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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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Dabiri-Erewa Advises Youth, Hard Work Pays

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Dabiri-Erewa Advises Youth, Hard Work Pays

By: Michael Mike

Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has advised Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, discipline and dignity, saying these values open doors to success.

Speaking on Day Two of the 2025 National Diaspora Day Youth Empowerment Summit at the weekend in Abuja, Dabiri-Erewa shared her personal journey from journalism to national leadership.

She said: “As a journalist at NTA, I did my job well and was proud of it. That hard work got me nominated for a Harvard course, thanks to the then Rev. Father Kukah. Though the fee was $10,000, Arcor Group sponsored me. That changed my life.”

She added: “After Harvard, she left Newsline on NTA and entered into politics. With support from Senator Remi Tinubu and encouragement from now President Bola Tinubu, she contested and won a seat in the House of Representatives, serving for 12 years before becoming SSA on Diaspora and later NiDCOM boss.

“My hard work earned me respect. Wherever you are, work hard and carry yourself with dignity,” Dabiri-Erewa told the youth.

Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, on his part thanked the NIDCOM Boss for always involving the youth. “Commitment is the key to success,” he said, urging youth to stay focused and believe in their potential.

Speaking in the same vein, Hon. Bobby Digi-Olisa from New York, also advised youths to know themselves and take bold steps.

Similarly, Prof. Fene Osakwe advised youth to always make Nigeria proud wherever they find themselves.

On migration, Alex Oturu from National Commission For Refugees and Migration warned that overstaying visas or ignoring travel rules can make one an irregular migrant. He also cautioned youths on the risks of human trafficking.

Ms Pelumi Nubi, who drove from London to Lagos, encouraged youths to dream big despite challenges. “Start with what you have and trust yourself,” she said.

Miss Diaspora Nigeria-USA, Oyemen Ehikhamhen, also shared how the arts gave her purpose and confidence. “My crown is not just beauty — it’s a symbol of power and storytelling,” she said.

Twelve students were awarded laptops, with six overall science students sponsored by Arcor Group. Six desktops were also given to the schools, while others won laptops through a raffle draw.

The summit, which was part of the activities lined up for National Diaspora Day, continues to inspire youth to lead, innovate, and contribute to Nigeria’s growth, at home and abroad.

Dabiri-Erewa Advises Youth, Hard Work Pays

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Police arrest man for attempted suicide in Ogun church premises

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Police arrest man for attempted suicide in Ogun church premises

By: Zagazola Makama

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 29-year-old man, Victor Kalu, for attempted suicide at the premises of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) in Ibafo.

Zagazola Makama reports that the incident occurred late Friday night at about 10:45 p.m., when the suspect was caught trying to hang himself from an electric pole.

Police sources said that the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the church apprehended the suspect and handed him over to the police at about 10:10 a.m. on Saturday.

Kalu, a resident of Plot 7, Oluwa Sesan Street, Ejigbo Road, Ikotun, Lagos State, confessed during interrogation that he attempted to end his life due to mounting financial pressure from a loan he obtained from an online bank.

“He said the lender had threatened him to repay the loan, and with no hope of getting the money, he decided to hang himself on the electric pole at the church premises,” the police sources said.

Police detectives visited the scene, recorded statements from the complainant and the suspect, and took photographs for documentation.

The command said the suspect is in custody and the case is under investigation.

Police arrest man for attempted suicide in Ogun church premises

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VP Shettima Arrives In Addis Ababa For UN Food Systems Summit

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VP Shettima Arrives In Addis Ababa For UN Food Systems Summit

** Nigeria gifts Ethiopia 2,000 cashew seedlings

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has arrived in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, to represent Nigeria at the second United Nations (UN) Food Systems Summit being held from July 27 to 29.

The Vice President’s aircraft touched the ground around 4:26 p.m. local time at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

On arrival, he was received by the Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy, Ethiopia, Amb. Nasir Aminu, Dr. Suleiman Dauda, Finance Attaché, Wing Commander Gabriel Batubo, Deputy Defence Attaché (Air Force) to Ethiopia, the Deputy Head of Mission, Amb. Macy Ogbede, First Secretary, Mr. Jangado Ishaku, and other top officials of the embassy.

Immediately after his arrival, the Vice President met with members of the Nigerian delegation, including the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy to Ethiopia, Amb. Nasir Aminu, and the Technical Assistant to the President on Agriculture and Executive Secretary of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU), Marion Moon, among others. During the meeting, he was briefed on Nigeria’s expected deliverables at the summit.

VP Shettima will join global leaders at the high-level event on advancing the transformation of the coffee value chain, roundtables and meetings aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s food security drive. #UNFSS2025

The summit will bring together global leaders to reflect on progress made since the inaugural 2021 UN Food Systems Summit and accelerate commitments towards building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems.

The Vice President will also participate in other events on the sidelines of the summit, designed to spotlight real-world examples of food systems transformation, promote knowledge exchange and partnership.

One of the events on the sidelines of the summit is a ministerial roundtable on public finance, trade, and responsible investment to accelerate the transition, field trips, and networking sessions.

At a recent briefing by the Task Force on the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit, VP Shettima had outlined three key objectives for Nigeria’s delegation: positioning Nigeria as a leader of thought on African food systems reform, leveraging international partnerships aligned with domestic priorities, and advancing a private sector-led model for continental food transformation.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has presented Ethiopia with 2,000 cashew seedlings and 100,000 cashew seeds.

The donation, sufficient to cultivate approximately 600 hectares of land, was received by Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr. Efa Muleta Boru, as part of a shared commitment between both nations to sustainable agricultural development across Africa.

The exchange builds on Ethiopia’s earlier donation of 2,000 Haas avocado seedlings and 2,000 coffee seedlings to Nigeria in June 2025.

The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agricultural transformation agenda and highlights Nigeria’s commitment to “Green Revolution Diplomacy” as a tool for strengthening diplomatic ties while addressing food security challenges.

VP Shettima Arrives In Addis Ababa For UN Food Systems Summit

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