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Climate Change: Delivering Objectives Of Act 2021 Without “Humongous Bureaucracy” – By Mardiyyah Omikunle   

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Recent moves by President Buhari to implement Climate Change Act 2021, Nigeria’s framework law to deliver green growth for sustainable economic development, are rubbing against bureaucratic infighting over the form and composition of the implementing mechanism the National Climate Change Council (NCCC) and its secretariat. The NCCC is chaired by the President with broad participation from government and civil society, and is supported by a Secretariat headed by a Director General who is recommended by NCCC and appointed by the President. Because the NCCC is chaired by the President and Vice President and located within the presidency, it signals to the world that Nigeria is taking a whole-of-Government approach to low carbon development and is not merely delegating the issue to a line ministry. Recent pronouncements by the Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, questioned both the ‘humongous bureaucracy’ CCA created and the composition of the NCCC. Such doubts as COP 27 approaches, may be misinterpreted as sending mixed signals to development partners interested in supporting Nigeria’s energy transition.
Recently, the Minister vented his frustration at the unwieldy ‘humongous bureaucracy” of “state and zonal directors” in the NCCC’s secretariat. He went further adding that “membership of the council also inadvertently takes out commissioners of environment as members of the Climate Change Council. The secretariat has no directorates to support functions of the director-general, no transitional provisions in relation to functions of the department of climate change and the Climate Change Council.” The minister then announced that he had set up a technical review committee within the Ministry of Environment to initiate “amendments of the Act”.
An internal ministry of environment technical review committee to amend the Act is the classic bureaucratic response to a bureaucratic problem. The Act’s implementing structure appear designed to avoid capture by a single ministry and be nimble enough to respond to reform priorities across ministries departments and agencies and between the levels of government. While this may have drawbacks, the more pertinent question relating to structure and institutional transition is whether the NCCC and the secretariat can provide the framework for sustainable economic development achieved through low carbon means to occur across government and society. Here, the ministry of environment has specific inputs to make the climate diagnosis. The treatment plan or cure is actually provided by other stakeholders responsible for the policies, technologies and societal changes that make sustainable economic growth a reality. The treatment aspects of the CCA’s objectives and NCCC’s mandate involve inputs primarily from other agencies such as the petroleum, power, transport, water, works and housing sectors among others. The CCA and NCCC thus require a whole-of-government review, and not just a ministry of environment technical review.
While, the Minister and the ministry are understandably territorial about the CCA and NCCC, the NCCC is unlike other councils or committees superintending particular sectors as with say communications with the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC). The NCCC and its secretariat are crosscutting institutions that resemble the defunct Office of the Senior-Special-Assistant to the President on Millennium-Development-Goals (OSSAP-MDGs) and the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). The BPE as secretariat to the National Council on Privatisation (NCP) closely resembles the NCCC and its secretariat. Both OSSAP-MDGs and BPE were created within the Presidency and operated on a whole-of-government premise rather than being hived-off from a parent-ministry – a kind of prodigal children as the Minister seems to think the NCCC and secretariat are.
It is worth mentioning that the pioneering Director-Generals or leaders of both OSSAP-MDGs and BPE had successful non-civil service professional and managerial careers and brought that private sector drive, energy, can-do spirit and organisational discipline to the new institution. They also possessed the requisite stakeholder management skills to navigate social and political interests across all levels of government. This does raise questions, given the vast all-encompassing and existential challenge climate change poses, whether the Minister sees the proverbial forest from the ministerial tree.
Seeing the forest from the ministerial tree generates the perspective needed to discern the internal inconsistencies in the Minister’s position. As it is difficult to reconcile the minister’s criticism of the CCA with his proud announcement, in the same breathe, “that just last week, Mr. President appointed the pioneer director-general of the National Climate Change Council.” If the deficiencies in the Act can prompt the minister to review and recommend amendments, why then announce the appointment of a Director-General when the CCA expressly says that such an appointment can only be made after the NCCC recommends a Director-General to the President? Such an appointment and announcement fits squarely into the problems the CCA has that the technical review committee should have also reviewed. It is even more irregular when the appointment is announced by the minister or the ministry rather than the Presidency, which usually announces such appointments. It is unclear whether the appointment has been announced by the President or presidency at all. These irregularities and inconsistencies will not have gone unnoticed by the international community, private sector investors and interested parties to Nigeria’s climate change objectives.
In the end raising issues about the CCA while making unconfirmed pronouncements on staffing this close to the 27th Conference of Parties (COP 27) in November in Egypt sends the signal that Nigeria is not ready politically, institutionally or policy-wise to receive the investment required to transition to a low carbon economy. This ultimately defeats the very objectives of the CCA.
If Nigeria is to achieve the objectives in the CCA, the Minister and Ministry of Environment will need to play their indispensable part by not going it alone, but by being in lock step with the entire government and people of Nigeria. We all go farther on the road to net zero when we go together.
Mardiyyah Omikunle, specialises in Energy Law and Climate Change, she writes from Lagos.

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UBA Donates N500 Million to Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Pledges Support for State’s Effort at Improving Security

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United Bank for Africa(UBA) through UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as part of its continued commitment to secure environment for individuals and businesses

The N500m cheque was presented to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.

Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity of communities across Nigeria adding that “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being. Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all. We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”

While receiving the N500m cheque, the Lagos State Governor expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and UBA Foundation for the significant contribution and commended Mr. Tony Elumelu for its unwavering commitment to impactful projects, state’s progress and well-being.

He said, “we are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund. This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all”

This latest gesture aligns with UBA Foundation’s Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions. Over the years, UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa. The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF.

Group Chairman, United Bank for Africa(UBA), emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society. He explained that in pledging its support to the state’s efforts at improving security, UBA recognizes the vital link between safety and economic stability.

He said, “This partnership with the Lagos State Government reinforces the Bank’s belief in collaborative efforts as the key to addressing security challenges and creating environments where individuals and businesses can thrive. We believe that a secure Lagos State is integral to a secure Nigeria. UBA Foundation will continue to support transformative initiatives that uplift lives and drive development.”

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment and other Special Projects.

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Achievers Networks UK Academy Host 2024 International Integrity Humanitarian Conference

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Achievers Networks UK Academy (ANU Academy) is set to host its highly anticipated Achievers International Integrity Humanitarian Conference 2024 on Sunday, November 30, 2024. The prestigious event will take place at the Tayo Aderinokun Lecture Theatre, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, and is scheduled to commence at 9:30 a.m.

Celebrating Excellence and Humanity

The conference promises to be a remarkable gathering of global leaders, professionals, and changemakers from various sectors, uniting to celebrate excellence, integrity, and humanitarian achievements. Central to the event will be the conferment of Ph.D. degrees on distinguished individuals and the presentation of several awards, including the Prestigious Achievers Award, Meritorious Achievers Award, and the Humanitarian Achievers Award.

Event Highlights

In addition to the main convocation ceremony, the day will feature a series of engaging side events designed to foster collaboration, networking, and personal growth. These include:
– Meet and Greet: An opportunity for awardees, guests, and dignitaries to connect in a relaxed atmosphere.
– Business and Products Exhibition: A showcase of innovative products and services by local and international entrepreneurs.
– International Collaborations: Discussions and agreements aimed at fostering cross-border partnerships.
– Awardee/Guest Live Interview Sessions: Insightful interviews with award recipients and distinguished guests.
– Red Carpet: A glamorous reception for attendees, creating memorable photo opportunities.
– Enrolment for Next Ph.D. Degree Session: Prospective candidates can explore opportunities to join the academy’s prestigious doctoral program.
– Social Networking: A platform for attendees to build meaningful connections across industries and continents.

Importance of the Programme

Speaking about the upcoming conference, Dr. John Adeyemi, the event coordinator, highlighted its significance.

“This programme is more than an event; it is a movement aimed at inspiring excellence, fostering integrity, and celebrating the humanitarian spirit that drives societal progress,” Dr. Adeyemi stated.

He further emphasized the global importance of such gatherings: “In a world increasingly challenged by moral and ethical lapses, the Achievers International Integrity Humanitarian Conference stands out as a beacon of hope. We are not only honoring distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to humanity but also creating a platform for learning, collaboration, and innovation.”

Dr. Adeyemi also encouraged attendees to take advantage of the diverse opportunities the event offers. “Whether you are an academic, a business leader, a humanitarian, or a budding professional, this conference provides a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders, explore new ideas, and build partnerships that transcend borders. It’s an event that truly has something for everyone.”

Expected Impact

The 2024 conference is expected to attract a diverse audience, including academics, government officials, entrepreneurs, humanitarian workers, traditional rulers and students from across Nigeria and beyond. By recognizing and honoring exceptional achievements, ANU Academy aims to inspire the next generation of leaders to embrace integrity and service to humanity.

Attendees will leave not only with lasting memories but also with new connections, knowledge, and opportunities to make a difference in their communities.

Registration and Attendance

The event is open to invited guests and other participants. Individuals interested in attending or enrolling in the next Ph.D. degree session are encouraged to visit ANU Academy’s website or contact the event organizers for more details.

The Achievers International Integrity Humanitarian Conference 2024 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of humanity’s best qualities, a platform for global connections, and a catalyst for change

 

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TheGazelleNews To Honour GAC Chairman Prince Olusi At Public Lecture

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TheGazelleNews, a leading online newspaper, is set to honour elder statesman and one of Nigeria’s most respected politicians, Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, Chairman of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at its Annual Public Lecture and Award Night.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

This year’s lecture, themed “Poverty Alleviation: Fantasies, Expectations, and Realities of People’s Empowerment,” aims to foster insightful discussion on critical socio-economic issues facing the country.

In recognition of his lifetime of exemplary service, leadership, and dedication to Lagos State and Nigeria, Prince Olusi will be celebrated as one of the nation’s most revered statesmen.

A royal prince from the Akinsemoyin and Ado Royal Families of Lagos, Prince Olusi has been a steadfast figure in Nigeria’s political landscape for decades. His public service journey began as a councillor at the Lagos City Council, and he later represented Lagos Island in the House of Representatives during Nigeria’s Second Republic.

Prince Olusi also served as a Commissioner under the administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, demonstrating commitment, integrity, and wisdom throughout his career.

Today, as Chairman of the influential GAC, Prince Olusi stands as one of the most respected and influential political figures not only in Lagos but also in the entire landscape of Nigeria, guiding policy and advising leaders with a steady hand. His contributions have helped shape Lagos’s political landscape, and his principled leadership has earned him admiration across all spheres of government.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is a distinction previously awarded to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who was the inaugural recipient of the award.

This prestigious honour reflects the values and legacy that Prince Olusi exemplifies: enduring dedication to public service, unwavering commitment to community welfare, and an inspiring vision for a better Nigeria.

In anticipation of the award, the organizers of TheGazelleNews public lecture have expressed their pride in recognizing Prince Olusi’s contributions, describing him as “a man whose life and career symbolize leadership, excellence, and commitment to the people.”

This award is a tribute not only to his achievements but to his enduring influence on the nation’s political scene.

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