CONSERVATIONS NIGERIA

Category: News

  • Hippopotamus Kills 60-Year-Old Guard in Kebbi

    Hippopotamus Kills 60-Year-Old Guard in Kebbi

    In a tragic incident on Sunday, a 60-year-old man, Malam Usman Maigadi, was killed by a hippopotamus while fishing in the Yauri River, Kebbi State. Maigadi, who worked as a guard at the Emir of Yauri’s Orchard Farm, was reportedly attacked by a mother hippopotamus, likely defending her calf.

    The attack occurred in Tillo Village within Yauri Local Government, and it is believed that the animal may have perceived Maigadi’s presence as a threat to her young. Such behaviour is not uncommon in wildlife, particularly with animals known to fiercely protect their offspring.

    The Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Alhaji Abubakar Shu’aibu, confirmed Maigadi’s burial, which took place according to Islamic rites. Governor Nasir Idris, in a statement through his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, extended his condolences to the Yauri Emirate and the family of the deceased, urging them to accept the will of Allah in good faith.

    Understanding Wildlife Behavior

    Although such incidents are rare, they help us understand the delicate balance between humans and wildlife, especially in regions where natural habitats overlap with human activities. Animals, including large species like the hippopotamus, are instinctively protective of their territory and young. Encounters that result in human casualties occur mainly because an animal feels threatened not because of a hostile disposition.

    It matters to note that animals act on instinct, with survival and protection of their young being their primary motivators. Human-wildlife conflicts often arise due to unintentional encroachment on animal habitats, not out of malice from either side. With this in mind, we can foster a greater respect for wildlife and continue working towards peaceful coexistence.

    The next article provides greater insight into wildlife behaviour. Read

  • Zero Emissions Day 2024: Give Our Planet One Day Off a Year

    Zero Emissions Day 2024: Give Our Planet One Day Off a Year

    On September 21st, we celebrate Zero Emissions Day, a global effort to give our planet a much-needed break. This year’s theme, “Give our planet one day off a year,” reminds us of our duty to reduce pollution and live in a way that protects the environment.

    Zero Emissions Day began in 2008 when Ken Wallace from Nova Scotia, Canada, proposed a day dedicated to stopping the use of fossil fuels. What started as a local initiative has grown into a worldwide movement, calling on individuals, companies, and governments to cut back on carbon-based energy for just 24 hours. The day’s mission is clear: reduce carbon emissions, promote clean energy, and raise awareness about the negative effects of burning fossil fuels.

    There are many ways to take part in Zero Emissions Day and make a real impact:

    • Eat less meat: Did you know that vegans produce 76% fewer greenhouse gases than those who regularly eat meat? Even reducing your meat intake can lower your environmental footprint by 30%.
    • Make creative choices: Instead of watching TV and ordering takeout, try cooking a homemade meal and enjoy an evening of games by candlelight.
    • Shop secondhand: Consider buying clothes from a thrift store instead of supporting fast fashion. This small change helps reduce waste and pollution.
    • Refill and reuse: Fill jars with dry goods like lentils or quinoa at a local refillery instead of purchasing pre-packaged items. Learn more

    These simple actions—whether turning off lights, using public transport, or planting trees—make a difference. As climate change continues to threaten our planet, observing Zero Emissions Day is a reminder that every effort, big or small, helps protect the environment for future generations. This year, let’s all give our planet the break it deserves.

  • Celebrating the 2024 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

    Celebrating the 2024 International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer

    Tomorrow, September 16, the world will once again come together to celebrate the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Proclaimed by the United Nations, this day commemorates the signing of the Montreal Protocol in 1987, a landmark environmental treaty designed to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer. This year’s theme, “Ozone for Life: 35 Years of Global Cooperation,” underscores the collective global efforts that have protected this critical shield and highlight the successes that continue to emerge.

    Why the Ozone Layer Matters

    The ozone layer plays an irreplaceable role in protecting life on Earth. Positioned in the stratosphere, approximately 10 to 50 kilometres above the Earth’s surface, the ozone layer absorbs the majority of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Without this natural barrier, life on Earth would face a heightened risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and extensive damage to ecosystems and crops.

    The Global Alarm and Response

    In the late 1970s, scientists made the alarming discovery that human activities, particularly the use of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in products like aerosols and refrigerators, were causing a significant thinning of the ozone layer, often referred to as the “ozone hole.” The discovery was a wake-up call that spurred urgent international action.

    Through the Montreal Protocol, nations committed to drastically reduce the use of ODSs, and the results have been remarkable. The protocol has succeeded in eliminating 99% of all ozone-depleting substances and is widely regarded as one of the most successful environmental agreements in history. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) predicts that the ozone layer will return to pre-1980 levels by mid-century, provided the global community continues to honour the commitments made under the protocol.

    The Theme for 2024: Ozone for Life

    This year’s theme, “Ozone for Life: 35 Years of Global Cooperation,” highlights not only the ozone layer’s role in sustaining life but also the enduring cooperation among nations to ensure its recovery. The Montreal Protocol is a model of how collective global action, grounded in science, can effectively combat pressing environmental challenges. This cooperation has also yielded co-benefits in the fight against climate change, as many ODSs are also powerful greenhouse gases.

    Key Benefits of the Ozone Layer

    • Protecting Human Health: By filtering out harmful UV radiation, the ozone layer reduces the risk of skin cancer and eye cataracts among humans.
    • Safeguarding Ecosystems: UV radiation can damage sensitive plant species, crops, and aquatic ecosystems. The ozone layer helps maintain the balance and health of these ecosystems.
    • Contributing to Climate Change Efforts: The phasing out of ODSs under the Montreal Protocol has also contributed to mitigating climate change by reducing the emission of these potent greenhouse gases.

    A Model of Global Environmental Cooperation

    The success of the Montreal Protocol demonstrates that global cooperation and decisive action are key to solving environmental crises. The treaty has been strengthened over the years with several amendments and adjustments, including the Kigali Amendment, which focuses on the reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)—a group of chemicals used as replacements for ODSs but with high global warming potential.

    What You Can Do to Support Ozone Protection

    • Choose Ozone-Friendly Products: Look for labels such as “Ozone-Friendly,” “CFC-Free,” and “HCFC-Free.”
    • Promote Energy Efficiency: Reduce energy consumption by using energy-efficient appliances, switching to LED bulbs, and opting for natural light whenever possible.
    • Spread Awareness: Share knowledge about the importance of the ozone layer and the need to protect it.
    • Support Environmental Policies: Advocate for stronger environmental policies that protect the ozone layer and combat climate change.

    Looking Ahead

    As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol in 2024, it is clear that global action makes a difference. The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer serves as a reminder that, together, we can overcome even the most daunting environmental challenges. Let us continue to safeguard the ozone layer for future generations, ensuring that the Earth remains a hospitable home for all forms of life.

  • National Threatened Species Day

    National Threatened Species Day

    Every year on September 7th, Australia marks National Threatened Species Day, a day to reflect on the growing challenges faced by the country’s unique flora and fauna. This day was first declared in 1996, in memory of the Tasmanian tiger’s (Thylacinus cynocephalus) tragic extinction. The last known Tasmanian tiger died at Hobart Zoo on this day in 1936, symbolising the fragility of our biodiversity.

    Why National Threatened Species Day Matters

    Australia is home to over 500,000 species of animals and plants, many of which exist nowhere else in the world. However, the country is currently facing an alarming extinction crisis. In the past 200 years, more than 100 native species have vanished, with nearly 2,000 more plant and animal species now listed as threatened.

    National Threatened Species Day is a critical reminder of the importance of biodiversity for the health of ecosystems. When species disappear, they are gone forever, leaving gaps in the natural world that impact not just the environment, but human life as well. From the iconic koala to the tiny pygmy possum, Australia’s wildlife is irreplaceable, and protecting these species ensures the continued balance and diversity of our ecosystems.

    The Threats Facing Australian Wildlife

    Today, habitat destruction is the leading cause of species endangerment. As land is cleared for agriculture, mining, and urban development, more animals are left without safe habitats. Bushfires, particularly those fueled by climate change, such as the devastating 2019-2020 fires, continue to threaten countless species. Additionally, invasive species, including feral cats and foxes, wreak havoc on native wildlife, preying on vulnerable animals.

    According to Australia’s 2022 State of the Environment Report, habitat loss and degradation threaten nearly 70% of the nation’s endangered species. Ongoing destruction is particularly dangerous for the 556 species on the national threatened fauna list and the 1,402 species on the threatened flora list.

    Celebrating Conservation Efforts

    National Threatened Species Day is not only a day of reflection but also a celebration of the ongoing work to protect Australia’s unique ecosystems. Conservationists, researchers, and community volunteers are at the forefront of restoring habitats and saving species from the brink of extinction.

    WWF-Australia, in collaboration with other organisations, has achieved remarkable successes in rewilding species and restoring habitats, such as bringing the brush-tailed bettong back to South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula. Thanks to these efforts, species like the silver-headed antechinus have survived against the odds. However, the work is far from over—since 2022, 163 more species have been added to the threatened list.

    What You Can Do

    Everyone can play a role in protecting threatened species. Here are a few ways to get involved:

    • Donate to wildlife conservation organizations such as WWF-Australia or The Nature Conservancy.
    • Create an animal-friendly backyard by planting native species and providing safe habitats for wildlife.
    • Raise awareness by sharing information about National Threatened Species Day with friends and family.
    • Volunteer for conservation projects that work to protect local wildlife.

    National Threatened Species Day is a powerful reminder of the responsibility we share to safeguard the future of Australia’s unique wildlife. By taking action today, we can ensure that the fates of species like the Tasmanian tiger are not repeated. Let’s come together to protect the plants and animals that make Australia one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

  • FG launches 10-year plan to combat elephant poaching and preserve wildlife

    FG launches 10-year plan to combat elephant poaching and preserve wildlife

    With Nigeria’s elephant population teetering on the brink of collapse, the Federal Government has launched a lifeline—the 10-year National Elephant Action Plan (NEAP)—to combat the escalating poaching crisis and safeguard the nation’s wildlife legacy. This plan is crucial for protecting Nigeria’s dwindling elephant population, as well as other wildlife species that are part of our natural heritage.

    These animals are often described as “ecosystem engineers” (species that shape their environment, benefiting other organisms; for instance, elephants create habitats by modifying landscapes) due to their beneficial impact on various landscapes. They disperse seeds, provide homes for other species, and contribute to the diversity of ecosystems they inhabit. However, the current elephant population in Nigeria is under significant threat due to hunting, habitat loss, and conflicts with humans. This dire situation has worsened, with the elephant population plummeting from around 1,500 to only between 300 and 400 in recent years. This alarming decline underscores the urgent need for large-scale approaches to saving these and other animal species.

    The NEAP, launched by the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako, is a strategic framework designed to address these challenges proactively. The plan suggests various activities aimed at ending harmful practices such as killing elephants in the wild, selling elephant products on the black market, and restoring the habitats of these noble animals. A key strategy of the NEAP is community participation: those who live alongside wildlife must be an integral part of the conservation process. To minimize the negative impacts of human activities on elephants and their habitats, the plan aims to establish more sustainable sources of revenue and promote community conservation initiatives.

    This effort is essential, and there is no doubt that the work required to achieve these goals will be significant. Elephants are not only crucial for wildlife conservation but also form a vital part of Nigeria’s natural heritage and ecological balance. With a specific focus on habitat protection, poaching control, and community involvement, the NEAP aims to integrate humans and elephants in a way that allows both to coexist peacefully.

    This is a noble cause, and the Federal Government has demonstrated its support for it. By launching the NEAP, the government has shown its commitment to reversing the decline in Nigeria’s wildlife. The action plan serves not only as a blueprint for planning and tracking conservation activities but also as a guide for the coordinated efforts of all ministries, departments, NGOs, and international partners. Such a strategy is crucial for the effective implementation of the NEAP, especially as it spans multiple sectors, including education.

    The NEAP also acknowledges the need for effective law enforcement and the importance of strengthening anti-poaching structures. Implemented alongside key national and international partners, the plan aims to dismantle the illegal wildlife trade networks that pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s elephants. This will be achieved through the use of modern technology, intelligence sharing, and ensuring that conservation efforts yield economic benefits.

    This analysis marks a promising start towards unveiling the NEAP as a crucial step in achieving Nigeria’s goal of conserving its wildlife and natural resources. The plan provides a roadmap for progress, urging all stakeholders to take action and do more for the elephants. As stated by Sharon Ikeazor, Chairperson of the Elephant Protection Initiative Leadership Council, the success of the NEAP heavily depends on cooperation, sensitization, and awareness. Positive shifts in perceptions and practices in Nigeria could make a significant difference in implementing the action plan’s objectives and conserving elephants for future generations.

    Wildlife crime and the loss of natural resources remain rampant, but the Federal Government’s action plan is a step in the right direction. The NEAP is not merely a plan; it is a lifeline for one of the most iconic and threatened species—the elephants. It represents the light at the end of the tunnel for a much brighter future for Nigeria’s biological diversity.

  • Federal government approves 700 consultants for environmental audits

    Federal government approves 700 consultants for environmental audits

    In an attempt to champion Nigeria’s environmental conservation, over 700 consultants have been accredited for environmental audits and reviews of establishments’ compliance with environmental laws and standards in Nigeria.

    Officially, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), one of the government’s major agencies, has declared this. According to a recent report titled “NESREA and Environmental Protection in Nigeria: The Journey So Far,’” these consultants are responsible for helping different firms deal with environmental issues.

    Since 2009, NESREA has accredited more than 700 consultants, although only 320 are still active. These individuals play an important role in ensuring environmental compliance by collecting information, conducting facility and environmental audits, advising clients, recommending action plans, and preparing Environmental Audits (EAs) for NESREA’s approval.

    NESREA emphasizes the importance of following its guidelines for accredited consultants. Refreshers are conducted through quarterly seminars to ensure these consultants understand the new environmental standards.

    NESREA’s actions include sealing the premises of organizations that violate environmental laws. For instance, in March 2024, the agency closed 13 facilities in the Federal Capital Territory for noncompliance with environmental audits. Some of these facilities include Veritas Plastics, Almat Farms, Dayak Nigeria Limited, FIK Contracting Limited, Salis Ventilated Homes Ltd, and Peachville Estate.

    The agency has recently published a report highlighting the key concerns of environmental audits, particularly the evaluation of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) adopted by industries and facilities such as banks. In addressing e-waste, NESREA collaborates with other ministries, departments, and agencies to monitor and grant clearance for imported used electrical and electronic equipment in Nigeria.

    Since 2022, NESREA has ensured enforcement in 115 facilities. A Better Tomorrow was actualized by registering electrical and electronics, batteries, food, beverages, and plastics.

    For instance, during the recent induction of a hundred newly accredited environmental consultants in Abuja, the Director General of NESREA, Innocent Barikor, emphasized the significant role of these experts in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria. Consequently, it is evident that progress in Nigerian society requires professionals in environmental consultancy.

    “Bringing a cleaner environment for all the citizens of Nigeria is what NESREA is all about. We cannot allow any Secretary to enforce environmental laws and regulations which require talented and skilled personnel like you,” Barikor said to the inductees.

    He continued, “Your job description involves reviewing, evaluating, and analyzing the impact of environmental factors and adhering to the existing legal requirements governing the environment. As members of newly accredited consultancy firms, you will become part of a large network dedicated to environmental conservation. You will act as our watchdogs on the ground, monitoring, assessing, and recommending improvements on our organization’s environmental activities in different sectors.”

    It must be noted that this initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s strategic agenda toward improving the standards of environmental conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria.

  • World Population Day

    World Population Day

    The official day for global population issues is World Population Day, celebrated on July 11 each year. This year’s theme is “To Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone.” This theme emphasises the importance of considering population data in policy-making, especially data on vulnerable groups. Population statistics provide solutions to problems related to healthcare provision, economic growth and development, and the management of the world’s resources.

    It is commemorated globally to raise awareness about population-related matters such as family planning, gender equality, and reproductive rights. These issues impact international processes and initiatives in the context of sustainable development and ecosystem preservation. With the global population surpassing 8 billion, there is constant pressure on natural resources such as water, food, and energy. Problems like climate change, habitat destruction, and loss of species’ habitats worsen due to overpopulation, highlighting the need for greater conservation efforts.

    History of World Population Day

    The United Nations officially introduced World Population Day in 1989, following the milestone of the world population reaching five billion on July 11, 1987. Dr. K.C. Zachariah proposed this observance to raise awareness about global population growth and control. The day encourages people to seek solutions to related issues such as maternal health, poverty, and various economic challenges.

    Significance

    The chosen theme, “To Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone,” aims to raise awareness of data deficiencies to develop efficient conservation practices. By understanding population parameters, policymakers can devise accurate strategies that encourage sustainable resource utilisation, wildlife and natural habitat conservation, and control of global warming effects. For example, quantitative-based strategies may identify regions where population density threatens species preservation, allowing for the design of appropriate strategies based on this data.

    Facts About Global Population

    World Population Day aims to raise awareness about the problems of overpopulation. It promotes a focus on finding lasting solutions to issues affecting health, the environment, and resources. Understanding that population characteristics are as important as environmental factors is key to a better tomorrow.

    • The world’s population has grown more than three times since the mid-20th century.
    • It took around 2.5 years to add one billion people to the population, reaching 8 billion in mid-November 2022.
    • The population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and is expected to peak at 10.4 billion by the mid-2080s.
    • China and India, with populations of 1.4 billion and 1.3 billion respectively, contribute to almost 18% of the global population.
    • Over 60% of the current world population was born in the latter half of the 20th century or later.
    • The global population was estimated to be around 2.5 billion in 1950, growing to 5 billion by 1987 and reaching 8 billion in 2022.
    • The human population has grown so large that the Earth struggles to support it. Presently, the total number of inhabitants on planet Earth has crossed 8 billion.
    • It was not until the early 1800s that the UN’s statistics indicate the world population reached one billion. Now, we add a billion people every 12-15 years.

    World Population Day 2024: Together for a Sustainable Future highlights the urgent need for collective action to raise awareness about the impact of increasing population density on Earth. By gathering and analyzing data with all communities in mind, we can predict and manage outcomes that affect human development and environmental preservation. United, we can build a future where every person matters and everyone can contribute to a more sustainable world.

  • Nigeria’s minister of environment delivers keynote at first international conference on afforestation and reforestation in Congo

    Nigeria’s minister of environment delivers keynote at first international conference on afforestation and reforestation in Congo

    Balarabe Abbas Lawal, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, delivered an impactful speech at the inaugural International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation, held from July 2nd to 5th, 2024. Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lawal highlighted the urgent need for collective action to combat deforestation and promote sustainable forest management.

    In his remarks, Lawal emphasises the role forests play in maintaining ecological balance, preserving biodiversity, and supporting millions of livelihoods. He pointed out the alarming rate of deforestation in Africa, where nearly 4 million hectares of forests are lost annually—almost double the global average. This rapid deforestation, driven by population growth, agricultural expansion, urbanisation, and illegal logging, calls for immediate and ambitious regional action.

    Lawal praised the choice of Congo for the conference, given its significance in the global deforestation crisis. He emphasised the importance of regional and global cooperation in developing innovative strategies for afforestation and reforestation to restore degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate climate change impacts.

    Highlighting Nigeria’s efforts, Lawal announced the recent approval of $8.5 million under the Presidential Initiative on Afforestation. These funds aim to restore degraded forests and critical landscapes across the country. Nigeria’s ongoing programs, such as the Great Green Wall Pan African Program and Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), have already restored over 1.5 million hectares of degraded forests, created over 3 million jobs, and empowered more than 200,000 forest community members.

    Lawal also mentioned the interim suspension of wood-based product exports to reassess and implement a sustainable forest management system. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global and regional agreements on sustainable forest management, including the COP27 Africa and Global Decade of Afforestation and Reforestation, COP26 Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use, and the upcoming COP28.

    Concluding his speech, Lawal stressed the collective responsibility of governments, NGOs, private organizations, civil societies, and communities in increasing global forest cover. He congratulated President Denis Sassou Nguesso for hosting the historic conference and expressed optimism about the conference’s catalytic effect on global afforestation efforts.

    “As we strive together to increase the global forest cover, we shall indeed make our planet a safer place for us and future generations,” Lawal stated.

    The conference, organized under the auspices of the African Union and United Nations Forum on Forests, marks a significant milestone in the fight against deforestation and climate change, bringing together leading experts, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to share knowledge and foster collaborations for a sustainable future.

  • Nigeria to establish environmental crimes tribunal

    Nigeria to establish environmental crimes tribunal

    The Nigerian government is taking a major step towards safeguarding the environment by actively pursuing the creation of a dedicated tribunal to hold accountable those who engage in environmental crimes throughout the country. This important initiative was revealed by Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment, during a meeting with stakeholders in Abuja on June 5th, in commemoration of World Environment Day. The focus of this year’s celebration is centred around “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”

    Minister Lawal voiced his apprehension regarding the widespread unsustainable environmental practices in the nation, linking these problems to deficiencies in the implementation of current environmental regulations. He highlighted that the emissions of greenhouse gases from factories and household appliances play a crucial role in the climate change difficulties that Nigeria is presently encountering.

    Lawal stated that at present, due to our lack of strictness, it has become evident that environmental cases are not being handled appropriately. Our team is putting in significant efforts, and shortly, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) will introduce legislation to safeguard our environment, forests, and local surroundings from pollution.

    The primary objective of the proposed tribunal is to accelerate the legal proceedings for environmental crimes, guaranteeing prompt justice for the offenders. This endeavour is anticipated to discourage any future transgressions and foster more stringent compliance with environmental legislation.

    “We are going to establish a tribunal that will try environmental crime very quickly, so we need AGF’s support. I urge stakeholders to help us in enforcing existing environmental laws as we try to improve on the laws protecting our environment,” Lawal emphasized.

    Nigeria, similar to numerous regions across the globe, is currently facing a range of environmental obstacles, such as deforestation, unsustainable land practices, and the wider consequences of climate change. These practices not only pose a threat to the health and welfare of the population but also endanger the progress and endurance of the ecosystem.

    To address these challenges, Nigeria has recently entered into a bilateral framework agreement with Cameroon, focusing on transboundary ecosystem conservation and the sustainable management of forestry and wildlife resources. Lawal hailed this agreement as a significant achievement in the preservation of biodiversity.

    The Minister called upon stakeholders and the Nigerian population to reaffirm their commitment to environmental stewardship. He particularly emphasized the importance of planting trees as a tangible solution to combat land degradation and deforestation.

    Lawal emphasized the importance of planting trees around our homes as a crucial solution to combat land degradation and deforestation. He stressed the need for intensified tree-planting efforts and called on agencies and departments to assist the ministry in this initiative. Lawal also highlighted the urgent need to declare a forest cover emergency, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the necessity for immediate and drastic action.

    Mahmud Kambari, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, emphasized the importance of working together and cooperating to address the intricate challenges of environmental degradation. He called upon all stakeholders to utilize the potential of innovation, technology, science, and traditional wisdom to create effective solutions that will revive the country’s land, strengthen its ability to withstand drought, and combat desertification.

    “Let us not forget the profound connection between environmental sustainability and human well-being. The health of our ecosystems directly impacts the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians who depend on land for food, water, and shelter. By prioritizing the conservation of the environment, we not only protect our natural heritage but also promote socio-economic prosperity and resilience for all,” Kambari stated.

    Creating an environmental crimes tribunal marks a crucial milestone in strengthening Nigeria’s dedication to ecological sustainability. Through bridging the enforcement deficiencies in current laws and promoting a cooperative strategy to safeguard the environment, the government strives to protect the nation’s natural resources and secure a healthier, more sustainable future for every Nigerian.

  • BATN Foundation unveils strategic plan for rural empowerment and sustainable development in Nigeria.

    BATN Foundation unveils strategic plan for rural empowerment and sustainable development in Nigeria.

    Lagos, Nigeria – BATN Foundation, building upon its impressive achievements in the last twenty years, has unveiled its strategic plan for the upcoming five years. The foundation’s primary objective is to empower rural Nigeria and promote sustainable development, aiming to impact these areas significantly.

    The Foundation is committed to supporting sustainable livelihoods and driving economic progress. Through innovative projects and strategic partnerships, it aims to expand its impact. With a focus on assisting smallholder farmers and their communities, BATN Foundation is determined to bring about positive change and work alongside government efforts to ensure food sufficiency and security.

    The strategic plan focuses on six main areas: Enterprise Development Programme (EDP), Capacity Building Programme (CBP), Youth Empowerment and Empowerment Programme (YEEP), Grants & Government-led Interventions, Environmental Management, and Humanitarian Aid. The goal of BATN Foundation is to achieve the following through this framework:

    1. Empower young entrepreneurs and women in agriculture to promote enterprise growth, benefiting at least 60,000 individuals.
    2. Support the establishment and growth of 100 young agripreneurs, creating job opportunities.
    3. Lead an afforestation initiative by planting at least 50,000 trees, contributing to environmental sustainability.

    BATN Foundation will focus on six key agricultural value chains to support government goals for food security: rice, maize, cassava, vegetables, aquaculture, and poultry. The goal is to increase productivity, improve market opportunities, and raise the income of small-scale farmers.

    Oludare Odusanya, the foundation’s general manager, highlighted the significance of partnerships in accomplishing their mission. He emphasized that collaboration is crucial to their strategy, as they are committed to rural development and sustainability. To achieve their ambitious goals, they will establish additional partnerships and collaborate with NGOs, agricultural stakeholders, and both the public and private sectors.

    By expanding its initiatives and extending its influence across the country, BATN Foundation is ready to bring about substantial transformation in the agricultural sector and beyond. This will pave the way for sustainable development and empower rural Nigeria, leading to a promising future.