Author: Fabian Ekeruche

CAAF2024
By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 19, 2024 (NAN) Ms Grace Mbah,   the Chief Executive Officer and Convener of Climate Action Africa Forum (CAAF2024), says smallholder farmers are most impacted by the climate change.
Mbah said this while delivering an address of welcome at the CAAF 2024 on Wednesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of CAAF2024 is: “Green Economies, Brighter Futures: Innovating and Investing in Africa’s Climate Smart Development.”
Mbah said that smallholder farmers who make up 60 per cent of the population and produce 90 per cent of food are greatly impacted by climate change.
“Their lives and livelihoods are on the frontlines of this existential threat,” Mbah said.
Mbah said the challenges of climate change are stark, adding that Africa is warming nearly faster than any other region, with 130 million people at risk from rising sea levels.
“How we react to the challenges we encounter is up to us, the stories we choose to write of ourselves is up to us.
“We at Climate Action Africa live on the premise that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world.
“In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
“So, we choose to push ourselves continually, to innovate, and invest in the future we want for Africa.
“A future that is sustainable, green, prosperous and harmonious with nature. That is the story of Africa we choose to write
“It is this drive that motivates us to boldly announce today the launch of our ‘Billion Trees for Africa’ Initiative under our community programmes,” Mbah said.
She said the project would address environmental degradation and enhance the ecological and economic resilience of African communities.
“As we celebrate the vibrant innovations happening across our continent following the registration of over 800 innovators for the CAAF24 deal room, and the selection of outstanding projects for today’s pitch, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing innovators and climate solutions through our new Pan-African Green Economy Programme (PAGE).
“PAGE created in partnership with IDEA AFRIC will support 5,000 innovators across the continent by 2035,” Mbah said.
Mbah said that the CAAF recognises the critical role of investment in climate action and is  proud to support the Pan African Climate Action Fund.
She explained that the fund, a $20 million initial investment fund, co-created by dedicated Africans, seek to empower small growing businesses and startups in the energy, agriculture, circularity and transportation sectors.
She expressed gratitude to the sponsors, innovators, inventors and exhibitors at the forum for making the summit a success. (NAN)
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

LAWMA

By Fabian Ekeruche

Lagos, June 19, 2024 (NAN) Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director/CEO,  Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA),urged  residents to observe best personal and domestic hygiene to curb spread of cholera

He also said there was need for proper waste management and disposal of Lagos state is stop the rampaging cholera.

He gave the advice in a statement on Tuesday  against the recent outbreak of the disease, which has claimed some lives, leaving many hospitalised.

Gbadegesin noted that Cholera, a severe diarrheal illness caused by infection with the bacterium vibrio cholerae, spreads primarily through contaminated water and food, thriving rapidly in unsanitary conditions.

 “The outbreak of cholera in the state is a serious public health concern. It is imperative that every resident takes proactive measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

“Ensuring proper personal and domestic hygiene, including efficient waste management, will go a long way in curbing  spread of the fatal disease,” Gbadegesin said.

The LAWMA boss suggested several precautionary measures including: ensuring safe drinking water; frequent hand-washing with soap; food safety practices and use of proper sanitation facilities among others.

He admonished residents to shun indiscriminate refuse dumping and to imbibe the practice of bagging and disposing of their waste using covered bins to prevent the spread of diseases by vectors, and  ensure seamless evacuation by assigned PSP operators.

Gbadegesin said the authority would continue to intensify efforts at making sure that waste generated across the state  was promptly and efficiently managed, with service providers working around the clock to clean up black spots.

He further appealed to residents to always wash their hands when they come in contact with waste, either while bagging or putting in covered bins.

He urged them to align with the state government’s environmental and health safety policies, by avoiding reckless waste dumping in drains, road medians, among other negative environmental practices.

“We are fully committed to the health and safety of every resident. Our teams are on  ground, ensuring that waste is properly collected and disposed of to minimise health risks.

” However, we need the cooperation of all residents to maintain a clean and safe environment,” Gbadegesin said. (NAN)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Vivian Ihechu

Communique
By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Participants at the just concluded 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit have advocated the establishment of a climate innovation fund to support climate resilience projects in the state.
This is contained in a communique issued by the Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Kunle Adeshina, on Sunday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that several key recommendations were made in the communique that will engender a smart and resilient Lagos.
The communique urged the government to provide funding for infrastructure to protect urban areas from climate hazards like floods, storms, and heatwaves.
It also called for the development of mechanisms to access and scale up climate finance through bankable adaptation projects with institutions such as the African Development Bank for concessional and blended financing, and risk mitigation to attract private capital.
In the area of blended financing, the communique called for the utilisation of both private capital investment and public or philanthropic funding.
It called for the completion of the ‘Adiyan Water Works’ to enhance potable water supply as an adaptation measure.
The communique called for the continued support and funding for the Bus Rapid Transit System and multi-modal transport strategy of the state.
The participants made a strong business case for adaptation, expanding investment instruments, and using carbon markets for climate financing.
The communique underscored the importance of creating an enabling environment to unlock domestic private capital and incentivizing private sector innovation.
It also stressed the need for a sustained tempo in the promotion of circular economy practices in the state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and efficient use of resources.
The communique called for the integration of the health sector into the State Climate Action Plan to ensure environmental sustainability and public health protection.
The summit called for the provision of a comprehensive, accessible, community-based healthcare services, especially for vulnerable groups.
NAN reports that the summit with the theme: “Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives,” was held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island from June 11 to 13. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Predictions
By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) in partnership with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has conducted training for over 500 farmers and extension workers in 10 states on seasonal climate predictions.
This is contained in a statement by Mr Sulaimon Arigbabu, the Executive Secretary of HEDA, on Sunday in Lagos.
Arigbabu said the training extended to the staff of the Agricultural Development Programmes (ADP) was supported by Oxfam through the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project.
Arigbabu said the primary objective of the workshop was to equip small-scale farmers, extension workers, and ADP staff with crucial information for the upcoming farming season.
He added that participants were trained on utilising downscaled Seasonal Climate Predictions and Crop Weather Calendars.
“We are thrilled to work with NiMet and our partner Oxfam under the AACJ project to deliver this critical training.
“We have engaged participants from all local governments across the 10 states to ensure widespread dissemination of this valuable information.
“Significantly, the growing seasons for each state are as follows: Nasarawa: April 30 – October 27 (203 days); Kwara: April 30 – October 25 (180 days); Oyo: April 10 – November 29 (231 days); Benue: April 24 – November 1 (189 days); Osun: April 10 – November 30 (233 days).
“The predicted growing season in Niger state is from May 9 to November 8 (184 days); Ogun state is March 31 to December 1 (249 days); for Plateau, it is from May 19 – November 9 (186 days); Adamawa state’s length of the growing season is from April 21 – November 1 (193 days); and for Ekiti state, it is between April 13 and November 27 (227 days),” Arigbabu said.
He said that providing access to climate predictions and crop weather calendars would improve agricultural practices and enhance the well-being of farming communities across the country.
According to him, the training organised by HEDA and NiMet, reflect a longstanding collaboration aimed at ensuring farmers have access to NiMet’s seasonal climate predictions and crop weather calendars.
He added that the initiative would strengthen the agricultural sector and support farming communities through improved climate prediction and planning resources.
He said the training held in Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Benue, Adamawa, Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Ekiti, and Osun states – provided essential training on climate predictions and crop weather calendars to over 500 participants. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Environment

By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 15, 2024 (NAN) Sterling One Foundation and its partners on Saturday converged on Elegushi Beach, Lekki, for a national clean-up to mark the World Environment Day (WED) 2024.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that about 270 people defied the rain to participate at the clean-up aimed at environmental sustainability and the conservation of the ocean.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Olapeju Ibekwe, the Chief Executive Officer, Sterling One Foundation, said the exercise was part of the culture of the foundation and Sterling Bank on environmental sustainability.
Ibekwe noted that beaches are not just scenic spots for relaxation but vital ecosystems that support marine life and contribute to the overall health of the planet.
“Unfortunately, they are also among the most impacted by pollution, with plastic waste and other debris posing severe threats to marine organisms and the environment at large.
“Today, we come together not just to clean a beach but to make a statement. We are declaring our commitment to environmental sustainability and our dedication to preserving the natural beauty of our surroundings
“Each piece of litter we pick up today is a step towards a cleaner, healthier planet.
“As we work together today, let us also remember the importance of spreading awareness about proper waste disposal and the impact of pollution,” she said.
According to her, education and continuous action are key to creating lasting change in the environment.
“We must inspire others in our communities to join us in this effort, making environmental responsibility a part of our everyday lives,” Ibekwe said.
She expressed gratitude to all the volunteers, environmental activists, and organisations who participated in the exercise.
“Your participation and enthusiasm are a testament to the power of collective action. Let us use this momentum to drive more initiatives, foster greater community involvement, and ultimately make a significant impact on our environment.
“Together, we can create a cleaner, more sustainable world for future generations.
“Let this clean-up be a reminder of what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause.
She advised Nigerians to be intentional about personal hygiene to combat the outbreak of cholera in some states in the country.
Also Speaking, Mrs Tari Taylor, the Senior Special Assistance to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Environment, lauded Sterling One Foundation for the clean-up initiative.
Taylor said that Lagos residents are rising up to the ownership of their environment.
She expressed joy in seeing young volunteers in their numbers defying the rain to clean up the beach.
According to her, the initiative resonates with Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s vision of a transformed Lagos.
Mr Samuel Onosanya, Head of Business Retail, Mainland. Sterling Bank, said that the exercise is part of initiatives of the bank in giving back to the environment.
Onosanya said the national clean up would take place in about 20 states of the federation to underscore the importance of the environment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Lead
By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 14, 2024 (NAN) Stakeholders on Friday have advocated the total elimination of the use of lead in the manufacturing of paints in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the stakeholders said this at an event organised by the Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev) and its partners in Lagos.
The workshop is titled: “Strengthening National Capacity Towards Elimination of Lead Paint in Nigeria.”
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of SRADev, Dr Leslie Adogame, said the clamour for the elimination of lead from paint manufacturing resulted from its attendant health risks.
Adogame said that lead paint poses significant health risks, especially to children, including neurological damage and developmental delays.
According to him, efforts to eliminate lead paint are critical to safeguarding public health and ensuring a sustainable environment.
He added that strengthening national capacity involves implementing regulatory measures, enhancing public awareness, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
He said the technical committee component of the lead exposure elimination project had agreed that all paints manufactured in Nigeria going forward would carry “No Added Lead.”
He said the resolution would be a big win because anybody going to the market to buy paint should look for the paint with the label, “No added Lead.”
Adogame said that “the focus is Small and Medium Enterprises since they are the once who use all manners of additives, cutting corners in the paint manufacturing process.”
The executive director said that there should be a standard to be adopted in paints manufacturing, noting that buyers of paints should go for ‘No Added Lead’ on the paint label before purchase.
Also speaking, Mr Abimbolu Babatunde, the Chairman, Paints Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, advised informal paint manufacturers to desist from using lead additives in the process of paint manufacturing.
NAN reports that the workshop was organised by SRADev in partnership with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, and the Paints Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Summit

By Fabian Ekeruche
Lagos, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos State Government says it will mobilise resources to finance the transition to a low-carbon economy and support those affected by the impact of climate change.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, stated this at the 10th Lagos State  International Climate Change Summit on Tuesday Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the summit is: “Accelerating  Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives.”
Wahab said the state government was determined to create livable and resilience infrastructure that would withstand the impact of climate change in Lagos state.
“This year’s summit is therefore not just a forum for discussion, but a clarion call for action.
“We must accelerate our efforts to mobilise climate finance and channel it towards projects that prioritise local adaptation initiatives.
“This means investing in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change, empowering communities to develop climate-resilient livelihoods, and enhancing our capacity to respond to climate-related disasters,” Wahab said.
He said that it was important to  champion the voices of those most affected by climate change – particularly vulnerable communities who often bear the brunt of its consequences.
“We must embrace their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives as valuable resource to shape effective adaptation strategies that are grounded in local realities.
“From the inaugural summit to this momentous occasion, celebrating a decade of climate change summit, we have witnessed a transformative shift in global consciousness towards climate action,” Wahab said.
He said that each summit had been a stepping stone, building upon the achievements of the last, propelled forward by the tireless efforts of countless climate heroes.
“Over the past decade, the Lagos International Climate Change Summit has served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in addressing climate-related issues in the state.
“From promoting renewable energy to implementing sustainable waste management practices, we have made significant strides in integrating climate actions in Lagos State Development Investment Opportunities and building resilience in the face of climate variability.
“But amidst the celebration of past achievements, we are also confronted with the stark realities of our present situation,” Wahab said.

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
He said the global sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report serves as a sobering reminder of the urgency of our situation and need for immediate action.
Wahab quoted the IPCC Chair, Hoesung Lee, as saying that mainstreaming effective and equitable climate action would not only reduce losses and damages for nature and people, but provide wider benefits.
Wahab said that the statement underscored the urgent reality that climate change is not waiting for us – we are running out of time.
“The solution to this lies in climate resilient development which involves integrating measures to adapt to climate change with actions to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions in ways that provide wider benefits.
“This year’s summit theme – Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives aims to explore ways of attracting climate finance into the adaptation space.
“As we embark on this three-day journey of deliberation and collaboration, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations.
Together, we can turn the tide against climate change and build a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all,” Wahab added.
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma