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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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Zulum: Consensus Remains Preferred Option for APC Primaries in Borno

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May 15, 2026

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Zulum: Consensus Remains Preferred Option for APC Primaries in Borno

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on aspirants seeking various elective positions under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and party stakeholders to adopt consensus as the preferred mode for candidate emergence ahead of the party primaries.

The APC primary elections are scheduled to commence on Friday, 15 May, with the House of Representatives primaries and climax on Saturday, 23 May, with the presidential primaries.

Governor Zulum made the call on Thursday during a critical stakeholders’ meeting held at the Multipurpose Hall of the Government House in Maiduguri, stressing that consensus remains the most viable option for strengthening party unity.

“Let me start by appreciating all our stakeholders for the support and commitment to advancing the course of our great party, APC, and our administration,” Zulum said.

“As we prepare for the party primaries, which will commence on Friday, I want to remind all our aspirants contesting various elective positions that consensus is the best and most viable option for the party in our state. However, if we are unable to arrive at a consensus, we will go for direct primaries,” he added.

The governor further emphasized his commitment to democratic principles, assuring stakeholders that no candidate would be imposed on any constituency.

“As a democrat, I will not force any candidate on a particular constituency, but rather encourage us to continue consultations with stakeholders for consensus candidates to emerge,” Zulum stated.

He urged aspirants to reflect on the past, project better opportunities in the future and maintain party loyalty, noting that those who may not secure tickets in the 2027 elections could still have chances ahead.

Governor Zulum also announced that aspirants who voluntarily withdraw from contests would be considered for appointments and other opportunities at both the federal and state levels.

To facilitate consultations across the state, the governor constituted zonal consultative committees headed by the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, for the Southern Zone; APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, for the Central Zone; and Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno for the Northern Zone.

Governor Zulum also formally presented the APC consensus governorship candidate, Mustapha Gubio, to stakeholders, fulfilling the promise he made during the high-level stakeholders’ meeting held on 25 April.

APC Deputy National Chairman, Hon Ali Bukar Dalori, and State Chairman of the Party, Hon. Bello Ayuba, all re-echo the need for consensus as the means of primary election in the state.

They emphasized that consensus will strengthen party cohesion and unity in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.

The meeting was attended by prominent personalities, including Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, the APC consensus Gubernatorial candidate, Engr Mustapha Gubio, APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori, Former Governor, Senator Maina Ma’aji Lawan, Senators Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Mohammed Ali Ndume, and Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN, serving and former members of the House of Representatives, APC state chairman, former Nigerian Ambassador to China, Amb. Baba Ahmed Jidda, Speaker, Borno State House of Assembly, and other members of the House.

Others include the Secretary to the state government, the acting Chief of Staff, the Commissioner’s designate, Special Advisers, Local Government Chairmen, APC party executives, and other stakeholders.

Zulum: Consensus Remains Preferred Option for APC Primaries in Borno

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Justice Crack’s bail plea suffers setback as two lawyers clash in court over representation

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1 hour ago

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May 15, 2026

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Justice Crack’s bail plea suffers setback as two lawyers clash in court over representation

By: Michael Mike

The bail application filed by
Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as Justice Crack, on Thursday suffered a setback at the Federal High Court in Abuja after two lawyers, Femi Balogun and Marshall Abubakar, clashed over who to represent him.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik had, on May 4, fixed today for hearing of Mark’s bail request shortly after he was arraigned by the Department of State Services (DSS) and pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge.

The adjournment followed an application by Mark’s lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, who told the court of the need to admit his client to bail pending trial.

The DSS had, in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/253/2026, sued Crack, as sole defendant over alleged cybercrime offences linked to a viral video concerning the Nigerian Army.

Mark was alleged to have circulated a false information and publication of materials capable of causing public unrest.

The defendant, who was reportedly arrested by the Nigerian Army, was accused of publishing the viral video and accompanying statements through his X handle, @JusticeCrack, alleging inadequate feeding of Nigerian soldiers.

When the case was called on Thursday, Leyii Abueh, from the Federal Ministry of Justice, informed the court that the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) had taken over the matter from the DSS in line with the relevant section of the law.

However, things took a dramatic twist as Femi Balogun and Abubakar stood up to announce appearance for the same Crack.

Balogun told the court that he was briefed by Mark’s family to take up the case.

He notified the court about the defence bail application already filed.

However, Abubakar stood his ground, insisting that he was the defendant’s lawyer, who had been appearing in the case and he had not been disengaged from handling Crack’s matter.

Justice Abdulmalik then asked the defendant to identify his lawyer and Mark pointed at Balogun.

Against this development, Abubakar applied to withdraw all the processes he filed in respect of the case, including the bail application which Balogun had relied on.

The judge struck out the processes filed by Abubakar and adjourned until May 18 for hearing of the fresh bail application.

Justice Crack’s bail plea suffers setback as two lawyers clash in court over representation

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Nigeria, Germany Deepen Strategic Partnership €65 Million Development Package, €300 Million Credit Facility and Expanded Economic Cooperation Announced

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May 15, 2026

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Nigeria, Germany Deepen Strategic Partnership €65 Million Development Package, €300 Million Credit Facility and Expanded Economic Cooperation Announced

By: Michael Mike

Nigeria and Germany have reinforced their long-standing development and economic partnership with new commitments spanning financial cooperation, private sector investment, skills development, energy transition, agriculture, and digital transformation.

The renewed collaboration was reaffirmed during high-level bilateral engagements and the signing of a Summary of Record in Abuja, where both governments reviewed progress in ongoing programmes and agreed on expanded areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s reform and development agenda.

Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, described the partnership as a key milestone in Nigeria–Germany relations, noting that it reflects shared priorities anchored on mutual respect, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth.

He expressed Nigeria’s appreciation to the Government of Germany, including the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, KfW Development Bank, GIZ, and other implementing partners, for what he described as constructive and forward-looking negotiations.

A major outcome of the engagements is Germany’s commitment of approximately €65 million in new financial and technical cooperation across agreed priority sectors. In addition, both countries discussed a proposed €300 million export credit guarantee framework, designed to mobilize private investment and expand long-term financing for strategic infrastructure and development projects in Nigeria.

Officials from both sides said the financing arrangements are intended not only to provide direct support but also to unlock broader capital flows into key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

The expanded partnership prioritizes agricultural transformation, climate and energy transition, skills development, health systems strengthening, and inclusive economic growth.

German institutions and private sector actors including Siemens and SAP played a visible role in the engagement, showcasing ongoing projects in Nigeria. Siemens highlighted its involvement in energy sector skills development and power infrastructure-related initiatives, while SAP presented digital solutions aimed at modernizing tax administration and strengthening Nigeria’s digital governance systems.

The German delegation, led by Africa Director at BMZ, Mr. Philip Knill, also referenced ambitions to support large-scale skills development programmes, including proposals aimed at training up to one million Nigerians in technical, digital, and vocational competencies to enhance productivity and employment outcomes.

Both sides acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including macroeconomic stabilization efforts, energy sector reforms, healthcare transformation, and initiatives to improve the investment climate and stimulate private sector-led growth.

Knill expressed confidence in Nigeria’s reform trajectory, describing the country as a key partner in Africa with significant potential for industrial expansion, agricultural modernization, and energy transition.

Nigeria, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all agreed programmes are nationally owned, properly coordinated, and aligned with long-term development frameworks, including the National Development Plan 2026–2030 and Agenda 2050.

As part of the broader engagement, German officials undertook field visits and technical discussions with Nigerian ministries and agencies, including energy infrastructure sites and development programme locations.

They highlighted existing cooperation outcomes, noting that joint Nigeria–Germany programmes have already supported hundreds of thousands of smallholder farmers, improved access to training, and strengthened thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises across the country. These interventions, they said, have contributed to increased incomes and improved productivity in key sectors.

In the energy sector, both sides discussed ongoing efforts to expand generation capacity and improve transmission systems, with Germany expressing readiness to continue supporting Nigeria’s power sector reforms and renewable energy ambitions.

A key feature of the engagement was the emphasis on development cooperation as a catalyst for private sector investment, innovation, and job creation. Officials stressed that future cooperation must go beyond aid, focusing instead on leveraging private capital and building sustainable economic partnerships.

Knill also noted the importance of strengthening economic ties between Europe and Africa in the context of global instability, including conflicts, supply chain disruptions, and climate-related challenges.

Both governments described the agreements not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of deeper implementation-focused cooperation.

German officials emphasized a “signing today, implementation tomorrow” approach, underscoring the importance of translating agreements into measurable development outcomes. Nigeria echoed this position, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring effective coordination and delivery of agreed programmes.

The renewed Nigeria–Germany partnership marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral cooperation across economic, technological, and development sectors. With fresh financing commitments, expanded private sector involvement, and a shared focus on structural reforms and human capital development, both countries say they are positioning the partnership for greater impact in the years ahead.

The engagement is expected to accelerate ongoing programmes and open new pathways for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth across Nigeria’s priority sectors, particularly energy, agriculture, digital economy, and skills development.

Nigeria, Germany Deepen Strategic Partnership €65 Million Development Package, €300 Million Credit Facility and Expanded Economic Cooperation Announced

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