The House Committee on Renewable Energy has advocated for accessible and equitable policies, including tax breaks and vocational grants, to empower youths in renewable energy in African countries, especially in Nigeria.
House Committee on Renewable Energy, Rep. Victor Ogene (middle), with delegates at COP29
The chairman, House Committee on Renewable Energy, Rep. Victor Ogene, stated this in a statement on Monday, November 18, 2024, in Abuja.
Ogene called for deliberate inclusion of youths and legislators in conferences and workshops where issues involving policies on developments in climate change and energy transitions would be discussed.
This, he said, would foster a better understanding that would engender right policy formulation and intentional youth involvement.
He stressed the need to focus on actionable strategies to foster a fair and inclusive renewable energy transition in Africa.
Ogene, alongside other stakeholders, discussed these on the sidelines of the Conference of Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The event was co-hosted by the Committee on Renewable Energy and INCLUDE, a Netherlands-based knowledge platform.
The discussions, he said, were centered around labour-based incentives, youth-centered policies and the intersection of equity, sustainability and job creation.
Ogene said that the conversations outlined a comprehensive approach to designing labour incentives that not only support job creation but also address the specific needs of young people.
This, according to him, includes accessible financial incentives, such as grants for youth-led startups and subsidies for skill acquisition in renewable energy industries, and policies.
Ogene said that this would integrate transparency and inclusivity to ensure equitable access.
The Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) has endorsed all commercially released Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and foods in Nigeria as natural and safe for humans, livestock and the environment.
GMOs
The association disclosed this at the National Symposium on Biotechnology organised in honour of Prof. Vincent Tenebe, Chairman, Board of Trustees of the BSN on Monday, November 18, 2024, in Abuja.
Tenebe noted that the controversy surrounding the safety of GMOs was a false narrative, propagated by anti-GMOs who don’t wish Nigeria or Africa to be food sufficient.
He said the issue was not about safety but business and that those against the technology were bent on keeping Africa perpetually reliant on food importation.
“God gave man the ability to change and modify to our own advantage and that is what we are doing with GMOs as biological scientists.
“Don’t be deceived by what anti-GMOs are telling you, GMO is natural, they are trying to bring confusing ideas whenever they see that Africa is about to have a breakthrough,’’ he said.
Tenebe, who is also the erstwhile Vice Chancellor of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), maintained that Africa remains the greatest centre of biodiversity, and its resources was in high demand.
He said that contrary to opinions of ant-GMOs, there was nothing wrong with GMO, hence Nigerians should not allow themselves to be used to cause confusion.
“As scientists, we are just trying to express what we have discovered from science and nobody can change it, and we must respect plants because through plants we have wisdom,’’ Tenebe added.
Dr Sylvester Oikeh, TELA Maize Project Manager, Africa Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), who was the keynote speaker, made a presentation on “The safety history of TELLA Maize’’.
Oikeh concluded that genetically engineered crops such as TELA maize are safe because of rigorous biosafety regulatory approval process involved.
According to him, strategic combination of conventional breeding and transgenic technology has resulted in 53 TELA registered, climate-smart hybrids, with four released in Nigeria.
He noted that this had the potential to transform maize production amid climate change.
He stressed that there was urgent need to address negative impacts of NGOs opposing GMOs in Africa, especially in Nigeria because their actions are a huge threat to national food and nutrition security.
Earlier, Prof. Sylvia Uzochukwu, President of the BSN, remarked that, presently, one of the burning issues of biotechnology was GMOs, specifically genetically modified foods, vaccines, especially molecular vaccines that saved the world from COVID-19.
“To address burning food security concerns in the country, Nigerian scientists have worked for more than 20 years to deploy the science of genetic engineering in the solution of Nigeria’s pressing food problems.
“The result was the insect resistant beans launched in 2021, the insect and drought resistant maize launched this year, as well as insect resistant cotton commercialized in 2018.”
“The new genetically modified (GM) insect resistant beans will, all things being equal, rid the beans fields of maruka insect devastation and bring beans within reach of the common man again,’’ Uzochukwu said.
The BSN president stated that TELA maize has been developed to tackle new pests such as the fall army worms which have been laying waste to corn fields.
She expressed optimism that the GM maize would bring down, not just the cost of maize or corn and its products, but also the cost of meat as livestock feed was highly dependent on corn.
According to her, these products will also protect consumers from cancer which arises when insects damage grains and moulds grow on them and produce mycotoxins which cause cancer.
Dr Agnes Asagbra, Director General, National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), said the theme of the conference, “GMOs and Vaccines; Myths, Advances and Prospects,’’ was timely.
She said the theme addressed some of the most critical issues facing science, healthcare and agriculture in Nigeria and across the globe.
Asagbra, who was represented by Hauwa Ahmed, Acting Director, Biosafety Enforcement and Operations, said the role of biotechnology has become more significant as Nigeria continue to navigate a rapidly evolving world.
High point of the event was the presentation of awards of selfless service and excellence to deserving scientists.
BSN is a professional and scientific association that promotes biotechnological activities to positively impact nations’ aspirations for food security, improved healthcare delivery, a clean environment and sustainable economic growth.
This week marks a historic milestone for Africa as the continent takes its place at the G20 Summit as a permanent member for the first time. Following the African Union’s inclusion in September 2023, the continent is poised to influence global priorities, including debt distress, climate finance, inequality, and international taxation.
President Luiz Lula da Silva of Brazil (left) with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa at the G20 Summit in Brazil
As world leaders gather in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 18-19, 2024, Africa is expected to advocate for increased investments in its energy sector – pivotal for advancing global energy transitions. Representing 85% of global GDP, over 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population, the G20 holds unmatched sway in shaping global policy.
This year’s summit also paves the way for the 2025 G20 meeting in South Africa – the first-ever hosted on African soil. Under the theme “Fostering Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainable Development”, South Africa’s presidency will prioritise addressing the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, “The Africa We Want”. This is a pivotal moment for Africa to solidify its role as a key player in driving global economic and sustainable development reforms.
“Africa’s priorities in the global financial system are clear: increasing concessional finance, solving the debt crisis, making risk and valuation assessments fairer, curbing illicit financial flows, and developing an international tax framework that ensures African countries get their fair share of global taxes. With these reforms in place, African countries’ transformation can be fully unleashed,” says Mavis Gyamfi- Owusu, President and CEO, Africa Centre for Economic Transformation.
Debt sustainability in developing economies, particularly across Africa, remains a priority. Leaders are expected to discuss comprehensive reforms to global lending practices.
“The handover of the G20 presidency from Brazil to South Africa marks the end of an era. South Africa’s presidency of the G20 will be the last under a developing country. The G20 coming to Africa is especially important because this time, in addition to South Africa, we have the African Union Commission taking part as a full member.
“The incoming South African presidency offers the opportunity to emphasize the debt crisis in Africa and push for a more comprehensive reform package. The African Union Commission needs to enhance progressive discussions on global financial architecture reform in different fora, focusing on making Africa a rule maker, not a rule-taker,” Jason Braganza, Executive Director of the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), said.
Dr. Magalie Masamba Senior Fellow, African Debt Justice Network (AfSDJN) and is an Advocate of the High Court of Zanzibar, submited: “African countries are navigating a complex intersection of development demands and the escalating impacts of climate change. Our nations require substantial financing to build resilient infrastructure, adapt to shifting climate conditions, and invest in sustainable growth. Yet, for many African countries, high debt burdens limit these options, leaving few viable paths forward without risking further economic strain.
“We need a global commitment to mobilise resources that do not add to existing debt burdens, enabling African countries to pursue economic progress and climate resilience without sacrificing economic stability. This requires a tailored approach to financing – one that prioritises grants, concessional financing, and possibly debt relief over traditional loans. This is not only essential for our region but is critical for sustainable global growth.”
As a new G20 member, the African Union is expected to seek support for its UN-backed resolution on international tax cooperation. This initiative aims to foster fairness and inclusivity in global tax systems.
Africa’s vulnerability to climate change will be prominently featured, with calls for equitable energy transitions and affordable climate finance.
“With South Africa following up on Brazil and putting inequality at the centre of its G20 presidency, South Africa and Africa have an opportunity to shape the agenda at this first-ever G20 meeting on African soil.
“Debt is a key issue for the continent, and South Africa will be expected to open up dialogue around the G20 Common Framework. Similarly, the G20 should reflect on how to cushion debt risk for the future and discuss options to reduce the cost of capital for the climate transition as a way to ensure an equal transition for all,” noted Faten Aggad, Executive Director of the African Future Policies Hub.
African leaders aim to oppose carbon tax regimes threatening their export competitiveness while advocating for trade policies prioritising development.
“Africa needs a unified voice. We must coordinate our demands on the G20. Our priorities should be reforming the global sovereign lending market to avoid exorbitant interest rates and securing substantial climate finance for adaptation. We must also actively oppose carbon tax regimes that could harm our exports,” said Ken Opalo, Assistant Professor at Georgetown University,
As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2025, this year’s summit will set the tone for a historic moment. South Africa’s leadership will underscore African priorities, including debt relief, global financial reform, and climate justice.
“The African Union’s full membership strengthens Africa’s ability to advocate for meaningful reforms and global equity. This is a critical moment for the continent to position itself as a leader in global decision-making,” added Jason Braganza.
The 2024 G20 Summit is poised to address urgent global challenges while paving the way for Africa’s leadership in shaping future global policies. As the African Union takes its place at the table, the continent’s voice will be central to discussions that impact the world’s economic and environmental landscape.
“I look forward to seeing the African Union reinforce these priorities at this week’s G20 meeting, and I strongly encourage other G20 members to work with them to create a truly global financial system that works for us all. Indonesia, India and Brazil laid a strong foundation during their G20 Presidencies; it is now up to South Africa to take up this mantle and move us forward, together,” stressed Owusu-Gyamfi.
WaterAid Nigeria has partnered with civil society organisations (CSOs) to inaugurate a training programme focused on securing funding for the underfunded Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector in Nigeria.
Evelyn Mere, WaterAid Nigeria Country Director
Theodora Igboaruka, Policy and Advocacy Manager, WaterAid Nigeria, emphasised the role of sanitation and hygiene in national development at a two-day training on WASH Budget Analysis, Tools, and Skills in Abuja on Monday, November 18, 2024.
According to her, these areas have been greatly neglected in spite of their interconnectedness with other Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The initiative aims to bridge critical funding gaps and ensure progress toward achieving the SDGs, particularly SDG six, which focuses on universal access to water and sanitation,” she said.
She said the ultimate objective was to create evidence-based tools for advocacy.
Igboaruka explained that the training is designed to equip CSOs with skills to analyse budget trends, assess the share of sanitation and hygiene in national budgets, and identify investment gaps.
“This data will form the foundation for advocacy, providing evidence to engage decision-makers and stakeholders in prioritising sanitation and hygiene financing.
“Collaboration, synergy, and amplified advocacy efforts are crucial to ensure these issues are no longer overlooked but are recognised as essential for national development and global commitments”.
Earlier, Mr Benson Attah, National Coordinator, Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN), revealed challenges associated with budget transparency and stakeholder engagement.
He noted that while budgeting was essential for planning and resource allocation, it often faced resistance, particularly from civil servants.
“There is a perception of scrutiny and exposure during budget discussions, which leads to apprehension and sometimes resistance,” Attah said.
He recounted an instance where an officer assigned to assist with budget tracking disappeared, illustrating the entrenched resistance to accountability within the system.
Attah stressed that without transparency, it was impossible to assess how funds are utilised or measure their impact.
“This lack of trust erodes credibility and affects governance, particularly in the water and sanitation sector,” he noted.
Attah urged civil servants and stakeholders to view budgeting not as a punitive tool but as a mechanism to ensure efficiency, fairness, and impact.
“This initiative is a step toward bridging the funding gap in the WASH sector and ensuring that Nigeria remains on track to achieve the SDGs by 2030,” he added.
The participants, primarily NEWSAN members, were trained on various skills, including budget trend analysis, tracking, monitoring, and evaluation, among others.
G20 leaders, on Monday, November 18, 2024, inaugurated a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, during the opening session of the 19th Heads of State and Government Summit of the Group of 20 (G20) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
G20 leaders
The alliance, signed by all member countries, empowers a Task Force to implement practical activities between 2025 and 2030 to accelerate the elimination of hunger and reduction of poverty.
President Luiz Lula da Silva of Brazil said the alliance, which was pre-launched in July, already had the support of more than 80 countries, in addition to dozens of governments and civil society organisations.
He said the goal of the global alliance was to gather funds and knowledge towards the implementation of public policies and social technologies, which have proven effective in reducing global hunger and poverty.
He added that, throughout the first half of Brazil’s G20 presidency, discussions were held with G20 countries and other key partners to present the operation, its pillars and the general lines of governance.
“It’s not just about doing justice. This is an essential condition for building more prosperous societies and a world of peace.
“Brazil intends to reposition itself as an international leader on the issue, showcasing the successful Brazilian experience with the Zero Hunger and Bolsa Família programmes – both launched by Lula in his first spell as president between 2003 and 2010.
“Ending hunger is also one of the Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations for 2030,” said the President.
He explained that UN institutions such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) also addressed these issues.
But he said Brazil managed to convince its peers that a new initiative was necessary to accelerate investments.
Quoting Brazilian physician and nutritionist, Josué de Castro (1908-1973), Da Silva stated that “hunger and poverty are not the result of scarcity, but a biological expression of social ills.”
The president highlighted that the world produced almost 6 billion tons of food each year, while spending $2.4 trillion on military spending.
He said international financial institutions and national development banks had also joined the initiative.
“So far, one of the biggest promises has been from the Inter-American Development Bank, which will request authorissation from its boards to allocate $25 billion to loans in Latin America and the Caribbean.
“The alliance, which will be autonomous from the rotating presidencies of the G20, will be operated from Brasília, within the Brazilian Cooperation Agency, and from Rome, within the FAO,” he said.
According to Da Silva, the world is now worse than it was in 2008, when the G20 took a leading role in facing the global economic crisis.
He mentioned the number of armed conflicts around the world, the climate emergency, social inequalities, and the fact that there were 733 million people going hungry in the world, according to the FAO.
The situation has deteriorated in recent years. “Those who have always been invisible will be at the centre of the international agenda.”
The President invited countries outside the G20 to join the alliance.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on world leaders to recommit to immediate action to stem the mounting negative consequences of climate change, listing several steps the state has taken on the subject.
Members of the Osun State delegation and guests at a side event at COP29
Addressing a COP29 side event in Baku, Azerbaijan, the governor, represented by the state’s consultant on Climate Change and Renewable Energy, Prof Chinwe Obuaku, recalled the various technical reports from several credible agencies which pointed to a heightening negative impact of climate change, noting that the time is now for remediation, adaptation and resilience actions to save the planet.
Governor Adeleke extended hands of collaboration to world leaders as he noted that “the challenges of climate change are global while our solutions can be local, scalable, and impactful.
“Let us continue to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and invest in sustainable futures for all. Together, we can create a world where art, innovation, and environmental stewardship thrive side by side – a world where waste becomes wealth and resilience becomes a shared legacy,” the governor canvassed.
The governor spoke further at the event: “In Osun State, we are on a transformative journey toward climate resilience, sustainability, and economic empowerment. Aligned with the thematic areas of COP29, our efforts focus on adaptation, mitigation, circular economy, and inclusive development:
“Adaptation: Through our Climate Action Plan (CAP), we are equipping all sectors with the tools to assess emissions and vulnerabilities. Focal desk officers are tracking greenhouse gas data across agriculture, water, infrastructure, and health, ensuring targeted and actionable strategies;
“Circular Economy: Our state is pioneering waste-to-wealth initiatives by engaging both formal and informal players. Through waste characterisation studies and upcoming recycling hubs, we are creating economic opportunities while protecting the environment;
“Nature-Based Solutions: We are reclaiming degraded lands, such as the Onibueja dump site, where reforestation and creative reuse of waste are transforming challenges into opportunities. Our Ago-Owu Forest project further demonstrates our commitment to ecosystem restoration;
“Renewable Energy Transition: Solar mini-grids, solar farms, solar powered boreholes, solar street lights, clean cooking stoves, and partnerships with international stakeholders are ensuring a just and inclusive clean energy future;
“Inclusive Development: By mobilising women, youths, and local communities, we are creating a robust grassroots movement for climate action,” the governor noted.
He commended Mr. Dotun Popoola’s remarkable exhibition, Reclaimed Beauty, exemplified the spirit of innovation and resilience that drives Osun State.
“His sculptures – crafted from recycled metal and discarded materials from our dumpsites – tell the story of turning waste into wonder, and challenges into opportunities. His work aligns seamlessly with our circular economy goals, emphasising sustainability and cultural heritage.
“I commend the Heydar Aliyev Centre for hosting this extraordinary event. It showcases the intersection of art, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment – a vision we deeply embrace in Osun State,” the governor concluded.
The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the federal government of Nigeria and state authorities to demonstrate financial commitment towards reducing the risk of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.
Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare
The not-for-profit, in a statement following last Thursday’s celebration of the World Diabetes Day, reiterated its call for an upward review of the country’s budgetary allocation to the health sector, as well as the N10/litre excise duty on sugar sweetened beverages – a known driver of diabetes.
CAPPA advised authorities to use the occasion of the day to reflect on the country’s huge burden of NCDs, including about 11.2 million Nigerians living with diabetes.
CAPPA’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, said: “Nigeria is grappling with a significant burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with one in 17 adults – roughly 11.2 million Nigerians – living with diabetes. This health crisis extends beyond the health sector, affecting the country’s social and economic environment.”
The statement further reads: “The rising prevalence of diabetes, compounded by unstable economic conditions and an unhealthy food environment, places more Nigerians at risk of severe hardship.
“According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF and other leading international organisations, implementing effective policy measures like the SSB Tax and other forms of sin taxes, which reduce the desirability and accessibility of unhealthy diets, is essential for protecting public health.”
With this year’s World Diabetes Day themed “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”, CAPPA urged state authorities to demonstrate their commitment to reducing the risk of diabetes by implementing effective food policies that can guarantee Nigerians access to healthy diets.
The organisation also called on the government to channel revenue generated from the SSB tax towards improving healthcare infrastructure and subsidising costs of disease management in the country.
The concept of a “green economy” has long been central to discussions on financial strategies in environmental and climate change dialogues. Recently, the emergence of the “blue economy” has gained significant attention, prompting increased efforts to define and integrate this term into environmental discourse. This shift positions the blue economy as a pivotal theme in international climate conversations.
Blue Economy. Photo credit: Mayowa Adebote
As the government of Azerbaijan hosts the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Baku, also known as the Finance COP, the blue economy remains a key focus of this global gathering. The emphasis is evident not only in events organised within the Ocean Pavilion and Water Pavilion but also in various side events and activities conducted by member countries, non-governmental organisations, activists, and other stakeholders.
In essence, the blue economy refers to the sustainable utilisation of oceanic and coastal resources for economic growth and job creation while preserving marine ecosystems. It encompasses a range of activities, including sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, and renewable marine energy.
Several international frameworks guide economic and social activities related to ocean use. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) plays a crucial role in ensuring global shipping security and safety, while promoting the sustainable use of oceans. Policy frameworks are under development of which the IMO’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction Strategy is chief.
This policy architecture under negotiations is focused on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping activities towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. GHG emissions are anthropogenic-related (man-made) carbon dioxide emissions, nitrous oxide and Methane. Limiting these emissions is in line with the 2015 Paris Agreement.
Across the African continent, various technical inputs and regional engagements are evolving, offering valuable insights for international negotiations, including those at COP conferences. A notable initiative is the Leading Effective Afrocentric Participation (LEAP) in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) project, which establishes shipping emissions baseline data (inventories) across African coastal nations.
The first phase of the LEAP project begins with six case study countries and includes conducting technical analysis of the policy impact of the IMO Strategy proposals on Africa by developing a technical toolkit for the region. The reports generated through this initiative aims to inform policy discussions for African member states to advance the global drive to a more sustainable marine and blue economy sector and “leave no one behind”.
Dr. Dolapo Oluteye is the principal investigator of the LEAP Project. She is a Senior Research Fellow at University College London (UCL) and leads the African Maritime Decarbonisation Programme for the Shipping and Oceans Group at the Energy Institute. In a recent podcast, she highlighted the importance of ensuring that African perspectives are effectively represented in international negotiations to contextualise the African perspective in the modality and methodology of policy development to ensure climate action works in concert with economic development and capacity building.
Reflecting on the outcomes of high-level workshops and engagements across the six LEAP nations – Malawi, Namibia, Liberia, Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria – and the efforts to develop a technical toolkit for international negotiations, Dr. Oluteye emphasised how the LEAP Project provides essential technical support for policy making for a truly Just Transition. The extrapolated output of the technical analysis provides a picture of how international policymaking can empower Africa in advancing their economic development agendas while maintaining sustainability within their maritime sectors.
She calls for a regional approach to solving the climate change crisis through policy integration and cooperation for a unified Africa with a voice that must be heard. No one can know Africa like an African. So, together, Africa must chart a course to climate neutrality without damaging her economy.
COP29 represents a crucial opportunity to highlight Africa’s vast marine and renewable resources and its youthful population, both of which are critical for catalysing the regions’ economic growth in the blue economy. Additionally, the conference offers the potential to attract investment in green infrastructure development, vital for transforming the maritime value chain through centralising ports as the renewable energy hub, and to refine funding mechanisms that support countries disproportionately impacted by emissions reduction policies, like Africa.
To further advance Africa’s blue economy and maritime sector at COP29 and beyond, it is essential for African nations to clearly define their vision and identity in order to engage effectively in international discussions with evidence-based data, such as LEAP Project outputs to support and influence policy architecture at the IMO.
Promoting regional unity and the collaborative utilisation of resources will be key to achieving collective progress in the blue economy. Furthermore, fostering public-private partnerships will attract investment and innovation, crucial for the maritime sector’s growth and sustainability.
By Seyifunmi Adebote, seyi@climatetalkpodcast.com (Environmental Communicator and Host, Climate Talk Podcast) and Dr. Dola Oluteye, ucftolu@ucl.ac.uk (Senior Research Fellow at University College London)
Lagos State Deputy Gov., Obafemi Hamzat, has called for collaboration between government and citizens to drive development.
Lagos State Deputy Gov., Obafemi Hamzat
Hamzat made the call at the grand finale of the Ikorodu Oga Day Festival held at the king’s palace on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
The Ikorodu Oga Day Festival is an annual celebration which has been running for over 30 years.
The festival showcases the community’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The deputy governor commended residents of Ikorodu for their support, cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
He urged them to continue to support the state government to bring more dividends of democracy to them.
According to him, with continued collaboration between the state government and the residents, Ikorodu is poised for sustained growth and development.
Sen. Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East) also praised the people of Ikorodu for their support and urged them to work in synergy to foster development in the community.
Rep. Babajimi Benson, Chairman, House Committee on Defence, expressed gratitude to traditional rulers in Ikorodu as well as other residents for organising the festival.
Benson gave the assurance that more developmental projects would be implemented in the community in fulfillment of his election campaign promises.
“The projects I facilitated were to give dividends of democracy to my community as a result of the massive votes delivered to me during the elections,” he said.
Oba Kabir Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, also thanked Lagos State Government and other stakeholders for contributing to the development of Ikorodu.
“Today, I see the impact of government in Ikorodu, the state government is committed to infrastructure development and improving the lives of the residents.
“The government has initiated various projects aimed at enhancing socio-economic development and mitigating rural-urban migration,” he said.
Mr Rotimi Erogbogbo, Chairman of the Ikorodu Development Association, called for continued unity among stakeholders in Ikorodu.
He emphasised the need for a shared vision and strategy to drive progress in the community.
Erogbogbo urged Lagos State Government to provide more dividends of democracy to Ikorodu residents.
Erogbogbo highlighted the significance of the festival, saying that it was about celebrating culture, values and commitment to hard work and selflessness.
“This festival is not just about culture, it is also about celebrating our successes and progress, and the heights we aim to reach,” he said.
The highpoint of the event was presentation of N100,000 to each of selected 79 indigent students in higher institutions of learning.
Also, notable individuals were recognised for contributions to societal development.
Members of Lagos State House of Assembly, chieftains of All Progressives Congress, traditional rulers, community leaders and others attended the event.
All is set for global leaders to deliberate on promoting a just world and sustainable planet at the 19th Heads of State and Government Summit of the Group of 20 (G20) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Lula da Silva, President of Brazil
In line with this agenda, Mr. Lula da Silva, President of Brazil, has declared a three-point agenda of combating hunger, poverty and inequality at the summit scheduled to hold from Nov. 18 to Nov. 19, 2024.
The summit, with the theme: “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet”, shall focus on three dimensions of sustainable development – economic, social, and environmental – and the reform of global governance.
It shall also highlight the rising of global temperatures and the principles of digital economy, among other themes.
This Brazilian presidency will also treat as priority, the Israel-Hamas war and rising bloc confrontation between the United States and China.
The conclusion of the work carried out by the country holding the G20 rotating presidency is usually presented at the annual summit.
It is the moment when heads of state and government approve the agreements negotiated throughout the year and point out ways of dealing with global challenges.
The Leaders’ Summit, the climax of the G20 work carried out over the year through Ministerial Meetings, Working Groups, and Engagement Groups, would be presented for adoption at the summit.
The summit will be attended by 19 member countries that include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, France, India and Indonesia.
Others are Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, the Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the UK and the US.
Brazil has held the Presidency of the G20 from Dec. 1, 2023. That tenure ends on Nov. 30.
Da Silva is living no stone unturned in preparation for the 2024 G20 summit.
Right from the airports in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, city centres, and other locations, visitors are inundated with signposts with various inscriptions announcing the summit.
As at Saturday, major parts of Rio de Janeiro, such as Flamingo, Botafogo, and Lapa, enjoyed heavy security presence, with armoured tanks and armed police vans strategically located within the areas.
Mr. Julius Dacosta, a resident of Botafogo, said that the country’s president was taking advantage of the summit to show case advances made by Brazil in the economy, technology, transportation and others in recent times.
“There is no better opportunity for the country to market itself while hosting over 50 world leaders, both G20 members and others invited.
“It is an avenue to promote the cause of a just world and sustainable planet. However, it is a window for Brazil to show case itself to the world as an emerging economic power house,” said Dacosta.
President Tinubu is expected to attend the 2024 G20 summit as the organisers have invited representatives of the African Union and the European Union.
Mr Carlos Areias, Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, conveyed President Da Silva’s invitation to Tinubu to attend the 2024 G20 summit on Aug. 29, when he presented his Letter of Credence to him.
Areias had said Da Silva was looking forward to welcoming President Tinubu to the G20 Leaders’ Summit, saying that food security was the main proposal of the Brazilian presidency at the G20 to eliminate extreme poverty by 2030.
