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ECOWAS Raises the Alarm of Worsening Climate-related Disruptions in West Africa
ECOWAS Raises the Alarm of Worsening Climate-related Disruptions in West Africa
By: Michael Mike
Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) has raised the alarm that the West Africa sub region is at the risk of worsen climate-related disruptions.
Speaking at the ECOWAS Hydrology and Meteorology Directors’ Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs & Agriculture. Mrs. Massandjé Toure-Litse said according to the WMO’s 2024 State of the Climate in Africa report, West Africa experienced a 1.2°C temperature rise above pre- industrial levels, and 2024 was among the five hottest years on record for the Sahel. While some parts of the Gulf of Guinea saw above-average rainfall, the Sahel and northern regions experienced extended dry spells, disrupting planting cycles and water availability.
She added that: “Moreover, recent data from the ECOWAS Early Warning and Response Network (ECOWARN) showed that between 2021 and 2024, the region experienced a 47% increase in flood-related incidents, affecting over 5 million people, with damages estimated at over $1.3 billion USD.
“A recent ECOWAS study handled by WASCAL found that climate-related disruptions reduced agricultural productivity in the region by up to 10% in 2024, contributing to food insecurity and inflationary pressures. This situation will be worst if nothing is done in terms of mitigation and global temperatures reach 1.5°C between 2030 and 2052 as forecast.”
Toure-Litse, who was represented by ECOWAS Acting Director Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Yao Bernard Koffi noted that: “Our populations, particularly those who lives in rural areas need accurate and timely meteorological data and information to adapt,” insisting that: “The accessibility to data and information is a critical issue that was emphasize by African Ministers while they were adopting the African Meteorological Strategy.
Consequently, the importance of generation climate forecast information from Meteorological and hydrological Directorates and their transfer to relevant national development agencies and
dissemination towards rural and urban populations are critical.”
She added that: “This underscores the urgent need for enhanced hydrological and
meteorological capacity that are now refer to collectively as hydromet services. According to the World Bank, every dollar
invested in early warning systems can yield up to $9 in benefits, including avoided losses and enhanced productivity.
“Honourable Minister,
Ladies and gentlemen, Noting the importance of strengthening the hydrological and meteorological services, the ECOWAS Commission adopted an
Hydromet Initiative 2021. It provided an assessment of the capacities of meteorological and hydrological services at regional and national levels as well as an overview of priorities and investment needs. These needs were estimated at $324.5 million, including $290 million for Member States and $34.5 million to support regional institutions for the strengthening and
modernization of hydrometeorological services in West Africa.”
She disclosed that: “In order to mobilize necessary resources for the implementation of the said Initiative, the ECOWAS Commission has worked with the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat to develop a regional project concept note to
be submitted to the Green Climate Fund.
“The concept note will be
presented during this workshop to collect your views and comments
that will contribute to its improvement. Your attention and support are therefore needed in that regard in order to ensure that the
project fully responds to the regional and national hydromet services improvement needs.”
Honorable Minister,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Over the next three days, I urge you to engage deeply, share
experiences and challenges, and most importantly, identify clear
actions that will contribute to improving hydromet services in our
region.
On his part, the Nigeria’s Minister of
Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo while declaring the meeting open, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening NiMet’s operational capacity, expanding its reach, and promoting regional collaboration, emphazing that the need for accurate, timely, and actionable weather and climate information has never been more critical to saving lives, securing livelihoods, and driving sustainable development across the region.
He said: “The WMO State of the Climate Report for 2023 stated that on average, climate-related hazards cause African countries to lose 2%–5% of their gross domestic product (GDP) annually, with many diverting up to 9% of their budgets to respond to climate extremes. Specifically in West Africa, rainfall deficits in Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana led to localised shortfalls in agricultural production in 2023.
“This further highlights the enormity of the challenge facing the entire continent and the ECOWAS region in particular.
In the face of these realities, the work of our meteorological and hydrological services has become indispensable.
“This meeting couldn’t have come at a better time and provides the opportunity for us to assess the readiness of the region to meet its early warning target.
“Recall that at the launch of the Early Warning for All (EW4All) initiative, the United Nations had set an ambitious target of ensuring that everyone on Earth is protected from hazardous weather, water, or climate events through life-saving early warning systems by the end of 2027. How Ready is ECOWAS? This is one of the questions that we must answer at this meeting.
“This meeting reflects our shared commitment to regional cooperation as well as a clear indication of the growing recognition of the critical role that meteorological and hydrological services play in our pursuit of sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and mitigation among others,” he said.
The Director, WMO Office for Africa, Dr Agnes Kijazi in his Goodwill Message said during the past 75 years, the WMO community provided scientific evidence, information and services which have shaped decision making to safeguard and promote public well-being, and to make the world safer, more secure, and prosperous.
He said: “WMO acknowledges the challenges faced by Members in the ECOWAS region which are putting pressure on resources and increasing the complexity of competing needs and priorities. It is in this regard that WMO and partners initiated ongoing interventions such as the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF), the Climate Risk Early Warning Systems (CREWS), and the Early Warnings for All initiative which provide support to some Members.
“I would like to let you know that WMO reaffirmed its commitment to work with all national meteorological and hydrological services to ensure a more climate resilient West Africa,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Director General of the Nigerian Meterorogical Agency, Nimet, Prof. Charles Anosikewho stressed the importance of leveraging technology for enhanced service, expressed
NiMet commitment to regional cooperation and advancing the cause of meteorology
resources in pursuit of a more resilient and climate-smart West Africa.
“The Nigerian Meteorological Agency remains committed to regional cooperation and advancing the course of meteorology and hydrology within ECOWAS. We are ready to share our experiences, expertise, and resources in pursuit of a more resilient and climate-smart West Africa” he said.
ECOWAS Raises the Alarm of Worsening Climate-related Disruptions in West Africa
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NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine, Opioids Hidden in Carton Walls Bound for UK, Australia
NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine, Opioids Hidden in Carton Walls Bound for UK, Australia
By: Michael Mike
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted consignments of cocaine and opioids concealed in carton walls and destined for the United Kingdom and Australia, as the agency intensified its nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking and abuse.
The seizures were made by NDLEA operatives at a courier company in Lagos on Friday during the examination of export shipments. According to the agency, 170 grammes of cocaine carefully sealed in cellophane parcels were discovered hidden within the walls of a carton containing clothes bound for Australia.
In another shipment heading to the United Kingdom, the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi in a statement on Sunday, said officers uncovered a cache of opioids, including 200 ampoules of pentazocine injection, 1,100 capsules of tramadol, and 100 ampoules of promethazine injection concealed in a carton.

The anti-narcotics agency also recorded major breakthroughs in Delta State, where operatives raided forests and cannabis farms in separate operations supported by military personnel.
At Ejeonu village in Ukwuani Local Government Area, NDLEA officers destroyed 27,500 kilogrammes of skunk cultivated on 11 hectares of farmland and recovered an additional 22.9 kilogrammes of the substance. A suspect, 52-year-old Ifeanyichukwu Peter, was later arrested during a follow-up operation in Obiaruku.
Similarly, operatives raided Orogun village in Ughelli North Local Government Area, destroying another 37,500 kilogrammes of skunk grown on 15 hectares of farmland while recovering 55.4 kilogramsmes of the illicit drug. Thirty-year-old Godwin Vincent Osadera was arrested in connection with the operation.
The agency said the two operations resulted in the destruction of a total of 65,000 kilogrammes of skunk.
In Kaduna State, NDLEA operatives arrested 42-year-old Husaini Suleiman after recovering 361 kilogrammes of skunk during a raid at Dan Magaji area of Zaria town.
In a separate operation along the Abuja-Kaduna highway, officers intercepted 1,989 rounds of RLA 7.62mm ammunition concealed inside sacks of fresh cassava granules, popularly known as garri. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Abdullahi Hassan, was apprehended while transporting the ammunition. NDLEA said both the suspect and the recovered ammunition had been transferred to another security agency for further investigation.

In the Federal Capital Territory, operatives arrested a 29-year-old businessman, Ogadi Peter, alleged to specialize in producing drug-laced cakes and cookies for parties and social gatherings.
The suspect was arrested at his residence in the Life Camp area of Abuja following intelligence reports. Officers recovered 800 grammes of skunk and 2.7 kilogrammes of drug-infused cookies from the premises.
Elsewhere, NDLEA operatives in Ogun State recovered 181 kilogrammes of skunk from a suspect, Aliyu Sani, during a raid in the Ogere area.
In Taraba State, 27-year-old Sufiyanu Mohammed Misa was arrested along the Zaki-Biam road in Wukari Local Government Area with 105,850 pills of opioids, including tramadol, diazepam, and exol-5.
Two suspects, Adeleke Aliyah, 20, and Aloba Abdulazeez, 25, were also arrested in Saki town, Oyo State, in connection with the seizure of 99 litres of skuchies, a cocktail of illicit substances.
In Edo State, NDLEA officers destroyed 1,388.4175 kilogrammes of skunk on two farms during a raid on Ago forest in Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
In Kano State, operatives recovered 1.2 kilogrammes of tramaking 225mg pills concealed in a 25-litre jerry can of palm oil at Kofar Ruwa motor park. Another suspect, Aminu Isa, was arrested with 30.5 kilogrammes of skunk at Sabuwar Sharada area of the state.
Beyond enforcement operations, the agency said its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization campaign continued across the country with awareness lectures delivered in schools in Oyo, Niger, Lagos, Katsina, Ekiti, and Kano states.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa, commended officers of the agency’s commands in Delta, Kaduna, Oyo, Taraba, Kano, the FCT, and Edo states for the successful operations.
He assured that the agency remained committed to sustaining a balance between reducing drug supply and intensifying drug demand reduction campaigns nationwide.
NDLEA Intercepts Cocaine, Opioids Hidden in Carton Walls Bound for UK, Australia
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PAIMUN President Calls for Urgent Action to Bridge Digital Divide in Education
PAIMUN President Calls for Urgent Action to Bridge Digital Divide in Education
By: Michael Mike
The Presdent of the General Assembly of the Premiere Academy International Model United Nations (PAIMUN) 2026, H.E. Timilehin Adewuyi, has called on governments, international organisations and private institutions to intensify efforts toward bridging the digital divide and expanding access to technology-driven education across the world.p

Speaking during the second session of the PAIMUN General Assembly held at the United Nations House in Abuja, Adewuyi described digital transformation in education as a critical tool for achieving sustainable development and preparing future generations for global leadership.
Addressing delegates, diplomats and education stakeholders, the PAIMUN President said the world has entered an era where education can no longer remain dependent on traditional methods, stressing that technology has become central to building inclusive, innovative and sustainable societies.
“It is my profound privilege, as President of the General Assembly, to address this august gathering on the topic: ‘Digital Transformation of the Educational Sector as a Driver of Sustainable Development,’” he stated.

According to him, digital innovation has fundamentally changed the way knowledge is accessed, shared and applied globally, opening new opportunities for students to learn beyond geographical and economic limitations.
He noted that digital classrooms, virtual libraries, artificial intelligence and online learning platforms are equipping young people with critical 21st-century skills such as creativity, collaboration, problem-solving and digital literacy.
Adewuyi stressed that these skills are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and positioning young people to compete effectively in the global economy.
Despite the growing opportunities presented by technology, the PAIMUN President warned that millions of students, particularly in developing countries, still face severe barriers due to poor internet connectivity, lack of electricity and inadequate access to digital devices.
He said sustainable development would remain unattainable if educational opportunities continue to be unequal across regions and social groups.
“Governments, international organizations, and private institutions must work collectively to bridge the digital divide and ensure that no learner is left behind in this technological revolution,” he said.
Adewuyi further described digital education as more than an innovation, calling it a strategic investment in humanity’s future.
He urged delegates at the conference to remain committed to policies that promote responsible and inclusive technology adoption in education systems worldwide.
“By embracing technology responsibly and inclusively, we empower the next generation to drive economic growth, social progress and environmental sustainability,” he added.
The PAIMUN conference, hosted by Premiere Academy, brought together student delegates simulating the United Nations General Assembly to debate global issues and propose solutions through diplomacy, dialogue and policy engagement.
The event focused extensively on how digital transformation can strengthen education systems, reduce inequalities and accelerate sustainable development across nations.
PAIMUN President Calls for Urgent Action to Bridge Digital Divide in Education
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Troops Neutralise Two Terrorists in Night Ambush Operation in Borno
Troops Neutralise Two Terrorists in Night Ambush Operation in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have neutralised two suspected terrorists during a night ambush operation in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State.
Security sources said the operation, conducted under Operation Desert Sanity/Siege Operations, took place at about 11:05 p.m. on May 13, 2026, at Bazamri village, a location identified as a major crossing point for members of the ISWAP.

According to the sources, troops laying ambush at the location intercepted and engaged the terrorists in a firefight, resulting in the neutralisation of two insurgents.
Following the encounter, troops carried out exploitation of the area and recovered several items suspected to be logistics supplies for the terrorists.
Recovered items included 54 packs of 80-gram detergent, 32 packs of 500-gram salt and one carton of spaghetti.
Military authorities confirmed that no casualty was recorded among the troops during the operation.
The ambush team was said to have subsequently changed position and continued surveillance and waiting operations in the area as part of sustained offensive actions against terrorist movements.
Security sources added that troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remained satisfactory, while offensive operations across the theatre continued.
Troops Neutralise Two Terrorists in Night Ambush Operation in Borno
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