News
Food Security: Statutory Agencies Asked to Mitigate to Adverse Effects of Climate Change
Food Security: Statutory Agencies Asked to Mitigate to Adverse Effects of Climate Change
By: Michael Mike
All relevant institutional and statutory agencies have been asked to adequately respond to and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and food production in order to ensure food security in the country.
Speaking at the First Regional Workshop on Climate Smart Soil in Abuja organized by the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in collaboration with African Climate Action Partnership, the Chairman of House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change, Hon. Chris Nkwonta said soils are integral to the functions of all terrestrial ecosystems and to increased and sustainable food production.
He noted that: “Consequently, conscious efforts must be made by relevant institutional and statutory agencies to adequately respond to and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and food production.”
The lawmaker said “climate change is currently disrupting agriculture and food production in every corner of the world, from droughts or floods that damage crops to rising seas and other environmental pollutions that threaten rural and agricultural communities.
“In the context of climate change, agriculture faces complex and unique problems. Crop production is directly dependent on natural resources, weather and climatic conditions. As a result of raising temperatures, variable rainfalls, environmental pollutions, invasive and alien species of pest and other unpredictable environmental factors have invariably exposed farmers and agricultural communities to several challenges that are inimical to increased food production and sustainable food security.
“The aforementioned environmental challenges adversely affecting farmers and food producers tend to worsen as climate change issues accelerates globally, making it most critical to implement mitigation strategies and appropriate responses as soon as possible to curb it’s long-term negative impacts on food production and food security.”
He asked that a blend of climate smart soil and agriculture must be emplaced to transform farming with the aim of delivering positive outcomes on the basis of adaptations and mitigations to support and improve food security under the new realities of global climate change.
Nkwonta said: “It is my believe that this workshop is a catalyst towards achieving improved food security in the country in line with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
In a goodwill message, the Chairman, Security, Special Intervention and Climate Change, North East Development Commission (NEDC), Rep. Sam Onuigbo
said: “Today’s event organized by the National Council on Climate Change in collaboration with the African Climate Action Partnership, is extremely important because it recognizes the critical intersection between healthy soil, climate change, hunger, poverty, and the consequent diseases and insecurity that come from them. As we all know, without fertile soils, we cannot grow food, and without food, there will be hunger, loss of livelihood means for land-dependent people, displacement, forced migration, climate refugees, insecurity and conflict arising from competition for scare resources.”
He noted that: “The United Nations has recognized the critical link between Climate Change and food security. The UN Resolution 68/212 of December 20, 2013, reaffirmed that “Climate Change is one of the greatest challenges of our time…, particularly developing countries are vulnerable to the adverse impacts… including persistent drought and extreme weather events, sea-level rise, coastal erosion and ocean acidification, further threatening food security and efforts to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development and in this regard emphasizes that adaptation to climate change represents an immediate and urgent global priority.”
He noted that: “With an area of 923,769 square kilometers and an ever-increasing population of about 223million people, 70 percent of which depend on agriculture as a means of livelihood, the recurrent issues of losing arable land to desertification, erosion, drought, and unsustainable agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU) has opened up the country to the danger of food insecurity. As changes in temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather events continue to challenge our agricultural sector, sustainable soil management practices and initiatives aimed at increasing soil organic carbon sequestration hold the promise of addressing food security, mitigation, and adaptation challenges.”
He said “mechanization is absolutely essential, good quality seeds, fertilization, improved agricultural practices, smart agriculture, these are the solutions we seek because the whole mantra is on increase in yield.”
Onuigbo further said: “The degradation of our soils, especially in Africa, is a pressing concern that impacts not only our food security but also our ability to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to a changing climate. According to the World Bank, the consequences of soil degradation have far-reaching effects, particularly for the agricultural sector which employs more than half of Africa’s workforce, and accounts for 30-40 percent of its GDP.
“Increasing the availability of arable land must start from climate-smart and sustainable soil practices which I am happy that this event is about. We can produce enough food to feed our nations, and the continent of Africa, attract foreign direct investment, earn foreign exchange and create employment. So, what we are doing here today, and what the potentialities are, provide an optimistic springboard for addressing some of the most germane challenges we face in the country.”
On his part, the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr. Salisu Dahiru said the workshop was organized with a deep sense of purpose and urgency, recognizing the pivotal role that soil plays in shaping the future of our nation and the world at large.
Dahiru, who was by the Deputy DG, Mrs. Halima Bawa Bwari said: “Soil health, food security, and climate change are inextricably linked, forming a triad that demands our immediate attention and concerted efforts. The state of our soils directly impacts our ability to feed a growing global population, adapt to a changing climate, and mitigate its effects. It is a complex challenge that requires the prioritization of Adaptation and Climate Smart Agriculture in line with Nigeria’s NDCs as well as a holistic approach, collaboration, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders involved.”
Food Security: Statutory Agencies Asked to Mitigate to Adverse Effects of Climate Change
News
Borno Agency for the Great Green Wall Plants Trees at Key Infrastructure Projects to Combat Desertification
Borno Agency for the Great Green Wall Plants Trees at Key Infrastructure Projects to Combat Desertification
The Borno State Agency for the Great Green Wall (BAGGW) has taken significant strides in its mission to mitigate climate change, combat desertification, and restore the environment in Borno State. As part of its ongoing efforts to address desert encroachment, the Agency has launched a tree planting initiative at newly commissioned infrastructures across the state.
Following the directives of His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum CON, the Executive Governor of Borno State, the Agency recently planted a total of 700 seedlings at several key locations. These efforts are aimed at replacing depleted vegetation due to urban development and contributing to the greening of Borno.
By: Our Reporter
At the Higher Day Islamic School in Miringa, 400 seedlings were planted, marking a significant contribution to the environmental sustainability of the school’s grounds. The Biu Dental and Eye Hospital, another important infrastructure project recently commissioned by Governor Zulum, saw 200 seedlings planted to enhance the ecological balance around the hospital. Additionally, 100 seedlings were planted at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Shaffa, located in the Hawul Local Government Area, further reinforcing the state’s commitment to environmental preservation.
In a move to create lasting green spaces across the state, the agency also initiated the establishment of the ‘Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum CON Green Zone,’ a dedicated area aimed at counteracting the effects of desertification and promoting environmental sustainability.
Amb. Usman Aliyu, the Director-General of the Borno State Agency for the Great Green Wall, confirmed that the tree planting initiatives are part of the broader goals of the Agency to create green zones within major urban and rural centers of Borno. As part of this, the Agency continues to engage in activities such as soil restoration, afforestation, and community awareness programs, all designed to protect and preserve Borno’s natural environment for future generations.
In addition to the tree planting efforts, the Borno Agency for the Great Green Wall is actively working to combat the effects of climate change in the state by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, supporting local farmers, and rehabilitating degraded land. These initiatives are crucial not only for restoring the environment but also for improving the livelihoods of Borno’s residents.
This ongoing commitment to environmental restoration aligns with Governor Zulum’s vision for a greener, more sustainable Borno, and sets a strong example for other regions facing similar environmental challenges. The planting of trees at these commissioned infrastructures is a powerful symbol of Borno State’s determination to tackle desertification and climate change while ensuring a healthy future for its people.
Through these collective efforts, the Borno State Agency for the Great Green Wall continues to lead the way in creating a greener, more resilient environment for all.
Borno Agency for the Great Green Wall Plants Trees at Key Infrastructure Projects to Combat Desertification
NSCDC Arrests 17 Vandals for Attacks on Pipelines in Niger Delta
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 17 suspected vandals for their alleged role in the killing of an officer of the corps during an operation in the Niger Delta.
A statement by the spokesman of the corps, Afolabi Babawale on Monday read that the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad [CG’S SIS] in a tactically coordinated Intelligence base operations have arrested 17 suspects for the alleged role played in a renewed hostility attack on oil and gas Installations in the Niger Delta region.
They were accused of attacking NSCDC Operatives and Tantita Security Service base which led to the killing of Assistant Superintendent Umar Aliyu with Service number 6363 and stealing of a speed boat belonging to Tantita Security Services.
Speaking on the arrest, the CG’S SIS Boss Commandant Apollo Dandaura hinted that a high profile syndicates of 17 sea pirates were arrested by his men in synergy with other sisters security agencies, following an intelligence base coordinated operations at Tonogbe, Ekeremo Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on 6th March, 2025.
He said: “Earlier in January 21st, 2025, there was an attack against the Joint Task Force combining operatives of the NSCDC and Tantita Security Services at their Base in Torugbene II unit at Ekeremo LGA in Bayelsa State by suspected vandals and Sea pirates who were heavily armed with sophisticated weapons”.
“Upon arrival at the base, they shot sporadically at the officers and innocent civilians which led to the killing of ASC Umar Aliyu, his Ak 47 official Riffle was carted away, Ebikame Seimeneyefa of Tantita Security was shot and Tantita Speed Boat was also hijacked and stolen”.
Dandaura disclosed that an intensive undercover and investigative operation was carried out in synergy with sisters security agencies and Tantita, which led to successful tracking and arrest of the 17 suspects.
He said: “We mounted a round the clock and relentless onslaught against the suspects in collaborations with sisters security agencies and the Tantita Security and succeeded in smashing the 17 deadly Sea pirates led by a notorious vandal, kidnapper and armed robber called Ziakede Amatu, who hails from Norgbene community in Ekeremo, Bayelsa State and has been terrorizing the community and all neighbouring states.
“From our preliminary investigation carried out by the Commandant General Special Intelligence Squad squad, the suspects volunteered the following information stating that the same syndicate launched attack against the State Honourable Minister of Petroleum, Hon. Lokpobiri Heineken at his residence on the 1st of January this year.
“According to the kingpin, while engaging in illegal refining of petroleum products in 2023 at Abonima Rivers State, he worked under another notorious suspect called “Emergency ” (Original name unknown); they had 7 Ak 47 which was kept safe in the forest but after refining the products one day the suspect Emergency left suddenly and never returned.
“Ziakede Amatu later migrated from Rivers to Bayelsa State and hinted some Elders in his community about the seven [7] Ak 47 Riffles in which he was advised to withdraw them from the hide out and use them for protection of the community.
“The Suspect, Ziakede after a failed attempt to join the Tantita Security Services, procured Tantita Security Services uniforms to use in his renewed hostility attack on oil installations in order to divert attention, disguise and destroy the good work of Tantita Security while carrying out their dastardly act.
“Further confession revealed that the suspects embarked on this mischievous blackmail against the Tantita Security Chairman, Ekpemupolo Owiezide Government aka Tompolo since they could not infiltrate and get some Surveillance contracts sublet to them; hence the move to vandalise Oil and Gas Installations and this culminated to the attack on NSCDC and Tantita Operatives, leading to the killing of the late officer.”
The exhibits recovered are one AK47 Riffle, two empty Ak47 magazines, charms, 15 Tantita Security uniform (shirt and trouser), 15 Tantita Security T-shirt and 15 black boots.
TheCommander CG’S SIS thanked the NSCDC Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi for enabling the Squad to carry out her responsibilities with necessary logistic support which has engendered its remarkable achievements in fighting crimes and criminalities, combating illegal bunkering activities in the Niger Delta, carrying out Investigative operations and dislodging criminal minded persons from their hideouts.
He noted that with the ongoing thorough investigation, other suspects would be apprehended in due course and made to face the full wrath of the law.
NSCDC Arrests 17 Vandals for Attacks on Pipelines in Niger Delta
Man Arrested for Killing Sister-in-Law in Kano
By: Zagazola Makama
The Kano State Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old man, Anas Yakubu, for allegedly killing his sister-in-law, Fatima Adamu, in Baura Village, Albasu Local Government Area.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on March 16 at about 12:30 p.m. following a misunderstanding between the suspect and the victim.
“Yakubu allegedly hit Adamu, 35, with a pestle on her head, causing severe injuries. She was rushed to the General Hospital in Albasu, where she was confirmed dead by medical personnel,” the spokesperson said.
Police have arrested the suspect, and released the victim’s body to her relatives for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Man Arrested for Killing Sister-in-Law in Kano
Nigeria, Cuba Strengthen Ties, Pledge Deeper Cooperation
Nigeria, Cuba sign MoU to improve bilateral relations
Borno Agency for the Great Green Wall Plants Trees at Key Infrastructure Projects to Combat Desertification
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
News1 year agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News12 months agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions3 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
Columns1 year agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
ACADEMICS1 year agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Opinions1 year agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
National News1 year agoFraud and Mismanagement Rock INGO’s IDP Cash Assistance Effort in Bama
