National News
COP28: Commonwealth Unveils New Framework for 56 Member States
COP28: Commonwealth Unveils New Framework for 56 Member States
By: Michael Mike
The Commonwealth has launched a new implementation framework to facilitate coordinated action among the 56 Commonwealth countries, including African member states, on land, biodiversity and climate challenges, directly impacting a quarter of the world’s land area.
A statement on Tuesday from the organisation, said the latest framework was launched at the ongoing COP28.
The statement read: “The Commonwealth Secretariat unveiled the Living Lands Charter Implementation Framework at a high-level event on 3 December 2023 in Dubai, organised alongside the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28).
“The event comes after extensive consultations with Commonwealth countries since the adoption of the Living Lands Charter last year. It offered Commonwealth leaders, ministers, and development partners an opportunity to learn about the framework, share country experiences and foster collaboration on land issues.”
According to the statement, speakers, including Prime Minister Robert Abela of Malta, and Ibrahim Thiaw, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), expressed their support for the framework during the event.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, was quoted in the statement to have said:
“Our Commonwealth encompasses a quarter of the world’s land area and is home to a third of the world’s mega-biodiverse countries. More than 400 endemic species are found in our small island states.
“The impact of climate change is increasingly severe across our countries. Food insecurity is increasing. Soil is depleting. The sheer scale of these challenges compels us to lead with bold action.”
She added: “With this implementation framework, we are taking a giant leap forward. It will leverage the combined strength of the Commonwealth through thematic action working groups – learning from each other and spurring one another on towards systems change and a better future for all.”
The statement explained that the framework takes a system-wide approach towards implementing the Living Lands Charter through five thematic action areas: climate-resilient agriculture for food security; soil and water conservation; sustainable green cover and biodiversity; carbon neutral and climate-resilient livestock rearing and animal husbandry; and indigenous and local people for climate-resilient development.
It revealed that countries have stepped forward to lead on priority areas of action. Guyana will champion action on sustainable green cover and biodiversity. Kenya will lead action on climate-resilient agriculture for food security. Malta will spearhead the conservation of soil and water.
It added that within each thematic area, the Commonwealth will offer extensive support to countries to achieve their commitments, stating that this support entails mobilising resources for implementation, conducting analyses for policymaking, facilitating institutional governance, offering capacity-building assistance, and generating knowledge for member countries.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Abela said: “The world is experiencing a triple planetary crisis, addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity, and nurturing ecological restoration of our land has become an urgent priority for all.
“As Commonwealth members, we are here to renew our commitment to work together towards this aim through the Call to Action on Living Lands [Charter]. We hope that our experience inspires Commonwealth countries facing similar tough challenges.”
The implementation framework, according to the statement, has been developed in response to a mandate from the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in June 2022.
The Secretariat for the three Rio Conventions welcomed the framework and expressed confidence in its ability to help countries achieve targets set out in the Paris Agreement, the Global Biodiversity Framework and the UNCCD Strategic Plan for Land Degradation Neutrality.
The statement further revealed that the framework’s launch coincides with the Emirates Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action.
COP28: Commonwealth Unveils New Framework for 56 Member States
NAF Airstrikes Kill 32 ISWAP Fighters in Christmas Offensive at Dogon Chikun
By: Zagazola Makama
The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai launched a precision airstrike on December 25, targeting an Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) staging area in Dogon Chikun, Borno State.
The operation, carried out in the aftermath of infighting among ISWAP factions, resulted in the elimination of at least 32 fighters, according to impeccable sources who carried out damages assessments in the aftermath of the strikes.
Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the airstrikes reportedly struck the location where ISWAP fighters had regrouped following clashes with a rival faction. In addition to the heavy casualties, several weapons and other critical equipment belonging to the insurgents were destroyed in the attack.
“This operation was strategically timed and executed to dismantle the group’s staging area and degrade their capacity for further attacks,” the source added.
Operation Hadin Kai, the Nigerian military’s counterinsurgency operation in the Northeast, has continued to intensify its offensives against ISWAP and Boko Haram, targeting key hideouts and logistics hubs.
Dogon Chikun, a known hotspot for insurgent activities, has been under close surveillance due to its strategic importance to ISWAP operations.
NAF Airstrikes Kill 32 ISWAP Fighters in Christmas Offensive at Dogon Chikun
ECOWAS Insists Niger’s Allegation of Terrorism Against Nigeria, Others Unfounded
By: Michael Mike
The Economic Community of West African States has rubbished the claim by the Nigerien military junta that Nigeria and some other countries are sponsoring destabilization of Niger, insisting that it was unfounded.
The statement by the regional bloc read: “The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over the allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.
“The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.
“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent. The recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrates the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.
“ECOWAS therefore refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism.
“ECOWAS calls on all states in the region to promote dialogue and stability and refrain from making accusations that are not supported by any evidence.”
ECOWAS Insists Niger’s Allegation of Terrorism Against Nigeria, Others Unfounded
Christmas: VP Shettima Assures Citizens Of FG’s Commitment To Their Welfare
*** Says national security, economic transformation remain President Tinubu’s priorities
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians of the federal government’s dedication to national security, economic transformation, and welfare of the citizens.
In a Christmas message on Wednesday, the Vice President said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains unwavering in its focus on these critical areas, as the country looks forward to the dawn of a new year.
He said, “In these times of economic transformation, I want to assure you that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.”
Vice President Shettima particularly urged the citizens to imbibe the virtues of national unity during the yuletide season.
“Nigeria’s diversity remains our greatest strength. Let us avail ourselves of the time provided by the holiday season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us across all faiths and regions,” he said.
Senator Shettima assured Nigerians of the continued vigilance of the nation’s security forces, noting that “our brave security personnel will continue to work round the clock during this festive period to keep us safe.”
He said enhanced security measures have been put in place to protect the citizens during the holiday period.
“The relevant agencies have been mobilized to ensure your safety and comfort on all major routes,” he stated, urging travelers to remain vigilant.
VP Shettima expressed optimism about the nation’s trajectory in the coming year, saying, “I am filled with hope and optimism about Nigeria’s future. Together, we will build a more prosperous and united nation.
“To our young people, you are the backbone of our nation. The Renewed Hope administration is implementing various initiatives to create opportunities for you to thrive and contribute to Nigeria’s development,” he added.
Christmas: VP Shettima Assures Citizens Of FG’s Commitment To Their Welfare
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