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NiMet forecasts three-day dust haze, sunshine from Wednesday

Michael Simire
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NiMet forecasts three-day dust haze, sunshine from Wednesday

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted sunshine and dust haze from Wednesday, November 20 to Friday, November 22, 2024, across the country.

Low Visibility Dust Haze
Low visibility caused by dust haze

NiMet’s weather outlook released on Tuesday, November 18 in Abuja envisaged moderate dust haze on Wednesday in northern region with horizontal visibility of 2km to 5km over Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa and Kaduna states.

It anticipated slight dust haze over the remaining parts of the region during the forecast period.

“In the North Central region, slight dust haze is expected over the region during the forecast period.

“In the southern region, sunny atmosphere with patches of clouds is expected over the Inland and the coastal cities in the morning hours with the exception of Lagos where mist is expected.

“Later in the day, localised thunderstorms with rains are expected over parts of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states,” it said.

According to NiMet, In the northern region, slight dust haze is expected over the region during the forecast period on Thursday.

The agency predicted slight dust haze over the region during the forecast period in the North Central region.

“In the southern region, a sunny atmosphere with patches of clouds is expected over the Inland and the coastal cities in the morning hours with the exception of Bayelsa and Delta where mist is expected.

“Later in the day, there are prospects of localised thunderstorms with slight rains over parts of Lagos, Rivers, Delta, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

The agency anticipated a sunny atmosphere in the northern region during the forecast period on Friday.

According to NiMet, sunny atmosphere with patches of clouds is expected during the forecast period in the North central region.

“In the In the southern region, a cloudy atmosphere is expected over the Inland and the coastal cities in the morning hours.

“Later in the day, localised thunderstorms with moderate rain are expected over parts of Edo, Delta, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom states in the afternoon /evening,” it said.

It advised the public to take necessary precaution as dust particles were in suspension.

According to NiMet, the people with Asthmatic health condition and other respiratory issues should be cautious of the present weather condition.

“Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur, public should take adequate precaution. Adhere to safety advisories issued by relevant authorities.

“Airline operators are advised to get airport-specific weather reports (flight documentation) from NiMet for effective planning in their operations,” it said.

By Gabriel Agbeja

Account for $20bn spent on Nigeria’s refineries, CSOs tell NNPC

Michael Simire
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Account for $20bn spent on Nigeria’s refineries, CSOs tell NNPC

Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NICOCSO) has called on Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to render account of the $20 billion allegedly spent for the repair of refineries since 2007.

Mele Kyari
NNPC Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari

The call came amidst threat by the coalition to embark on nationwide protests over the moribund state of the nation’s refineries and continued importation of refined petroleum products.

National Spokesperson for NICOCSO, Mr. Segun Adebayo, while addressing newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, stressed the need for accountability, transparency and policies that prioritised local industries.

He said that the call had become necessary following the decision of NNPCL to import more than 1.6 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

According to him, the decision is not just a policy misstep but a deliberate move to undermine Nigeria’s local refining potential, cripple the economy and deepen the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.

Adebayo said that a comprehensive account must be provided, as Nigerians deserved to know why refineries had remained dormant in spite of the enormous expenditures.

He also said that NNPCL must inform Nigerians on the date for the commencement of operations at the three major refineries in the country.

“Nigerians are the true owners of these refineries; they deserve transparency on the management of the facilities.

“With the policy to encourage competition and local growth, NNPCL must step up action in support of the operationalisation of local refineries.

“We urge President Bola Tinubu to halt the importation of 1.6 billion litres of PMS and investigate the procurement process so as to ensure transparency.

“NNPCL’s decision to import PMS on this scale undermines our national interest, weakens our economy and delays the journey toward energy independence, and such decisions could undermine our future, if unchecked,’’ Adebayo said.

He expressed the coalition’s commitment to ensuring that public resources were used for the interest of the people.

“We call on all Nigerians to join us in holding the NNPCL and its leadership accountable, for a better future of our nation,” he said.

According to Adebayo, the importation of such an enormous volume of PMS places undue pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves.

“With the Naira already struggling against major currencies, this decision will exacerbate the depreciation of our currency,” he said.

He expressed the regret that for decades, billions of dollars had been spent on the repairs of refineries and yet, the facilities were not functioning.

“None of Nigeria’s three major refineries are operational today; instead of supporting local refining, the NNPCL perpetuates a cycle of dependency on imports, stifling local initiatives and sabotaging job creation,” Adebayo stated.

By EricJames Ochigbo

VGC at 30: Residents plant 300 trees for environmental sustainability

Michael Simire
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VGC at 30: Residents plant 300 trees for environmental sustainability

Residents of Victoria Garden City (VGC) have planted 300 trees in promotion of environmental sustainability and mitigation of climate change effects to mark its 30th anniversary.

VGC
Some VGC residents at tree-planting exercise on estate on Tuesday in Lagos

VGC is both a residential and commercial area, situated in Eti-Osa Local Government Area along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos.

The concept of VGC was born in the early 1990s, with about 30,000 residents and more than 3,800 trees.

The master plan included wide, tree-lined boulevards, underground drainage systems, and well-paved roads.

The residents on Tuesday in Lagos fell some old trees and planted 300 trees to promote environmental sustainability in the estate.

Mrs Lola Bolarinwa, the Chairman, VGC Property Owners & Resident Association, said the estate residents planted the new trees to replace the old trees as an environmental conscious community.

“VGC turned 30 on Nov. 16, 2024, as a community we are very big on greenery. We pride ourselves as a paradise by the lagoon and that involves trees.

“All the trees in our estates are numbered, so we actually know the number of trees that we have.

We have over 3,800 tree but this year, we had to cut down some because they were growing into other people’s houses and destroying the pavement and walkways.

“Most of the trees you see here are 30 years and above. So, we just decided that to celebrate this anniversary, we planted additional 300 trees to cover the ones that we have cut, the ones that have fallen during rain and all that.

“We are a very environmental friendly community. We pride ourselves in our trees and greenery because they give us oxygen. They help us to stop the wind from destroying our houses. And of course, for climate change.

“We know that we have to do this, because this is for the future, and we cannot just cut down trees without replanting trees.

“Some residents here are planting trees in memories of their loved ones that are late, and that for us is also a big one, because as a community, we are an inclusive community, and we pride ourselves in our diversities,” Bolarinwa said.

On her part, Mrs Temitope Okunnu, the founder FABE Foundation and Chairman VGC at 30 tree-planting committee, said the exercise was aimed at protecting the greenery legacy of the estate.

“The VGC community has found it very important to come out and plant these trees, also knowing that there is a climate crisis, and ensuring that if the trees that are going down are immediately replaced.

“If not, then we would suffer more of the consequences of climate change. If we do not replant these trees, we would lose the essence of the VGC, as a garden city.

“So, in order for us not to lose the essence on which this estate was founded upon, we need to ensure that our trees remain, and they are not depleted,” Okunnu said.

Also speaking, Mr Peter Brittain, member, VGC Facility Maintenance Management Committee, described tree planting as the core of environmental sustainability.

“Tree planting is a part of the environment. My main driver for volunteering for the committee work is to help the environment and I am a big believer in that.

“And I think the idea of tree planting is a wonderful idea and to increase the sustainability of this estate. So, the tree planting is part of promoting environmental sustainability and we are mitigating climate change effects.

“The residents here are committed to maintaining the wonderful ambience that is in the estate currently,” Brittain said.

Mr Achief Thaddeus, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Eti-Osa Federal Constituency at the 10th Assembly, expressed his joy at the promotion of the greenery legacy at the estate.

“We are glad to come together as a family and to continue the VGC’s greenery legacy.

“We are planting trees in commemoration of VGC at 30, and that is our way of maintaining the estate and mitigating climate change effects depleting the ozone layer,” Thaddeus said.

Mr. Joseph Sanusi, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, said the tree-planting exercise was for the preservation of VGC for future generation.

“I am planting this tree in gratitude to God. It is so important to me that when I came to live in VGC, I do not think we can find any place more beautiful, more comfortable and secure than VGC.

“I enjoy living in VGC and for us to be here, we need to see that the environment is kept and the need to plant a tree is very important.

“We are still preserving VGC by planting the tree for generations yet to come,” Sanusi said.

Another resident, Mrs Olajumoke Bakare, said she was planting the tree in memory of her late husband and to secure the greenery of the estate.

“When the tree planting idea came up, I embraced it, because it is one of the ways by which you can immortalise for a long time, a loved one.

“Planting a tree also increases the oxygen in the air, apart from the beauty, the greenery, the scenery, when you are entering VGC.

“The first thing that you see when you get into VGC is the greenery and it endears you to it.
“So, this 30th anniversary celebration is also a means of replacing the old and aging trees,” Bakare said.

By Mercy Omoike

G20 summit: Tinubu endorses global alliance against hunger, poverty

Michael Simire
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G20 summit: Tinubu endorses global alliance against hunger, poverty

President Bola Tinubu on Monday, November 18, 2024, said the creation of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, championed by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, was pivotal in the global fight against hunger and poverty.

G20
President Luiz da Silva of Brazil, Brazil’s First Lady, Janja da Silva, welcome President Bola Tinubu and First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, during G20 Leaders at Museum of Modern Art, Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil

Tinubu said this at the 19th G20 Leaders Summit opening session in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

He lauded the initiative and described it as the right step to address one of the world’s most significant challenges. 

“This bold and visionary step underscores Brazil’s leadership in addressing one of the most urgent and persistent challenges facing our world today. 

“The creation of this Alliance marks a significant milestone in our global efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty, and it also sends a powerful message of solidarity to vulnerable populations around the globe.

“By fostering collaboration between governments, international organisations, and civil society, this initiative offers a comprehensive approach not only to addressing immediate needs but also tackling the structural causes of hunger and poverty,” he said.

Tinubu compared the global initiative to one of the eight priority areas he outlined at his inauguration 18 months ago, expressing Nigeria’s eagerness to adopt international best practices to advance its economic development.

According to him, Nigeria’s endorsement of the declaration of commitment to join the Global Alliance is a significant step in its efforts to address hunger and poverty by leveraging international cooperation and resources to bolster domestic strategies.

He added that by supporting the initiative, Nigeria also demonstrated a solid commitment to realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1, which focuses on eradicating poverty, and SDG 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

“These goals are at the core of Nigeria’s development agenda, and the Alliance offers a platform to accelerate progress towards them. 

“By collaborating with international partners, Nigeria aims to leverage best practices, innovative solutions, and financial support to enhance its efforts to combat poverty and hunger.

“The endorsement reinforces Nigeria’s role as a key player in global efforts to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for all its citizens,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu emphasised the urgent need for the United Nations Security Council reform to ensure its continued relevance in global interventions. 

He reiterated Nigeria’s readiness and capability to represent Africa within this elite group.

President Tinubu called on the G20 to champion this noble ideal, having admitted the African Union as a group member.

“The Security Council should expand its permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect the world’s diversity and plurality. Africa deserves priority in this.

“The Security Council should expand its permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect the world’s diversity and plurality better. 

“Africa deserves priority in this process, and two permanent seats should be allocated to it with equal rights and responsibilities. Nigeria stands ready and willing to serve as a representative of Africa in this capacity,” said Tinubu.

Tinubu, in a statement read on his behalf by Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, noted that, “the G20 now wears a toga of a forward-looking international institution that upholds reform-minded multilateralism.”

He commended the decision of the G20 to grant permanent membership to the African Union and for its consistency in sustaining the tradition of inviting guest countries to join the group. 

This broad participation, he said, allowed the opportunity for more inclusive and effective discussions to address shared global challenges.

“Some permanent members of the Council have shown promising signs of support for this process, which is a positive development. We welcome this shift in attitude and call for a faster pace to the long overdue change.

“The world faces various challenges, including extreme poverty, inequality, climate change, terrorism, and global conflicts,” said the President.

According to him, these issues are exacerbated by longstanding inequities in the global governance system.

He added that they had led to unsustainable sovereign debt and distortions in access to capital markets, trade imbalances, unfair representations and hindered development in the Global South. 

“It is our responsibility to find pragmatic solutions to fix these imbalances.

“Particularly pressing is global taxation, which profoundly impacts developing countries. 

“The current international tax system, largely shaped by the interests of more affluent nations, often leaves developing countries at a disadvantage, especially in taxing digital economies. 

“This systemic imbalance has led to significant revenue losses, hampering our efforts towards sustainable development and economic self-reliance,” the Nigerian leader said.

He highlighted that Nigeria, alongside other African Group member states, championed a historic initiative at the United Nations: calling for a framework Convention on Tax to establish a more equitable and inclusive global tax system. 

He urged the G20 to heed the call by countries, especially those of the global South, to reform the international financial architecture.

“Multilateral institutions must be revamped to bridge the gap between the Global North and South.

“This is the path for the future and one the G20 must champion. Nigeria is committed to being part of that future through active participation in the G20 and our steadfast support for achieving SDG 2030 targets,” the President added.

By Salif Atojoko

G20 leaders back scaling up climate finance from ‘billions to trillions’

Michael Simire
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G20 leaders back scaling up climate finance from ‘billions to trillions’

The high-level diplomatic push for climate action shifted southward on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, as G20 leaders meeting in Rio, backing scaling up climate finance.

G20 Summit
President Luiz Lula da Silva of Brazil (left) with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa at the G20 Summit in Brazil

The leaders sent a clear signal to negotiating teams at stalled UN climate talks in Baku on the need to rapidly and substantially ‘scale up climate finance from billions to trillions from all sources.’

While the statement from the world’s leading economies – and biggest emitters – stopped short of explicit reference of “transitioning away from fossil fuels”, to which all nations agreed last year at COP28 in Dubai, the G20 leaders did “welcome the balanced, ambitious outcome” of those talks.

The G20 communiqué comes as the clock ticks down on COP29, which is set to wrap up this Friday in the Azerbaijan capital, Baku.

The complex negotiations on new and significantly scaled-up funding for loss and damage and accelerated clean energy goals are moving slowly, as some countries dig into their positions while waiting for others to pull back from their own.

UN climate chief Simon Stiell, who earlier warned against brinkmanship and what he called ‘you-first-ism’, said that G20 leaders sent a clear message to their negotiators at COP29: “A successful new finance goal… is in every country’s clear interests.”

By Cecilia Ologunagba

G20 communiqué fails to deliver strong commitment on fossil fuel phase-out, climate finance

Michael Simire
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G20 communiqué fails to deliver strong commitment on fossil fuel phase-out, climate finance

Leaders of the G20 nations meeting in Rio in Brazil on Monday, November 18, 2024, issued a communiqué which observers believe fails to make a stronger mention of fossil fuels and climate finance.

G20 leaders
G20 leaders

Despite recognising the outcome of last year’s COP28 in Dubai, which commits countries to “transition away from fossil fuels” among other things, the somewhat vague and buried reference obfuscates the action that’s really needed by avoiding any specific obligations around fossil fuel phase out or a just transition.

The statement falls short of a strong outcome expected from the group that has given more than $1.4 trillion in support to the coal, oil and gas industry in 2022 alone. The omission of further commitments to phase out fossil fuels and a strong signal on finance for climate action, which is critical to underpin a global, just energy transition, is particularly concerning in the context of COP29 being held this week in Baku, Azerbaijan, where nations’ biggest focus is to negotiate the new global goal on climate finance, and where the Dubai agreement is expected to be upheld, especially by wealthy nations.

Although the declaration reaffirms the need for trillions of dollars in climate finance and “hopes for a successful new climate finance goal” at COP29 in Azerbaijan by the end of this week, it fails to specifically call for the public, grant-based finance that is an integral demand of developing countries in ongoing negotiations.

While G20 governments mentioned the importance of the Paris Agreement to limit global heating, and the commitment made at COP28 to phase out fossil fuels and triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, it also failed to specifically mention the urgent need to phase out fossil fuels in their communique.

In addition, heads of state collectively agreed broad support to tax “ultra-high net worth individuals”, reflecting a decision made by G20 Finance Ministers in July. The declaration signed by G20 governments acknowledges the need to reform international finance rules and emphasises the responsibility of the wealthiest countries to provide financial support for developing countries to transition to renewable energy, but questions over the structure of this climate finance remain.

This announcement from the G20 adds to the growing support for taxing the ultra-wealthy as a means of delivering social and economic justice, which are goals directly in line with climate justice. Taxing the super-rich is a fair means of financing the global, just transition away from fossil fuels to safe renewable energy and providing quality finance for the loss and damage caused by climate impacts.

People around the world are demanding that governments commit to at least $1 trillion a year for quality climate finance at COP29 – with activists taking to the streets in over 26 countries over the weekend. In coordinated marches thousands of people expressed their demand for climate justice, creative, collective and guerilla actions in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Paris and Munich put Billionaires in the spotlight, demanding that governments Tax Their Billions to unlock huge sums to tackle the climate crisis.

In response to the communiqué, Harjeet Singh, Global Engagement Director of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, said: “World leaders at the G20 Summit displayed a stark failure in leadership, neglecting to reaffirm their commitment to transitioning away from fossil fuels – a critical pivot for global climate action. Their rehashed rhetoric offers no solace for the fraught COP29 negotiations, where we continue to see a deadlock on climate finance.

“Developed nations who have significant historical emissions and planned fossil fuel expansion, remain unmoved, failing to quantify the trillions needed or to ensure these funds are provided as grants – essential for achieving climate justice. Without decisive progress on finance at COP29, we are steering towards a catastrophic temperature scenario, where the most vulnerable will bear the gravest consequences.”

Ilan Zugman, Latin America Managing Director at 350.org, said: “Brazil has shown leadership during its G20 presidency, and this signal could pave the way for unlocking a transformative finance deal at COP29, one that should mobilise at least a trillion dollars per year for climate action. This will be a drop in the ocean compared to what governments are already paying and people are already suffering around the world due to climate catastrophes. However, this funding must come in the form of grants and public money, not private finance. Private finance in its very nature is about making profits, before meeting genuine human needs.

“While Brazil’s G20 presidency has shown promise – particularly with the discussion of taxing the ultra-wealthy – true climate leadership demands more. For Brazil to become a true climate leader, President Lula must commit to no further oil or gas projects in the Amazon and ensure investments are made in renewable energy initiatives that are led by local communities. His gas importation deal made with Argentina at the leader’s summit does not match the climate ambition we need or expect from the COP30 presidency.”

Khaliel Moses, Senior Campaigner at 350.org, said: “We urge South Africa to advocate for increased climate finance in order to meet the trillions of dollars needed for equitable climate action and carry forward Brazil’s proposal to tax the super-rich. This money, often spent on yachts and far-right lobby groups, could instead be used to directly support impactful community-driven renewable energy initiatives like REPower Afrika. This campaign exemplifies how localised solutions can address energy access gaps while promoting sustainable development and climate resilience.

“South Africa has the opportunity to set a bold example of leadership, leveraging its G20 presidency to secure policies and resources that uplift economically marginalised communities, address intersecting crises, and demonstrate the power of African innovation in advancing global energy transitions and equitable climate solutions.”

Kate Blagojevic, Associate Director for Europe Campaigns and Organising at 350.org, said: “In a positive move given the challenging political landscape, the G20 leaders gained consensus for one of the most logical solutions to one of the world’s most pressing issues – taxing billionaires to pay for climate action. Now these governments must build on the growing popular support for taxing extreme wealth by putting words into action.

“To unlock this cash from the deep pockets of billionaires, governments need to work with the next G20 South African Presidency to set clear rules and close loopholes for taxing the super-rich and start delivering strong wealth taxes on billionaires. We will be back louder and stronger and more united than ever to hold both leaders and billionaires to account.”

COP29: TotalEnergies, Oil India collaborate on methane emissions detection, measurement

Michael Simire
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COP29: TotalEnergies, Oil India collaborate on methane emissions detection, measurement

TotalEnergies and Oil India Limited (OIL) on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, signed a Cooperation Agreement to carry out methane emissions detection and measurement campaigns using TotalEnergies’ pioneer AUSEA technology at OIL sites in India.

Patrick Pouyanné
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies

State-owned enterprise OIL recently joined the Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Charter (OGDC), a global industry initiative launched at COP28, co-chaired by TotalEnergies’ CEO. The OGDC’s ambition is to work towards net-zero operations by 2050, as well as near-zero upstream methane emissions and zero routine flaring by 2030. Moreover, OGDC members are said to be committed to measuring and publicly reporting progress.

In line with the OGDC’s principle of sharing good practices, TotalEnergies makes this technology available to other operators among the signatories, as an effective and recognised tool to detect, measure and eventually abate methane emissions on their own assets.

AUSEA, a one-of-a-kind technology by TotalEnergies

Mounted on a drone, the AUSEA gas analyser, developed by TotalEnergies and its R&D partners, consists of a dual sensor capable of detecting methane and carbon dioxide emissions, while at the same time identifying their source. This technology marks a step change in methane emissions detection and measurement compared to traditional techniques. By allowing access to hard-to-reach emission points, on all types of industrial facilities, both offshore and onshore, AUSEA is reputed as one of the most accurate technologies in the industry.

“We are delighted that OIL has joined the growing list of national companies we are collaborating with by making our AUSEA technology available. This is a clear demonstration that the Oil & Gas Decarbonisation Charter launched at COP28 has gained momentum, thanks to the promotion of industrial best practices.

“Today, AUSEA performs campaigns on every continent and contributes to the OGDC signatories’ ambition to aim at near-zero upstream methane emissions by 2030,” said Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies.

Commenting on the pact, Dr. Ranjit Rath, Chairman & Managing Director of OIL, said: “By joining our peers in the OGDC, OIL reiterates India’s commitment to the global community, while underscoring OIL’s dedication to reducing emissions. OIL is pleased to be collaborating with TotalEnergies, an industry pioneer in methane emissions detection and measurements.”

Why GMOs do not serve interest of Nigerian people – Alliance

Michael Simire
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Why GMOs do not serve interest of Nigerian people – Alliance

The GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance in a Memorandum calls on the Nigerian National Assembly, which is investigating the impacts of genetically modified crops in the country, to ban GMOs in Nigeria and to, instead, invest in Agroecology comprising of Organic Agriculture, Regenerative Agriculture, Agroforestry and other practices that are proven to be able to transform the Nigerian food system to sustainability

National Assembly
National Assembly

GMOs do not Improve Productivity

In September 2024 the National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN) reported that they “did not record any significant increase in their yields compared to the local seed varieties but instead, since the introduction of GM cotton seeds during the 2020/2021 farming season, yield per hectare has remained almost the same”.

They also reported that no other plant has been able to germinate on the farmlands where the GM seeds were planted, even after four years.

Across the country, farmers have complained that with GMOs, productivity reduces in the second planting season, meaning farmers cannot replant these seeds but have to continuously purchase the seeds every new season.

While some GMOs are designed to have increased levels of some nutrients, studies have revealed that other essential nutrients or functions can be reduced in the process. An in-depth scientific comparison of GM crops and their non-GM varieties shows that the assumption of substantial equivalence is false, as unexpected differences has been found. Examples include that GM soy had 12–14% lower amounts of isoflavones than non-GM soy; GM soy had 27% higher levels of a major allergen, trypsin-inhibitor, than the non-GM parent variety.

Burkina Faso, in 2016 phased out GM Cotton because it produced a poor-quality lint which fetched low prices for the farmers and amounted to millions of dollars of losses. The same variety was approved for commercial release in Nigeria, that same year.

In India, poor productivity and other failed promises of GMOs have led to thousands of farmer suicides. The story of the failure of Bt cotton in India is a classic example of this destructive technology being promoted as a solution. In Punjab alone, the area under cotton has declined by 46 per cent in 2024, a testament to the failure of Bt cotton to control pink bollworm and other pests. Chemical use in cotton cultivation has increased while yields have stagnated or fallen, while almost all cotton seeds are being controlled by the multinational corporation Bayer/Monsanto.

No Sufficient, Long-term Risk Assessment Conducted

Till date there is no evidence of long-term risk assessment including clinical trials conducted before release of the GM crops introduced in Nigeria so far.

This is not peculiar to Nigeria but observed in several other African countries. This suggests a strategic effort to silent the negative implications that GMOs present while opening up market and increasing profit for the multinational biotech corporations.

After a nine-year battle with Monsanto, the African Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) and indeed the South African people on Thursday, October 22, 2024, won a pivotal decision in South Africa’s Supreme Court where the court agreed with the ACB that South Africa’s Executive Council of the GMO Act had approved Monsanto’s drought-resistant maize without fully assessing its safety for human health and the environment, disregarding evidence from other experts.

This ruling marks South Africa’s first judicial decision on GMOs and highlights a longstanding issue: for 28 years, the Executive Council of the GMO Act has licensed western GMOs without adequate health and environmental impact assessments.

This applies to the Nigerian government where over 25 GM products have been approved for various purposes without adequate long term risk assessment. We cannot claim to be immune to the dangers that GMOs and attendant chemicals such as glyphosate pose to human and environmental health.

Risks to Human Health: Several studies have linked the consumption of GMOs to a myriad of diseases including antibiotics resistance – the commercially approved Bt Cowpea expresses an enzyme which confers resistance to antibiotics – neomycin phosphotransferase II (NPTII). Multiple animal studies show significant immune dysregulation, including upregulation of cytokines (protein molecules involved in immune responses) associated with asthma, allergy, and inflammation.

Multiple toxins from GMOs have been detected in 93% maternal and 80% fetal blood including non-pregnant women’s blood. These toxins designed to kill crop pests are reaching humans and babies in the womb and could lead to allergies, miscarriage, and cancer.

Threats to Biodiversity and Environmental Sustainability: There is the severe threat of irreversible genetic contamination due to cross-pollination which could also lead to production of uncontrollable plant varieties and mutated plant varieties. Over 80% of GMOs are designed to be herbicide tolerant. These herbicides do not only destroy the target weeds but also non-target organisms that are essential for soil health and overall ecosystem function. These chemicals can also run off to contaminate drinking ground water and surface water including drinking water sources.

Mexico has in 2024, placed an indefinite ban on genetically engineered corn. The courts said from the evidence before it, genetically engineered corn posed “the risk of imminent harm to the environment.” Furthermore, they will “suspend all activities involving the planting of transgenic corn in the country and end the granting of permission for experimental and pilot commercial plantings.” The ruling provided a protection for the 20,000 varieties of corn grown in Mexico and Central America.

Nigerians’ Right to Safe Food

Decisions made by the government should be in the interest of the Nigerian people. Since this year, 2024, there has been increased demands from the Nigerian people in online media and several other fora for a ban on GMOs. Nigerians do not want this technology in our food and the government’s persistent approval of GMOs, means a total disregard for the rights of the people and exposes the vested interest in this technology.

GMOs are not currently being labeled in Nigeria. Although this is important, it is not a realistic practice considering of socio-economic context; with food mostly sold in basins in open markets and in processed forms.

Additionally, Nigerians are consuming imported processed foods bought from supermarkets without any idea that they are made from the genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The manner in which these items are imported into the country calls for serious concern.

Although the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) has said illegal importation of GMOs into the country is being checked, these products are abundant in our market shelves (over 50 different brands including cereals, vegetable oils, spices, ice-cream, cake mixes etc) as revealed by a survey which Health of Mother Earth Foundation carried out across 10 Nigerian cities in 2018, 2019 and 2023.

Key Demands of the GMO-Free Nigeria Alliance

  1. A ban on all GMOs for planting for food or feed and processing in Nigeria.
  2. A ban of all imported processed foods containing bioengineered ingredients in our market shelves.
  3. A nullification of permits so far granted without sufficient risk assessment
  4. An investment in Agroecology which assures food security and food sovereignty while strengthening the Nigerian economy.

COP29: Experts share vision for a greener Africa through hydrogen

Michael Simire
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COP29: Experts share vision for a greener Africa through hydrogen

As part of the ongoing UNFCCC Climate Change Conference (COP29) hosted by the government of Azerbaijan in Baku, a multisectoral group of experts have articulated a clear vision for a greener Africa, leveraging hydrogen as an energy alternative.

Side event
A cross section of panelists during the side event. Photo credit: Mayowa Adebote

These insights were shared on Monday, November 18, 2024, during a two-part panel session titled “Catalysing an Evidence-Based Just Transition: Towards Realising Zero Emissions in Africa’s Maritime and Blue Economy Sector.”

The session featured international experts focused on African solutions, including Prof. Bamidele Adebisi from Manchester Metropolitan University, Mr. Maarten Ooms from the Green Climate Fund, Ms. Amna Awan of Centre of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR), Ms. Winfrida Shonde of TEEMO, Tanzania, Ms. Maria Ogbugo, an Associate of Maritime Africa, Mr. Michael Mbaru of the Kenya Maritime Authority, and Dr. Oma Ofodile of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

Africa’s maritime sector currently faces several challenges, such as aging vessels, inadequate infrastructure, and limited ownership of shipping fleets – only about 2% of the global shipping fleet is owned by African nations, despite the continent being coastal with hundreds of ports. This issue is linked to Africa’s economic situation, given that over 90% of the continent’s trade relies on international shipping.

Opening the session, Dr. Dolapo Oluteye, principal investigator of the Leading Effective Afrocentric Participation (LEAP) Project and moderator of the session, pointed to the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) ambitious goals for decarbonising international shipping.

“IMO’s contribution to the global fight against climate change in support of the United Nations Sustainable Goal 13, has led the organisation to set ambitious targets with milestones for 2030, 2040, and 2050 to reduce GHG emissions,” explained Dr. Oluteye.

Highlighting the gap between Africa’s realities and global green transition policies, Dr. Oluteye expressed that, “in the midst of a plethora of related regulatory pressures, African nations contend with energy poverty, food insecurity, social economic barriers, limited access to advanced technologies, expertise and constraints on financial resources, limiting the ability to engage effectively and efficiently with the energy transition drive to zero emission shipping.”

Professor Bamidele Adebisi, a Director at the African Hydrogen Partnership, discussed the potential of hydrogen to promote sustainability in Africa.

He stated, “Hydrogen comprises about 70% of the universe and can serve as a renewable energy source. It also presents an attractive alternative for maritime transport. Beyond production or generation of electricity, hydrogen is also a product for making ammonia, fertilisers, and other valuable substances.”

Speaking about available financial mechanisms, Mr. Maarten Ooms from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) explains that supporting developing countries to make the paradigm shift towards climate resilience is one of the GCF’s missions.

“Till date, we have invested $16 billion, across 133 countries and over 286 projects. In the context of transport, over the last 10 years, we have invested $1.2 billion over 27 projects. Our strategy is underpinned by three pillars: one is to make transport climate resilient, the second is creating social economic benefits, and the third, is decarbonising the sector.”

Additionally, Professor Adebisi urged Africa to seize the moment and accelerate its readiness to explore greener energy sources. “This is the moment for Africa. While we may not be where we want to be in terms of energy access, that doesn’t mean we must rely solely on fossil fuels to meet our energy needs. We have the potential to leapfrog and industrialise through greener alternatives.”

The experts collectively emphasised that with appropriate policies and infrastructure, Africa has the potential to harness its renewable energy resources, particularly hydrogen, to enhance its maritime capabilities and establish itself as a leader in the global transition to green energy.

By ‘Seyifunmi Adebote, seyi@climatetalkpodcast.com (Environmental Communicator and Host, Climate Talk Podcast)

COP29: Alliance of Champions calls on govts, financial institutions to prioritise climate finance for food systems 

Michael Simire
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COP29: Alliance of Champions calls on govts, financial institutions to prioritise climate finance for food systems 

The Alliance of Champions for Food Systems Transformation (ACF) reconvened on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, one year after its launch at COP28, to highlight progress since Dubai and to unite in urging governments and financial institutions at COP29 to prioritise climate finance for food systems. 

COP29
COP29 entrance

Speaking on Food, Agriculture and Water Day, co-chairs Brazil, Norway and Sierra Leone, alongside founding members Cambodia and Rwanda, released an ACF Ministerial Statement, as well as a series of “Progress Snapshots”, highlighting key successes in each country and setting out priorities for further work. 

The ACF governments stated in a joint call to action at COP29: “We need to see a rapid and sustained increase in both the overall quantum of climate finance and the proportion going towards transforming food systems, which are estimated to require $500 billion per year over the next decade. Despite being responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions, 90% of deforestation and 60% of biodiversity loss, Food systems received just 3.4% of the total $115.9 billion climate finance mobilised by developed countries in 2022. 

“At Baku this year the focus – rightly – is on the need to urgently mobilise substantial additional finance, both public and private, to achieve climate goals. Within this, as a coalition of ambitious developed and developing nations, the ACF is calling for governments and financial institutions to prioritise climate finance for food systems transformation, via both concessional and innovative funding mechanisms.”

The snapshots, which showcase progress from across the ACF member countries since launch, include:

In Brazil, a National Programme for Productive Forests (Programa Nacional de Florestas Produtivas) to promote sustainable agroforestry practices, enhance food production, generate employment, and restore degraded areas. The programme’s initial phase targets the state of Pará and supports Brazil’s wider commitments to restore 12 million hectares by 2030 and create up to 2.5 million jobs.

In Cambodia, the deployment of 1,600 agriculture officers in agricultural communes across the country, developing modern agricultural cooperatives to improve access to markets, capital and water, whilst also increasing the economic efficiency and sustainability of smallholders;

In Norway, an annual policy dialogue with farming unions to negotiate policy measures that are tailored to farmers’ needs, delivering a “bottom up” participatory approach that is designed to deliver against the country’s national and international commitments;

In Rwanda, a commitment by 2030 to halve per capita food waste at the retail and consumer levels and to reduce food losses in farm production and along supply chains, including post-harvest losses.

In Sierra Leone, the implementation of the national flagship “Feed Salone” strategy is sustainably driving local food production by making agriculture more competitive for investment, decreasing food imports and supporting smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.

Alliance members are calling on other governments to join them and unite in the urgent task of food system transformation. Within the ministerial statement, they declared: “Today, we are also calling for governments who share our ambition to create a fairer, healthier and more prosperous future to join us. The actions that each of us take within our borders can enhance our peoples’ food and nutritional security, boost equity and livelihoods, increase climate resilience, protect and restore nature, and help mitigate climate breakdown.”

In response to this ask, Tanzania has officially announced today its intention to join the ACF and is set to become the newest member of this pioneering coalition committed to transforming global food systems. 

Paulo Teixeira, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming, Brazil, and co-chair of ACF, said: “As Brazil looks towards COP30 next year, I am proud to be part of this important Alliance which continues to make the case for fairer, more sustainable food systems. Whether it is tackling hunger, supporting family farmers to produce nutritious food sustainably, driving the agro-ecological transition or protecting the rainforest, we can only improve outcomes in the long run if we look at the system holistically. To do that, we must address the climate finance gap for food systems at COP29.”

Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, Minister of International Development, Norway, and co-chair of ACF, commented: “It is imperative that we, the international community, do not take our eyes off food systems, which are so fundamental to combatting the climate crisis, but also the nature crisis and the hunger crisis. As co-chairs of the Alliance of Champions, we will ensure this critical issue continues to rise up the agenda, shining a light on what is possible when countries commit to working together. We need to unlock the necessary finance to transform our food systems onto a more sustainable, equitable and resilient path.”

Dr Henry Musa Kpaka, Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Sierra Leone, and co-chair of ACF, stated: “Over the past year, Sierra Leone has forged ahead with the transformation of our food system, securing over $1 billon investment to sustainably enhance food sovereignty, boost farmer livelihoods and reduce post-harvest losses. But this is just the beginning. We now need other countries to join us in making their food systems fairer, more productive, and an engine for growth and development. We also need to significantly increase climate finance and make a major shift in directing more of it toward transforming food systems.”

Dr Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment for Cambodia, said: “In Cambodia, we have long understood the importance of cross-government working if the issues of nutritional security, climate change and biodiversity are to be tackled successfully. Through the Alliance of Champions, we will continue to enjoy close collaboration with Brazil, Norway, Sierra Leone and Rwanda on the difficult but essential task of transforming our food systems to deliver better outcomes for people, nature and the planet.” 

Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources of Rwanda, added: “To transform food systems is to take action on climate, nature depletion, hunger, livelihoods and resilience, all at the same time. Through the Alliance of Champions, we will continue to emphasise the importance – and the potential – of this crucial issue.”

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