Rep Onuigbo Calls for Climate Plans to Tackle North East’s Environmental , Security Challenges

By: Melvin Uche

The inaugural North-East Climate Change Summit and Retreat, held on September 16-19, 2024, at the International Conference Center in Gombe, sparked a passionate call for climate action. The event, hosted by the North-East Development Commission, centered on the theme “Leveraging Climate Action for the Sustainable Development of North-East Nigeria.” During his address, Rep. Sir Sam Onuigbo, who represented Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, and Member (South East) & Chairman Committee on Security, Climate Change & Special Interventions North East Development Commission ( NEDC ) highlighted the severe climate challenges that threaten agriculture, security, and the overall livelihoods in the region.

Onuigbo stressed the urgent need to address environmental crises such as land degradation, desertification, and recurring droughts that have crippled agricultural productivity in the North-East. These environmental challenges have compounded the region’s long-standing issues of insecurity, inadequate skills development, education, and technological advancement, leaving millions vulnerable.

Drawing from international frameworks, including the United Nations General Assembly’s 2009 Resolution on Climate Change and the 2017 UN Security Council Resolution, Onuigbo pointed out that climate change amplifies security risks in the North-East. “Environmental degradation has fueled resource conflicts, migration, and displacement, which, in turn, worsen the region’s security issues,” Onuigbo stated.

While Africa contributes only about 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the continent is disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change. Onuigbo underscored that Nigeria, especially the North-East, is facing devastating effects, from desertification to the drying up of Lake Chad. The impact on agriculture, which sustains the region’s economy, is particularly alarming, with rising food insecurity driving migration and heightening conflicts.

Onuigbo, who is widely called the father of climate change in Nigeria, praised Nigeria’s recent legislative strides, including the Climate Change Act 2021, which he sponsored, and the Electricity Act 2023, which creates pathways for sustainable development and renewable energy adoption. “These laws are essential for integrating climate resilience into agriculture, energy, and education, and for fostering economic growth,” he noted.

Highlighting national initiatives like the Energy Transition Plan (2021) and the Great Green Wall Initiative, Onuigbo emphasized their critical role in mitigating climate risks and promoting sustainable land use in the North-East. He urged the region to take advantage of international funding opportunities, such as the World Bank’s $3 billion annual fund for climate-smart agriculture.

Rep. Onuigbo also addressed the direct link between climate change and the region’s security challenges. “Droughts and resource scarcity are pushing communities into conflict over land, water, and grazing rights,” he warned. The resulting tensions have fueled insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes.

While outlining these grim realities, Onuigbo offered a hopeful vision for the future. He advocated for the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices and renewable energy solutions to boost productivity, generate revenue, and create sustainable livelihoods. “The North-East’s agricultural potential can be unlocked with the right investments in technology and climate-smart practices,” he said.

The Electricity Act 2023, which decentralizes electricity generation, was lauded by Onuigbo as a game-changer for energy access in the region. He urged state governments to invest in renewable energy projects that co inuld power industries and households, improving living conditions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. “The North-East’s topography is perfect for renewable energy projects,” he added, citing the decreasing costs of solar and wind power as a promising development.

Onuigbo also called for the establishment of state-level climate governance frameworks, urging governments to adopt robust climate action plans with clear, measurable goals. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness on climate issues, particularly among vulnerable groups like women, youth, and the elderly, who are often the most affected.

Onuigbo’s optimistic outlook on leveraging climate action for regional development set the tone for the latter part of the summit, where further discussions explored practical steps for implementation. He pointed out that COP28’s global commitment to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 presents unprecedented opportunities for the North-East to become a hub for clean energy and sustainable agriculture. He cited the plummeting costs of renewable energy as an opportunity the region must not miss.

Onuigbo also referenced alarming global health statistics, including those shared by Dr. Tedros A. Ghebreyesos, Director General of the World Health Organization, on the deadly effects of household pollution from dirty cooking fuels. “Clean energy is not just about economics—it’s about saving lives,” Onuigbo said, highlighting the importance of renewable energy in reducing household air pollution, which claims millions of lives globally each year.

Onuigbo also highlighted the dangers faced by vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women, due to extreme heat and poor working conditions. “Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is already impacting lives, livelihoods, and security,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Onuigbo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making food security a priority in his administration’s agenda and for spearheading efforts toward energy transition and climate change mitigation. He also acknowledged the North-East governors for establishing the North-East Governors’ Forum, which serves as a vital platform for addressing regional climate challenges.

He praised the leadership of the North-East Development Commission for organizing the summit at such a critical time, stating that “this collective action is what is needed to transform the region’s future.”

In his parting message, Onuigbo left the audience with a bold vision: “The North-East has the resources, human capital, and global momentum to overcome these challenges. By embracing renewable energy, investing in climate-smart agriculture, and building resilient infrastructure, the region can position itself as a key player in the global economy.”

As Nigeria and the world move toward a low-carbon future, the North-East region stands at a crossroads. The decisions made today will shape not only the region’s future but also its role in addressing global climate challenges.

Rep Onuigbo Calls for Climate Plans to Tackle North East’s Environmental , Security Challenges

China Underlines Nigeria Importance

By: Michael Mike

China has underlined Nigeria importance to its plan in Africa, stating that the West African country remains one of its most reliable allies.

Speaking at the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China(PRC), China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai said Nigeria remains China’s largest project contracting market, the second largest export market, third largest trading partner, and a major investment destination in Africa.

The Ambassador said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971, China and Nigeria have been enjoying a long-standing friendship, with strengthened high-level engagements, consolidated political mutual trust, deepened people-to-people exchanges, and fruitful outcomes of practical cooperation.

He said: “Nigeria remains China’s largest project contracting market, the second largest export market, third largest trading partner, and a major investment destination in Africa.

“In 2023, bilateral trade between our two countries reached $22.5 billion.

“Our practical cooperation has achieved fruitful results in areas such as infrastructure, investment, trade, agriculture and green economy, covering projects for aviation, on land and in the sea.”

The envoy said over the past 75 years since the founding of the PRC, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Chinese nation has forged ahead in unity and has achieved tremendous transformation from standing upright to becoming prosperous and growing in strength

He noted that over the past decade, the CPC has rallied and led the entire Chinese nation to win the largest battle against poverty in human history.

He said: “Each year , an average of 10 million people were lifted out of poverty, which is equivalent to the population of a medium-sized country.

“At present, nearly 100 million Chinese people in total have shaken off poverty. China has accomplished the historic mission of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

“The living standards of Chinese people have grown from bare subsistence to moderate prosperity, while China has moved from weakness and poverty to strength and prosperity, achieving the twin miracles of rapid economic development and long-term social stability in human history.

“Between 2013 and 2023, China contributed over 30 percent on average to global economic growth, making it the largest driving force for the world economy.”

Yu also added that presently, the Chinese people have embarked on the new journey toward the Second Centenary Goal, which is, 2049, to build our country into a great modern socialist country in all respects that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious and beautiful.

Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who was at hand to celebrate with China, congratulated the country on its 75th anniversary and its growth and achievements.

He also announced that the House of Representatives will be actively engaging through our China-Nigeria Parliamentary Friendship Group initiative to explore various areas for collaboration and cooperation, focusing on sectors such as trade, technology transfer, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.

He said: “By learning from China’s experience in leveraging its legislature for national advancement, we can better position ourselves to address the challenges facing our own country.

“We reaffirm our commitment to enhancing cooperation between Nigeria and China because we believe that it is imperative that we work hand-in-hand to address common challenges while seizng opportunities for growth that benefit both nations.”Tajudeen said.

The founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), is a significant moment in China’s history following the Chinese Civil War and victory of Mao Zedong’s Communist forces over the Kuomintang forces of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, Mao Zedong proclaimed the founding of PRC on 1 October 1949.

China Underlines Nigeria Importance

Night economy thrives across China

By Lin Lili, Huang Xiaohui, Wang Xinyue, People’s Daily

On a weekend night, on an open stage in the Ninth Street of Guanyinqiao business area, Jiangbei district, southwest China’s Chongqing municipality, people were singing and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere.
“We come here to listen to music, enjoy food, and go shopping. The Ninth Street never sleeps at night,” said Chen Qi, a young local resident.

Just across the street, at the Beicang Cultural and Creative Block, a 24-hour bookstore was filled with young readers, who are drawn to the artistic night market.

The night economy is an important part of urban commerce. In China, the booming night economy has evolved from traditional night markets centered around dining and shopping to integrated hubs for culture, tourism, and entertainment.

Cities across the country are striving to boost nighttime cultural and tourism consumption and offer a wide range of nighttime activities in line with local conditions, injecting fresh energy into the consumer market.

For instance, the 5th Tianjin Nighttime Life Festival was recently held in north China’s Tianjin municipality, including over 100 events integrating shopping, tourism, culture, and sports.

In Shenyang, capital of northeast China’s Liaoning province, the First Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Culture Night Market was launched, where people could learn traditional Chinese fitness exercises like Baduanjin, Wuqinxi, and Tai Chi from experts.
Shijiazhuang, capital of north China’s Hebei province, has integrated business models such as nighttime entertainment, tourism, and sports, providing a range of sports activities for its residents.

Apart from diverse and vibrant urban nighttime activities, the night economy in Chinese rural areas also has its unique appeal.

For example, in Wangjiazhuang village, Lingtai county, Pingliang, northwest China’s Gansu province, people came together for vibrant bonfire parties and village basketball competitions, also known as “CunBA” usually held after sunset.

Local farmers in Shuijing village, Zhenning county, Anshun, southwest China’s Guizhou province, tapped into the beauty of a vast lotus pond to attract visitors to come and appreciate the lotus flowers while tasting local snacks.

According to Pan Helin, an official with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Chinese night economy is flourishing with numerous highlights: themed night markets with cultural and creative products and delicious food have enriched the options for nighttime consumption; nighttime bookstores and museums are merging with technology and cultural tourism sectors to create new consumption models. “All these services cater to the unique and wide-ranging demands of Chinese consumers,” Pan added.
However, as the night economy develops, residents living near commercial districts inevitably face disturbances such as nighttime noise, lights, and cooking fumes. While promoting the night economy, regions across the country have improved their management and provided better public services to minimize the negative impacts on the surrounding environment.
For instance, Maoming North Road located in Nanjing West Road business circle in Shanghai’s Jing’an district has turned into a pedestrian street every weekend and on all Chinese national holidays. This year, during events like the UEFA EURO football championship and the Paris Olympics Games, some bars and restaurants there were allowed to extend their opening hours from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends.
It is reported that relevant local government departments have reached agreements with nearby businesses and shop owners on the allocation of outdoor business areas, maintaining consistent LED brightness levels and prohibiting outdoor loudspeaker advertisements at night. In addition, the property management company of the pedestrian has set up a self-regulating committee for shop owners to oversee and enforce these regulations.
The Chinese night economy is developing in tandem with new business forms such as on-demand retail and community e-commerce, better meeting consumers’ nighttime consumption needs.
“I was worried about my child getting cold while swimming at night, so I ordered a few cups of hot ginger tea and some snacks. To my surprise, they arrived in just over 10 minutes,” said Yu Mengying, a resident in Lianyungang, east China’s Jiangsu province, who was unfolding a picnic blanket on a beach.
“Now we can travel light as we don’t need to take too many things with us. We can place orders on our phones anytime, and the delivery is fast,” she said.
New technologies like big data have also improved the management and service quality of the Chinese night economy.
At the Caita night market in Shenyang, a market regulation enforcement officer was checking food vendors using a smart monitoring platform while recording his findings on a mobile application. The inspection was completed in just five minutes.
“We don’t need to carry inspection documents with us, which removes the burden of managing and storing the paperwork, leading to a notable improvement in regulatory efficiency,” said Zhang Zhaoyu, an official with the Shenyang Administration for Market Regulation.
It is reported that Shenyang has included nighttime food safety regulation into a smart supervision platform, aiming to achieve comprehensive smart supervision through mobile terminals.

Night economy thrives across China