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Court to rule on NNPCL’s objection against Dangote Refinery suit

Michael Simire
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Court to rule on NNPCL’s objection against Dangote Refinery suit

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, fixed March 18 for ruling on the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s preliminary objection against a suit filed by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE over oil import licence dispute.

Mele Kyari
GCEO, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Mele Kyari

Justice Inyang Ekwo fixed the date after counsel to the NNPCL, Ademola Abimbola, SAN, and lawyer to Dangote Refinery, John Ibrahim, SAN, presented their arguments and adopted their processes for and against the suit.

Justice Ekwo had, on Thursday, fixed Wednesday for the hearing of the NNPCL’s preliminary objection after Ibrahim told the court that they were yet to file their response to the application.

Upon resumed hearing on Wednesday, Abimbola.informed the court that the matter was scheduled for hearing of their objection and he said they were ready to proceed.

Ibrahim, who said they had filed their counter affidavit in opposition to the objection, said he was ready to move their application too.

Moving the application, Abimbola said their notice of preliminary objection, dated and filed on Nov. 15, 2024, sought an order striking out the suit for lack of jurisdiction or in the alternative, an order striking out the name of the company from the suit.

He said an affidavit and a written address were in support of the application.

The lawyer said upon receipt of the refinery’s counter affidavit, they filed a further affidavit on Feb. 3 in response and a reply on points of law.

He prayed the court to either strike out the suit or the name of the NNPCL from the suit.

Responding, Ibrahim said a five-paragraph counter affidavit, dated Jan. 31, was filed with a written address.

He adopted the processes and urged the court to dismiss the NNPCL’s preliminary objection for being unnecessary.

After listening to the parties, Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter until March 18 for ruling.

While Emeka Akabuogu appeared for the 1st defendant; Ahmed Raji, SAN, represented the 3rd, 4th and 7th defendants, while Divine Oguru appeared for 5th and 6th defendants respectively.

Meanwhile, Olanrewaju Oshinaike appeared for a party seeking to be joined (Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) in the suit.

Dangote Refinery had sued the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) as 1st and 2nd defendants.

Also joined in the suit are AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited, T. Time Petroleum Limited, 2015 Petroleum Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited.

The oil company, through its lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, prayed the court to nullify import licences issued by NMDPRA to the NNPCL and the five other companies for the purpose of importing refined petroleum products.

The company (plaintiff) also prayed the court to declare that NMDPRA was in violation of Sections 317 (8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by issuing licenses for the importation of petroleum products.

It stated that such licenses should only be issued in circumstances where there is a petroleum product shortfall.

It equally sought a N100 billion in damages against NMDPRA for allegedly continuing to issue import licences to NNPCL and the five companies for importing petroleum products, among other reliefs.

The NNPCL, in its preliminary objection, prayed the court to strike out the case for being incompetent.

The NNPCL argued that the suit was premature and it disclosed no cause of action against it.

“This honourable court lacks the jurisdiction to hear this suit,” the NNPCL said.

In the affidavit in support of the application deposed to by Isiaka Popoola, a clerk in the law firm of Afe Babalola & Co, counsel to the NNPCL, he said one of their lawyers, Esther Longe who perused Dangote’s originating summons, affidavit and written address told him that an examination of the processes showed that NNPC as sued by the refinery was non-existent entity.

Popoola averred that the court lacked jurisdiction over the 2nd defendant sued as Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

“A simple search on the CAC website shows that there is no entity called “Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).”

According to Popoola, the 2nd defendant/objector is not one and the same with the 2nd defendant sued by the plaintiff.

He urged the court to strike out the suit.

Also, the NMDPRA, in its counter affidavit deposed to by Idris Musa, a Senior Regulatory Officer in the office, prayed the court to dismiss the suit as it was misconceived, unmeritorious and incompetent.

Musa argued that Dangote Refinery is not entitled to any of the reliefs sought.

The official, in the application dated and filed Dec. 13, 2024, said the current production of Dangote Refinery is yet to meet the national daily petroleum products sufficiency requirement.

He said based on this and in compliance with Section 317 [9] of the PIA (Petroleum Industry Act), NMDPRA issued licences to import petroleum products to bridge product shortfalls to companies with good track records of international products trading.

Besides, he said the agency is also mandated to promote competition and prevent abuse of dominant market positions and unhealthy monopoly in the oil and gas sector.

He denied the allegation that NMDPRA is partaking in any purported “grand conspiracy and concerted efforts” against the refinery, describing it as “an allegation for which the plaintiff has provided no facts or evidence in support.”

The oil marketers, in a joint counter affidavit filed on Nov. 5, 2024, told the court that granting Dangote’s application would spell doom for the country’s oil sector.

According to them, the plan to monopolise the oil sector is a recipe for disaster in the country.

The three marketers; AYM Shafa Limited, A. A. Rano Limited and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited, in their response, said the plaintiff did not produce adequate petroleum products for the daily consumption of Nigerians.

Besides, they argued that there was nothing placed before the court to prove the contrary.

By Taiye Agbaje

WAPCo undertakes inspection, maintenance on offshore pipeline 

Michael Simire
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WAPCo undertakes inspection, maintenance on offshore pipeline 

The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo), owner and operator of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), is scheduled to undertake major pipeline maintenance activities from February 5 to March 2, 2025.

WAPCO gas pipeline
WAPCo gas pipeline

These activities include the pigging and the in-line inspection of the 569 km offshore pipeline infrastructure, from Ajido, Lagos State, Nigeria to Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana and replacement of critical subsea valves at Tema and Cotonou to enhance operational safety.

This maintenance project will necessitate the temporary suspension of specific services, including the reverse flow transportation of natural gas from Ghana’s Western Region to Tema in the east, as well as gas transportation services from Nigeria to Cotonou (Benin), Lomé (Togo), and Tema (Ghana). However, some gas transportation services from Nigeria to Takoradi in Ghana will continue during this period to ensure the successful execution of the pipeline cleaning and inspection activities.

The comprehensive cleaning and inspection exercise is a key regulatory requirement and aligns with industry best practices to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP).

The cleaning and inspection, which encompasses the entire pipeline stretch from Itoki, Ogun State, Nigeria to Takoradi, Western Region Ghana is in two phases. The first phase, which was completed in December 2024, involved cleaning and inspecting the onshore section of the pipeline within Nigeria. The second phase which is scheduled to start on February 5, 2025, will focus on the offshore section of the WAGP.

WAPCo is mandated to conduct these inspections every five years (or on a risk-based schedule) as part of its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the WAGP and ensuring its safe and reliable operation across the West African region. WAPCo has actively engaged with key stakeholders to ensure the necessary alignment for the successful implementation of this project. WAPCo says it is grateful to the governments of Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo for their ongoing support.

Additionally, WAPCo appreciates the maritime and regulatory authorities across these four countries, as well as its customers, shippers, gas off-takers, host communities, shareholders, and all other relevant stakeholders for their continued collaboration and contribution to the success of this exercise. 

“WAPCo is committed to maintaining the proactive stakeholder engagement processes established during the project’s preparation phase, during execution. The company will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders on all matters to ensure the project’s safe execution and success,” says Auwal Ibrahim, WAPCo’s General Manager, Operations & Maintenance.

Climate change: Stakeholders explore avenues to restore, conserve mangrove forests

Michael Simire
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Climate change: Stakeholders explore avenues to restore, conserve mangrove forests

The National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) and environmental stakeholders in the Niger Delta Region have brainstormed on steps towards ensuring sustainable mangrove conservation and protection in Nigeria. 

Mangrove Forests
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe (4th left), anchoring a panel session with Commissioners for Environment from Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers states, during the Hybrid Stakeholders Town Hall Meeting on Mangrove Restoration, Conservation and Protection with the theme: “Amplifying Nature-Based Climate Solutions”

The hybrid stakeholders’ session on Mangrove Restoration, Conservation and Protection with the theme “Amplifying Nature-Based Climate Solutions” was held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Calabar, the Cross River State Capital, in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the Climate Change Council, Cross Rivers State.

Participants highlighted the need of safeguarding the Nigeria mangrove forest that is occupying 10,500-kilometre square, which is already threatened by illegal man-made activities particularly in the Niger Delta Region.

Earlier in her opening remarks, Director General /CEO OF NCCCS who is also the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change (SPEC), Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, said the Nigeria’s mangrove forest is indicated as the largest in Africa and third largest in the world, covering approximately 5% of the global mangrove forest.

Acknowledging the vital role that the coastal ecosystem is playing by combating climate and safeguarding communities from its effects, the NCCCS boss said the secretariat is developing a roadmap for the restoration of Nigeria’s essential mangrove forest, a robust initiative targeted to span 2025 to 2035.

According to her, the Town Hall Meeting would provide a crucial platform for all relevant stakeholders to discuss the next steps in ensuring sustainable mangrove conservation and protection in Nigeria.

“As part of the World Wetlands Day and further to the 2025 theme of Amplifying Nature-Based Climate Solutions, the NCCCS is convening this Stakeholder Town Hall Meeting in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation and the Climate Change Council of Cross Rivers State.

“A key output from this meeting is the National Roadmap on Mangrove Restoration, Conservation, and Protection. This Roadmap is expected to align with the ongoing NDC 3.0 review and indicates clear avenues to drive finance for mangrove conservation and protection in Nigeria.”

While acknowledging the presence of attending commissioners, she emphasised the crucial role of sub-national governments in implementing policies and ensuring effective on-ground interventions through their commitments.

“In line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, of which Mr. President is the Chairman of the Council, will continue to play its role as a coordinating and regulatory entity, ensuring that policies and financial mechanisms support long-term sustainability.

“Furthermore, this meeting should serve as a catalyst for mangrove-rich states to establish investment-grade forest carbon projects. As we deliberate, let us carefully consider the essential building blocks of forest finance,” Maduekwe noted.

She further commended the efforts of Cross River State in adopting the Climate Change Act, adding that the legislative framework positions the state to harness climate finance opportunities geared towards adaptation and ecosystem-hand solutions.

Expressing their commitment in the fight against climate change and the readiness to restore the lost ecosystem, the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, said for decades, the state has led in environmental conservation with over 53,000 hectares of degraded mangroves primed for restoration.

Otu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, disclosed that the state is actively engaging investors and development partners to capitalise on carbon emission opportunities, a significant milestone that was reached at the COP28 with the national department of climate change.

He called for a critical framework to unlock Nigeria’s carbon economy potential, saying: “We urge the revitalisation of the carbon market framework to ensure stability and restore confidence in the sector.”

In a resolution made during the town hall meeting by the attending Commissioners of Environment from Abia, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Rivers states, participants worried that series of workshops and meetings held have failed to deliver a National Carbon Framework and Registry despite repeated commitments over the past five years.

The resolution, which was read by the Chairman of Commissioners of Environment, Mr. Moses Osoji, who is the Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, called for the speedy implementation of the National Carbon Framework within three months.

He also urged the federal government authorise the development of the National Carbon Registry within the six months, leveraging on the regions and international partners expertise.

By Stina Ezin, Calabar

Govt, states tasked to prioritise healthy food policies in fight against cancer

Michael Simire
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Govt, states tasked to prioritise healthy food policies in fight against cancer

As the world marks World Cancer Day 2025, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has tasked both federal and state governments in Nigeria to develop and implement comprehensive healthy food policies targeted at reducing the exposure of Nigerians to ultra-processed foods, tobacco, excessive sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and salt consumption, all of which constitute high-risk factors driving the country’s alarming cancer burden and other non-communicable diseases.

Muhammad Ali Pate
Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare

CAPPA noted that cancer has remained a major public health issue in Nigeria, with an increasing number of new cases and deaths. Nigeria records over 120,000 new cases of cancer annually, according to the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, while the National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan (2018-2022) estimates that Nigerians spend N12 billion annually on cancer treatment.

These figures, according to the not-for-profit, underscore the urgent need for a multifaceted-policy approach and preventive measures to address the avoidable risk factors contributing to the country’s cancer as well as the NCD crisis.

The organisation urged the government to, in particular, amongst other pro-public-health tailored actions, implement and enforce healthy food policies such as the implementation of national guidelines to reduce salt consumption, as well as an upward review of the SSB Tax rate from the current N10 to N130 to achieve a substantial increase in the final retail prices of sugary drinks. curb excessive consumption and generate revenue for health interventions in line with global best practices.

CAPPA also called on the government to strictly regulate novel tobacco products, which are increasingly targeted at young people and to allocate more resources to the tobacco control fund to enhance enforcement efforts and public awareness campaigns.

It noted that while tobacco use remains the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths worldwide, SSBs, on the other hand, are associated with a heightened risk of obesity-related cancers, such as kidney and colon cancers. Similarly, high salt intake is linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer and other health complications.

CAPPA’s Executive Director Akinbode Oluwafemi, emphasised that creating healthy food environments backed by effective regulations that enable healthy dietary decisions is a priority for tackling cancer-risk factors and NCDs.

He stated that this includes fiscal policies that limit the consumption of unhealthy diets, promote public adoption of healthier foods through targeted subsidies and strategic investments in agriculture for nutrient-rich crops, as well as discourage tobacco and novel tobacco product use.

Additionally, the CAPPA statement highlighted the need for clear front-of-package labeling to inform consumers about the nutritional content of food products. It observed that public awareness campaigns are equally vital to educate citizens on the link between diet and cancer, fostering healthier eating habits across the population.

By integrating these strategies, it concluded, the Nigerian government can create a comprehensive framework that reduces cancer risk factors and fosters a culture of health and wellness.

World Cancer Day is celebrated globally every February 4. This year’s event, themed “United by Unique,” celebrates the stories of every person affected by cancer.

Adaptation, Loss & Damage Funds collaborate to help vulnerable countries address climate change

Michael Simire
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Adaptation, Loss & Damage Funds collaborate to help vulnerable countries address climate change

In an effort to respond to the urgent and complex challenges posed by climate change and its rising impacts on vulnerable populations and ecosystems, the Secretariats of the Adaptation Fund (AF) and the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) have entered into a framework for cooperation.

Adaptation Fund and FRLD
Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Executive Director of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage (right), with Mikko Ollikainen, Head of the Adaptation Fund

Outlined in a Letter of Intent (LOI) that was signed by the heads of the two funds on Jan. 31, 2025, the LOI emphasises the need to foster innovation and leverage collective expertise of the two funds to create scalable solutions that address both immediate and long-term impacts of climate change. It empowers communities, ensuring that climate strategies are inclusive, equitable, promote sustainable development, and facilitate a just transition that leaves no one behind.

It is further aligned with the Paris Agreement, which affirms the need to enhance coherence and complementarity between climate funds. The Secretariats will work collaboratively to find synergies with one another and common partners to leverage each other’s resources and avoid duplication of efforts.

“Our collaboration with the Adaptation Fund is perfectly in line with our board’s commitment to fostering complementary, coherence and coordination within the global climate landscape We look forward to joining forces with the Adaptation Fund to further strengthen the responses to loss and damage in the most vulnerable nations so that no one is left behind. Through sharing experiences and knowledge, we will maximize our collective impact for a more coordinated and effective response to loss and damage,” said Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Executive Director of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage.

“Adaptation and loss and damage are two sides of the same coin. Through this cooperation with the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, we look forward to furthering our collective efforts by exploring common areas where we can work together and respond to the goals of the Paris Agreement to further coherence and complementarity and help maximize the limited resources that we have available. It sets a broad framework and is intended to evolve as we build further value in this collaboration, which ultimately benefits the vulnerable countries we serve,” said Mikko Ollikainen, Head of the Adaptation Fund.

The LOI will initially focus on addressing climate change challenges in vulnerable countries through joint efforts in five common areas:

  • Readiness: work together to enhance readiness of developing countries to access climate finance and effectively engage in climate action by providing technical support, training and resources.
  • Knowledge Sharing: share knowledge, best practices and lessons learned to strengthen the funds’ and developing countries’ capacities to address climate change through joint research, publications, workshops and other knowledge activities.
  • Resource Mobilisation: collaborate on mobilising resources from various resources, including the public and private sectors, to support projects and climate initiatives.
  • Support to Countries: explore opportunities to leverage the funds’ capabilities and programs to support countries while being consistent with their respective mandates, goals, governance and operational frameworks; and
  • Advocacy: explore ways to collectively elevate the urgent need for adaptation and critical loss and damage needs of countries responding to climate change.

The signing followed an initial meeting between the two funds in December in Washington, D.C., which led to further discussions and agreement to develop and pursue the LOI. While it does not impose any legal obligations, it is aimed at expressing the desire for collaboration between the two Secretariats. The LOI will last two years with an option to extend for a subsequent two years.

The Fund for responding to Loss and Damage was established at the COP27 to support developing countries in addressing the economic and non-economic impacts of climate change, including damage from extreme weather events and slow-onset changes. The fund aims to provide crucial financial support to help these nations respond to the loss and damage caused by climate change, ensuring they can recover quickly.

Since 2010, the AF has committed US$ 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. AF also pioneered Direct Access and other innovative programs that empower country ownership in adaptation.

Nigeria risks losing its remaining wetlands by 2035 – Adogame

Michael Simire
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Nigeria risks losing its remaining wetlands by 2035 – Adogame

Executive Director, Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria), Dr. Leslie Adogame, says Nigeria risks losing the remaining 30% of its wetlands by the year 2035 if no measures is put in place to conserve the wetlands as signed by Ramsar Convention in 2021.

Hadejia Nguru Wetlands
Hadejia Nguru Wetlands in Nigeria

Dr. Adogame made this submission on Monday, February 3, 2025, while speaking during a session marking the 2025 World Wetlands Day in Lagos. 

The Executive Director, who attributed the major challenges to weak enforcement on the part of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), disclosed: “There is a NESREA regulation on wetlands even beyond the EIA Act, but the question is how enforceable is that regulation? If you also look at National Action Plan, one key mandate requirement from NESREA is to work with state governments to effectively document more wetlands in their domain with the aim of effectively managing those wetlands and these are all enshrined in those documents.

“Apart from this, there is a whole lot of neglect on the part of the government, despite Nigeria signing the Ramsar Convention in 2021, we do not see any serious action, even though there is a national strategy document to address biodiversity where the wetland issue sits in.

“There is need for us to revisit where we are on this, and how enforceable is the regulation of 2001 today? What is NESREA doing? What is the action plan and what is the nexus between the Federal and State Governments where the wetlands are? Dr. Adogame queried.

The Executive Director of SRADev Nigeria who also cited the move made by his NGO in relation to the wetland around Opebi Link Bridge and the road construction linking Opebi to Ojota around that axis however promised that “SRADEV will continue to raise awareness and conscientise Nigerians on the issue relating to wetlands. For us as an NGO, our next step is essentially to intervene and interface with government on policies relating to the issue. We will be initiating a meeting with NESREA because NESREA has a regulation to protect the wetlands in Nigeria, so it’s important for us to work with them to understand where things are, particularly with regards to the Regulation of 2009.

“This will be followed by public awareness so that Nigerians will have adequate information relating to wetlands in their domain,” he stressed. 

The theme of 2025 World Wetlands Day is “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future”. World Wetland Day is observed on February 2 of every year worldwide to commemorate the signing of the Ramsar Convention on wetlands of international importance in 1971.

By Ajibola Adedoye

Edo seeks NCCC’s support on climate finance

Michael Simire
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Edo seeks NCCC’s support on climate finance

The Edo State Government has appealed for the support of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in accessing climate finance to address the challenges posed by climate change in the state.

Monday Okpebholo
Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo State

The Permanent Secretary, state Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Jude Ekpu, disclosed this in Benin on Monday, February 3, 2025, when some officials of the council visited him.

Ekpu underscored the importance of climate finance in driving sustainable development.

He, however, said that the state faced difficulties in securing funds for climate change initiatives.

He also expressed the state’s readiness to join forces with the council in addressing the impacts of climate change.

He advocated the provision of alternative means of livelihoods for communities that depended on forest resources, such as firewood, saying it would help to reduce deforestation.

According to him, the state faces significant challenges with deforestation, including issues related to the Tonguia farming system and ineffective management of protected areas.

He called for the involvement of local communities in the state in conservation efforts.

“Empowering local communities to manage forest areas has not been successful.

“The state welcomes support for mangrove restoration projects, recognising their crucial role in coastal protection and local economies,” he said.

The permanent secretary said that the lack of electricity in some communities contribute to deforestation as people relied on firewood for fuel.

He also said that the provision of electricity would offer alternative economic opportunities and reduce pressure on natural resources.

Earlier, the Director of Strategy, Information and Planning, Mr. Michael Ivenso, who led the NCCC delegation, said that the visit was to collaborate with the ministry on climate change issues.

“Climate change is a global problem, but climate action is local; it happens at the state, local governments and community levels.

“It’s imperative for us at the federal level to collaborate with our counterparts in the states, aligning national priorities with the specific needs of each region,” he said.

Ivenso said that the NCCC intended to visit communities to understand their challenges and support them.

The support, he said, would include developing and implementing climate change adaptation, mitigating strategies; and the preservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems.

According to him, the effects were to recognise the importance of the restoration for coastal protection, biodiversity and local livelihoods.

By Usman Aliyu

2025 SCP: NiMet predicts delayed onset of rainfall in eight northern states

Michael Simire
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2025 SCP: NiMet predicts delayed onset of rainfall in eight northern states

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted that eight northern states will experience delayed onset of rainfall in 2025.

Festus Keyamo
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

The agency’s prediction is contained in its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) unveiled by Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, in Abuja on Tuesday, February 4.

A statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by NiMet stated that the states include Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa and Kwara.

The SCP was themed “The Role of Early Warnings Towards a Climate-Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,” Key Rainfall Predictions for 2025.

The agency also predicted that Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Anambra, and sections of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Enugu, Imo, and Ebonyi would witness early onset of rainfall.

“Earlier than long-term average end-of-rainy season is predicted over parts of Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Plateau, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, FCT, Ekiti, and Ondo states.

“A delayed end of season is expected over parts of Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, Lagos, Kwara, Taraba, Oyo, Ogun, Cross River, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Enugu States,” it said.

According to NiMet, the predicted length of rainy season in 2025, is expected to be mostly normal across the country.

NiMet, however, forecasts shorter than normal length of season over Borno and parts of Yobe.

The agency envisaged that Lagos and Nasarawa states to have longer than normal length of seasons in 2025.

“A normal to below-normal annual rainfall is anticipated in most parts of Nigeria compared to long-term average.

“Parts of Kebbi, Kaduna, Ebonyi, Cross River, Lagos Abia, Akwa Ibom states, and FCT are expected to have above-normal annual rainfall amounts.

“High-intensity rainfall is expected in May to June that may likely result in flash floods in the coastal cities.

“As with previous years, there are pre-onset rainfall activities that should not be confused with the actual onset of rainy season,” it said.

NiMet anticipated a severe dry spell of above 15 days after the establishment of rainfall in Oyo state (Saki, Iseyin, Ogbomosho, Atisbo, Orelope, Itesiwaju, Olorunsogo, Kajola, Iwajowa and Ori Ire), during the April-May-June (AMJ) season.

According to it, moderate dry spell that may last up to 15 days is likely to occur in Ekiti, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, Edo, Ebonyi, Anambra, Imo, Abia, Cross River, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom in the south.

“However, for the northern states, a severe dry spell that may last up to 21 days is predicted for the June-July-August (JJA) season of 2025.

“The Little Dry Season (LDS), also known as ‘August Break’ is predicted to begin by late July and would be severe only in parts of Lagos and Ogun states.

“The number of days with either little or no rainfall will range between 27 to 40 days. Moderate LDS effect is expected over parts of Ogun, Oyo, and Ekiti states,” it said.

The agency further predicted either light or mild LDS over Osun, Oyo, Kwara, and parts of Ondo-North.

NiMet envisaged temperatures to be generally above the long-term average across the country.

“Both daytime and nighttime temperatures are predicted to be warmer than the long-term average over most parts of the country in January, February, March, and May 2025.

“However, April day and nighttime temperatures are predicted to be generally cooler than normal, while warmer than normal temperatures are likely to be experienced over most of the northern states.”

Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP)
Dignitaries at the Public Presentation of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) in Abuja

Mr. Keyamo has meanwhile called for improved sustainable practices to mitigate climate change in Nigeria.

Keyamo, who said this in his keynote address at the public presentation of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), noted that the Federal Government would continue to invest in sustainable practices, strengthen infrastructure, and support communities that are most vulnerable to climate change impacts.

“Our seasonal climate predictions are not just about forecasting, they are about shaping our response to challenges ahead.

“As we celebrate the 2025 SCP document, let us recognise that its true value lies in its application.

“I urge all stakeholders present here today – government agencies, non-governmental organisations, private sector actors, civil society organisations, researchers, and the media to champion the use of the SCP in their respective domains.

“Collaboration and information sharing will be key to maximising its impact.

“Challenges posed by climate change demand innovative solution.

“The ministry of aviation and aerospace development through NiMet will remain at the forefront of these efforts.”

 According to him, the nation can build a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration with the support of policymakers and industry leaders.

According to him, the aviation industry faces increasing challenges from erratic weather patterns to the growing frequency of extreme events, which directly impacts airline operations as climate change continues to reshape the planet.

Keymo.said that aviation remained a weather sensitive sector , adding that decisions on flight plans, take-off and landing were not made without first considering the weather conditions.

“Adverse weather – thunderstorms, squalls, wind shear, heavy rainfall, flash floods, sandstorms, dust haze, fog among others, are some of the greatest challenges in aviation, resulting in flight delays, injuries, economic losses including loss of lives and property. 

“The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that global flight delays due to weather conditions have been on the increase, jumping from 11 per cent in 2012 to 30 per cent of total flight delays in 2023.

“According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation, while turbulence has long been a leading cause of injuries in-flight, scientific evidence suggests  there may be more severe weather patterns brought about by climate change which can  lead to more turbulence-related accidents.”

 The minister said that the effects of climate change had negative impact on the  aviation industry.

According to him, early warning systems, backed by robust climate predictions, are essential to overcoming stated challenges and ensuring safety, efficiency and sustainability of air navigation business.

Keyamo said NiMet’s SCP played a pivotal role by empowering stakeholders with the knowledge to anticipate and adapt to climatic changes, ensuring that aviation operations remained uninterrupted and that lives, and property were safeguarded.

He added that an enhanced resilient aviation sector contributed to broader socio-economic goals, including trade facilitation, tourism, and regional connectivity.

“The SCP document we are unveiling today is a critical tool for informed decision-making.

“It offers insights into expected weather and climate patterns, equipping various sectors with the foresight needed to plan, mitigate risks, and harness opportunities.

“Agriculture, disaster risk management, health, marine operations, transport and especially aviation are among the many domains that will benefit from this invaluable resource and advisory.

“Timely climate predictions will enable, inter alia; farmers to optimise farming schedules thereby improving the nation’s food system security,” he said.

According to him, the document will also help disaster managers to prepare for emergencies and minimise risks and health authorities to anticipate disease outbreaks linked to weather and climate variations.

“These underscore the interconnectedness of weather, climate, and socio-economic resilience.

“Over recent years, we have continued to observe unprecedented weather patterns that have tested our preparedness and resilience.

“From consistent warmer-than-normal temperatures to flash floods, the extremes of our climate are increasingly evident.

“These events serve as reminders that we must remain vigilant and proactive,” he added.

By Gabriel Agbeja

Ebola vaccination trial launched in Uganda

Michael Simire
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Ebola vaccination trial launched in Uganda

In what looks like a global first, Uganda’s Ministry of Health, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other partners on Monday, February 3, 2025, launched a first-ever clinical efficacy trial for a vaccine from Ebola from the Sudan species of the virus, and at an unprecedented speed for a randomised vaccine trial, in an emergency.

Tedros Ghebreyesus
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General, World Health Organisation (WHO)

This is the first trial to assess the clinical efficacy of a vaccine against Ebola Sudan virus disease. IAVI, the provider of the vaccine, conducted trials for safety and immunogenicity. It is also the first clinical trial of the vaccine during an outbreak.

The principal investigators from Makerere University and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), with support from WHO and other partners, have worked tirelessly to get the trial ready in four days since the outbreak was confirmed on January 30. It is the first trial to assess the clinical efficacy of a vaccine against Ebola disease due to Sudan virus. The speed was achieved through advanced research preparedness, while ensuring full compliance with national and international regulatory and ethical requirements.

The candidate vaccine was donated by IAVI, with financial support from WHO, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and the European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and support from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

“This is a critical achievement towards better pandemic preparedness, and saving lives when outbreaks occur,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General.  “This is possible because of the dedication of Uganda’s health workers, the involvement of communities, the Ministry of Health of Uganda, Makerere University and UVRI, and research efforts led by WHO involving hundreds of scientists through our research and development Filoviruses network. We thank our partners for their dedication and cooperation, from IAVI for donating the vaccine, to CEPI, EU HERA and Canada’s IDRC for funding, and Africa CDC for further support. This massive achievement would simply not be possible without them.”

In 2022, during the previous outbreak of Ebola disease (also from the Sudan species of the virus) in Uganda, a randomised protocol for candidate vaccines was developed. Principal investigators were designated under the leadership of the Minister of Health, and teams were trained to allow such a trial to take place during an active outbreak.

The randomised vaccine trial to assess the recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) candidate vaccine was launched at a ceremony in Kampala on Monday by the Minister of Health of Uganda. WHO is co-sponsoring the trial. WHO was represented by Dr Mike Ryan, Executive Director of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme and Deputy Director-General, and the WHO representative to Uganda Dr Kasonde Mwinga, along with other colleagues.

Three vaccination rings were defined today. The first ring involves about 40 contacts and contacts of contacts of the first reported and confirmed case, a health worker who has died.

Although several promising candidate medical countermeasures are progressing through clinical development, as of now, there is no licensed vaccine available to effectively combat a potential future outbreak of Ebola disease from the Sudan species of the virus. Licensed vaccines exist only for the disease caused by Ebola virus, formerly known as Zaïre ebolavirus. Likewise for treatments, approved treatments are only available for Ebola virus.

The vaccine for the trial was recommended by the independent WHO candidate vaccine prioritisation working group. If the candidate vaccine is effective, it can contribute to controlling this outbreak and generate data for vaccine licensure.

In 2022, the research teams were trained in good clinical practice (GCP) and standard operating procedures for such trials. They completed refresher training in recent days. WHO colleagues experienced in trials and in ring vaccination arrived in Uganda over the weekend to support the trial implementation and GCP compliance.

The vaccine doses were pre-positioned in the country. WHO worked with the principal investigators and national authorities and the vaccine developer to review cold chain documentation and ensure the doses were stored correctly over the previous years. As part of the signed agreement with the Ministry of Health, WHO has a signed agreement with IAVI for additional doses of the candidate vaccine to be made available shortly.

UNHCR, UN-Habitat join forces to improve urban settlements in El Salvador

Michael Simire
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UNHCR, UN-Habitat join forces to improve urban settlements in El Salvador

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, have launched “My Community, My House,” a joint initiative to improve housing, public spaces, and community governance in El Salvador.

La Campanera
La Campanera, El Salvador

The programme, which will run from December 2024 to June 2025 in La Campanera – a settlement of more than 12,000 people in the Soyapango district – aims to address forced displacement and strengthen social cohesion in communities affected by violence.

Decades of violence and insecurity have deeply impacted El Salvador’s cities, leading to abandoned housing, unsafe public spaces, and weakened social ties. The initiative focuses on participatory governance, the revitalisation of public spaces, and housing improvements to help rebuild trust and foster peaceful coexistence.

“The transformation of La Campanera will not only contribute to improving the living conditions of its inhabitants but will also make visible the capacity of communities to rebuild themselves when they have the right opportunities and tools,” said Fernanda Lonardoni, Head of UN-Habitat Mexico, Cuba, and Central America.

“The comprehensiveness of the proposal makes it so that people and their communities are at the centre of the process of recovery of public spaces and the improvement of housing. Bringing together humanitarian, development and peacebuilding approaches and working in partnership promotes citizen participation, peaceful coexistence, economic promotion, and the reconstruction of the social fabric in communities historically affected by violence and forced displacement,” said Mónica Tse Candido, Acting UNHCR Representative in El Salvador.

The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Housing, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, the Ministry of Public Works, and the Municipality of San Salvador Este, among others. It will support community-led planning and decision-making while improving infrastructure, including the construction of sports fields, restoration of green areas, better lighting, and improved waste management. Housing upgrades will also be provided for displaced families and those in vulnerable situations.

By addressing the root causes of forced displacement and urban instability, UNHCR and UN-Habitat aim to make La Campanera a model for sustainable, community-driven urban transformation, with lessons that could be applied across the region.

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