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FG Promises to Secure Abuja from Environment, Climate Disasters

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FG Promises to Secure Abuja from Environment, Climate Disasters0

By: Michael Mike

The federal government said it would be moving headlong to secure the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja from imminent environment and climate disasters.

The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal assured of the nation’s commitment to its environmental and climate action goals, initiated in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and through targeted policies and programmes.

Speaking Tuesday in Abuja, during the 2025 Abuja City Environmental Sustainability Summit, with the theme ‘Sustainable Urban Transformation: Building a resilient and green Abuja ‘, Lawal said climate impacts as well as great green wall and agro climate resilience in semi-arid landscape projects were undertaken by the ministry, which adapts to the impact of climate change, which promote just, equitable and inclusive growth.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mahmud Kambari, the Minister said the ministry has demonstrated a growing commitment in developing and implementing policies and initiatives that integrate ecosystem restoration and sustainable management.

He noted that Abuja city faces a significant environmental and transportation related issues, ranging from frequent flooding, poor waste management to traffic congestion, air pollution and rising greenhouse gas emissions, adding that these are not just any environmental problems, but developmental issues as they impact on our health, economy, livelihood and quality of life.

He said: “We need to enhance a new flooding that reduces our environmental footprint, promotes circular economy and prioritizes people, livelihood and economies in the planet. To achieve this Sustainable pathway in Abuja’s city, a green city planning and sustainable urban transformation system prioritizing public transport, electric vehicles, cycling and walking and promote the development of green spaces, energy efficient building. Renewables and use of smart innovative technologies, to optimize resource use and reduce the environmental impact.

“It is important to note that this city are at high risk of environment and climate related disasters, which includes insecurity and other risks essential to environment and climate related issues. The ministry asalin demonstrated a growing commitment in developing and implementing policies and initiatives that integrate ecosystem restoration and sustainable management such as National clean cooking policy, national gender policy, national adaptation plan and circular economy, which aims to enhance resilience of Nigerians and reduce vulnerability.

“Climate impacts as well as great green wall and agro climate resilience in semi-arid landscape projects were undertaken by the ministry, which adapts to the impact of climate change, which promote just, equitable and inclusive growth.

“Nigeria remains committed to its environmental and climate action goals initiated in line with Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President and through targeted policies and programs. We will continue to prioritize nature based solutions and ecosystem restoration and adaptive capacity at all levels.

“To this end we must be intentional to embark on transformative development pathway that will transition us yo low carbon economy, protect and restore. Biosafety, combat pollution, promote innovation, sustainable consumption as well as green jobs.

“I commend the organizers. Of this initiative for their dedication to driving climate change and empowering communities. With practical solutions. I also urge all stakeholders to seize this opportunity to strengthen partnership, share best practices and advance policies that will ensure more resilient and sustainable future for Nigeria.”

Speaking earlier, the Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters, Comrade Yussuf Kelani, said the summit will showcase the urban redevelopment efforts currently being spearheaded by the FCTA, saying the efforts play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, promoting environmental sustainability and improving the quality of life in Abuja.

He said: “Climate change has emerged as a paramount environmental concern, standing as the most pressing issue globally, and Nigeria is no exception to its ramifications. Regrettably, a significant portion of the populace remains uninformed about the imminent perils we face and the underlying causes of major community calamities we’ve endured.

“The imperative to incorporate climate change adaptation strategies into development agendas is growing ever more urgent. Nonetheless, a lack of awareness or comprehension regarding pivotal issues surrounding vulnerability and adaptation can impede the much-needed response.

“The impacts of climate change manifest divergently across various regions of Nigeria. The Northern part contends with the adversities of drought and desert encroachment, while the Southern regions grapple with inundation due to their low-lying terrain and dense tropical vegetation. The central belt confronts gully erosion, compounded by being a focal point for communal conflicts spurred by the repercussions of climate change.

“Assuming the role of Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters, I bear the responsibility of advancing the Presidency’s initiatives and programs concerning climate change intervention, fostering engagement with Nigerians and stakeholders across all pertinent sectors.

“My team is carrying out this assignment along the mandates and responsibilities of my office. We have since deployed our working strategies in realizing the aforementioned objectives and execute the above official responsibilities through the Presidential Climate Change Action and Resilience Enhancement Scheme (P-CARES), a workplan platform for my office, which was launched in May 2024 to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital, faces numerous environmental challenges, including rapid urbanization, waste management issues, and climate change impacts. The Abuja Environmental Summit seeks to address these challenges by fostering collaboration among government entities, private sector leaders, environmental experts, and civil society organizations. The summit will focus on developing sustainable urban solutions that can be implemented to ensure Abuja’s transformation into a resilient and green city.

“This summit is designed to be a pivotal event focused on advancing sustainable urban development practices in Abuja. With the goal of accelerating the implementation of eco-conscious urbanization strategies, the summit will provide a platform for fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, including government representatives, urban planners, environmentalists, and the private sector. Additionally, it will aim to build the capacity of local government officials and engage the public in efforts to transform Abuja into a leading model of climate-resilient urban growth. Through this event, the summit seeks to catalyze meaningful change in the way urban spaces are managed, ensuring a more sustainable, and environmentally-friendly future for the city.

“With urbanization increasingly affecting our environment, it is crucial to adopt sustainable practices ensure a resilient and eco-friendly future. The summit will act as a catalyst for change and will directly contribute to the ongoing efforts of the federal government in addressing climate change and building sustainable cities. Through this summit, we aim to address these critical issues and propel Abuja to the forefront of sustainable urban development.”

He added: “This summit will showcase the urban redevelopment efforts currently being spearheaded by the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Special focus will be placed on key initiatives such as tree planting and urban greening, which significantly to carbon capture and the improvement of urban air quality. These efforts play a crucial role in mitigating climate change, promoting environmental sustainability, and improving the quality of life in Abuja.

“The summit will provide targeted capacity-building Workshops for local government officials from the six area councils of Abuja. Training will focus on facility management, sustainable urban practices, and waste management. These workshops will equip officials with the skills and knowledge needed to better manage urban spaces and contribute to promoting sustainable practices at the grassroots level, further enhancing the eco-friendliness of Abuja.

“A key component of the summit will be the Waste to Wealth initiative. This program will train young people in sustainable others management practices, empowering them to view waste as a resource that can be converted into valuable products.

“Participants, including local government officials, youth, and other stakeholders, will be empowered with the knowledge and tools to drive sustainable change in Abuja.

“The summit will catalyze the development of actionable policies and strategies that support the growth of environmentally-friendly urban spaces in Abuja.

“The Waste to Wealth program will create economic opportunities for youth while contributing to environmental sustainability, making a lasting impact on both the local economy and the city’s waste management system.

“The summit will help forge lasting partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society, which will be crucial for ongoing collaboration in the drive for sustainable urban development.”

On his part, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, who was represented by the Special Adviser (Technical), Prof Babatunde Bernard, said Abuja is for all Nigerians, hence we must jointly come together to be able to take care of it in a more sustainable way.

“So, it’s like I corrected one of the speakers, it’s a conscious effort by all of us, the government and the people themselves. The awareness is being created, we have a national waste management, we have now a climate change and then we have quite a lot of government efforts towards this climate change issues to have a sustainable city.

“Abuja is for all of us. It’s the capital city of Nigeria, so it’s a place for all of us and we must jointly come together to be able to take care of it in a more sustainable way,” he said.

FG Promises to Secure Abuja from Environment, Climate Disasters

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Troops repel another ISWAP ambush, recover arms, motorcycles in Magumeri

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Troops repel another ISWAP ambush, recover arms, motorcycles in Magumeri

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have foiled a series of ambush attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists along the Damasak–Gubio road in Magumeri axis of Borno State.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the troops, who were on a fighting patrol as part of Operation Desert Sanity IV, came under fire from suspected terrorists on arrival at Binduldul.

Sources stated that the troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee in disarray. Reinforcements led by the Commanding Officer of the Battalion later exploited the scene, recovering two motorcycles, one AK-47 rifle, five blankets, three praying mats, a spare motorcycle tyre and two gallons of engine oil.

The sources added that one terrorist was neutralised during the encounter.

Furthermore, at about 3:05 p.m. on the same day, while withdrawing from the area, the troops encountered another ambush involving an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack followed by heavy gunfire from ISWAP fighters near Kardio village.

The soldiers successfully repelled the assault, safely detonated another IED along their main supply route, and returned to base without any casualty.

Photographs from the operation indicated successful recovery of items and neutralisation of threats in the area.

Troops repel another ISWAP ambush, recover arms, motorcycles in Magumeri

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One killed, three injured as gunmen attack farmers in Plateau

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One killed, three injured as gunmen attack farmers in Plateau

By: Zagazola Makama

The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the death of one person and injuries to three others following an attack by suspected Fulani militias on Kopmur village, Mushere District, Bokkos Local Government Area.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the incident occurred on Oct. 22 at about 4:00 p.m., when the armed assailants stormed a house where some local farmers had taken shelter and opened fire.

The attack led to the death of Dashan Mwanar, 42, while Sonma Mwanar, 32, Kyenkyes Dakup, 26, and Joy Vumshak, 25, sustained varying degrees of injuries.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Bokkos Division, led a team to the scene, where the injured victims were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.

The police said the deceased’s remains had been released to his relatives for burial after the family declined an autopsy.

Meanwhile, sources assured that investigation is ongoing, with intensified efforts to apprehend the culprits and prevent further attacks in the area.

One killed, three injured as gunmen attack farmers in Plateau

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FCT Police, vigilantes comb bushes to rescue abducted school principal, daughter in Abuja

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FCT Police, vigilantes comb bushes to rescue abducted school principal, daughter in Abuja

By: Zagazola Makama

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has intensified search and rescue operations following the abduction of a school principal and his daughter in Abaji Area Council of the FCT.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the incident occurred on Oct. 22, 2025, at about 3:00 a.m., when a group of armed kidnappers invaded the residence of Mr. Zakari Yelwa, Principal of Narati Government Secondary School, located opposite the Technical College, Abaji.

The assailants reportedly forced open the door to the residence and abducted Mr. Yelwa and his daughter, Hafsat Zakari, to an unknown destination.

Upon receipt of the distress call, a combined team of police operatives, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, vigilante groups, and local hunters was immediately deployed to the scene.

The team has since launched a coordinated search operation, combing the surrounding bushes and hills in a bid to rescue the victims and apprehend the kidnappers.

Police authorities assured residents of Abaji that all efforts are being made to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and urged the public to report any useful information that could aid the ongoing operation.

FCT Police, vigilantes comb bushes to rescue abducted school principal, daughter in Abuja

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