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NOSDRA Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency, Collaboration in Safeguarding Nigerian Environment

NOSDRA Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency, Collaboration in Safeguarding Nigerian Environment

. SERAP urges N’Delta communities to use strategic litigation for justice

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with civil society, communities, and industry players to safeguard the environment and protect livelihoods.

Director General, NOSDRA, Chukwuemeka Woke, reaffirmed the commitment at the public presentation of Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) report on ‘Mobilising Natural Resource Communities on Using Strategic Litigation to Achieve Social Justice in the Niger Delta’, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In his remarks, Woke commended SERAP for convening the dialogue, stressing that justice in resource management is both a legal and moral obligation.

“I thank SERAP, with the support of the Ford Foundation, for convening this important forum and for their tireless work in advancing the cause of justice, accountability, and good governance.

“Ensuring justice and transparency in natural resource management is more than a legal requirement; it is a moral obligation we owe to our children and generations yet unborn.”

The NOSDRA boss, noting the emphasis President Bola Tinubu placed on transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship, said “These are not just policy ideals; they are the bedrock of national renewal.” 

He explained, “For us at NOSDRA, since our establishment in 2006, our mission has been clear: to prevent and respond swiftly to oil spills, safeguard the environment, and protect the livelihoods of our people. 

“We also understand that we cannot do this work alone. Real progress requires collaboration between government, civil society, industry, and the communities themselves. Only then can we reduce risks, enforce accountability, and align with the best global practices in environmental governance.”

In his remarks also, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, said the organisation is constitutionally empowered to hold government accountable through the courts.

“Public Interest Litigation is a tool that SERAP uses a lot, not because we like going to court but because we are constitutionally empowered to hold government to account,” Oluwadare stated.

“The rule of law is better than anything that will promote violence, so if people have opportunities to ventilate their grievances within lawful means, we should encourage it.”

He explained that SERAP was engaging stakeholders across the Niger Delta to secure their buy-in and to encourage communities to pursue collective justice instead of fragmented, individual efforts.

Also speaking, legal resource person, Laeticia Uju, emphasised the importance of unity among host communities.

“Public Interest Litigation means the communities will start working as one so that their voices can be heard and they can get justice. I expect communities to work as a team instead of individual, and pursue public interest instead of personal interest,” she said.

Speaking with journalists at the event, Mr. John Martin Aikpokpo, past 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), lamented that corruption and compromised processes often frustrate communities seeking redress locally.

“Within our laws in this country, there are remedies to almost every issue. That it has been done for so long does not mean that it’s right,” Aikpokpo declared. 

“Unfortunately, even when the court gives judgements, our government agencies do not respect them. That means we are gradually moving towards anarchy, because once people get justice in the court there will be no need for them to protest or carry arms.”

He alleged that oil-related cases are often delayed indefinitely in Nigerian courts due to corruption, forcing communities to seek justice abroad where processes are faster and fairer.

“Communities get justice abroad because the system there is not compromised, justice moves as smooth as possible, just like we saw the swift sentencing of Simon Ekpa in Finland. But here in Nigeria, we are a compromised people,” Aikpokpo said.

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. SERAP urges N’Delta communities to use strategic litigation for justice Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt  The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency,
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North-east: Taraba Green House Will Protect Food Security, Settle Hunger Crisis, Says Zulum

North-east: Taraba Green House Will Protect Food Security, Settle Hunger Crisis, Says Zulum

 Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has applauded the Taraba State Green House popularly known as Cucumber Farm, and has expressed optimism that it would protect food security and settle the hunger crisis in the North-east and Nigeria at large. 

While inaugurating the project during the summit of the North-east governors, the forum expressed worries about the shortage of food next year.

A statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Digital Communications, to Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, Emmanuel Bello, described the inauguration as something revolutionary that happened in Jalingo.

He said the world-class technology will ensure that vegetables are cultivated all year round irrespective of climatic conditions.

Describing the famous green pepper and tomatoes as world class and best in the Nigerian market, Bello revealed that experts who have attested to the healthy and nutritious stance of the vegetables, have concluded that the state has invariably become the headquarters of vegetables in the country. 

Bello said, “Governor Agbu Kefas led other five governors to commission the remodelled Green House Farm. The locals are fond of calling the vast vegetable plantation the Cucumber Farm, but it is actually one of the best green houses in the country. 

“The world-class technology ensures that vegetables are cultivated all year long irrespective of climatic conditions. Apart from the famous green pepper, the world-class tomatoes here are clearly the best in the market. Healthy, fleshy, and nutritious, experts say Taraba State has invariably become the headquarters of vegetables in the country. 

“Moreover, at the forefront of the push are the duo of Ohad Shtilman and Eyal Tal, who are working with a brilliant team of the TSI to ensure the survival of the project. The group has obviously learnt from experience when the farm once collapsed. They are thus determined to deal with all the loopholes and run a successful enterprise.

“Already, the market is surging with prospects as many buyers and sellers are lining up to take advantage of the business. Investors are also showing renewed interest in the deeply profitable venture.”

Apart from Kefas, the host governor and Zulum, other governors in attendance were the four governors of the North-east namely Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Bala Muhammed of Bauchi, Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe.

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 Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has applauded the Taraba State Green House popularly known as Cucumber Farm, and has expressed optimism that it would protect food
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Africa’s Security Landscape Demands Dynamic Responses, Says Agwai

Africa’s Security Landscape Demands Dynamic Responses, Says Agwai

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

A former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), has said that Africa’s security landscape demands dynamic responses — leveraging both traditional and emerging approaches — driven by collaboration, information-sharing, and mutual support.

He added that while Africa is a continent brimming with potential — rich in resources, vibrant in culture, and resilient in spirit, it faces persistent challenges — from peacekeeping and counter-terrorism to sustainable development and good governance. 

He said collective responsibility among Africa armed forces would ensure that these challenges are transformed into opportunities for the good of the people. 

This, he said, required unwavering commitment, strategic foresight, and unity among us as defence professionals and stakeholders. 

Agwai, who is also Board Vice President of International Institute for African Defense, Security, and Governance (IIADSGOV) disclosed this on Thursday during a courtesy visit to African Defence Attaches in Washington DC.

He explained that IIADSGOV is an independent, pan-African defense and security training and research institute based in Washington, D.C, United States, with a Country Office in Nigeria that also serves as the Regional Coordination Office for the ECOWAS sub-region.

Agwai said, “Africa is a continent brimming with potentials—rich in resources, vibrant in culture, and resilient in spirit. Yet, it faces persistent challenges—from peacekeeping and counter-terrorism to sustainable development and good governance. 

“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that we transform these challenges into opportunities for the good of our beloved people. 

“This requires unwavering commitment, strategic foresight, and above all, unity among us as defence professionals and stakeholders. 

“As defence attaches and security experts, we are the custodians of peace, catalysts for stability, and advocates of professionalism within our armed forces.

“Let us remember that true leadership in defence is rooted not just in capacity and strength but also in integrity, discipline, and the unwavering commitment to serve our nations and peoples. 

“It is incumbent upon us to foster trust, enhance cooperation, and share knowledge to build resilient security architectures across Africa.

“In this era of rapid technological change and evolving threats, innovation and partnerships are critical.

“Africa’s security landscape demands dynamic responses—leveraging both traditional and emerging approaches—driven by collaboration, information-sharing, and mutual support working with organised private sector like our institute.”

Agwai said they must be reminded that AU Agenda 2063 envisions a unified, peaceful, and prosperous Africa driven by African solutions to African problems. 

According to him, for defense, security, and governance, this means Africans must lead initiatives to build resilient institutions, foster regional cooperation, and implement policies tailored to our unique contexts. 

Agwai noted that indigenous leadership ensures that strategies are culturally relevant, sustainable, and aligned with the values of the people. 

He stressed that African-led efforts in security and governance strengthen sovereignty, reduce dependency on external actors, and build a continent capable of maintaining peace and stability autonomously. 

Also, the Dean of the Association Brig-Gen. Philip Nyamali, the Defence Attache of the Republic of Malawi in Washington DC commended the institute for its efforts in promoting African defence, security and governance through strategic interventions through foreign military sales and direct commercial sales of defence articles, services and training programs offered by the institute.

He urged the institute to continue maintaining cooperation with the association from time to time by providing relevant information on upcoming conferences and training programmes for member countries of the association who are interested to take part and benefit from the programs of the institute.

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Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja A former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), has said that Africa’s security landscape demands dynamic responses — leveraging both traditional and emerging approaches —
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Sokoto Provides Relief to Victims of Bandit Attacks 

Sokoto Provides Relief to Victims of Bandit Attacks 

Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto 

The Sokoto State Government has disbursed N69,750,000 and 210 bags of rice to victims and families affected by recent bandit attacks in Kware and Gwadabawa local government areas.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who led a condolence visit to the affected communities, described the attacks as “unfortunate and inhumane.”

He urged the people to accept the incidents as an act ordained by Almighty Allah, while assuring them of his administration’s commitment to securing Sokoto State.

The governor emphasised that his government will continue to support security agencies in their efforts to curb banditry. However, he expressed concern over the role of informants within local communities, which he identified as a major factor fuelling insecurity.

The governor announced that each family of those killed would receive N2 million and five bags of rice, while each of the injured would get N250,000 and three bags of rice. A total of N69.75 million and 210 bags of rice were distributed across both local government areas.

In their separate remarks, Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Hon. Kabir Ibrahim Kware, and House Leader, Hon. Bello Idris, expressed appreciation to the governor for the gesture, noting that it brought comfort to the bereaved and injured families.

The condolence visit was attended by prominent figures, including Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Deputy Governor Idris Muhammed Gobir, and Minister for State Works, Barrister Bello Goronyo.

“The Sokoto State government’s relief package is a testament to its commitment to supporting victims of insecurity and promoting peace and stability in the state.

“As the state continues to grapple with the challenges of insecurity, the government’s efforts to provide relief and support to affected communities are crucial in promoting healing and rebuilding.

“The people of Sokoto State can be assured that their government is working tirelessly to address the security challenges facing the state and to provide support to those affected by insecurity.”

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Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto  The Sokoto State Government has disbursed N69,750,000 and 210 bags of rice to victims and families affected by recent bandit attacks in Kware and Gwadabawa local government areas. Governor Ahmed
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TFN Inducts 502 Professionals, 93 School Leaders into Fellowship Programme

TFN Inducts 502 Professionals, 93 School Leaders into Fellowship Programme

Teach For Nigeria (TFN) has inducted the ninth and fifth cohorts of Fellows and school leaders, respectively, into its fellowship programme.

The 2025 cohort, trained under the theme ‘One Classroom, Infinite Possibilities. The Future Is Now!’ has been equipped with essential pedagogical and leadership skills needed to transform communities, classrooms and empower students in underserved schools across Lagos and Ogun States.

TFN is a nationwide movement dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for all children in Nigeria.

In 2017, it launched its fellowship programme and to date, has successfully placed 2463 Fellows across public primary and secondary schools in Lagos, Ogun, Kaduna, and Oyo states. This year, over 40,000 expressions of interest; however, only 502 Fellows and 93 school leaders were inducted to join the 2025 cohort.

Delivering the welcome remark, Chief Executive Officer of TFN, Mrs. Molade Adeniyi, urged fellows and School Leaders to see themselves as nation-builders.

Speaking on the theme ‘One Classroom, Infinite Possibilities: The Future is Now!’

She reminded them that every classroom holds the potential to shape doctors, engineers, artists, and leaders, that every child can learn and thrive, and that the future cannot wait.

“You are no longer just individuals; you are part of a movement determined to reimagine education in Nigeria,” she said.

Mrs. Rhoda Odigboh, Chief Executive Officer of Kizazi, who delivered the keynote address emphasised the transformative role of Teach For Nigeria. She urged the new Fellows and school leaders to harness this journey in driving sustainable change in Nigeria’s education system.

In his goodwill message, Ogun State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, represented by Bolaji Adedipe, commended Teach For Nigeria for their excellent work and assured continued support from the state government

Over the next two years, the 2025 Fellows will serve as full-time teachers in underserved communities in Lagos and Ogun States, receiving ongoing support from Teach For Nigeria and its partner organisations as they address systemic challenges hindering children from reaching their full potential.

As TFN continues to advance its mission, it calls on government agencies, private sector actors, civil society organisations, and citizens to support this transformative movement.

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Teach For Nigeria (TFN) has inducted the ninth and fifth cohorts of Fellows and school leaders, respectively, into its fellowship programme. The 2025 cohort, trained under the theme ‘One Classroom,
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