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Western Developed Economies Asked to Spend Equally on Warfare and Climate Debt
Western Developed Economies Asked to Spend Equally on Warfare and Climate Debt
By: Michael Mike
Countries in West Africa have been asked to come together to fight for climate justice as separate agitation would yield no result.
The Western developed economies have also been asked to allocate the same resources being spent on warfare on issues around problems climate change.
These are the agreements of environmental crusaders from countries of West Africa during the West Africa Climate Justice Roundtable in Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking at the Roundtable, the Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Nnimmo Bassey said the rich countries spent $2.7 trillion in warfare in 2024, insisting that the same amount should be spent as climate debt especially to Africa and other developing countries who bear the major brunt of climate change.
That’s how much is spent, a military armament. So to me, climate debt per year can be equated to how much money they’re spending on warfare and destruction.
Bassey, while speaking on “Linking Challenges and Creating Connections: Building a Regional Climate Movement in West Africa,” noted that undoubtedly, climate change represents the most significant challenge facing the West Africa, both in terms of its impact and the urgent necessity for action.
He noted that: “The shifting climate has extensive implications and consequences in every aspect of human existence, spanning nations and climes. The challenges extend beyond the global shifts in weather; they also encompass the ways these changes interact with and impact people’s lives, including their livelihoods, security, and overall wellbeing. In addition to the direct impacts of climate change, the repercussions of inadequate efforts to tackle the issue have frequently led to complications that worsen the challenges faced by individuals, particularly within local communities.”
He lamented that: “West Africa stands as one of the world’s most susceptible areas to the effects of climate change, affecting sectors such as energy, agriculture, health, water and sanitation, security, ecosystem resilience, and migration patterns.”
Bassey noted that: “At present, the increase in temperatures in West Africa surpasses the global average, and this pattern is anticipated to persist in the foreseeable future. The effects of climate change in West Africa will be significant under both the 1.5 degrees and 2.0 degrees Celsius temperature target scenarios being bandied in climate policy circles around the world. West Africa is expected to experience a significant increase in the number of hot days across all these scenarios.”
He decried that: “Regrettably, policy makers in Africa persist in their inability to take action and implement measures that effectively tackle climate change issues. African leaders and policymakers have frequently allowed the continent to serve as a testing ground for unproven and controversial climate change response strategies and misleading solutions, such as the so-called ‘smart agriculture,’ GMOs, REDD+, and carbon markets… blue carbon… solar radiation management & other geoengineering experiments.”
He stated that: “The vast majority of people in West Africa who are impacted by climate change have frequently been overlooked in the policies and responses designed to tackle the crisis,” stressing that:
“The mechanisms for responding to climate change frequently adhere to the same neo-colonial and exploitative frameworks that caused the crisis in the first place.”
He revealed that: “The West Africa Climate Justice Movement recognises that within the West African context, climate justice entails ensuring that those most affected have a say in developing the solutions,” noting that: “For many of these frontline communities, effective solutions entail protecting lands and water bodies from reckless extractivism and pollution, protecting rainforests and mangroves, and stopping mega-projects and industrial agriculture.”
He said: “Simultaneously, there is a need to support and promote transformative economies through agroecology, the establishment of community-owned and controlled energy democracies, food sovereignty, and just transitions.”
He insisted that: “Climate justice efforts in West Africa also focus on holding corporations and historical polluters accountable for their contributions to climate change and demanding that they address the damage they have caused.
Bassey decried that: “Climate change is already causing significant loss and damage in West Africa, including displacement, loss of livelihoods, and damage to infrastructure.”
He noted that the West Africa Climate Justice Movement aims to engage all crucial stakeholders and actors across the region—be they campaigners, policymakers, or frontline communities—to unite in the pursuit of building popular power.
He added that: “The movement focusses on developing strategies, enhancing solidarity across nations, sharing knowledge, and supporting collaborative climate justice initiatives grounded in a mutual understanding of the interconnectedness of the climate crisis and the necessity for unified action.”
Bassey, while noting that West Africa Climate Justice Conference, Abuja, Nigeria
builds on previous engagements with frontline civil society organisations, communities, academics and movement leaders across the region, disclosed that: “Between 2021 and 2024, the movement held meetings, organized collaboratives events and presented a united front at the UNFCCC Conference of Parties.”
He said: “The upcoming conference aims to further develop and share critical climate change impact connections and interpretations across West Africa, strengthen platforms for interactions between communities in the region around different climate change impact and amplify the voices of West African climate actors, communities and organisations in the global climate change conversations.
“One of the key outcomes of the conference will be the adoption of a common West Africa Climate Change resolution as a core demand of the region at COP 30.“
End
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Security forces launches rescue operation in Kano after abduction of four persons by bandits
Security forces launches rescue operation in Kano after abduction of four persons by bandits
By: Zagazola Makama
Security forces in Kano have launched a manhunt for suspected armed abductors following the abduction of four persons in Karaye Local Government Area of the state.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred at about 1:15 a.m. on Tuesday when about eight hoodlums, armed with AK-47 rifles, invaded Adama village in Karaye LGA.
The source said the suspects abducted four members of the Alhaji Boyi Adama family, identified as Aliyu Bello, Sani Bello, Razika Aliyu Bello and Shu’aibu Salisu.
“Upon receipt of the report from a good Samaritan, Joint Task Force teams were swiftly deployed to the scene on a rescue mission,” the source said.
According to the source, the suspects fled the area before the arrival of security operatives.
An empty 7.62mm ammunition shell was recovered at the scene, while efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims unhurt and track down the perpetrators.
The authorities assured residents that intensified operations were underway to apprehend those responsible and restore calm to the area.
Zagazola report that bandits have intensified attacks in Kano state especially around communities bordering Kano and Kastina state.
Security forces launches rescue operation in Kano after abduction of four persons by bandits
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Lagos State Governor pledges unwavering support for Nigerian Army at 2025 COAS Annual Conference
Lagos State Governor pledges unwavering support for Nigerian Army at 2025 COAS Annual Conference
By: Zagazola Makama
Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu of Lagos State has affirmed his administration’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Army, highlighting the critical link between security, economic development, and public trust, at the opening of the 10th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 in Lagos.
Speaking before a gathering of senior military officers, security stakeholders, and dignitaries, Governor Sowonlu described the conference as a strategic forum to review operational readiness, assess emerging threats, and chart the future direction of the Nigerian Army in alignment with national security priorities.
“It is both an honor and a solemn privilege to join you at this important gathering. Lagos is not just the commercial hub of our country; it is the melting point of culture, ideas, and aspiration, and its security is inseparable from Nigeria’s overall stability,” the Governor said.
Governor Sowonlu lauded the Nigerian Army’s role in preserving territorial integrity and national cohesion, emphasizing that enduring development is only possible where security is guaranteed.
He observed that the Army has demonstrated significant progress in restructuring, modernization, training, and professionalism, reflecting its readiness to meet evolving threats, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime, and other non-traditional security risks.
He commended the Chief of Army Staff for providing purposeful direction in enhancing the Nigerian Army’s confidence, effectiveness, and institutional integrity. Highlighting the contributions of the 81 Division in Lagos State, Governor Sowonlu noted, “Through sustained operations, joint security initiatives, and strong civil-military relationships, the Division has played a critical role in maintaining public order and fostering trust between our citizens and those entrusted with their protection.”
The Governor underscored the importance of joint training, intelligence sharing, and coordinated operational planning, describing these as indispensable to strengthening synergy among security agencies and rapidly defeating criminal elements.
“Markets function because security is assured. Businesses invest because stability is protected. Citizens go about their daily lives because vigilant men and women like yourselves watch over them,” he said.
Governor Sowonlu further praised the professionalism, discipline, and respect for constitutional order demonstrated by the Nigerian Army, calling these values essential for sustaining public trust and reinforcing the legitimacy of military operations in a democratic society.
He expressed deep appreciation to officers and soldiers, acknowledging their courage, selflessness, and dedication to defending Nigeria’s collective future.
“As you commence deliberations at this year’s conference, I urge you to engage with openness, strategic clarity, and bold thinking. The challenges before us demand foresight, innovation, and a willingness to continually adapt,” he said, assuring participants of Lagos State’s continued support for the Army’s constitutional responsibilities across the nation.
The COAS Annual Conference brings together military leaders, security experts, and policymakers to assess past operations, examine emerging threats, and develop strategies for national security.
Governor Sowonlu concluded by encouraging delegates to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of Lagos while contributing to a successful and impactful conference.
End
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Otuaro Hails Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation Boss On Conferment With Honorary Doctorate Degree
Otuaro Hails Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation Boss On Conferment With Honorary Doctorate Degree
By: Michael Mike
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the Founder of Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, Mrs Esther Tonlagha, on her conferment with an Honorary Doctorate of Science (D.Sc) Degree in Community Development and Empowerment by the Federal University, Otuoke.
The honoree is the wife of Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, an accomplished Ijaw businessman with huge investments in oil and gas, and engineering solutions in various sectors.
She was presented with the award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to community development and empowerment, during the maiden combined convocation ceremonies of the university held on 8 December, 2025 at Otuoke in Bayelsa State.
Otuaro noted that the honour was a testament to Mrs Tonlagha’s unwavering commitment and dedication to community development and empowerment through her foundation.
He described Mrs Tonlagha as an amazon and a philanthropist with a large heart, whose selfless service to community and humanity resonates across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Otuaro described the honour as well-deserved as shown by her bold antecedents, and expressed the hope that it would motivate her to do more for society.
He said he is not surprised that Mrs Tonlagha, a devout Christian, has given due priority to the service of humanity.
The PAP Administrator also lauded the management of Federal University, Otuoke, for recognizing Mrs Tonlagha’s selfless service, life of sacrifice, remarkable achievements, and the commendable work of her foundation.
Otuaro Hails Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation Boss On Conferment With Honorary Doctorate Degree
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