ActionAid Secretary-General Praises Nigerians’ Warmth, Urges Government to Scale Up Community-Based Solutions

By: Michael Mike

The Secretary-General of ActionAid International has applauded Nigerians for their hospitality and resilience during his maiden visit to the country, describing Nigeria as “an impressive nation whose people embody warmth, courage, and a strong sense of community.”

Speaking during a field visit to a women-led community empowerment programme in Abuja as part of activities marking ActionAid Nigeria’s 25th anniversary, the global head of the development organisation said he arrived with mixed expectations but was quickly won over by the sincerity and openness of ordinary Nigerians.

“I had heard many things about Nigeria before coming, some of them told in jest, like the idea that you haven’t truly visited Africa until you’ve visited Nigeria,” he said. “But over the past three days, I’ve been moved by the kindness of the people and the genuine willingness to help. It has left me with a very strong, positive impression.”

Reflecting on the organization’s two-and-a-half decades in the country, the Secretary-General said the true measure of impact lies not in written reports but in the lived experiences of people who have benefited from the programs.

“Listening to women and young people speak confidently about how trainings and community support have transformed their lives is the clearest sign of impact,” he noted. “When people speak from a position of power and agency, you know development work is reaching the right places.”

He added that ActionAid will deepen its investments over the coming years—especially in women and young people—because these groups play a pivotal role in driving sustainable change at both community and national levels.

The Secretary-General urged the Nigerian government to recognize the vital role civil society organizations play in development and to ensure a supportive environment for their operations.

“When organizations like ActionAid thrive, entire communities thrive with them,” he said. “The government must acknowledge this and create conditions that allow civil society to operate effectively.”

However, he stressed that NGOs alone cannot achieve nationwide transformation.

“Non-governmental organizations can only reach a limited number of communities. Government has the mandate, the resources, and the long-term responsibility to deliver services at scale,” he explained. “Our job is to demonstrate what works. Government’s job is to expand it.”

He also highlighted education as a non-negotiable priority for Nigeria’s development.

“No country can achieve meaningful transformation without investing in education,” he said. “Budget decisions must reflect this reality, and every expenditure should have a direct impact on communities.”

His visit concluded with renewed commitments from ActionAid International to strengthen partnerships, expand grassroots initiatives, and support Nigerian communities in achieving long-term, people-driven development.

On his part, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Dr. Ahmed Mamedu reiterated the need for urgent government investment in underserved communities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as other parts of the country, particularly those facing severe infrastructural and social service gaps.

He made the appeal during a field visit to Pasepa community, one of several hard-to-reach areas where ActionAid has worked for more than a decade.

Mamedu explained that the visit formed part of the anniversary celebrations, which include showcasing communities where ActionAid has driven long-term development initiatives. He noted that Pasepa, like many others in the FCT, reflects the reality of deep rural poverty often overlooked in discussions about Abuja.

He noted that: “Many people assume Abuja is all about the city’s glamour, but Pasepa is also part of the FCT,” adding that: “Coming here reveals what daily life looks like for people living in real poverty — difficult terrain, limited infrastructure, and minimal access to essential services.”

He said ActionAid has worked in Pasepa for over 12 years, partnering with local stakeholders to build community structures, strengthen accountability, and push for government responsiveness. Despite notable progress, but lamented that the reality on ground remains far from satisfactory.

“Are we impressed with what we are seeing here? The answer is no,” he stated. “We can definitely do better. We want to see more impact, more livelihood opportunities, and improved access to social services.”

He said one of the most striking observations during the visit was the steady stream of political actors entering the community, insisting that this is evidence that leaders are aware of the community’s challenges — and capable of reaching it when seeking support.

“If politicians can find their way here during the political season, then they can also bring infrastructure and amenities,” he said. “We expect that in the next few months and years, returning to this community will reveal concrete improvements.”

He stressed that such development is not only overdue but essential for improving the lives of thousands of residents.

He said the visit was also an opportunity for the Secretary-General of ActionAid International to directly experience the conditions in Nigeria’s marginalized communities.

“This visit allows him to hear the voices of the people firsthand and understand the depth of the work we do,” he added.

ActionAid Nigeria says it will continue supporting rural communities while advocating stronger government accountability and sustained investment in critical social infrastructure.

ActionAid Secretary-General Praises Nigerians’ Warmth, Urges Government to Scale Up Community-Based Solutions

Mining: FG Finalizes Plans to Reduce Release of Mercury into Atmosphere in Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

The federal government is finalizing plans aimed at direct reduction of excess emissions and release of mercury into the environment from Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities in the country.

The effort is spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, during an inception workshop organized at the weekend, in Abuja, to enhance the formalization of a mercury-free gold in Nigeria, revealed that they are collaborating together to forge a future where Nigeria’s gold resources are harnessed responsibly, without compromising the health of the people or the integrity of the environment

Lawal, who was represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mahmud Kambari, said the artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector represents a notable contributor to Nigeria’s economy, and offers livelihoods to many, but, however worried that the sector presents a complex challenge due to the widespread use of mercury.

He decried that this has been identified as a potent neurotoxin with devastating consequences for human health and the environment.

He said: “Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can contaminate water sources and soil, leading to serious environmental and health problems. It can bioaccumulate in the food chain, leading to long-term health effects in humans and wildlife. In addition, mercury pollution can persist in the environment for decades, causing harm to ecosystems and biodiversity.”

Lawal disclosed that Nigeria, as a signatory to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, demonstrated its commitment by developing a National Action Plan (NAP) for the reduction and eventual elimination of mercury use in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Nigeria between 2017 and 2020.

The Minister said the present collaboration under the GEF GOLD+ Nigeria Project builds upon the foundation laid by the NAP and represents a significant step forward in their commitment to tackling mercury pollution in the ASGM sector. He further reiterated that the project aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s national environmental policies and its obligations under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, adding that its focus on a holistic, multi-sectoral approach, integrating formalization with the adoption of mercury-free technologies and access to traceable supply chains, offers a sustainable pathway for the sector’s development.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, Engr. Faruk Yabo noted that Nigeria stands at the forefront of efforts to formalize the ASGM sector and reduce mercury use, in line with the Minamata Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Yabo revealed that the by this project initiative, Nigeria is not only joining the global community efforts, but is setting an example for other nations—demonstrating that economic development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

He said: “This project is designed to support policy reforms, strengthen institutional capacity, empower mining communities, and enhance access to finance for artisanal and small-scale miners. Improving financial inclusion is critical to enabling miners to invest in cleaner technologies, adopt safer practices, and transition toward formal and sustainable operations. By fostering partnerships across government, industry, and civil society, we aim to create an enabling environment where miners can thrive economically while safeguarding health and ecosystems.”

In a message at the event, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), said; “By this project initiative, Nigeria is not only joining the global community efforts, but is setting an example for other nations—demonstrating that economic development and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.”

It noted that: “This project is designed to support policy reforms, strengthen institutional capacity, empower mining communities, and enhance access to finance for artisanal and small-scale miners. Improving financial inclusion is critical to enabling miners to invest in cleaner technologies, adopt safer practices, and transition toward formal and sustainable operations. By fostering partnerships across government, industry, and civil society, we aim to create an enabling environment where miners can thrive economically while safeguarding health and ecosystems.

“UNIDO is committed to partner with the Government of Nigeria in driving this important transformation. In line with our mandate, to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development, our commitment extends beyond the life of this project. We will continue to deliver technical expertise, facilitate knowledge exchange, and leverage international networks to attract resources and partnerships. Together, we aim to position Nigeria’s ASGM sector as a benchmark for sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation—contributing to economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being.”

Mining: FG Finalizes Plans to Reduce Release of Mercury into Atmosphere in Nigeria

Army troops repel attack, neutralise four bandits in Taraba communal clash

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, operating under Operation Peace Shield have repelled an attack by armed bandits and neutralised four of the assailants following a communal clash between the Shomo and Wurkun communities in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State.

The clash, which occurred at Usmanu village, led to the burning of 15 houses before troops of were deployed to the area.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the troops, arrived the scene at about 9:35 a.m. on Nov. 29 after receiving distress reports from the affected communities.

On arrival, about 50 armed bandits reportedly launched an attack on the soldiers, prompting a swift response that overpowered the assailants.

During the encounter, troops neutralised four bandits and recovered one fabricated AK-47 rifle, three dane guns, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and two magazines.

The troops also arrested one key suspect believed to be collaborating with the armed group.

According to the military, the suspect is currently undergoing further investigation.

The sources added that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remained high as clearance operations continue in the general area.

Army troops repel attack, neutralise four bandits in Taraba communal clash