Ecosystem restoration, living in harmony with nature - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), joins the global community in commemorating this year’s world environment day with the theme 'Ecosystem Restoration.' The United Nations has set aside June 5, every year as a day of shared global reflection and action towards protecting our environment. This year’s world environment day theme is incredibly significant because it calls on all of us to do our parts in protecting our ecosystems in these uncertain times.

In a press statement issued during the ERA/FoEN event to mark the World Environment Day in Port Harcourt, Mike Karikpo, Esq., Programmes Director and Administration, ERA/FoEN, explained that ecosystems are dynamic communities of plants, animals and microorganisms interacting with the physical environment, landscapes, lakes, and oceans.

Beef boycott, solution to Nigeria's lingering genocide - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

In search of solution to lingering killings across Nigeria, Barr. Emeka Odikpo, wrote, there is sense in 'trade war' than in 'actual war.'

A leading figure in my list of heroes is Dr. Martin Luther King. He has a lot to teach Africans and Igbo people in particular. He is not the type of leader that rants, curses and resorts to violence. His weapon of war was non violence and he was damned effective at it.

Investigate Adoke, Etete over alleged forgery to OPL 245 scam - NaijaAgroNet ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Inspector General of Police,(IG) has been asked to investigate former Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke and the former Petroleum Minister, Dan Etete and Abubakar Aliyu over a string of forgery allegations linked to the OPL245 scandal.

In a petition sent to the Inspector General of Police (IG), Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), Corner House and Re: Common, two global anti-corruption groups based in the United Kingdom (UK) the police were asked to open up a new frontier in the lingering scam that has seen Nigeria loose billions of dollars to crooks.

2nd Anniversary: Makinde launches tree planting campaign - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Oyo State Governor, ’Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday, launched a tree planting campaign to optimise environmental quality and human health for the current and future generations.

The governor, while launching the campaign at the frontage of the Head of Service building, Secretariat, Ibadan, said that if planting of trees is well-promoted, it will have an impact on the kind of environment that will be handed over to the upcoming generation.

Makinde commissions 66.3.6kwp solar power - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his administration has raised the bar of good governance in Oyo State, while providing enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

The governor, while speaking at the official commissioning of the 663.6KWP Solar Power Plant of Nigerian Breweries PLC, Ibadan plant, said that his administration will continue to create business friendly environment for investors.

Only 19% of children globally eat minimally accepted diet says FAO - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Globally, only 19 per cent of children aged 6-23 months eat a minimally accepted diet, and only half eat the recommended minimum number of meals, according to the Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, reports NaijaAgroNet.

Also, the office of the Secretary-General of the United Nations revealed some takeaways in the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) report on ‘The future of food and agriculture - Alternative pathways to 2050'.

Ekiti boosts rice production, targets 1.5m tones - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has said the State government would utilize the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s Rice Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP) to increase its annual rice production from 34,700 to 1.5 million metric tonnes.

The CBN-ABP, according to the Governor would generate no fewer than 12,000 jobs for rice farmers, who, would in turn, create additional 50,000 jobs in full production across the rice value chain within a year.

SG reveals some takeaway facts on Alternative pathways to 2050 - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The office of the Secretary-General of the United Nations has revealed some take aways in the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) report on ‘The future of food and agriculture - Alternative pathways to 2050',  reports NaijaAgroNet. 

Also, NaijaAgroNet gathered that the number of people aged 65 years or older is projected to more than double from 2020 to reach 1.5 billion in 2050, affecting demand for various types of food and minimum dietary energy requirements.

FAO leads UN on population and development - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

In a sign that food security and nutrition are increasingly seen as key vectors for sustainable development, the United Nations Commission on Population and Development (CPD) approved a resolution likely to enrich and intensify discussions at the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit.

The agreement, as well as the UN Secretary General's report to the Commission to which FAO made substantial contributions, span a vast array of themes - from the need to make healthy diets affordable to all and the importance of assuring income opportunities for all even as capital-intensive industry transformations may reduce the need for existing types of jobs and labor, to stopping illicit cross-border financial flows and the need for governance and ownership of big-data to make sure its benefits are available to all, including smallholders and marginalized people. The breadth of topics illustrates just how complex a task the shift to sustainable agri-food systems will be.

PH refinery to generate 3,000 jobs, construction kicks off - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has kicked off construction work in the Port Harcourt Refinery rehabilitation project with a firm commitment not to fail Nigerians.

A statement by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the NNPC, Dr. Kennie Obateru, quoted the NNPC Chief Operating Officer, Refineries & Petrochemicals, Engr. Mustapha Yakubu, as saying that everything was being done to ensure that the project is delivered hitch-free and on schedule.

Dialogue on Antimicrobial Resistance kicks off today - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Some countries have embarked on steps to accelerate actions for tackling antimicrobial resistance which experts described as an urgent global health and development threat, reports NaijaAgroNet.

This forms core of dialogue on antimicrobial resistance would today, Thursday kick off virtually.

Africa: Orange provides support for Covid-19 vaccination campaigns - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

These funds will be used to support national efforts to vaccinate as many people as possible and to help combat the health crisis and its effects.

In the fight against the Covid-19 epidemic, the Orange Foundation is providing an additional €1.3 million in financial aid to the 17 countries in Africa and the Middle East within its footprint. 

FAO: Small family farmers produce third of world’s food - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The world's smallholder farmers produce a third of the world's food, according to detailed new research by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), reports NaijaAgroNet.

Five of every six farms in the world consist of less than two hectares, operate only around 12 percent of all agricultural land, and produce roughly 35 percent of the world's food, according to a study published in world development.

OML 143: NNPC, SEEPCO sign gas development agreement - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The gas development and commercialization programme of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) received a boost Thursday with the execution of the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 143 Gas Development Agreement (GDA) by the NNPC and its partner, Sterling Oil Exploration and Production Company (SEEPCO).

The Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr. Kennie Obateru in a press statement available to NaijaAgroNet, disclosed that the project would boost the nation’s gas production by 1.2trillion cubic feet (tcf).

Nigeria’s food security: Syngenta partners WACOT - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Leading food and agro-processing company in West Africa, WACOT Limited, and leading global agritech company Syngenta Crop Protection are partnering for impact to further boost Nigeria’s food security and ensure sustainable development of the agriculture sector.

This would see Syngenta Crop Protection working closely with WACOT over the next five years to help improve the sustainability, quality and safety of Nigeria’s agriculture with world-class science and innovative crop solutions.

US Consul-General launches HIV Treatment Surge Programme in Oyo - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Consul-General, United States Embassy in Nigeria, Claire Pierangelo, has launched HIV Treatment Surge Programme in Oyo State, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The event held at the Theophilus Oladipo Ogunlesi Hall, Ibadan on Tuesday formed part of the courtesy visit of the Counsel General to the state.

Pierangelo also held bilateral talks with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

Stakeholders present Lagos Policy on Food & Nutrition documents to first lady, urge SEC endorsement - NaijaAgroNet

NaijaAgroNet: 

The food and nutrition stakeholders in the Lagos State has formally presented a copy of the State’s Policy on Food and Nutrition as well as the Multi-sectoral plan of Action on Nutrition to the first lady, Dr. Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, reports NaijaAgroNet.

They also called for the approval of the policy by the Lagos State Executive Council (SEC).

Stakeholders under the umbrella of the Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) in collaboration with the state Committee on Food and Nutrition in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget made the presentation to the first lady, during a one-day Nutrition Dialogue at the Lagos Sheraton Hotels on Monday.

Renewable energy: NNPC, Kebbi partner on biofuels - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has restated its commitment to the partnership with the Government of Kebbi State for the production of biofuels, describing the project as viable and in tandem with the global transition to renewable energy.

The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, disclosed this while receiving the Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Atiku Bagudu, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office on Thursday.

Post COVID-19 survey: Mental health bigger than climate change - NaijaAgroNet ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The latest international survey has revealed thaT young people view mental health as a bigger generational challenge than climate change as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic takes its toll on younger generations, according to new data.

The Purpose Pulse found nearly three quarters (70%) of Millennials and Gen Z think mental health is a challenge, second only to COVID-19 (76%). Economic inequality (66%), climate change (65%), and job security (65%) are also viewed as a concern by solid majorities of young people. Yet, despite the preoccupation with the pandemic and mental health, there are still high expectations for COP26 this year, with nearly three fifths (58%) hopeful it will lead to a positive outcome.

Greenpeace reacts to UN plastic findings - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) launched a scathing report about plastic and environmental inequality, which shows how countries within the global south are being force-fed plastic pollution by wealthy countries, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The report, titled Neglected: Environmental Justice Impacts of Plastic Pollution, exposes the truth about how the plastic industry is capitalising on “false solutions” such as recycling when, in fact, single-use plastic waste is more likely being shipped off to developing countries than being recycled. 

Nutrition, environment tops Nestle agenda for journalists - NaijaAgroNet ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Nestle Nigeria Plc has reaffirmed commitment to training of Lagos journalists especially those on nutrition, climate and environment beats, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The pledge was made during a courtesy visit by Executive members of the Lagos State Council of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Tuesday to the corporate headquarters of the company in Lagos.

Predator Energy drink controversy: NBC insist on contesting case against Rite Foods - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Limited, has declared it would vigorously contest the case against Rite Foods, reports NaijaAgroNet.

A press statement from NBC, a member of Coca-Cola Hellenic Group made available to 
NaijaAgroNet, the company said it would contest legally, the controversy over the copyright issue on Predator Energy drink.

AUDA-NEPAD’s pandemic resilience accelerator gets first cohort - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Pandemic Resilience Accelerator for African Health-Related Businesses was founded by the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), a pan-African institution at the forefront of policy harmonization, in partnership with JICA, the official development assistance agency of the Government of Japan, and with support from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), a global management consulting firm.

The initiative aims to accelerate African home-grown solutions that are improving pandemic resilience. It provides hands-on, tailored acceleration support to growth and mature stage African health-related businesses that are improving healthcare capacity or reducing reliance on external medical supply chains.

The accelerator is launching as a pilot in the East African Community, following a call for applications in December 2020. Five companies have been selected from a highly competitive applicant pool and after a rigorous assessment process.

Access Afya Inc.: Provider of low cost, primary health care to people living in informal settlements & remote areas of Kenya. 

Africa Healthcare Network: Provider of affordable high-quality renal care services to typically underserved areas / secondary cities of Tanzania, Kenya & Rwanda.

Damu Sasa Systems Limited: Cloud-based end-to-end blood services information management system to increase and manage blood supply in Kenya.

Mobile Scan Solutions Uganda: Developer of low-cost hand-held ultrasound units to diagnose pregnancy complications in low resource settings in Uganda.

Revital Healthcare (EPZ) Limited: Manufacturer of over 40 types of medical devices in Kenya which are distributed to Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi & 12 other countries.

These five home-grown companies contribute meaningfully to pandemic resilience, both in the immediate COVID-19 crisis and in their longer term strengthening of healthcare capacity and local supply chains. They constitute the inaugural cohort for this accelerator and will receive support over the six-month pilot programme.

Based on the outcomes of the pilot programme in the East African Community, the accelerator aims to expand to other parts of Africa later this year, with the ultimate goal of improving our continent's ability to respond to future outbreaks through home-grown solutions.

NaijaAgroNet gathered that organizations interested in joining the accelerator network as well as engaging with these exemplary companies by serving as advisors or providing direct support, or qualifying African home-grown solutions, can contact them via George Murumba, the accelerator project lead via GeorgeM@nepad.org and pandemicresilience.africa@gmail.com.

US Consulate General, IVLP partner Ekiti on recycling project - NaijaAgroNet ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to transit from the “make-use-dispose” orientation of materials utilization to an industrial ecosystem where wastes can be recycled, reused, recovered and re-purposed for other uses.

Dr Fayemi, who stated this at the launch the Ekiti State Recycling Project tagged “Sodotin dowo” (waste to wealth), said the initiative was aimed at changing the perception of Ekiti people towards wastes disposal.

Prime Foods unveil first vitamin table water - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

In line with its vision for a healthier and happier world, the Prime Foods and Beverages Nigeria Ltd, an indigenous manufacturer of healthy drinks on Thursday launched its premium quality Omnia Vitamin table water brand, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The product which is made from demineralized water infused with natural fruit extracts, vitamin and minerals, comes in four variants- Blackcurrant, Pineapple, Orange and Apple variants, and it is the first indigenously produced vitamin water in the country.

The new product which industry observers believe may reshape the non-alcoholic beverage market in Nigeria as it offers health-conscious consumers, non-alcoholic water beverages, provides the body with the necessary daily vitamins.

Speaking at the formal launch in Lagos, General Manager of Prime Foods, Alexis Odenigbo, Omnia Vitamin water contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to health.

She said the new product is part of Prime Foods and Beverages Ltd commitment to ensure that Nigerians get the very best quality and natural products that are not only healthy and safe for consumption, but also enhance consumers overall wellness.

“Omnia Vitamin Water is a low calorie drink that actually satisfies thirst, unlike other carbonated drinks. Each variant has a blend of vitamins and fruit extracts to deliver refreshing and naturally tasting hydration. There is no limit to the number of bottles that can be consumed by an individual because it contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to health.”

Earlier in her remark, a public health physician, Dr. Olajumoke Akinsanya, said most of the people do not know about the quality of water they are drinking, and have no knowledge about it.

“We tend to just turn on the tap and fill in our glasses. But do you know how much water we have to drink every day or are the water you are drinking safe enough for you. What if you drink the water and then become contaminated with it. It is important to know everything about the water you are drinking so that you do not fall sick and in your own home.

“Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that our body needs to work properly. Most of us get all the vitamins and minerals we need by eating a healthy balanced diet. Omnia Vitamin Water contains our daily requirements of vitamins,” she said.

According to the company’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Dipo Isaacs, Omnia Vitamin Water, is manufactured under a conducive environment, in compliance with very stringent processes and procedures that conform to Good Manufacturing Practices with State-of-the-art equipment and machineries.

“The company is committed to offering purely natural, safe, and healthier products in order to help people break free from the usage or consumption of toxic and harmful body care or Food products. The new Omnia vitamin water,” he said.

He said the product is now available in all parts of the country.

Pix: (From Left to Right) Mr. Dipo Isaacs, Consultant Director Marketing & Sales, Dr. Jumoke Akisanya, Health Consultant, Alexis Odenigbo, General Manager, Ofure Ibhakhomu, CEO LifeCard Investment Ltd and Barr Akintoye Sogunle, Company Secretary/Legal Adviser.

Ogoni cleanup: Group calls for restructuring of HYPREP - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Federal Government of Nigeria recently inaugurated a new Governing Council and Board of Trustees for the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), just as the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria had surmised from majority of Ogonis and reports of its team of monitors around the project areas that HYPREP was not working with optimal capacity. 

PASA records largest repatriation of trafficked monkeys - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Jeunes Animaux Confisqués au Katanga (J.A.C.K.) sanctuary (www.JackSanctuary.org), after months of coordinated international effort, welcomed 20 monkeys to their new home. 

The monkeys, all native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, were confiscated in September 2020, disrupting a wildlife trafficking operation running between the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R. Congo) and South Africa. This is a historical event and is the first such operation in Africa, where the animals were repatriated back to their native origins.

Water crisis: Africa needs $35bn yearly - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

USD 35-billion per year is needed to tackle Africa’s water crisis; South African firm Khato Civils announces African expansion and calls for AfCFTA to be the catalyst to build Africa’s water infrastructure.

It is expected to increase levels of intra-Africa trade by over 50 per cent by 2030.

Ogoni cleanup: Eze applauds Buhari, others for bringing lifesaving water - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The determination of the Buhari-led APC federal government in ensuring the success of the implementation of the UN Environment report on Ogoni has continued to attract resounding applauses and commendations from analysts and critical stakeholders in the fields of politics and the environment.

The $1billion (USD) implementation which is hinged on a 2011 detailed report from the environmental assessment of sites polluted by oil exploration activities in Ogoni land since the discovery of oil in the 1950s, conducted and released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) was launched in June 2016 by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on behalf of President Mohammadu Buhari, after several years of neglect by the previous administration steered by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and allies.

IWD2021: CS-SUNN celebrates women - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Civil Society Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) on Monday join the world in celebration of 2021 International Women’s Day which is marked each year on 8 March, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The International Women’s Day gives the opportunity to celebrate women and their many achievements.

NLTP, ranching & how to resolve farmer-herder clashes says Osinbajo - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

Task of building a society desired by all Nigerians is exerting and requires the contribution of all Nigerians as the challenge for everyone is “to build, not to destroy, to add to, not to take away,” according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo made the call at the opening session of an International Conference on Patriotism, Security, Governance and National Development.

Sewage coverage: €109m grant for Egypt - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The African Development Bank Group has signed financing agreements of €109 million with the Government of Egypt to improve sanitation infrastructure and services for rural communities in Luxor Governorate in Egypt’s Upper Nile region.

The financing consists of a €108 million loan from the Bank, and a grant of €1 million from the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Initiative (RWSSI) – an Africa-wide initiative hosted by the African Development Bank.

FG, CBN offer 200,000 tonnes of paddyrice for sale - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The Federal Government (FG) has commenced the sale of about 200,000 metric tonnes of paddy rice to 18 Nigerian millers, reports NaijaAgroNet

The sale being coordinated through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) came to the fore in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday as the bank marked the fifth year of ABP.

Speaking at the occasion, the CBN Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele, disclosed some gains of the programme over the last five years.

“Just as we have given the money to farmers for the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, we will be disbursing the paddy aggregation loans to those millers.

“This is in order to use the loan to pay the farmers so that the farmers can repay their loans,” Emefiele said.

He said that the CBN had financed 2,923,937 small holder farmers cultivating 3,647,643 hectares of land across 21 commodities through about 33 participating financial institutions in the country.

Emefiele said the experience of 2015 to date had led to significant improvement in the execution of the programme.

He said that the bank had added several layers of control to improve on transparency and accountability among stakeholders.

“Today is a demonstration of the growth that had been attained in the agricultural sphere.

“It is important to note that, we are still far from attaining perfection but the emerging result from the programme reaffirms our belief in the potentials inherent in our agricultural sector.

“Farming will become a profitable venture in Nigeria as all farmers, because of the guaranteed off-take of their produce, are smiling to the banks.

“Under the 2020 wet season CBN and Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN) partnership, we financed 221,450 farmers for the cultivation of 221,450 hectares in 32 states of the country.

“Repayment of loan is crucial to the sustainability of the programme.

“In support of the growth recorded in this drive to attain self – sufficiency in food production and to moderate prices of agricultural commodities, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the resuscitation of Nigeria’s commodity exchange.

“And the CBN in partnership with other stakeholders, will be committing at least, N50 billion to this initiative,” Emefiele explained.

He expressed the bank’s commitment to finance one million hectares of rice farms in the present dry season farming with the plan of exploring two cycles of production with the season.

In his remarks, Gov. Atiku Bagudu expressed optimism that the farmers would take the country out of her tough economic challenges.

Bagudu commended President Buhari for his magnanimous support to all states in the country to ensure that economic activities were kept functional.

The President of Benin Republic, Mr Patrice Talon was represented by his Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Aurelie Agbenonci at the occasion.

Talon said that a team of about four ministers was in the state to witness the celebration of successes by the state in particular and the country at large.

“We have seen it all and we are going to establish a partnership in milling and produce rice together to feed the whole West African sub- region,” he said.

Earlier, the National President of RIFAN Alhaji Aminu Goronyo, commended President Buhari for his commitment to food security and visionary ideas for the initiation of the programme five years ago.

Those in attendance at the event included the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III and former Senate President, Ken Nnamani.

Pix: Emefiele and other dignitaries pose with bags of rice in Kebbi to mark the 5th anniversary of the ABP.

Gas production: Digitalization offers high RoI to Mozambique - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The benefits of digital investment in the oil and gas sector are multifold: increased productivity, cost savings and improved performance all tend to follow investments in big data, the ‘Internet of Things’, artificial intelligence and other digital technologies. 

Pacific Island countries, territories unite for enhanced renewables ambition - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

In a year of critical action on climate mitigation and adaptation, Pacific Island governments have reinforced their commitment to energy transition action and strengthened sustainable energy goals within updated nationally determined contributions (NDCs) ahead of COP26 in Glasgow, the United Kingdom in November, reports NaijaAgroNet.

At a meeting of high-level policy and intergovernmental representatives jointly hosted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the Regional Pacific NDC Hub and the UK COP26 Presidency, ministers and government representatives reiterated the need for transformative pledges that significantly reorient the world’s energy transition pathway. Pacific nations aim to be at the forefront of global efforts.

Friends of Earth: Nnimmo, Chima in contempt of court - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

Former Board of Trustees (BOT) chairman of the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), Arc. Nnimmo Bassey and a former staff of ERA/FoEN Barr. Chima Williams have been dragged before the Federal High Court, sitting in Lagos for contempt of court, reports NaijaAgroNet.

A Federal High Court, NaijaAgroNet recalls, had ordered on 7th October 2020 restraining the duo from parading themselves as the Board Chairman and acting Executive Director of ERA/FoEN respectively.

Dairy Industry: U.S. to train Nigerian stakeholders - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

A joint venture between Promasidor Nigeria Limited and Ekiti State Government, the Ikun Dairy Farm has advanced plans to produce 10,000 liters of milk daily and will take delivery of two additional shipments of dairy cows from the United States over the next couple of weeks.

These shipments will provide a better breed of cow for the rapidly growing Nigerian dairy industry, helping to diversify the Nigerian economy.

Gerald Smith, Counselor for Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Mission to Nigeria noted that introduction of U.S. dairy cows will boost local milk production and contribute significantly to ensuring sustainable food security in Nigeria.


Smith explained that the successful cattle shipment was as a result of the strong partnership between the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, the Ikun Dairy Farm, and senior officials of the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, with support from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“The United States is the leader in producing dairy cows,” Counselor for Agricultural Affairs Smith said. “Promasidor Nigeria Limited in partnership with Ekiti State Government and with the strong support of the Central Bank of Nigeria have successfully started an integrated dairy industry in Nigeria with the acquisition of the first batch of pregnant Jersey breed dairy cows from the USA. A sustainable dairy industry requires modern genetic cows. This collaboration marks the start of increasing milk production and enhancing the dairy value chain in Nigeria,” he added.

To further support the Nigerian dairy industry, Smith noted that the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Mission is designing a two-week long training program in the United States for diverse Nigerian dairy stakeholders. The training program holding later this year will introduce participants to the unique characteristics and genetic potential of U.S. dairy cows. “We believe these efforts will maximize the local dairy sector’s potential and help Nigeria emerge as a major player in the dairy market in the region,” Smith added.

Based at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, the Foreign Agricultural Service is the overseas arm of the United States Department of Agriculture. It offers a variety of services to American and Nigerian agribusiness companies, government and non-government entities involved in agricultural trade and development. Through a variety of programs, the service helps developing countries strengthen sustainable agricultural practices by providing capacity building opportunities.

Nutrition: MeCAM Coordiantor urges CSOs to optimise ICT tools - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The National Coordinator of the Media Centre Against Child Malnutrition (MeCAM Nigeria), Mr. Remmy Nweke, has urged Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to optimize the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) tools in communicating nutrition in the country, reports NaijaAgroNet.

Speaking at the first quarterly capacity building of the Lagos State chapter of the Civil Society on Scaling Up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN) hosted by the Communication Team, Mr. Nweke said that optimizing ICT tools in this era has become imperative.

Faster way to decarbonize with gas, renewables - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The power sector accounts for up to 41 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions today, with Africa contributing about 2-3%. In parallel, there are still over 580 million people on the continent who do not have access to reliable energy and the demand for electricity is expected to continue to grow as populations increase, industrialization ambitions grow and urbanization continues to fuel the need for more power.

Farmers may resort to self-defence over herders attack, Oba Olugbenle warns - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

The Olu Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland in Ogun State, His Royal Majesty (HRM), Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle has petitioned the presidency over the incessant attacks by Fulani herdsmen in his domain, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The Oba in his petition, electronically signed and made available to NaijaAgroNet, and entitled, “Stopping the time bomb before it is too late” called the attention of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Muhammadu Buhari, retired and all the security agencies over the continued siege of the entire Yewaland in Ogun State in last few weeks by armed herdsmen.

According to him, the bandits have been callously killing and literally slaughtering and maiming his people.

The criminal and dangerous activities of these herdsmen, he said, he said, have so far happened in Egua, Oja-Odan, Igan Alade, Gbokoto and Ijoun, Owode-Ketu, Ebute Igboro, Imeko Afon and other places with reports of plans to attack major towns in Yewa land.

Oba of Yewaland also implored the federal and state governments as a matter of extreme urgency to act fast to secure the lives and properties of his people before it goes out of complete control.

“In this situation it is not out of place that people may resort to self-help to defend themselves if the government fails to guarantee their safety as citizens of Nigeria in the face of renewed insurgency by these criminals terrorizing our people with arms and dangerous weapons,” he warned.

His people, Oba said, are in high hope that government of both state and federal will listen to their lamentations alongside the security agencies by living up to the expectation of their responsibility as enshrined in the Nigeria constitution, so as to ensure the security of lives and properties in Yewaland.

HRM equally enjoined his people to fully cooperate with government in this regards to map out measures towards curbing the activities of these bands in the days ahead.

“A stitch in time saves nine,” he warned.

Isaac Oyimah/Editor

Igangan: Oyo relocates victims of killer herdsmen for medical treatment - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bashir Bello, on Monday, stated that his Ministry has commenced the treatment of the three victims of herdsmen attacks in Igangan, who were ordered relocated to Ibadan by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The Commissioner, who spoke to newsmen in Ibadan, said that the trio are currently receiving treatment at a government hospital in Ibadan and that they are in stable condition.

World Cancer Day: Oyo state organizes free screening - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The Government of Oyo State has organised a free breast and cervical cancer screening programme for women of reproductive age in the state, declaring that it remains committed to putting an end to the spread of the disease in the state, reports NaijaAgroNet.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bashir Bello, who disclosed this at the sensitisation programme organised by the Ministry of Health to commemorate the 2021 World Cancer Day, said the day was observed to raise awareness on cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection and treatment.

Konga: Revolutionizing agriculture in Nigeria through e-Commerce - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

Konga, Nigeria’s foremost composite retail giant, has once again led from the front, revolutionizing agriculture in Nigeria by leveraging e-Commerce in helping rural farmers access better agricultural inputs such as crop seedlings, fertilizers and much more at highly competitive prices.

Igangan youths didn't walk out on Makinde says Farmers' secretary - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

Youth leaders from Igangan have denied insinuations that they walked out on Governor 'Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Monday, when he held a Town Hall meeting in the area, reports NaijaAgroNet.

General Secretary of the Ibarapaland Farmers' Association, Mr. Taiwo Adeagbo, who spoke on behalf of the community, stated that no one walked out on the governor.

IRENA, SADC enter deal, boost energy transformation - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet: 

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to work together on accelerating the deployment renewable energy solutions, including decentralised technologies, in Southern African countries. 

Wirldlife Conservation: Creative collaborations boost powerful partnerships - NaijaAgroNet: ... Linking agrobiz, sustainable environs, people & technology

NaijaAgroNet:

“As an expert in the field of visual imagery, Canon Central and North Africa is cognisant of the deep impact powerful pictures and videos have in visual storytelling – and how successful these stories are in raising awareness and gaining support for various conservation projects,” notes Amine Djouahra, Sales and Marketing Director at Canon Central and North Africa. 

“For this reason we have embarked on several initiatives – such as the Miraisha Programme (http://bit.ly/3oF9akP) and our Ambassadors Programme (https://bit.ly/3axmTp0) - to advance and promote job opportunities and future livelihoods in Africa by sharing skillsets and knowledge for photographers, videographers and filmmakers,” he adds.

The Twendeni Porini na Canon campaign takes this even further, by enlisting 5 local wildlife photography Influencers to create authentic social media stories about conservation efforts across Kenya.   

“More than just rewarding Canon customers and raising awareness of our prized national parks, this initiative proved Canon’s support of local conservation efforts in building the awareness together with Kenya’s wildlife conservation team with an emphasis on interactions between influencers and community awareness.

Speaking during the award ceremony, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Brigadier (Rtd) John Waweru said, “We are grateful to Canon for this partnership that has seen us raise awareness on the importance of wildlife conservation as an ongoing effort. KWS has a mandate to protect and preserve wildlife, but it is the collective effort of our communities that makes us successful in this calling. We have benefited greatly from the authentic stories that Canon has told about our parks, wildlife and rangers. We are extremely grateful for the renewed interest in wildlife conservation thanks to the extended boost on digital space, which successfully raised the profile of Kenya as a leader in wildlife conservation.”

Influencing a shared conservation narrative

The influencers – Anthony Ochieng, Clement Kiragu, Larry Asego, Usha Harish and Alissa Thakker – were accommodated at notable National Parks across the country. Each one produced compelling visual imagery and engaging content that stimulated serious engagement on social media – proving that captivating photography and videography play an essential role in creating change and driving awareness.

“This campaign underscored how partnerships and collaboration help build awareness of just how important conservation is to the continent, and how we can ensure that future generations enjoy and appreciate this rich, colourful, breath-taking and unique continent with all its wildlife and wild lands,” adds Djouahra.

The influencers’ riveting stories can be viewed on the influencers’ Instagram pages, as follows:

Clement Kiragu is a Canon ambassador and award-winning wildlife and commercial photographer whose incredible series of nature images were enhanced by a new love he developed while staying at Amboseli National Park: that of capturing birds in flight. www.Instagram.com/clement.wild/

Anthony Ochieng is a conservation photographer who produced a short film, Rhino Lover & Hero (https://bit.ly/36xyZxa), featuring an insightful interview with a Rhino Sanctuary ranger Kosgeyi, to highlight the work done at the sanctuary. www.Instagram.com/tonywild_ke/

Usha Harish proved her adeptness at capturing emotions of animals and in action: www.Instagram.com/usha.harish.photography/

Larry Asego took his assignment further, by hosting an interactive wildlife photography training session, streaming his experience and answering questions from amateur photographers. www.Instagram.com/larryasego/

Alissa Thakker combined photography and videography to document her journey at Nairobi National Park, while highlighting the features on her Canon R5 that made capturing these magnificent creatures. www.Instagram.com/alissatphotos/