulnerable communities, protecting livelihoods, ecosystems, and economies.
“Central to this is adaptation finance. It is not enough to promise – finance must flow, and it must be accessible, predictable, adequate and scaled up dramatically. We must demand concrete delivery on the new collective quantified goal on finance. Africa must lead the call for a goal that is not only ambitious but based on real needs, reflecting the scale of the adaptation and mitigation challenges we face.”
Dr. Million Belay, General Coordinator, Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA): “A number of African countries are gradually adopting Agroecology and some including Tanzania and Kenya have developed and launched national Agroecology strategies.
“AFSA’s request to the African Group of Negotiators is to make Agroecology central in agriculture, adaptation and finance negotiations as a very viable resilient mechanism to climate change adaptation. We also appreciate that the AGN is inviting civil society including PACJA and AFSA to these spaces. Civil society organisations can support government interventions in so many ways and we hope that we continue to work together for a unified Africa.”
Many small business owners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) say their businesses are folding up due to epileptic power supply.
National grid lines
The residents, especially business owners, spoke on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in Abuja.
The electricity consumers, who reside in Kubwa and environs, Kuje, Gwagwalada, Aco Estate decried the poor state of power supply in their areas.
According to them, power supply has declined recently compared to how it has been in the past few months.
Mrs. Amanda Okoye, a fashion designer in Kubwa, said that the situation was so bad that for weeks she had not been able to meet up with her customers’ demands.
“We have not had electricity for close to three days now. I have to depend on generator and getting the fuel to power it is expensive because of the increase in the pump price of the product.
“It has been so bad that I have decided to close the business for now till power supply improves in the area.
“The situation we face here is close to darkness and this has not been easy with me at all as my customers are complaining seriously and this is not good for my business.
“I am appealing to the government and Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to do something about the power situation as a matter of urgency ’’ she said.
Mr. Collins Osahon, a barber residing at Kubwa, said that the situation was getting worse as they do not have power for more than two hours a day.
Osahon said that he had to rely on generator to do his business, adding that because of the high cost of fuel, he had increased the cost of barbering a customer’s hair.
According to him, sometimes they switch on the light in the night when everyone is asleep and this has reduced patronage which can lead to business folding up.
Also speaking, Mr. Amos Okoduwa, a welder residing at Kuje, said that electricity was not too regular in his area as it was before.
He said: “We only have light for four to five hours a day and sometimes they don’t get it for a whole day.
“I am appealing to the government to improve power supply to the area to enable me run my business effectively so that I can feed my family,’’ he said.
Mrs. Comfort Maduka, who operates a cold room in Kuje, FCT, also said that electricity was not constant in her area.
Maduka said that the government and AEDC should do their best to improve power supply, especially as consumers were paying for the services
She said that she had to lock up the cold room because her goods were perishing as she could not afford the high cost of diesel to power her generator
‘I am appealing to government to improve power supply so that I can come back to business,” she said.
Mr. Okon Etim, who runs a laundry service in ACO Estate on Airport Road, said that the light situation in the area is terrible compared to before.
Okon said that the area does not have power supply for more than five to six hours in a day, adding that the light goes off every 20 minutes.
”I don’t know what to do so I have to close down my business until I am able to buy a big generator that I can use for the business, he said.
The Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, said that the ministry of power remains steadfast in addressing the challenges within Nigeria’s energy sector.
“We acknowledge the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians and reaffirm our commitment to stabilising the grid, expanding access, and fostering investor confidence.
“Recent reforms, such as the ongoing upgrade of transmission infrastructure and partnerships with renewable energy developers are pivotal to achieving sustainable solutions,” he said.
The minister urged Nigerians to continue to support government policies and initiatives.
He also called on Nigerians to report illegal activities such as energy theft and tampering with power infrastructure.
“Let us also embrace energy-efficient practices to reduce strain on the grid.
“As emphasised by President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”, collective resilience and patriotism are vital to overcoming national challenges.” he said.
Despite bold promises to protect migratory birds, most countries are alarmingly off course, a new study reveals.
Quelea birds
BirdLife International and EuroNatur’s latest study, titled: “The Killing 3.0: Progress on Eradicating Illegal Killing of Birds in the Mediterranean and Europe”,paints a stark picture: the vast majority of countries bordering the Mediterranean across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East are failing to deliver on their pledge to halve the illegal killing, taking, and trade of birds (IKB) by 2030.
Recognising the scale of this crisis, governments pledged coordinated action under the Bern Convention and the Convention on Migratory Species’ (CMS) Rome Strategic Plan 2020–2030. With just five years left to reach the goal of the Rome Strategic Plan to halve IKB by 2030, progress is severely lagging. Urgent action is needed, or devastating losses to bird populations will be inevitable, some species could even be wiped out forever.
European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur): Currently listed as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List, tens of thousands are illegally shot each spring on the Ionian Islands in western Greece.
Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus): Classified as ‘Endangered’, the Balkan breeding population is under severe threat from poisoning, often linked to the illegal use of poisoned bait targeting other wildlife.
European Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis): Although still listed as ‘Least Concern’, this once-common songbird is declining in many regions. It is widely trapped across North Africa and the Mediterranean for the illegal cage bird trade.
“The Killing 3.0” assessed 46 countries, with a deep dive into 22 Mediterranean nations where illegal killing is particularly rampant. The findings are sobering: 38 countries are not on track to meet their 2030 commitments, profit appearing to be the biggest driver of IKB. In many of the worst-affected countries, responsible for around 90% of illegal killings, little to no progress has been made – and in some cases, the situation has worsened.
Dr. Barend van Gemerden, Global Flyways Programme Coordinator at BirdLife International, said: “The illegal killing of birds is not just a crime, it’s a tragedy that continues to threaten birds across entire migratory routes. High levels of illegal killing in one country can wipe out conservation successes in another. We urgently need stronger, coordinated, cross-border action across the full flyway. Reaching the 2030 goal is a tough challenge, but not an impossible one.”
Yet, there is cause for hope. Places like Spain and the Sovereign Base Areas of Cyprus, show that real progress is possible with strong political will, coordinated planning, and proper resourcing.
Dr. Justine Vansynghel, Project Manager at EuroNatur: “The number of birds killed illegally each year remains unacceptably high. For many migratory birds, it spells death before they can even reach their breeding grounds. During the first half of the Rome Strategic Plan’s 10-year lifespan plenty of tools and guidance were developed to support national authorities. Now, it’s time to use them decisively to prevent further devastation.”
As governments meet this week to review their commitments, “The Killing 3.0” sends a clear message: the time for promises is over. Without urgent action, millions more birds will pay the price.
Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has expressed deep concern over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Lagos State Government and the Belstar/ENKA consortium to rehabilitate and expand the state’s water infrastructure, saying the entire process and the outcome lacks transparency.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State
In a statement, CAPPA noted that while the government touts the MoU as a strategic move to improve water supply, the scant information made public about it raises more questions than answers.
The non-governmental organisation (NGO) called for transparency about the deal, saying the Lagos State Government owed its taxpayers a duty of disclosure and accountability.
“As an organisation committed to promoting public participation and ensuring the rights of citizens to access safe and affordable water, CAPPA finds the current approach deeply troubling and symptomatic of a broader pattern of opacity in public water governance in Lagos State,” said Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director, CAPPA.
“That this agreement was conceived of and finalised behind closed doors, then simply announced to the public, is an affront to the very notion of a democratically accountable government.
“More than just a utility, water provision is a fundamental public service and essential good. Therefore, any contracts or agreements that affect its delivery, affordability, and quality must be subjected to the highest standards of transparency and public accountability.
“This MoU, which will determine the future of water access for millions of Lagosians, appears to have been signed without public consultation or legislative scrutiny.”
According to CAPPA, the government’s announcement raised several red flags that must be urgently addressed. They included:
“Who are these contractors? What are the corporate profiles and track records of Belstar Capital and ENKA? What was the public procurement process through which they were vetted and selected? What is their registration status in Nigeria?
“What exactly are the projects covered? The terms ‘rehabilitation and expansion’ are vague. Which waterworks, treatment facilities, and distribution networks are targeted? What areas will benefit, and how will these projects impact public access and affordability, especially in the poorest parts of the state?
“What is the contract’s total cost? The financial worth of this deal remains undisclosed, and the terms of arrangement, beyond a reference to the engineering, procurement, construction, and finance model being insured by the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), have not been made public.
“Furthermore, the involvement of a US government agency should raise alarm given the recent, abrupt pullback of USAID activity in the Lagos water sector and clear pro-corporate priorities of the US on a global level today.
“Are the completed waterworks going to remain under public ownership and control, or will they be privatised? The mode of project execution is framed under EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance), but key details on ownership, repayment, and operational control remain hidden. Are these entities building and handing over, or will they or some other multinational own and operate the completed projects for years to come?
“What is the role of Lagos Water Corporation (LWC)? The government’s statement implies that LWC will ‘collaborate’ with the consortium. Does this mean LWC will cede control or remain a technical advisor while corporations take the driver’s seat?
“What is the repayment structure and impact on water tariffs? If this project is being financed through loans or external credit, how will the state repay? Will this debt be recovered through increased tariffs and user fees, thus burdening already struggling households?”
CAPPA expressed alarm at the government’s repeated flirtation with privatisation, despite overwhelming public resistance, and a growing body of global evidence showing that public-private partnerships in the water sector often lead to higher tariffs, inequitable access, and poor service delivery. The conspicuous absence of details on who will control these waterworks once the contract is completed, coupled with the years in pursuit of privatisation schemes, suggests that the spectre of private control of water remains on the horizon.
“We reiterate that the path to water resilience for Lagos State cannot and must not be dictated by corporate interests,” the statement added.
Arguing that Lagosians had the right to know the terms of agreements that affected their lives, CAPPA emphasised that water governance ought to be open, participatory, and accountable.
It added: “We therefore call on the Lagos State Government to: Immediately make the full text of the MoU public, including annexes, financial arrangements, and project timelines.
“Organise a public stakeholder forum with civil society, labour, communities, and media to explain the scope and implications of this agreement.
“Halt further moves toward water privatisation and instead recommit to public, democratically controlled, and adequately funded water systems. This includes an explicit and binding commitment that all rehabilitated and newly constructed infrastructure under the purview of this MoU remain under public ownership and control even after completion.”
Finally, CAPPA emphasised that the solution to Lagos’ water challenges “is not to look to corporations with profit motives but to reinvest in public water infrastructure, strengthen public institutions, and embrace participatory governance.”
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, said the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the launch of four satellites to aid Earth observation and the fight against insecurity in the country.
Chief Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology
Nnaji said this at the 22nd National Council on Innovation, Science and Technology (NCIST) in Abuja.
The meeting, which held from May 12 to May 14, had as its theme: “Research, Develop, Innovate and Commercialise: A Cycle for National Prosperity.”
The minister said that the satellites consisted of three Earth Observation satellites and one Radar Aperture satellite.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is awake to the problems of Nigeria and they are being addressed.
“Just last week, the Federal Executive Council approved that Nigeria launch four satellites, satellites that are worth millions of dollars, three Earth Observation satellites and one search satellite.
“The search satellite is the one that will pick images both day, night, during rain, every time of the day and that is technology in play.
“The military can use it effectively, unlike now that when we want to go and view Sambisa forest and some of these dungeons on gorilla warfare, we have to buy, images, data,” he said.
On the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, the minister said that there was an inter ministerial committee on Research and Innovation that was reviewing it and strategising on institution of National Research and Innovation Fund.
Nnaji said the cycle of Research, Development, Innovation and Commercialisation (RDIC) had built renowned economies and technological giants, adding that Nigeria should also tap into its potential.
“As a country, we can no longer afford to ignore the widening gap between research and real-world impact.
“We must rise up to this challenge acknowledging that for decades, valuable research conducted in our universities and institutions have remained under-utilised, disconnected from industries and policy.
“Our talented young innovators, full of bold ideas and boundless creativity, have often lacked the structured support, financing, and mentorship required to move their innovations from concept to the market.
“Let this 22nd edition of NCIST mark the beginning of a new chapter, one where every research has a roadmap to industry;” he said.
According to him, the meeting should begin an era where every student sees innovation as a viable career, and where every invention finds its way to the market.
“Scientists and researchers must continue to push the frontiers of knowledge, private sector must strengthen collaboration with the academia through investments in Research and Development (R&D) .
“Similarly, the government must build, enforce regulatory frameworks that protect, support and incentivise innovation at every level,” he said.
Nnaji said that the resolutions of the council would be presented to FEC for adoption.
The minister explained that the 22nd edition of the council which was scheduled to hold in 2024 was postponed to 2025 due to some contingencies.
He, however, promised that plans were underway for the 23rd edition for the restoration of the regular schedule.
“We are committed to restoring the Council’s regular schedule and ensuring that the momentum built here today is not only sustained but accelerated in our collective drive toward a more innovative and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Mrs. Esuabana Nko-Asanye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, said the meeting was a call to action towards creating a dynamic ecosystem where all sectors work together towards building a prosperous Nigeria.
She said stakeholders’ collaboration would address complex national challenges such as unemployment, insecurity, climate change, economic diversification.
The Permanent Secretary said that from the beginning of the meeting, 109 memoranda were presented which reflected diverse inputs from across all sectors of the economy.
“These memoranda highlighted critical challenges, innovative proposals and actionable recommendations aimed at strengthening the role of science, technology and innovation in national development.
“Key areas of focus included the commercialisation of indigenous research, enhancing funding mechanism for the research development and innovation capacity building in emerging technologies.
”The focus areas will improve inter-agency collaboration, liberating on innovation to address sector specific challenges in health, agriculture, education, energy, politics, amongst others,” she said.
According to her, the richness and diversity of these submissions underscore the growing recognition of science, technology and innovation as a cornerstone of Nigeria sustainable development.
She said it also provided a clear road map for aligning national priorities with global trends.
Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said that the theme of the meeting was timely, adding that it captured the need for a sustainable national development.
Represented by Dr Morris Mbaeri, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Akume said that sustainable national development could only be achieved by building a resilient innovation ecosystem where research was purpose-driven.
“This cycle is very essential in addressing real world challenges and unlocking long term prosperity.
“I therefore urge all stakeholders, the academia, industry and government, to strengthen their collaboration and build enduring partnership to drive the full cycle of RDIC,” he said.
Prof. Azikiwe Onwualu, President, African University of Science and Technology (AUST), recommended an increase in R&D spending to three per cent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product.
Onwualu also said the country required more RDIC clusters and hubs through the integration of academia, industry, startups in project initiatives.
“We should operationalise the National Research and Innovation Council Fund to coordinate RDIC efforts as envisaged in the STI policy,” he said.
As climate urgency accelerates across the globe, Africa is stepping into a pivotal role as a potential leader in the carbon market.
Some of the participants at the virtual launch of the African Carbon Market Outlook 2025 on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, hosted by the Carbon Free African Network
At the launch of the African Carbon Market Outlook 2025 on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, hosted by the Carbon Free African Network, stakeholders, thought leaders, and advocates came together to discuss Africa’s carbon opportunities and how to ensure they are equitable, sustainable, and community driven.
In his opening remarks, Noel Casserly, director at Avenir Ver and a prominent advocate for sustainable development, framed the event’s significance: not just as a report launch, but as a call for Africa to take ownership of its carbon future.
Dr. Sadiq Austin Oko, CEO of the Carbon Free African Network, delivered the first keynote, emphasising the continent’s vast renewable energy resources, untapped land potential, and youthful workforce. Crucially, Dr. Oko stressed the need for transparent governance, land rights protection, and community-centered climate action.
Professor John Osonwo’s presentation on key detailed the potential of Africa’s carbon market, emphasising the need for greater synergy and policy alignment to harness the continent’s potential. He highlighted the importance of smaller scale projects led by local communities and the need for increased scrutiny of social and ecological impacts.
Prof concluded by outline the potential for Africa to become a global leader in carbon markets, but with a focus on climate justice.
With the African carbon market currently valued at $2.4 billion, projections show it could double in the next decade, thanks to increasing global demand for voluntary and compliance carbon credits. The market is expected to grow 15–20% annually, with carbon credits comprising 80% of its total value.
By 2030, up to 300 million credits could be issued. By 2050, that number could reach 1.5 billion, generating $6 billion in revenue and creating an estimated 30 million green jobs.
In the panel discussion session, Dr. Eyene Okpanachi emphasised that Africa’s success depends on building robust governance structures. These must include: Transparent benefit-sharing mechanisms, Strong policy and regulatory frameworks, Environmental and social safeguards, Long-term data and Impact monitoring systems.
The importance of community consent, informed engagement, and indigenous knowledge also featured prominently in the discussion, positioning local actors as central to any carbon market model.
Despite the promise, challenges remain according to one of the panelists, Zsolt Lengel, who highlighted that there is a demand gap for African carbon credits, driven by unclear offsetting regulations, limited awareness, and underdeveloped markets.
Yet, there’s hope: the European Union, among others, is eyeing Africa as a future supplier of high-integrity carbon credits. For this opportunity to materialise, validation bodies, technical expertise, and financing mechanisms must be scaled across the continent.
Practical experiences shared by Allan, a 30-year reforestation veteran, and Mark Baker of Carbon Tanzania, illustrated the urgent need for: Reforestation investment (e.g., Mozambique’s 60 million hectares of deforested land), High-quality, verified carbon credits, Regulatory engagement and institutional readiness. These case studies underscored that finance and governance must move hand in hand to turn climate ambition into tangible, community-owned results.
One of the strongest messages from the event was the need to prioritise local communities in carbon projects. Speakers like Dr. Eyene Okpanach, Dr. Eugene Itua, Dr. Vincent Nduka and Sara Stefanini advocated for social acceptability, equitable benefit-sharing, and community involvement in both policy and practice. This people-centred approach will ensure that carbon markets contribute not just to emissions reductions but to climate justice and inclusive development.
The African Carbon Market Outlook outlined a clear action plan for the coming years: Carbon Free African Network to publish the 2025 Outlook and launch a subscription platform for annual reports, Development of a continental carbon exchange platform, Governments to implement comprehensive regulatory frameworks, Institutions to enforce environmental and social safeguards, Media and journalists to simplify language and improve public awareness, Community engagement to remain central to project design and implementation, and Cross-country knowledge-sharing to accelerate local success stories.
In conclusion, participants agreed that Africa is uniquely positioned to shape the future of global carbon markets not just as a supplier of carbon credits but as a visionary leader in climate innovation, justice, and sustainability.
With the right blend of policy, participation, and partnerships, the continent’s carbon transformation can fuel a new era of green development, equity, and economic opportunity, they stated.
For more information or to access the full 2025 African Carbon Market Outlook report, visit: https://www.carbonfreeafricantwork.org/
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, shut down 21 facilities, which include housing estates as well as quarry sites, in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, for several environmental violations.
Officials of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) during the Abuja enforcement operation
According to NESREA Director General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, who spoke to a group of journalists briefly after the exercise at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja, his organisation decided to seal the facilities after several failed attempts, both in writing and in person, to resolve the matter.
He said the agency doesn’t see the action as a punitive measure to witch-hunt the violators; rather, it is intended to reduce the negative environmental impacts of the facilities’ operations and also serve as a deterrent to enforcing regulatory compliance.
“During the enforcement exercise, it was evident that many of these facilities failed the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) test, as structures were seen being built on flood plains and in other environmentally hazardous areas. This must stop,” said Prof. Barikor, “especially in the real estate sector, which he stated has continued to operate in deviance and violation of NESREA regulations.”
The agency’s chieftain also disclosed that there were so many public complaints against these facilities and officials of NESREA carried out an investigation, after which notices of compliance concerns were issued to these facilities.
However, they failed to adhere to the provisions of the environmental laws, hence the action by the agency, he stated.
Prof. Barikor went on to say that several of the facilities failed to do an EIA prior to the start of their projects, as required by law.
“The negative impact of the construction and quarrying activities within FCT has led to public outcry by the host communities where these facilities exist. In addition, the environment is exposed to various forms of environmental degradation and disaster, such as flooding, erosion, and burrow pits,” he asserts.
The affected facilities sealed are as follows: White Avenue Real Estate, Lugbe; CCECC-FIRS, Abuja; Mo Mouna Construction, Katampe; Practis Project, Abuja; Belmont Court, Idu; Istrom Construction, Abuja; Mab Global Estate, Idu; Ochacho Real Homes Limited, Idu; Constrix, Idu; Anarock Global Services Limited, Abuja; Quali Trends Nigerian Limited, Abuja; Boked International Limited, Abuja; CCECC at Central Business District, Abuja; and Tim Tali Transport Limited, Abuja.
Others include Matilda Rozi Limited, Abuja; Efedi Homes at Kukwaba District; T’lon Construction and Facilities Management, Abuja; the Cosgrove project of a shopping mall at Wuse II; Cosgrove estate, Central Business District; Tayyib Homes Limited, Lugbe; and Contrix cube, Katampe.
In a similar vein, Mr. Elijah Udofia, Director of Environmental Quality Control, said that the agency has allowed the owners of the impacted facilities ample time since last year to furnish the legally required documents, but they have not done so.
He was even more upset by the quarry operators’ activities, which he said went beyond the prescribed regulations.
“For the quarry pit, the law permits a 3-metre depth, but some of them have gone up to of 25 metres. We have looked into it, and that is why we are doing this today,” Mr. Udofia hinted.
