The Nation Newspaper

Category: Features

  • Boosting electricity supply through independent power plant

    Boosting electricity supply through independent power plant

    The recently inaugurated 3.6-megawatt Ekiti Independent Power Project (IPP), established through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), emerges as a transformative force in liberating the state from the throes of erratic power supply, reports RASAQ IBRAHIM

    In Nigeria, the quest for reliable electricity supply has been an enduring challenge, plaguing both households and industrial operations. Despite the concerted efforts of successive administrations to enhance energy accessibility in Africa’s most populous nation, the issue of electricity supply remains a persistent and widespread problem.
    Amid high expectations, the administration of Goodluck Jonathan embarked on a significant initiative in 2014 by privatising the power sector. This move involved the sale of a 60 per cent stake in the power distribution sector to private companies.
    Nigeria boasts an installed capacity to generate up to 14,000 megawatts of electricity, as reported by the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC). This capacity primarily emanates from hydro and gas-fired thermal plants, with a predominant reliance on fossil fuels, particularly gas, constituting 86 per cent of the total installed capacity. Despite this potential, challenges persist in translating this capacity into consistent and reliable electricity supply for the Nigerian populace.
    Despite having the capacity to generate up to 14,000 megawatts of electricity, Nigeria consistently faces challenges in fully utilising this potential. On many days, the country struggles to dispatch more than 5,000 megawatts, significantly falling short of the demand in a nation with over 200 million people and an estimated energy requirement exceeding 120,000 megawatts. The disparity between capacity and actual dispatch underscores the persistent issues in the electricity sector.
    Despite the privatisation of the power sector, successive governments have consistently provided financial interventions in an effort to improve the electricity situation. These interventions include budgetary allocations, direct efforts by the Federal Government, and funding from international financiers like the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AFDB). Despite these combined efforts, the delivery of electricity remains significantly below expectations, indicating persistent challenges in the sector.
    The privatisation of the distribution aspects of the power sector in 2013 has seen successive administrations inject over N1.7 trillion into the energy sector. Unfortunately, this significant financial commitment has not translated into tangible improvements, and Nigerians continue to experience daily power outages. This chronic electricity shortage has severely impacted businesses across the country, including in Ekiti State, where small and medium enterprises struggle to survive amid the power supply challenges.
    In 2021, the administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi in Ekiti State sought a solution to the persistent power supply shortage by partnering with Fen-Church Power Nigeria Limited to establish a 3.6 Mega Watt Independent Power Plant (IPP). The aim was to supplement the electricity supply from the national grid and alleviate the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the state. Despite Governor Fayemi’s inability to complete the IPP project before the end of his tenure in 2022, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who succeeded him, demonstrated unwavering commitment and renewed vigour in continuing the initiative. This decision signalled a dedication to addressing the long-standing power supply issues in Ekiti State and fostering sustainable development.
    On November 24, 2023, Ekiti State marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of its Independent Power Plant (IPP), situated on Bank Road, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. This momentous event marked the second IPP in the Southwest, following Lagos State’s initiative. Just a month prior, Governor Biodun Oyebanji had already inaugurated power projects in various communities across four local government areas, which had been without electricity for over a decade.
    The 3.6MW power plant stands as a significant power source, equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure. It features an 11-kilometer underground distribution network, multiple sub-stations, and Ring Main Units (RMUs). The strategic location of the IPP allows it to power essential government facilities and infrastructure, including Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ekiti State University, the state secretariat, the Government House, and the Governor’s Office. Furthermore, it ensures uninterrupted lighting for crucial streets in Ado-Ekiti, contributing to the overall development and well-being of the state.


    During the inauguration of the plant, Governor Oyebanji emphasised the transformative impact the project would have on addressing power challenges faced by residents and the local business community. The governor highlighted the potential for the IPP to stimulate economic activities, drive industrialisation, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Ekiti State. Characterising the IPP as a game-changer, he underscored its significance as a testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to achieving energy self-sufficiency.
    Governor Oyebanji outlined the pivotal role the IPP would play in propelling rapid industrial development, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities that contribute to the state’s progress.

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    Governor Oyebanji highlighted several key interventions his government has undertaken to enhance the energy infrastructure and address power challenges in Ekiti State. Among these initiatives, the rehabilitation and reconnection of the Gbonyin/Aiyekire and Ekiti-East 33KV line to the national grid were emphasised, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening the state’s connection to the broader energy network. The governor also mentioned the successful evacuation of energy from the 30MVA transformer at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) facility at Omisanjana to critical areas such as the Industrial and Tourism zone of Erijiyan and Ikogosi.
    Governor Oyebanji also pointed to the rehabilitation of the 33KV network from Ilumoba to Ikole-Ekiti, a critical step in improving the distribution network. In terms of improving the state capital’s commercial hours, the governor outlined the transition from conventional streetlight lamps to solar lamps, a move aimed at boosting economic activities in Ado-Ekiti. He expressed his administration’s commitment to replicating similar improvements across all local government areas, underscoring the comprehensive approach to addressing energy-related challenges and fostering sustainable development.
    Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to Fenchurch Power Limited for the timely delivery of the Independent Power Plant project, underscoring the importance of private sector participation in the power sector. He specifically called on investors in the power sector to explore opportunities in Ekiti, emphasising the electricity law that facilitates independent meter vendors supplying to willing customers.
    Besides, Governor Oyebanji urged residents to take ownership of electrical facilities in their communities and protect them from vandalism. This call not only emphasises the importance of community involvement in maintaining critical infrastructure but also highlights the need for collective responsibility in ensuring the sustainability of energy projects.
    “It is my pleasure to be here today to inaugurate the first Independent Power Project (IPP) in Ekiti State. Today’s event is another testimony to our unstoppable race to greatness as a people and a homage to our determination to succeed in the face of daunting challenges. This project is a major pointer to the fact that we are on course. And we will not rest until energy, which is the bedrock of industrialisation, is in abundant supply to support the productive energy of our people. I also wish to urge our people to see all electrical facilities in our communities as our properties and to jealously guard and protect them from vandalism. This way, the ongoing investment in the power sector will bring the desired shared prosperity result to our people. For us, we are irrevocably committed to the rapid industrial development of Ekiti for employment and growth,” the governor said.
    The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatubosun, said the project was one in a series of interventions to address inherent challenges in electricity supply to the state. Olatunbosun stressed that the IPP is currently guaranteeing uninterrupted power supply to the Governor’s Office, Government House, State Secretariat Complex, House of Assembly Complex, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, (EKSUTH), Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and streetlights in the metropolis, among others.
    The Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, said the project was an indication that the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration fully recognises that electricity is a major game-changer for industrialisation and economic development. Prof. Aluko explained that the independent power project is the only utility-scale generation facility in the state capable of boosting the state’s energy availability by at least two megawatts with a potential of increasing from five to 10 megawatts.
    As industries and businesses benefit from more consistent power, the ripple effect extends to the local economy, promoting growth, and potentially attracting further investments. The positive response from residents underscores the significance of reliable electricity in fostering economic development and enhancing the overall quality of life. The success of the power plant in positively impacting the community serves as a testament to the effectiveness of strategic infrastructure investments in addressing critical issues and driving positive change at the grassroots level.

    This project is a major pointer to the fact that we are on course. And we will not rest until energy, which is the bedrock of industrialisation, is in abundant supply to support the productive energy of our people. I also wish to urge our people to see all electrical facilities in our communities as our properties and to jealously guard and protect them from vandalism. This way, the ongoing investment in the power sector will bring the desired shared prosperity result to our people

  • Boosting electricity supply through  independent power plant

    Boosting electricity supply through  independent power plant

    The recently inaugurated 3.6-megawatt Ekiti Independent Power Project (IPP), established through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), emerges as a transformative force in liberating the state from the throes of erratic power supply, reports RASAQ IBRAHIM

    In Nigeria, the quest for reliable electricity supply has been an enduring challenge, plaguing both households and industrial operations. Despite the concerted efforts of successive administrations to enhance energy accessibility in Africa’s most populous nation, the issue of electricity supply remains a persistent and widespread problem.

     Amid high expectations, the administration of Goodluck Jonathan embarked on a significant initiative in 2014 by privatising the power sector. This move involved the sale of a 60 per cent stake in the power distribution sector to private companies.

     Nigeria boasts an installed capacity to generate up to 14,000 megawatts of electricity, as reported by the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC). This capacity primarily emanates from hydro and gas-fired thermal plants, with a predominant reliance on fossil fuels, particularly gas, constituting 86 per cent of the total installed capacity. Despite this potential, challenges persist in translating this capacity into consistent and reliable electricity supply for the Nigerian populace.

    Despite having the capacity to generate up to 14,000 megawatts of electricity, Nigeria consistently faces challenges in fully utilising this potential. On many days, the country struggles to dispatch more than 5,000 megawatts, significantly falling short of the demand in a nation with over 200 million people and an estimated energy requirement exceeding 120,000 megawatts. The disparity between capacity and actual dispatch underscores the persistent issues in the electricity sector.

     Despite the privatisation of the power sector, successive governments have consistently provided financial interventions in an effort to improve the electricity situation. These interventions include budgetary allocations, direct efforts by the Federal Government, and funding from international financiers like the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AFDB). Despite these combined efforts, the delivery of electricity remains significantly below expectations, indicating persistent challenges in the sector.

     The privatisation of the distribution aspects of the power sector in 2013 has seen successive administrations inject over N1.7 trillion into the energy sector. Unfortunately, this significant financial commitment has not translated into tangible improvements, and Nigerians continue to experience daily power outages.  This chronic electricity shortage has severely impacted businesses across the country, including in Ekiti State, where small and medium enterprises struggle to survive amid the power supply challenges.

    In 2021, the administration of Governor Kayode Fayemi in Ekiti State sought a solution to the persistent power supply shortage by partnering with Fen-Church Power Nigeria Limited to establish a 3.6 Mega Watt Independent Power Plant (IPP). The aim was to supplement the electricity supply from the national grid and alleviate the challenges faced by residents and businesses in the state. Despite Governor Fayemi’s inability to complete the IPP project before the end of his tenure in 2022, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who succeeded him, demonstrated unwavering commitment and renewed vigour in continuing the initiative. This decision signalled a dedication to addressing the long-standing power supply issues in Ekiti State and fostering sustainable development.

     On November 24, 2023, Ekiti State marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of its Independent Power Plant (IPP), situated on Bank Road, Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. This momentous event marked the second IPP in the Southwest, following Lagos State’s initiative. Just a month prior, Governor Biodun Oyebanji had already inaugurated power projects in various communities across four local government areas, which had been without electricity for over a decade.

     The 3.6MW power plant stands as a significant power source, equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure. It features an 11-kilometer underground distribution network, multiple sub-stations, and Ring Main Units (RMUs). The strategic location of the IPP allows it to power essential government facilities and infrastructure, including Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ekiti State University, the state secretariat, the Government House, and the Governor’s Office. Furthermore, it ensures uninterrupted lighting for crucial streets in Ado-Ekiti, contributing to the overall development and well-being of the state.

     During the inauguration of the plant, Governor Oyebanji emphasised the transformative impact the project would have on addressing power challenges faced by residents and the local business community. The governor highlighted the potential for the IPP to stimulate economic activities, drive industrialisation, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Ekiti State. Characterising the IPP as a game-changer, he underscored its significance as a testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to achieving energy self-sufficiency.

     Governor Oyebanji outlined the pivotal role the IPP would play in propelling rapid industrial development, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities that contribute to the state’s progress.

     Governor Oyebanji highlighted several key interventions his government has undertaken to enhance the energy infrastructure and address power challenges in Ekiti State. Among these initiatives, the rehabilitation and reconnection of the Gbonyin/Aiyekire and Ekiti-East 33KV line to the national grid were emphasised, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening the state’s connection to the broader energy network. The governor also mentioned the successful evacuation of energy from the 30MVA transformer at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) facility at Omisanjana to critical areas such as the Industrial and Tourism zone of Erijiyan and Ikogosi.

     Governor Oyebanji also pointed to the rehabilitation of the 33KV network from Ilumoba to Ikole-Ekiti, a critical step in improving the distribution network. In terms of improving the state capital’s commercial hours, the governor outlined the transition from conventional streetlight lamps to solar lamps, a move aimed at boosting economic activities in Ado-Ekiti. He expressed his administration’s commitment to replicating similar improvements across all local government areas, underscoring the comprehensive approach to addressing energy-related challenges and fostering sustainable development.

    Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to Fenchurch Power Limited for the timely delivery of the Independent Power Plant project, underscoring the importance of private sector participation in the power sector. He specifically called on investors in the power sector to explore opportunities in Ekiti, emphasising the electricity law that facilitates independent meter vendors supplying to willing customers.

     Besides, Governor Oyebanji urged residents to take ownership of electrical facilities in their communities and protect them from vandalism. This call not only emphasises the importance of community involvement in maintaining critical infrastructure but also highlights the need for collective responsibility in ensuring the sustainability of energy projects.

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     “It is my pleasure to be here today to inaugurate the first Independent Power Project (IPP) in Ekiti State. Today’s event is another testimony to our unstoppable race to greatness as a people and a homage to our determination to succeed in the face of daunting challenges. This project is a major pointer to the fact that we are on course. And we will not rest until energy, which is the bedrock of industrialisation, is in abundant supply to support the productive energy of our people. I also wish to urge our people to see all electrical facilities in our communities as our properties and to jealously guard and protect them from vandalism. This way, the ongoing investment in the power sector will bring the desired shared prosperity result to our people. For us, we are irrevocably committed to the rapid industrial development of Ekiti for employment and growth,” the governor said.

     The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatubosun, said the project was one in a series of interventions to address inherent challenges in electricity supply to the state. Olatunbosun stressed that the IPP is currently guaranteeing uninterrupted power supply to the Governor’s Office, Government House, State Secretariat Complex, House of Assembly Complex, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, (EKSUTH), Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and streetlights in the metropolis, among others.

     The Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, said the project was an indication that the Biodun Abayomi  Oyebanji administration fully recognises that electricity is a major game-changer for industrialisation and economic development. Prof. Aluko explained that the independent power project is the only utility-scale generation facility in the state capable of boosting the state’s energy availability by at least two megawatts with a potential of increasing from five to 10 megawatts.

     As industries and businesses benefit from more consistent power, the ripple effect extends to the local economy, promoting growth, and potentially attracting further investments. The positive response from residents underscores the significance of reliable electricity in fostering economic development and enhancing the overall quality of life. The success of the power plant in positively impacting the community serves as a testament to the effectiveness of strategic infrastructure investments in addressing critical issues and driving positive change at the grassroots level.

    This project is a major pointer to the fact that we are on course. And we will not rest until energy, which is the bedrock of industrialisation, is in abundant supply to support the productive energy of our people. I also wish to urge our people to see all electrical facilities in our communities as our properties and to jealously guard and protect them from vandalism. This way, the ongoing investment in the power sector will bring the desired shared prosperity result to our people

  • Ramping up terminal facilities for regional flights

    Ramping up terminal facilities for regional flights

    The clamour for upgrade in airport infrastructure to boost flight connectivity from some domestic terminals into routes in the West and Central African region in the last decade continues to engage the attention of players in the Nigerian aviation eco-space. But, bridging this gap has pushed airport authorities and private terminal managers to scale up  investment in  operational equipment , safety procedures  in order to meet prescribed international  regulatory standards for aerodromes approved  to  undertake such tasks. How ready are facilities at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two in Lagos, as passengers anticipate processing regional flights from the facility soon, asks KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR.

    The clamour for improvement in  airport infrastructure as a facilitator for seamless passenger processing in the air travel eco – space has continued to gain global attention in the last decades with a clarion call on  governments to mobilise the needed strategies on the funding/ operational models to achieve it.

    For this reason, many countries including Nigeria have embraced airport infrastructure development initiatives to bring facilities at aerodromes up to meet up with internationally prescribed requirements to drive local, regional and international  flight operations.

    Strategically,  some countries including Nigeria, , have adopted different development models to pursue infrastructure upgrades for airports in readiness for any category of flight operations.

    It is for this reason that over a decade ago the Federal Government adopted the concession model to facilitate development of airport infrastructure aimed at addressing  flight connectivity challenges from either local or international terminals into the West and Central African region.

    Besides,  some state governments,  including Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Jigawa, Kebbi and others have invested in the construction of airport terminals to drive flight connection into and out of their domains.

    But,  these efforts have had their fair share of controversies on how strategic the facilities fit into the connectivity initiative.

    Concerns by global aviation organisations including International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airports Council International (ACI) in the last decade point to the state of facilities at many airports, especially Nigerian airports.

    Specifically, the bodies have complained about lack of transit facilities at airports in Nigeria for passengers desirous to connect between local ,  regional and international flights.

    Recently, IATA, trade association of global airlines called on the Nigerian government to take urgent steps to address the state of airport infrastructure, including transit facilities to enable passengers and airlines to have seamless operations at the aerodromes.

    His intervention came on the heels of challenges thrown up when foreign carriers were mandated to relocate their operations from the old terminal to the new wing of MMIA.

    Passengers on both regional and international flights experienced  some inconveniences on account of inadequate facilitation procedures/ processes at the terminal.

    Experts have argued that if regional flight operations were permitted at the local terminal operator by a private company , the experience would have been different.

    Experts say collaboration between the Federal Government and private sector players , whether in the form of concessions, has gone a long way in resolving infrastructural challenges in the aviation sector.

    Speaking in a recent interview, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo said the Tinubu administration is committed to fixing challenges in the sector by leveraging collaboration with private sector players for the improvement and development of infrastructure for passenger convenience.

    Besides, he said the government is also committed to supporting the growth growth and sustenance of local airline business with facility optimisation.

     Latching on to the government’s agenda for air transport development,   operator of the new Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), Bi- Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL)  has concluded plans  to begin regional flights from the facility.

    The company is awaiting the nod of the Federal Government and apex civil aviation regulator – Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to actualise the ambition.

    The terminal management company had secured certification since 2016 for its operational facilities to undertake regional flights. 

    Investigations by The Nation reveal that it will be the first privately managed terminal to achieve the feat.

    Regional flights in Nigeria before now only take off from the international wings of the Lagos , Abuja airports.

    Regional flights cover countries in West and Central Africa. Many Nigerian carriers, including Air Peace, United Nigeria Airlines, Ibom Air and others operate flights into Accra, Doula, Banjul, Monrovia, Freetown, Lome and other destinations.

    If the new deal seals through , the MMA 2 would become the first domestic terminal to become a hub and facilitate the connection of passengers from local flights into regional routes without seamlessly leaving the airport.

    For Air Peace alone, its regional transit regional flights are Accra-Freetown-Accra, Accra-Douala-Accra, Monrovia-Lome-Monrovia, Accra-Da­kar-Accra, Lome-Accra-Lome and Accra-Banjul-Accra.

    Experts say approval to connect its domestic flights into the regional rotation will be convenient for passengers.

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    The transit hub, the experts say, would enable its regional and international passengers from other countries  fly to their final destinations with airlines  through  Lagos Airport hub.

    Commenting on the planned regional flights from the MMA2, an industry expert , who pleaded not be named said : “  ”Now, passengers from other countries can fly  some of the local carriers designated on either international  regional destinations by converging in Lagos at a local  terminal approved by the Federal Government  from where they are flown to their  destinations seamlessly without leaving the airport. If the hint that MMA2 will get such a nod is anything to go by, that is work in progress for air travel in Nigeria.”

    Efforts by other terminal managers  including Asaba Airpor in Delta State and Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom  state capital  are yet to come to fruition. 

    Experts in the sector say if BASL secures  the approval of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the arrangement will alter the  air travel narrative in the country’s mobility  eco- system.

    Speaking in an interview, industry commentator and Chief Executive Officer of Travel Signatures Limited,  Imelda Aso , said the proposed arrangement  will reduce passengers struggling to transverse the often chaotic traffic challenges along the Lagos Airport Road.

    She said it will reduce the hassles passengers go through undergoing uncoordinated profiling and checks at the crowded new international terminals of the Lagos Airport.

    A source at the NCAA said the operator has installed the necessary facilities for security and bio metric screening equipment  required for  regional and international flights .

    Earlier in the year, BASL’s Head of Operations confirmed that the terminal management company has invested over N600 million to upgrade facilities in readiness for regional flight operations.

    Data from the NCAA confirmed that over 5.9 million passengers traveled through the airport in the last two years.

    Data from international aviation organisations reaffirm the aerodrome as one of the busiest in Africa in the last few years.

    The Nation investigations reveal that despite the shocks of  COVID – 19 Pandemic, the aerodrome facilitated over 3.7 million passengers between 2021 and 2022.

    As of a few months ago,  the aerodrome facilitated over one million passengers, suggesting a  dip in footfalls triggered by the ongoing economic situation resulting in  reduced disposable income available to  Nigerians for air travel.

    However, a  ministerial committee on Airport Security in 2016 had certified the MMA2 ready  for the commencement of regional operations.

    Ewah said the company had complied with all regulatory requirements by clearly separating domestic from regional passengers and providing facilities for security and facilitation agencies such as immigration, quarantine officials, among others.

    The official said all the agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), had assessed and approved the facilities after all necessary requirements had been met.

    He said:“We have invested over N600 million in the facilities for this operation and we have not recouped one Naira since it all started in 2014. We are actually ready, the terminal is ready, Gates 5 and  Gate 6 have been dedicated for regional flights.

    Experts familiar with the development said the current pressure on limited travel facilities at both the new and old terminals of the MMIA , Lagos could encourage the Federal Government to accelerate approval for take off of regional flights from the MMA2.

    But, industry  experts say such approval, will require that the relevant border control, security and trade facilitation agencies required at an  international air  border post, including  are mobilised  at the MMA2 .

    Recall that Chairman of Air Peace , Allen Onyema had complained of the absence of transit facilities at airports in Nigeria, a development, the operator said  is affecting regional flight operations by local carriers.

    Speaking on the development, former Secretary General of umbrella body of local carriers- Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Mohammed Tukur  said  recent developments concerning pressure on facilities at the international wings of the MMIA, reinforces the need  for the Federal Government to grant rights to MMA2 to operate regional flights.

    He said  : “ As  a local terminal housing  majority of  local carriers, there is nothing unusual to allow airlines designated on regional routes to carry out their regional operations from the aerodrome.

     ” There is nothing wrong in granting such approval as long as the aerodrome operator meets all prescribed regulatory, safety and operational requirements. The terminal has come of age.”

    Tukur described the terminal as world-class, stressing that the facility is the only one in Nigeria that boasts of self-service kiosks in the country that makes airport facilitation faster aside other facilities.

    He went on : “ MMA2 is the first and only terminal to deploy such in Nigeria, West and Central Africa. Providing a world-class experience for every visitor.”

    MMA2, he said, offered everything the arriving and departing passengers might need, from efficient check-in and access to top-notch airport facilities, tourism information and transit information, fabulous shopping and dining options and other facilities for  extensive meetings and conferences.

    Commenting on the effectiveness of MMA2 in passenger facilitation, Susan Akporiaye, the President of National Association of Nigeria Travel Agents (NANTA), said MMA2 is devoid of unnecessary hassles and has the capacity to handle regional flights, adding that the government should consider the possibility of processing regional flights from MMA2.

    Akporiaye explained that the state-of-the-art regional facility has remained unutilized for over a decade, even though it represents a readily available solution to the capacity challenges faced at the international wing of Murtala Muhammed Airport.

    The NANTA boss added that MMA2’s commitment to exceptional customer service sets it apart, with a focus on passenger satisfaction and support throughout their journey.

    Despite the readiness of the terminal operator, the  NCAA is yet to give a date on when regional operations will begin at the terminal.

    Officials of the regulatory authority said conversations are  on – going  on the development.

    The NCAA is not definite on when the coast will be clear for the aerodrome to begin regional flights.

    The official said : “ The facility  is an additional capacity to passenger facilitation in Lagos, but we are engaging them to ensure the terminal operator meets  all requirements for such operations, we will continue to have  conversations with them. This  is  work in progress.” 

    Meanwhile in 2017, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), called on the NCAA not to grant approval for regional operations to BASL citing inadequate space.

  • For improved Lagos transportation capacity

    For improved Lagos transportation capacity

    How should a world-class agency such as the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) celebrate itself in 20? Some of those who witnessed its birth gathered to x-ray and chart the path for its future. ADEYINKA ADERIBIGBE who was there, reports.

    What does the future hold for public transportation in a megacity state such as Lagos? To proffer the right answer, the Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA) held a stakeholders’ forum to celebrate its 20th anniversary recently.

     Transportation experts, dons, industry stakeholders and subject matter specialists had gathered not only to x-ray the past but also to critique the present and chart the future, as LAMATA grapples with improving access and increasing capacity for transportation alternatives for the 23 million residents of Lagos.

     Welcoming the stakeholders, LAMATA’s Managing Director, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo set the tone when she said the agency brought together some of those who were there when LAMATA was established and had been part of the journey, to assess the growth of the baby they delivered 20 years ago. She recalled that at its formal launch on December 2, 2003, at Sheraton Hotel, the then governor, now the President of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had envisaged an agency that would coordinate integrated and intermodal transportation.

     For her, therefore, the assignment before the experts was simple: X-ray how well LAMATA has carried out its mandate and what needed to be done as the future beckons.

     The former World Bank Specialist, and author of the LAMATA blueprint, Dr George Banjo said the march to a multi-modal system aborted in the second republic, resumed 30 years ago, in 1993 and was approved by Col. Olagunsoye Oyinlola (as he then was).

     Incidentally, he wrote the memo for the blueprint and watched as the project became twisted after approval. The project suffered implementation largely because the state at the time had just two engineers and none were high enough to be consulted for any transport initiative to be implemented by the government.

     To avoid a repeat of the failure of that era, when approached to put together an integrated multi-modal blueprint for the state, Banjo strongly recommended the establishment of an agency to supervise the government’s initiatives. That proposal culminated in the establishment of LAMATA, which he supervised as a World Bank official. LAMATA for him, more than anything else, had over the years provided an opportunity for transportation professionals/specialists to freely practice and implement initiatives which have left huge footprints in the state.

    As LAMATA’s responsibility gets more complex, with the injection of more modes to service the growing population projected to hit 54 million by 2043, Banjo recommended among others that LAMATA must aggressively generate more revenue to enable it to provide the rolling stock required for a mobility authority of its size.

     Quoting the World Bank’s estimate of 1,000 buses per one million people, Banjo, who is now the Chief Executive of Transport and Development Consultants Limited noted that Lagos will need a minimum of 23,000 buses to cater to its present population. He said the present total fleet, but at a little over 2000 is a far cry from the minimum threshold. He therefore called for greater LAMATA/private sector collaboration if the agency is to succeed in a world of mobility that would be shaped, largely by technology.

    A peep into the past

       Experts unanimously agreed that the transportation sector before the coming of LAMATA was a study in chaos, populated by unregulated private operators and hardly befitting vehicles with 90 per cent of the mobility needs of residents almost exclusively mono-modal, by the road mode alone. In an overview titled LAMATA: The Past, the Present and the Future, presented by LAMATA’s Technical Adviser, Corporate Investment Planning, Engr. Osa Konyeha said the agency couldn’t have come at a better time. Reason, Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial and economic capital, with a population of about 23 million has risen to be the fifth largest economy in Africa topping over $100 billion GDP and a trillion naira budget cannot continue to be driven by a mono-modal transportation, where the road continues to play a dominant role.

     According to him, the transport profile of the state showed that Lagosians make approximately 22 million trips per day, with 90% of this made by road, less than 2% by water and walking takes the remaining 8 per cent.

     The state, in the past, had a plethora of unplanned, weak and insufficient transportation plans and policies that ensured that the sector underperformed  with the proliferation of the transport space by inefficient vehicles owned by private operators. The result of this was traffic congestion, longer travel time, stress and shocks of road-induced fatigue, and non-adherence to safety standards, among other shortcomings with unimaginable consequences to travellers in the state.

    The coming of LAMATA, according to Konyeha, was the game-changer as it not only prioritises research but also systematically began a reordering of the state’s transportation architecture, ensuring the leverage of the state’s comparative advantage in waterways and rail systems thereby evolving an intermodal system. The agency came with a Traffic Operational Manual (TOM), which over the years has made a significant impact on the state’s transport ecosystem. The state government also ceded to it over 600 federal, state and council roads under what is called the Dedicated Road Network (DRN), which it was permitted to palliate to make commuting easier for the people of the state. LAMATA, Konyeha said, has greatly helped to sanitize the transport sector in the last 20 years, as it has not only engaged in the development of dedicated bus routes, it has injected over 500 mixed range of buses under the Bus rapid transit scheme, engaged in the introduction of intelligent transport system (ITS), introduction of automated Cowry Card for transport fare collection across all the modes operated by the government, and the regulation of concessionaire system.

     LAMATA has activated two (Blue and Red Rail lines) of the six colour-coded rail transit (the remaining four are: Green, Purple, Yellow and Brown). Also included are a mono-rail, over 460 bus routes, and 12 waterways where work is currently ongoing with modern jetties, all of which were part of the state’s Strategic Transportation Master Plan (STMP), Though, it started with the Lagos Urban Transport Plan (LUTP1), which focuses on urban areas, LAMATA over the years had gotten bigger and its scope of operation and coverage getting more and more complex with the addition of new modes such as rail and the First and Last Mile bus fleet added to make transit more reliable and enjoyable for the people. He said the agency is currently implementing the policy initiatives included in the LUTP 2, which further gives LAMATA a wider scope of coverage which now straddles the entire metropolis of Lagos, and gets to four local governments in the adjoining state of Ogun.

    Read Also: Will Lagos Transportation Policy ever come?

    In his lead paper, the Director of the Centre for Multi-Modal Transport Studies, University of Lagos Prof. Iyiola Oni said LAMATA in the last two decades has demonstrated capacity and competence in transforming the face of public transportation in Lagos State. He lauded it for not only fulfilling its mission and mandate to provide a world-class sustainable integrated transport system that satisfies stakeholders and drives the growth of Lagos but for being the only Lagos government agency that is ISO-certified.

    For Oni, LAMATA has, in the past 20 years, turned challenges into assets and enhanced road network efficiency even as it has strengthened institutional capacity and has developed a bus industry transition programme. He said the agency leads in the green transportation advocacy with the promotion of the Non-motorised Transport (NMT) policy and is already edging towards an energy transition that is moving from fossil-fuel-propelled engines to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles.

     Oni canvassed a LAMATA that should continue to propagate five of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5, 7, 11, 13 and 17: where SDG 5 addresses gender and equality strategy, SDG 7 speaks to affordable and clean energy, SDG 11, sustainable cities and communities, SDG 13 climate action and SDG 17 addresses partnerships.

       What next?

      For Oni, what is next is for LAMATA to address itself to the mobility needs for the future where smart transportation and digitalised processes would play a key role. LAMATA should also be a major player of Green transportation not only within the state but on the continent by promoting the full injection of Electric Vehicles, the activation of all the light rail corridors, the implementation of more terminals for major inter-state motor parks and the development of smart parking systems.

     He challenged LAMATA to continue research into more feasible means of mobility for the people by prioritising transportation projects. He also called for increased coverage of feeder connections that would take modern intermodal transit to emerging cosmopolitan cities of Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, Ikorodu and Badagry, thereby covering all the IBILE pillars of the state.

     While discussing Prof. Oni’s paper, LAMATA’s first Managing Director and one of the six panellists, Dayo Mobereola, said LAMATA has continued to sustain the dream of implementing transport options for the state.

     Mobereola, who was represented by former Transportation Commissioner Dr. Frederic Oladeinde said the state will continue to propagate inter-modal transit and optimize all the DRNs. Oladeinde said the state will continue to prioritise the people in the delivery of transportation mix as LAMATA has come to save them from a system where they spend about 40 per cent of their income on transportation, making Lagos one of the most expensive cities to live on the continent.

     His successor, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi said the Ministry of Transportation will continue to provide the needed support to LAMATA in its strides to provide world-class options in the state.   Osiyemi also assured that the government will continue to prioritise transportation and traffic management in line with its THEME+ Agenda.

    Prof. Charles Asenime, the Dean of the School of Transport and Logistics of the Lagos  State University (LASU-SOT) assured the agency that the school will continue to be available should it need to conduct any transportation-related research.

    The Executive Vice-President Oando Clean Energy Ademola Ogunbanjo said his company is happy and proud to partner with LAMATA in the injection of Electric Buses into the state’s fleet as part of its green transit initiative.

    The General Manager of Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) Mr Damilola Emmanuel said LASWA is following the template laid down by LAMATA. Emmanuel listed the modernisation of the jetties, the inauguration of a command-and-control centre at LASWA, the injection of modern ferries and the dredging of 12 waterways routes as part of the benefits accruable from the integration of multi-modal transport in the state.

     The moderator of the panel discussion, Prof. Samuel Odewunmi urged LAMATA to continue to sustain the various initiatives already in place. He, however, urged the government to work more at making the roads fit for purpose as many of the bad road networks promote traffic congestion.

     The General Manager of Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), Mrs Adebisi Adelabu said the agency is working with the Lagos master plan on transportation to bring parking under a structured system to reduce traffic congestion in the state.

    As the network increases and the modes get more complex and bigger, the agency must strengthen itself to continue to discharge its responsibilities, even as they called for more investments in the road networks to relieve the people and make intra-city mobility more enjoyable.

  • Moneybags buy up rural communities, sack indigent citizens from cities

    Moneybags buy up rural communities, sack indigent citizens from cities

    Indigent people including farmers in remote and rural communities are losing their treasures at an alarming rate to investors in real estate who are on the prowl for land acquisition. Besides buying up available lands, developers are also buying up houses in many cities, kicking out poor tenants. INNOCENT DURU examines the implications of the trend for food security and housing challenges for the poor considering that a large number of indigent citizens have no means of living in the expensive and exquisite estates.

    • Food crisis looms as real estate investors take over farmlands
    • Development worsens security situation for rural dwellers – Builder Awobodu

    Sam, a resident of Epe area of Lagos State, and his kinsmen have lived in the community for ages. In fact, they were born in the community and also grew up in it to marry and raise their own children.

    For them, life revolves around the area. But the invasion of the area by investors in real estate lately has seriously unsettled them as they fear that their portion in the community could also be bought anytime soon.

    “If that happens, we will have a serious crisis to deal with,” he said. “This is the only place we have known all our lives. We were born in this place and have in turn given birth too.

    “Many people in neigbouring communities have been displaced after the land they were living on was bought. They are facing serious accommodation crisis.

    “I don’t even know how some of them survived it. If you look around many remote parts of this area, you will see estates all over the place.  Many of them have been there for years while many other new ones are springing up.

    “The more estates are built, the more poor people are displaced.”

    Another resident, who gave her name as Helen, said: “The poor have no place again in the society. When they buy the lands where poor people like us are living, they begin to sell them at outrageous rates, which people like us cannot afford. Where would people like us get hundreds of thousands of naira to buy land?

    “Everybody cannot live in an estate. The annoying thing is that they have left the city to buy up land in remote places where people like us are managing our lives.

    “It is unfair. The poor should also be given some space in the society.”

    Aside from Epe area of Lagos State, checks showed many remote areas across the country, the southern part in particular have been invaded by people investing in real estate. Experts have put the figure of Nigerians facing housing challenges at 62million. The number, from every indication, will continue to rise as moneybags continue to acquire lands and displace indigent people living in those areas.

    A resident of Mowe Area of Ogun State who gave his name simply as Hassan said the fear of real estate investors has become the beginning of wisdom for many tenants in the area and adjoining communities.

    He particularly cited the ofada area meant for growing local rice as one of the areas that have been bought over by real estate investors.

    He said: “Many parts of this axis have been taken over by real estate developers. Some people, out of poverty, are selling their property to them, forcing the poor tenants to look for accommodation elsewhere.

    “This is a serious issue, because it is not everybody that will live in an estate and it is not everybody that will build a house.

    “Poor people will have to live somewhere. But if the estate developers continue to buy every available land and house, the poor will not have a place to live anymore, and that will constitute a serious crisis in the society.”

    The activities of developers are not restricted to Lagos and Ogun states alone. Checks in some parts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, revealed that apart from buying virgin lands that were being used for different purposes by the people, developers are also buying existing buildings.

    A victim, who gave her name simply as Gethrude, said: “I paid for a year’s rent, and when it expired, the agent, who knew that the house would be sold, asked me to pay another rent for a year.

    “I agreed and paid, but shortly after I made the payment, the people who bought the house came and asked us to vacate. They only gave us three months as deadline.

    “When I complained to the agent, he said the buyers would refund our money. But the buyer only ended up paying a part of the money.

    “When I approached the local chief to complain, he said I should thank God that I could even get some refund.

    “It was a huge setback for me because I had to go looking for accommodation shortly after a year, and paid fresh commissions for the new apartment.”

    Farmers lose farmlands, investments to developers

    Findings also showed that apart from indigent residents in rural communities, farmers are also losing their farmlands to estate developers.

    Some of the farmers who spoke with our correspondent said the ugly development could worsen the challenge of food insecurity in the country.

    A former Chairman of Agriculture, Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Prince Wale Oyekoya, said he recently lost his farmland to estate developers. 

    “I am a victim, so you are asking the right person. Our farm around Epe has been taken over by estate developers. They have taken over the whole place, and the place is meant to be for farming.

    “The military owned the place but it was given to Lagos State Government for agricultural purposes. The local people in those places have been displaced. The whole place is like a ghost town now because they have chased the people away. 

    “The Lagos State Government allocated the land to us for farming. But right now, the omo onile (land grabbers) are conniving with developers to take over the whole place. 

    “As I am talking, two of my workers were arrested by the police through the developers. They were taken to court and remanded in Kirikiri correctional facility. 

    “The arrested guys were just working on the farm. They didn’t do anything wrong. But they lied against them, claiming that they found ammunition on them. 

    “How can you arrest someone that is working on a tomato farm and claim that they demolished property worth N50 million?”

    Oyekoya said prior to the time the developers took over his farmland, “we had made huge investments on the farms. We even had those who were into animal husbandry. We lost over 3,000 chickens when they came and chased everybody away.

    “If you don’t feed chicken for one or two days, it will become a problem.

    “When those hoodlums come to your farms, they are armed to the teeth. It is when there is pressure from the media and people like us that there would be a stop to this.

    “Most of us have taken loans from banks, friends and families to do all these, and that would mean that everything would go down the drain.

    “It is a big pain, and we are complaining that foodstuff is expensive. It is not only here. It also happens in the north and even in the east.”

    Also sharing his experience, Afero Dalegan, a farmer in Epe area of Lagos State, said: “My farm was also affected.

    “The Lagos State government gave us the farm because they collected the land on which we were farming and relocated us to where we are presently. 

    “Subsequently, omo onile started selling the land to estate developers. We cannot access the land anymore. 

    “They threatened that they would kill us and do all manner of things to us. They even brought military men with them.”

    Implications for food security

    Speaking on the implications of losing agricultural lands to estate developers, Prince Oyekoya feared that the country could suffer from severe food scarcity if the menace was not addressed.

    He said: “Most of the farmers in Lagos State have had their lands taken over by developers.  The same thing is happening in Benue and most of the northern axis of the country too. 

    “It is a very big problem, and that is why food production is very expensive. There is no land for people to farm again.

    “The implication is that there would be food crisis. When there is no food security, there would be a food crisis. Prices of foodstuffs will go up.

    “Farmers from Itokin, Erijinmowo, up to Epe have been displaced. They chased everybody away from the farm. 

    “Most of these people have no business in real estate. They are chasing us away because they feel that the farm is close to the Dangote Refinery and all that.  Definitely, it is going to affect food supply.”

    Also regretting the setback caused by their predicament, Idowu said: “Among us are poultry farmers who had 10,000 birds and were producing eggs. But now they can’t go there. 

    “The consequence is that the quantity of eggs going to the market will be reduced.

    “I have cashew in my own farm. I sell it to exporters. I also have cassava farms but they are not allowing us to go there.

    “It is certainly affecting Nigeria’s food security. It is also affecting the foreign exchange that the country is supposed to be earning.

    “When I produce cashew, we always export the seed and get more dollars. When we export cassava we get more foreign exchange. But now everything is at a standstill.”

    Farmers take battle to Lagos govt

    Worried by the incursion of estate developers on farmlands, the affected farmers led by Prince Oyekoya paid a courtesy visit to the Attorney General of Lagos State during the week.

    “We are just coming from the Attorney General’s office as we are talking now,” Prince Oyekoya said.

    “The Attorney General said this is a big problem because most of the farmland that they gave to farmers has been taken over by developers. 

    “In fact, it seems you are reading the mind of the Attorney General. I told the Attorney General that all he needs to do is to strengthen the Land Grabbers’ office.”

    Also corroborating Prince Adekoya, Dalegan said: “We met the honourable Commissioner for Justice and he was sympathetic with us. He promised that he was going to look into it.

    “But you know how the government works. When they tell you they will do something, it may take time.”

    Estate developers exposing rural people to security challenges – Builder Awobodu

    A former President of the Nigerian Institute of Builders, Kunle Awobodu, in a telephone chat with our correspondent, noted that rural dwellers are constantly exposed to security challenges as they have to further move into isolated areas, each time estate developers displace them from their communities. 

    He said: “For those people in the rural areas, they would have to go further into the forest. It is unfortunate but that is what is happening.

    “When rural people are made to go further into the forest, it is another level of suffering. 

    “When you go to the outskirts of a town, not a city, it is another level of suffering. 

    “When you go deep into the outskirts, you are exposed to attacks from criminals.  That is what those who stay on the outskirts face. Whenever they go to work and come back, hoodlums would have stolen their little property.

    “Staying on the outskirts has security implications, but that is the fault of the local chiefs, and government. When the government is taking land from communities, they always excise some plots of land.

    “If the government does not take the land where people are already occupying, why would they allow developers to do that?

    “It is recklessness. The local chiefs and land owners are guilty of that.”

    In spite of the rush by estate developers to acquire large expanses of land by estate developers, Awobodu said most of those estates are not really developed.

    “If you go to Ofada area, you will see so many estates. They wouldn’t build any house. All they will build are sample buildings for exhibition and a large expanse of land will be there for years.

    “It is for speculation. They are trying to speculate into the future that in five years, six years or ten years’ time, development will get to those areas and the land could be resold.

    “Don’t mind them, because they may not develop the estate in future. It is part of speculation.

    “On the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, they are many there. Also when you are heading towards Epe and Ijebu Ode, they are many there. It is all part of speculation.

    “When they take land from the indigene or people within that area, well, I don’t know why those ones will accept that. It is part of speculation. It is a business. 

    “When you have some money, property is a business you can invest money in for years and reap bountifully. People bought some of those lands and discovered that those places are not yet habitable.”

    Some of the displaced people, according to Awobodu, don’t own the land.

    Explaining further, he said: “What is happening in Abuja is that some of the lands that have been acquired,  those who are working in the city will go and set up temporary shelter they know might be demolished after a while. It is just for them to manage with their family.

    “From there, they will be going to work in the centre of the city.  That is why in developed countries now, they try to provide accommodation, they have some specific buildings in the centre of the city where the low income earners can stay not far from their offices.

    “There is the existence of societal stratification in the society. The people at the lower wrung of the ladder in the society are so many and they are so contented that most of them occupy tenement buildings popularly called ‘face me I face you’.

    “You would find a whole family staying in a room. All the tenants in the house are using a common toilet and common kitchen.

    “When you go to a village setting too, it is more or less like that. But the elite stay in a six-bedroom or three-bedroom apartment, and at the end of the day, not all the rooms are occupied.

    “It is a societal contradiction.”

    Also commenting on developers who are buying up existing buildings and sending the tenants out, Awobodu said the solution lies in adopting the late Lateef Jakande, the former Lagos State governor’s approach to solving housing problems.

    “This is an area where we have to remember people like the late Jakande who built rent-to-own houses. He built so many houses where you would be paying rent and later own it. 

    “That is the recommendation that we are making for the low income earners. We have been advocating this for a long time. We said there should be a deliberate housing scheme that will consider low income earners.

    “This is what the new minister of housing and urban development is working towards. That is what he is doing presently. We pray that state governments would emulate that.

    “The Lagos State Government has also built some houses that are meant to be rent-to-own. That is a way of overcoming this challenge.”

    62 million Nigerians facing housing crisis

    Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sow Real Estate, Mrs Uzo Onukwubiri, recently put the figure of Nigerians facing housing crisis at 62 mllion. 

    She said: “Nigeria has an estimated population of about 200 million people, and about 30 per cent of the entire population still struggle with quality shelter and housing crisis.

    “This implies that urgent attention should be placed on the country’s housing sector if the housing needs of the inhabitants are to be met.

     “One key issue affecting housing delivery in Nigeria is that the level of housing shortage has not been adequately presented. This is a result of inadequate and inappropriate statistics and data by the managers of housing in Nigeria.

    “However, there have been attempts to estimate the magnitude of the housing shortage in Nigeria. The National Housing Policy specified in detail that to achieve the goal of providing 15 million housing units by the year 2022, 1.2 million housing units would have to be built each year.

    “It concluded that this number is necessary to compensate for the housing shortage in the country.

    “It is estimated that around 100,000 housing units are built each year, and an average of 80% of Nigerians live in informal housing, which is plagued by problems related to poor quality and inadequate infrastructure.

    “Although the exact reasons for the housing shortage vary across the country, the main problem in Nigeria is the low income of residents. This is problematic since privately constructed houses are expected to comply with official planning laws and other costs incurred during the construction of the house.

    “Huge resources including effort, time, materials and money have been devoted to planning the Nigerian environment at the national and sub-national levels. Nonetheless, the various challenges that have been, and are being addressed have hardly diminished. In fact, the problems of housing shortages such as physical deterioration, poverty, inadequacies and inequality in the service delivery system have escalated. The incidence and growth of these problems seem to outpace the capacity of the government to take them on. Nigerians are faced with the fact that their cities are in trouble and that there is an urgent need to do something that will ameliorate the emerging problems.”

    FG plans to build 34,500 houses nationwide

    The President Bola Tinubu-led federal government in October announced its plans to build 34,500 houses across the country in a move aimed at addressing the housing shortage in the country.

    The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mr Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, stated this when the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, paid a courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja.

    Dangiwa said as part of the first phase of the ‘Renewed Hope Cities Project’, the Federal Government aims to construct approximately 34,500 houses across the country.

    This initiative will be carried out via a combination of the Federal Mortgage Bank, Federal Housing Authority, and Private-Public Partnerships (PPP).

    He said: “With this project alone, we aim to create over 240,000 jobs at 7 per housing unit. This is in line with Mr. President’s goal to create jobs, lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty and grow the economy.

    “In doing this, the government was building for the 80% of Nigerians who fall within the non-income, low-income and medium-income brackets. We are focusing on affordability but without compromising quality.”

    He also said the ministry was collaborating with the National Population Commission (NPC) to determine the actual housing deficit in the country.

    Dangiwa said: “Our in-house estimates show that for us to meet the housing needs of Nigerians, we need to build about 550,000 new homes per annum over the next 10 years.”

    The minister also disclosed that the Ministry had communicated with state governors, requesting approximately 50 hectares of land at no cost for Renewed Hope Cities.

    According to him, this approach would enable the Ministry to offer the houses at a price that Nigerians could afford.

    He also sought the governor’s support as the ministry intended to revise the Land Use Act of 1978 to streamline land administration and facilitate access to land, making it a more efficient, rapid and cost-effective process with the enactment and adoption of the model mortgage foreclosure law that establishes mortgage registries.

  • Resolving constitutional dilemma on local government autonomy

    Resolving constitutional dilemma on local government autonomy

    Despite calls by Nigerians and the international community for local government autonomy, the bill, which was passed by the 9th National Assembly, could not see the light of day when taken for concurrence at the State Houses of Assembly. NICHOLAS KALU writes that at the moment, more local government areas appear redundant as they have no access to their money, while development suffers.

    The last attempt to amend the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in the exercise carried out by the 9th National Assembly failed to achieve a fundamental objective, which many believe is crucial to the much-needed development of the country–autonomy for local governments. It seemed strange that despite the clamour across the country for devolution of power, an opportunity to push such decentralisation would be utilised but this was not the case as, incidentally, State Houses of Assembly refused to see that the financial autonomy of local governments is brought to fruition.

    The status of local government

    Section 7(1) of the Constitution guarantees the existence of the local governments in Nigeria. It states: “The system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is, under this Constitution guaranteed; and accordingly, the Government of every state shall, subject to Section 8 of this Constitution, ensure their existence under a Law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions of such councils.”

     Also, the Second Column of Part One of the First Schedule to the Constitution enumerates the local government areas in the country. Going by the provision of section 7(1), the local government is a creation of the state government and cannot be said to be a third tier with autonomous status. Again, Section 162(6) also provides for a local government and state’s joint account to be managed by the state and through which the state shall transfer funds to each of the local governments of the state. This provision placed the local government under the financial control of the state government.

     Also, the Supreme Court judgments have affirmed the dependency status of the local governments on the state government, emphasising the fact that the Federal Government has no constitutional legislative powers concerning the establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions of local government councils, rather it is the states’ governments that are bestowed with such powers under the Constitution. Therefore, since local government is a function of the state government and only the state government has the constitutional power to establish local government and to define its structure and function, it suggests that the local government is not an autonomous entity in the sense that it cannot determine its business, free from the state government. 

    Governors’ stranglehold

    Section 162(6) of the Constitution states: “Each State shall maintain a special account to be called “State Joint Local Government Account” into which shall be paid all allocations to the Local Government Councils of the State from the Federation Account and from the Government of the State.” This means that local governments cannot get their own share of the allocation from the Federation Account directly. The money would be domiciled with the state government which should then hand over the money to the respective duly elected local governments. But evidence over the years has shown that this has been a far cry from what obtains in the Nigerian polity. State governors have grown to become overlords, dissolving elected council leadership installing caretaker committees at will and spending the local governments’ funds as their whims dictate. It seems apparent that constitutional provisions about local governments created the basis for the unhealthy interference of the state governments in the administration of local governments.

     However, a constitutional amendment that freed the local government system from financial control by the states did not make it through to the State Houses of Assembly. The legislation which was rejected sought to provide a special account for the local government allocations to be paid directly to them. The legislation is titled: “Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Abrogate the State Joint Local Government Account and Provide for a Special Account into which shall be paid all Allocations due to Local Government Councils from the Federation Account and the Government of the State; and for Related Matters.”

     In March 2022, the Senate and House of Representatives voted on 68 bills seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution. Both chambers agreed on some of the bills and differed on others and at the end of the day, a total of 44 bills were transmitted to the States. The local government autonomy bill was one of the 44 bills transmitted by the National Assembly to the 36 state assemblies in March 2022 for their concurrence required to get Mr President to sign them into law.

     According to sections 9 (2) and (3) of the 1999 Constitution, two-thirds of all the state assemblies 24 states— are required for each amendment to be approved. Unfortunately, of the 44 bills approved by the National Assembly and transmitted to the state assemblies, only 35 scaled through while the local government autonomy bill with eight others failed.

     The then Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, who was the Chairperson of the Senate Constitution Review Committee, had then accused some governors of frustrating the efforts of the constitutional amendment process through the Speakers of the state houses of assembly. “It is not just about the 44 bills. Of the 44 the most fundamental to a lot of us is the local government autonomy. Even if they shoot down every other bill as not being important to them, at least this is so fundamental,” he had said.

    It seems obvious to many that efforts to ensure the amendment did not go through was due to the influence of the governors, who seek to maintain a stranglehold on the funds meant for local governments in their domain. Even where there is elected leadership at the council level, they are often in the pockets of the governors and their welfare is mostly dependent on their “good behaviour.” They cannot do much as they are tied to the apron strings of the state government which have maintained a strong hold on the government.

    A recent report indicated that 313 out of 774 are handled by sole administrators or caretaker committees. Only 461 are run by duly elected officials. The Constitution stipulates that elections be held every two years, but most of the state governments have failed to comply. The law stipulates this for a maximum of two terms. According to the report, the 461 elected officials are spread across 20 states out of the 36 states of the federation indicating that 16 states run their local government areas with sole administrators or caretaker committees.

     Among various reasons often posited by state governments who spend local government funds is that the third tier is prone to mismanagement of funds. However, over the years, it is apparent that the state governments have exhibited gross mismanagement in the handling of the funds thereby crippling development as the country still grapples with poverty.

    Read Also: Ekiti local government poll fixed for Dec 2

     A 2019 survey by Dataphyte indicated that Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, mismanaged over N15 trillion federal allocation meant for local government areas in the last 12 years, depriving the nation’s third tier of government funds for desperately needed developmental projects. Local governments are a fundamental part of Nigeria’s political system and should be closer to the people than the states and the Federal Government. Yet, for years, revenues that should go to them have ended up with their state governments.

    Senate reacts

    In reaction to the trend of mismanagement and unaccountability of the funds for the local government due to the overbearing attitude of governors, the Senate on Friday resolved that President Bola Tinubu should stop statutory allocations to states that do not have a constitutionally elected local government.

     This followed a motion sponsored by the Senate minority leader, Abba Moro who lamented the inability of some state governments to conduct local government elections. The Senate’s resolution condemned the arbitrary dissolution of democratically elected local government councils in Benue and other states in Nigeria. It called for a review of the governor’s dissolution of the elected councils and constitution of caretaker committees and reinstated the elected council executive forthwith. It said placing caretaker committees to replace elected councils is an aberration and alien to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

     Mixed reactions followed the development. Immediate former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom praised the Senate for the intervention in ensuring the autonomy of the local governments as the third tier of government. He had said the Senate had demonstrated a firm stance against dictatorial tendencies. This he said would safeguard the democratic process at the grassroots level. However, critical stakeholders believe this is not feasible as it runs contrary to the provisions of the law, which indicates the President does not have the power to withhold funds allocated to the states and local governments.

    The way forward

    Many stakeholders have continued to push for a review of the constitution to ensure the autonomy of the local government to engender development having failed at the last outing. There seems to be some promise in this regard as the Federal Government recently promised that in its bid to ensure effective grassroots governance that will bring development to the masses, it plans to ensure that local governments are given financial autonomy.

     During the two-day annual conference of key actors in local government administration, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, revealed that the National Council of his ministry is working towards updating President Tinubu on addressing the issues about joint accounts and collaboration between states and their local governments. Jisalo, who stressed that the local government is a critical tier of governance that cannot be overlooked, stated that if the government gets it right at that level, it will reflect positively on the state and the federal tiers of government.

     The minister, who explained that local government administration has undergone a long and complex journey since pre-independence also, said it was in 1976 that local government reforms introduced elected local councils and emphasised the importance of grassroots governance. He lamented that since then, subsequent military regimes and constitutional changes have led to various setbacks in local government administration and effectiveness. Jisalo said that if financial autonomy is not granted to local councils, there will be a disconnect between the government and the governed at the grassroots level that will hinder development and service delivery.

     Meanwhile, stakeholders hope that as plans for the next round of constitutional amendment unfold it is hoped local government autonomy will be on the front burner. A citizen, David Agada said: “There would hardly be any development if local governments are not fully allowed to run on their own.

     “Strengthening the government at the local level would engender a lot of participation by citizens in the political space and this is a major ingredient for development as leaders would be more on their toes in respect of their responsibilities to the people. The state governments are complaining that the local governments mismanage the funds. But they are also mismanaging the money. With more participation by citizens in government, it would be difficult for crafty politicians to have a field day. What we should have is more accountability in the system and things would go right.

     Also, a communique issued at the end of a one-day National dialogue on Local Government and Grassroots Development in Nigeria in Abuja demanded the dissolution of joint states and local government accounts and the creation of a dedicated account for Local Governments where funds are remitted directly from the FAAC account.

     The dialogue organised by the Social Development Integrated Centre, called for the expunging of areas of the constitutions that empower the State Houses of Assembly to make laws for the LGAs as they are a separate tier of government. It also urged that the powers of States to conduct elections for local governments should be taken away from the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIEC) and given to INEC. It urged that there should be legislations to ensure complete autonomy of the local governments to ensure the development of the country.

  • Using community-led solutions to combat HIV/AIDS stigma

    Using community-led solutions to combat HIV/AIDS stigma

    Despite countless groundbreaking innovations in the treatment and prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV), it still is a death sentence for some, particularly the most vulnerable and the marginalised. Young people living with the virus, who are part of this group, still deal with social stigma and discrimination, which remain the primary drawbacks in the fight against the disease. As the world commemorates this year’s AIDS Day, CHINYERE OKOROAFOR writes that governments at all levels should sensitise communities to the need to raise awareness of the illness to halt its spread

    Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV), may no longer be a death sentence due to the development of low-cost and extremely effective preventive methods such as the use of condoms during sexual intercourse to emergency antiretroviral medications and long-term antiretroviral (ARTs) medications for those already infected with the disease to scientific advances in the development of an HIV vaccine that could potentially prevent novel infections. But, to people living with the virus in Nigeria, stigma and discrimination have prevented many from seeking HIV testing and treatment.

     For instance, when medical personnel revealed the HIV status result to the parents of 15-year-old Ifeoma Adizua, her parents stigmatised and discriminated against her despite being their child. After several medications to treat a persistent rash she believed was chicken pox to no avail, she said: “When I turned 16 years old, I fell seriously ill so much so that I was hospitalised and required oxygen support for eight days. The medical team conducted a series of tests, and to my horror, it was confirmed that I had contracted HIV.

     “My parents were deeply shaken and began to question me, even going so far as to subject me to a virginity test to prove my innocence. We eventually discovered that I had contracted the virus from a blood transfusion I had received when I was young. The revelation only made things worse as I faced stigma and isolation from my own family. The weight of the situation and the discrimination I experienced left me feeling depressed and lonely. However, I found support in the Association of Positive Youths in Nigeria (APYIN), where I met other young individuals facing the same plight as me.

     “Through my interactions with APYIN, I gained a deeper understanding of the virus and was able to educate my family about the realities of living with HIV. Despite the initial hardship and discrimination that I faced, I emerged stronger and more knowledgeable about the condition and found solace in the community of others like me.”

     The 2022 UNAIDS Global AIDS update titled “In Danger” revealed that global progress towards HIV prevention is slowing rather than accelerating and “the most vulnerable and marginalised are being hit the hardest.” The vulnerable and marginalised include people who have been disproportionately impacted by social, economic and political challenges: women and girls, people with disabilities, children and the youth.

    The Nation reported recently a case of a 19-year-old pregnant girl in Awka Anambra State who was kicked out of the house by her boyfriend on learning that she was HIV positive. It was gathered that the victim’s boyfriend identified as Chibuike sent her parking after getting her pregnant. She was later handed over to a group of health workers who referred her to the Anambra State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare. Narrating her ordeal, the six-month-pregnant girl said she had been homeless after she was chased out of the house following the discovery that she was HIV positive.

     “I had been in a relationship with my boyfriend, Chibuike for three years before he chased me out of the house after discovering that I was living with HIV. I have been homeless since then,” she said.

     While revealing her parents’ disappointment over her predicament, the lady thanked the state government for accepting to take care of her. In 2021, young people between the ages of 15 and 24 accounted for more than a quarter (27 per cent) of new HIV cases worldwide, and about three in 10 (31 per cent) of new infections in sub-Saharan Africa. Adolescent girls and young women of the same age group, one of whom becomes infected with HIV every three minutes, are three times more likely to acquire HIV than adolescent boys and young men of the same age in sub-Saharan Africa. The largest HIV survey ever carried out, the National HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS) conducted in Nigeria in 2018, estimated that approximately 240,000 young people – ages 15 to 24 – were living with HIV in Nigeria in that year. In a recent exclusive interview with The Nation, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Gambo Aliyu, said that stigma and discrimination as the primary challenge of eliminating the virus has remained consistent over the past four decades.

     According to information gleaned from the website of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, HIV internalised stigma can lead to feelings of shame, fear of disclosure, isolation and despair. These feelings can keep people from getting tested and treated for HIV. Despite years of sensitisation programmes by the government and non-governmental organisations against stigmatisation and discrimination as well as the existence of the HIV/AIDS (Anti-Discrimination) Act of 2014, people living with HIV often experience stigma and discrimination across the country.

    HIV data in Nigeria

       According to the Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAISS) released from expanded data collection and analysis on March 14, 2019, the national HIV prevalence in Nigeria was 1.4 per cent among adults aged 15 to 49 years. Previous estimates had indicated a national HIV prevalence of 2.8 per cent. UNAIDS and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS estimate that there are 1.9 million people living with HIV in Nigeria. Similarly, Statista’s report on February 2, 2023, showed that 1.9 million people in Nigeria were living with HIV in 2021. Women were the most affected group, accounting for 1.1 thousand individuals. Also, children up to the age of 14 who were HIV positive equalled 170,000. The NACA boss said Nigeria has the second-largest burden of HIV infection. “Currently, a total of 1.8 million people are estimated to be living with HIV in the country, out of which about 1.63 million are already on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), a life-saving medication.

     “Approximately, 58 per cent are estimated to be females and 42 per cent are males. The national average Mother-to-Child Transmission rate of 22 per cent is driven by a large number of states with transmission rates above 25 per cent and few states with rates below 15 per cent. Nigeria is responsible for about 30 per cent of the world’s gap in Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT),” it said.

    The state of HIV management and control in Nigeria

    According to Aliyu, Nigeria has made significant strides in the past four years, especially in identifying cases and linking individuals to HIV treatment, but there is still much to be done to achieve the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. He said: “Our efforts have been bolstered by a meticulous tracking mechanism, ensuring that every HIV-positive individual who receives treatment is accounted for. This approach marks a substantial departure from the past, allowing us to monitor progress, address treatment issues promptly and prevent the virus from spreading further. We have witnessed a decline in new HIV infections, hospitalisations related to HIV and AIDS-related deaths.”

     He said the declining figure was achieved with the support of partners and global communities to prevent new infections, increase HIV awareness and knowledge and support those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. He, however, stressed the need to address social and structural factors that drive the HIV epidemic. “It is imperative that we confront these systemic inequalities head-on and work to ensure that all individuals have equal access to life-saving prevention, treatment and care services, as well as other social services available to Nigerians,” he said.

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    World AIDS Day 2023 theme explained

    The United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, UNAIDS, stated that the theme “Let Communities Lead” has been chosen to highlight the significance of communities in raising awareness of the illness and halting its spread. However, communities’ leadership is stagnating, even as HIV prevention and treatment services are being hampered by a lack of funding, obstacles in the form of laws and regulations, capacity issues, crackdowns on civil society and the human rights of marginalised communities, and other issues. UNAIDS stated that “community-led organisations can provide even more impetus to the global HIV response, advancing progress towards the end of AIDS, if these obstacles are removed.”

     The UNAIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima said: “The end of AIDS is possible; it is within our grasp. To follow the path that ends AIDS, the world needs to let communities lead.” In line with the theme, Aliyu said that breaking the cycle of fear and prejudice is essential in achieving the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. He urges communities across the country to embrace individuals living with HIV, “treat them with compassion and encourage them to seek treatment without fear of judgment. By fostering an environment of acceptance and support, we can empower people to come forward, get tested, and access necessary treatments.

     “We acknowledge the progress we’ve made and the hurdles we’ve overcome, but the battle against HIV is far from over. Our focus now is to eradicate stigma and discrimination. The government cannot achieve this alone; it requires the cooperation of every citizen. By providing transportation assistance to those in need, encouraging them to adhere to their medication regimens and showing empathy and understanding, we can ensure that people living with HIV receive the care they deserve,” he said.

    What the government is doing in HIV treatment

    Aliyu revealed that HIV medication are more accessible now than before with over 2,000 centres across the country offering free treatment. He said: “We encourage everyone to come forward, get tested and avail themselves of these services. By demanding HIV services, individuals can protect themselves and others, contributing significantly to our goal of ending HIV and AIDS by 2025. We are confident that with continued dedication and community involvement, Nigeria will achieve the 95-95-95 target by 2025, a significant step toward a future without the burden of HIV and AIDS,” he said.

  • Making Enugu dry water taps run again

    Making Enugu dry water taps run again

    For two decades or more, residents of Enugu State had harrowing experiences in terms of lack of potable water. Most residents resorted to getting water from vendors as a result of the terrible state of the public water supply. DAMIAN DURUIHEOMA reports that Governor Peter Mbah has made good his electoral promises by reactivating water schemes in the state which is now supplying residents of the metropolis with regular water

    It is incontrovertible that residents of Enugu State have had more than a fair share of water crisis. For upwards of 20 years, residents of the Enugu metropolis and, indeed, the entire state were having harrowing experiences trying to get potable water or any kind of water at all from water vendors as a result of the terrible state of the public water supply.

     For those who could afford it, they bought plastic water tanks while others started digging wells for water, which usually dries up immediately dry season sets in. Even at that, it is not in every place that well water was available as quite a few landlords were able to get well water, but mostly unhygienic, for their tenants.

     As a result of the situation, the water instantly became a very lucrative business, which only the rich could afford. People began to invest in water tanker truck businesses which flourished.  Most large-scale users such as hotels, hospitals, schools and churches had to acquire tanker trucks to afford themselves some reliability of supply of the commodity.

     Average-income families had to queue endlessly to fetch water from tanker trucks that supplied water in a very unreliable and epileptic fashion, while prices of potable water skyrocketed. 

    For instance, a tanker of water costs between N28,000 and N35,000 depending on location and the size of the tank. For those who bought water in jerry cans, a 30-liter jerry can of water was sold for between N200 and N250 for clean water, while coloured water from wells cost between N50 and N100.

     In areas such as New Haven and Independence Layout Enugu where well water is hardly available, some of the residents, particularly Umuezebi, New Haven in Enugu Town fetch water from Ugbo-Ogrugru stream close to a dumpsite and unclean even to the ordinary eye, while those of Independence Layout fetch from Mmili Ani Stream situated at the back of Chinatown Building, Independence Layout area of Enugu State, also very close to a dump site. Because they could not afford to buy distributed water from the suppliers, this became their only option.

    Findings showed that they used the water to cook, bathe and wash clothes, while households who did not have options drank the water after boiling it.

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    According to WaterAid Nigeria, over half of the state’s residents lack basic water services. Its research shows that lack of access to water contributes to poverty and poor health, with almost one in 10 children under age five being stunted. This is exacerbated by the topography of the state, which is covered by coal and makes access to groundwater difficult with no permanent solution to it.

     Year after year, the water crisis became persistent in Enugu. To many, the Enugu public water supply from Enugu State Water Corporation was jinxed. In the past 20 years, every effort made by residents, business owners and the media to have the public water supply brought back to its good old days invariably met a brick wall.

       A promise kept

       These days, however, residents of the state capital are singing a new song. On Saturday, November 25, 2023, the day Governor Peter Mbah clocked 180 days in office, the newly reconstructed ultramodern water scheme was inaugurated, bringing relief to millions of residents in the metropolis.

     The water challenge had been a major campaign issue for candidates during the 2023 electioneering campaigns. To demonstrate how serious he was, before his assumption of office on May 29, 2023, Governor Peter Mbah had vowed to make public water supply run in every household within the Enugu metropolis. And exactly 180 days in office, the governor forced the era of water scarcity to become history as the public taps started running again with the results showing in homes and other public water galleries within the capital city.

     Looking back to the campaign days before the elections, where it all started, Governor Mbah said it became evident to him that the challenge of water supply was fundamental to the achievement of his objective to take the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from its current position of $4.4 billion to $30 billion within the next four to eight years.

     “It was clear to us that the status of water supply at the time was deplorable,” he said.

     Continuing, Mbah said: “One doesn’t need to be a rocket scientist to discern that a few investors will be attracted to the state under such dire circumstances, neither can existing businesses expand to generate additional jobs and economic growth. If anything, these conditions are suffocating businesses and households and leading to unnecessary suffering across the state.

     “Faced with this fundamental issue, and considering the suffering of Ndi Enugu, it was only natural that we identified the provision of water as one of our first targets in the drive to execute our mandate and social contract with citizens of Enugu State.

     “We also chose to give ourselves a target of resolving this challenge in 180 days; not for the purpose of chest-thumping but rather because firstly, the issue is urgent. We did not want Ndi Enugu to suffer unduly for even one minute longer than avoidable, and secondly, we saw this as an opportunity to galvanise Ndi Enugu for the tough tasks ahead and whip our administration into gear as quickly as possible.

     “When we communicated this promise, it triggered disbelief in most quarters and that is, perhaps, understandable. After all, Ndi Enugu have seen before now countless successive but unsuccessful attempts to address this problem.” 

     The governor expressed happiness that 180 days after he made the promise of getting water to every household; he had inaugurated the new ultramodern water scheme with a capacity to deliver 70 million litres of potable water daily to businesses and families in Enugu.

     While noting that this was but the first phase, Mbah said that “in a few weeks, we will also be inaugurating new pumps in Oji Water Scheme to enable us to deliver another 50 million litres of water every day.

     “This will give us a total daily delivery of 120 million litres in Enugu, about twice the daily demand of Enugu urban.

    “We are currently supplying water at appreciable pressures to Enugu municipality and I can state here and now that pipe-borne water is here to stay.

     However, it is certainly not yet time to shout Uhuru. That is because the existing water pipe network does not service a number of major residential areas which developed since the last major pipe-laying projects in Enugu. We will need to continue the effort to extend pipe-borne water to them.

     “In addition, the towns outside Enugu also have varied degrees of water problems. Now that we can see the end of the water issues around Enugu urban, we must not refocus on addressing towns such as Nsukka, Oji, Udi and other areas.

     “Finally, but certainly not least importantly, we still have our rural areas, where clean water availability is still not assured. We must now begin to examine and deploy creative location-specific water supply solutions across all the local government areas. This will enable us to achieve the minimum levels of water sufficiency, sanitation and hygiene which will position us to meet the sustainable.”

    Residents react

    Expectedly, some residents of Enugu metropolis reacted to the news of public water supply returning back to the capital city, praising Governor Mbah for ending the perennial water scarcity within the state capital just in 180 days in office as promised during the campaigns.

     The residents, who described Governor Mbah as the type of leader they look up to emulate in the future, regretted that the Enugu people had suffered acute water shortages that impugned their humanity for over 20 years.

     One of the residents and former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo described the administration’s massive investment in water resources through Internally Generated Revenue and 120 million litres daily volume of water recorded in 180 days, as a miracle.

     According to him, Mbah had redefined governance and rebuilt public confidence in the government.

     “In the past, we used to hear that the government earmarked a lot of things, but nobody gets to see them. But we are now “eye-marking” a solemn promise that was made and kept,” Nebo stated.

    Speaking during one of the governor’s stopovers to inspect some reconnected institutions and inaugurated some of the 96 water galleries constructed around the city, the Senior Prefect of Godfrey Okoye University Secondary School, Master Radiance Kamah expressed the joy and appreciation of the students to the governor.

     Kamah said: “Not long ago, you came into this state, you started improving Enugu and I am very sure that by next year, we will be ranking among the first best states in Nigeria. I can remember the 11th convocation held at Nike, we could see different stuff this beautiful construction going on. But it wasn’t completed then. To the glory of God, with you and your inspections, this has been built. With not much time, you have completed it and you are inaugurating it today.

    “And I know this will send to the students and the youth of Nigeria, how a good leader should be and how they should begin to form themselves so that at the end when it will be our turn, we would have that sense of how to govern a country and a state. I pray that maybe when you will reach the top of the Presidency, you will change Nigeria for good.

    “Ndi Enugu, you are lucky to have a governor such as this and I know other states will be jealous.”

     For the Director of Communications and Public Enlightenment of the Centre for Humanity, Peter Ugwu, the group is pleased to identify with the governor for fulfilling his promise in record time.

     According to him, the abundance of water achieved by the Mbah administration in 180 days could have taken any other serious government at least four years to record.

     Ugwu said: “According to the World Bank, about 70 million Nigerians do not have access to safe drinking water, while approximately 114 million do not have access to basic sanitation facilities. This has affected people’s health, well-being and economic productivity.

     “This is why The Centre for Humanity is pleased to identify with the grand success registered by Governor Peter Mbah in the provision of potable water in Enugu City in 180 days, especially the inauguration of the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme, backed by a 4.4MW backup gas-powered electricity generation plant to guarantee non-stop water supply to Enugu metropolis going forward.

     “Raising water production capacity from an occasional two million litres to 120 million litres daily is a great mileage, and we trust that the governor will, as promised, now concentrate on fixing the bursting pipes and willful vandalisation and sabotage, which result in loss of huge quantities of water,” the Centre stated.

     Ugwu also urged Enugu residents to own the facilities and protect them against vandals and those out to sabotage efforts to have the people enjoy public water after over two decades.

  • Providing infrastructure for viable livestock industry

    Providing infrastructure for viable livestock industry

    The livestock sector is a pillar of the food system in Nigeria and the rest of Africa. It enhances poverty reduction, food security and agricultural development. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the sector supports the livelihoods, food and nutrition security of millions of people on the African Continent. However, sectoral output has grown enough to respond to increased demand fueled by population growth. This has placed the sector as one of the fastest growing agricultural sub-sectors in the market for solutions to engender transformation toward sustainable development  and improved contribution to human diets. DANIEL ESSIET writes that there are now international interventions to improve the various dimensions of the livestock value chain system.

    At every turn in Botswana and Brazil, the future of modern agriculture is taking shape—not in the boardrooms of big corporations but on thousands of modern farms.

     Comparing Nigeria’s livestock industry and that of Botswana, the Managing Director of Chanan Elo’a Integrated Farm Limited, Udeme Etuk said though Nigeria’s livestock industry is resilient and well managed, the Southern African country is ahead in terms of cutting and processing plants for production of partitioned and processed meat products. Also, Botswana is implementing the Livestock Identification and Trace-back System, which enhances disease management.

    Brazil is the world’s biggest beef supplier. In 2021, 27.7 million heads of cattle were slaughtered in Brazil, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the government statistics bureau.

     Last year, driven by Chinese demand, farmers increased the use of feed lots in beef production. This rose to about a fourth of the country’s overall slaughtered cattle.

     For Andi Brisibe, a Professor of Plant Biotechnology at the University of Calabar, the livestock industry in Brazil has played a key role in steering the growth of the agricultural sector, supporting millions of livelihoods.

     He believes that Brazil has established a robust food production system in terms of building the capacity of farmers and extension workers in protecting livestock genetic resources; business management and implementation of strategies, including the identification and traceability system.

     This year, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, QU Dongyu visited Brazil where he highlighted the country’s great potential to contribute to global food security and to support other countries through Southsouth and Triangular Cooperation.

     While in Brazil, Qu also visited several laboratories at Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology aimed at preserving plant, animal and micro-organism species to guarantee and increase genetic variability and food diversity.

    Undoubtedly, Botswana and Brazil have developed a dependable infrastructure to grow and sustain livestock resources to stimulate economic growth. It has also been revealed that Africa’s livestock industry has not shown promising indications. While much has been achieved, a lot remains to be done to lead to better and more sustainable results.

    In 2020, the Malabo Montpellier Panel report on “Meat, Milk and More: Policy Innovations to Shepherd Inclusive and Sustainable Livestock Systems in Africa,” highlighted options for sustainably promoting growth in the livestock sector, drawing from what four African countries, namely Ethiopia, Mali, South Africa and Uganda that have done successfully in terms of institutional and policy innovation as well as programmatic interventions.

    The report highlighted that the livestock sector accounts for about 40 per cent of agricultural gross domestic product (GDP) in Africa; ranging from 30 to 80 per cent in individual countries; but rarely gets more than five to 10 per cent of agricultural investment. Consequently, it is under-performing.

    The report highlighted the critical role of livestock in achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including achieving healthy diets, supporting millions of jobs and driving economic growth as well as the potential to transform women’s lives.

     But how is the situation in Nigeria and the rest of African countries?

     Despite its significant contributions to agricultural and national gross domestic product (GDP), the livestock sector in most African countries has remained heavily underfunded. The productivity of livestock is low, relative to its potential. Yet, the baseline data needed to adequately characterise livestock productivity levels in different parts of the Continent are not available.

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     In the fight against hunger and poverty, the state of the livestock industry doesn’t guarantee security in times of crisis. This has given concerns to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and African Union InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).

     The organisations have been working on coordinated mechanisms and support for countries in Africa to scale up best practice approaches.

     FAO is rallying development cooperation as it had predicted that the African market for animal-source foods may exceed $60 billion annually by its estimates.

     A notable step the FAO has taken towards enhancing the sustainability and resilience of livestock systems is the development of the Global Agenda for Sustainable Livestock (GASL).

     GASL serves as an important platform for leaders and experts to gather to tackle the pressing issues in the livestock sector.

     AU-IBAR and other global players in the sector are part of GASL. AU–IBAR has been part of the campaign to shape a sustainable livestock future for Africa. It participated in the 13th Multi-Stakeholder Partnership (MSP) Meeting of GASL and the Regional Conference on Sustainable Livestock Transformation, which took place recently in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

     The meeting, whose theme was “Multi-Stakeholder Partnership (MSP) Collaboration to Address Drivers of Change in Livestock Systems,” explored the drivers of change affecting livestock systems and envisioned innovative solutions. It also focused on the four critical domains of livestock sustainability: food and nutrition security, socio-economic considerations, and health and environmental factors.

     To create a more sustainable and inclusive world by 2030, AU-IBAR’s Director Dr Huyam Salih reiterated the commitment of the bureau to make important efforts towards shaping the future of livestock systems in Africa. According to her, livestock plays a vital role in ensuring food security, livelihoods and incomes in Africa.

    Analysts have stressed the need for Nigeria to transform its livestock systems to address the increasing demand for meat.

     The increasing concern is that Nigeria’s livestock sector which plays a vital role in enhancing the economy, faces challenges that impact productivity, sustainability and food security. One such area is inadequate feed resources that have contributed to farmer-herder conflicts.

     The Executive Director of the Commercial Dairy and Ranchers’ Association of Nigeria (CODRAN), Mr Dianabasi Akpainyang noted that with very low levels of feed production, the livestock industry in Nigeria is heavily dependent on feed and feed ingredients, even as he added that any increase in the cost of feed was going to affect farmers and therefore impact food security.

     According to him, the current challenges of tighter feed supply are hindering the industry from achieving notable success at the premium end of the market.

     In Nigeria, the shortage of feed is in the region of at least 12 million tons while local production is less than 20 million tons.

    He urges policy and research attention to be paid to decreasing the dependence of livestock production on imported feed ingredients.

     Like Akpainyang, the Managing Director of American West African Agro-Limited, Jerry Cunningham plans a reduction of its reliance on imported feed ingredients to support its domestic livestock sector.

     In the circumstances, stakeholders have called for increased domestic corn production and better use to be made of local materials. They opined that reducing the country’s reliance on imported feed ingredients would help in supporting the growing industry as well as those involving other meats, dairy and fishery products. It would also help raise national food self-sufficiency and create job opportunities.

     AU-IBAR is ready to support Nigeria’s forage and cattle development through participatory research that responds to farmers’ needs and identified opportunities. Its ongoing initiatives encompass a diverse range of projects that are aimed at fostering sustainable and resilient livestock development in Nigeria.

     These include promoting fodder potential from staple food crops, assessing market potential and supporting the implementation of the National Livestock Transformation Plan to ensure holistic livestock sector growth.

     As farmers faced tremendous challenges in their feed and fodder sectors, the bureau launched its Inception Workshop and assessments for the Resilient African Feed and Fodder Systems Project (RAFFS) in Abuja.  The RAFFS project seeks to respond to challenges posed by the triple C crises: COVID-19, Climate Change and the Conflict between Russia and Ukraine. These have resulted in substantial losses, affecting livelihoods, incomes and the affordability of essential livestock-sourced foods.  Indeed, the sector has demonstrated the potential of an important job provider, especially for the empowerment of women. According to the Malabo Montpellier Panel, a group of leading African and European experts in the fields of agriculture, ecology, nutrition, public policy and global development, there are approximately 249 million women livestock keepers in Africa for whom livestock represents a major source of income and an opportunity for wealth accumulation.

     While the majority of them are backyard livestock producers, the panel noted that a few have elevated their production to successful commercial companies. Sadly, Nigerian women have not been mentioned for playing a critical role in reducing hunger through livestock production.  The few names celebrated at the continental level included the Executive Director of SEDIMA Group, Senegal’s leading poultry production group, Anta Babacar Ngom; the Chief Executive of Tiviski, Africa’s first camel milk dairy, Nancy Abeid Arahamane; the founder, Lopey Inc and the Sereledi dairy brands, Penelope Wright; the founder of Dreamland Piggery–a multi-million-rand family-operated farm in South Africa, Anna Phosa and founder and owner of one of the biggest private dairy farms in Eritrea, Mrs Azieb Tsegay.

     To change the narrative, the RAFFS Inception Workshop also featured the introduction of the African Women in Animal Resources Farming and Agribusiness Network (AWARFA-N) to enhance women’s participation in the feed and fodder sector. The RAFFS project works with African Union member states and regional economic communities in the three most affected regions, the Inter-governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) to build resilience in African feed and fodder systems.

     Dr Huyam Salih, who spoke through AU-IBAR RAFFS Project Officer, Dr Sarah Ashanut Ossiya during the workshop in Abuja, listed critical issues faced by women in the livestock sector revolving around their constrained access to appropriate, long-term financing solutions tailored to their unique requirements.

      Dr Sarah observed that across Nigeria and the rest of the Continent, the demand for livestock products such as milk, meat and eggs is growing rapidly due to an increasing population, urbanisation and increasing income. For this reason, she said the RAFFS Project, in collaboration with AWARFA-N, Nigeria chapter will organise livestock outreach programmes, and coordinate and monitor training for women farmers.

     She reiterated that giving women the same opportunities as men and increasing demand for livestock products is offering opportunities for women to use livestock as a pathway out of poverty and food insecurity. She said the opportunity has come to get more women involved in the livestock sector.

     So far, a lot of women in the livestock industry linked to AWARFA-N, Nigeria chapter intend to improve production by increasing the farming system efficiency and building linkages to urban beef markets. They will be exposed to sessions on how to grow high-yield, nutrition-rich forage, and silage-making methods that ensure food supplies for livestock during the dry season.

     One of them is Mrs. Zainab Hammanga, a former Director of Investment and Consultancy at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC). She has since retired from farming and has been supporting organisations, empowering women to make meaningful changes in the agricultural industry. She has brought into the AU-IBAR project to encourage more women to take that step forward into the space. She said: “The agricultural industry needs to embrace more women to succeed.” She said it was vital for the industry to encourage more women to work in agriculture.

     Halima Isah, an Abuja-based young entrepreneur has seen both small- and large-scale livestock farmers struggle to feed their cows in the North, where, sometimes a large part of a state would suffer from the worst drought. Consequently, arranging fodder for the cows had become a challenge.

     She said: “I would want the government to support farmers to embrace hydroponic feed and fodder production.” According to her, the technology which involves growing plants without soil and by using mineral nutrients dissolved in water, is one of the innovations aimed at improving the production of livestock and can be promoted in areas grappling with water and fodder scarcity.

     According to her, the barriers to women making in agriculture are increasing, adding that they needed all the support to successfully break through the glass ceiling in the agribusiness industry.

     While the desire of the government to empower women and make them self-reliant is strong, she maintained that the resources needed to support them to take off are lacking.

     For Adamawa State-based livestock entrepreneur and Chief Executive of Benue Valley Farms Limited, Ms Asma’u Joda tending to livestock is a fast track to empowerment. Yet, she struggles because insecurity is challenging feed and fodder production. She has seen families depending on small-scale livestock production for livelihoods, food security and employment creation. Most families in the North own cattle and a lot more depend on it to make a living.

     However, the sector is being challenged by insecurity and the high cost of feed. This has in turn affected farmers’ productivity. She is keen to recall the good days of cattle rearing, but that the business has nosedived as bandits threaten the business.

     For her, cattle rustling, and banditry have left farmers grappling with fear as some have had to abandon their farms, describing the severity of the situation, and the need to prioritise security. Zainab Isa is an entrepreneur from Zamfara. She is a farmer and herder. She aligns with the priorities to empower women in the livestock industry. She noted that ownership of livestock was much more egalitarian for women in the North. She continued that the livestock sector’s contribution to the economy will remain severely stalled if the issue of insecurity is not dealt with quickly. According to her, the government needs to implement policies that create a safe environment for women.

     Although much of the North appears secure from pockets of banditry activities, the operating conditions in places such as Zamfara are not considered favourable for livestock business.

     She feels unsafe rearing cattle in unprotected areas as a result of insecurity.  She described Northern livestock farmers as resilient types, as the severity of the insecurity condition has given them concerns. She has lived through a lot seeing cattle rustlers causing huge damages to households and farmers across the region who keep cattle, goats and sheep.

     The Country Focus Person for the Project in Nigeria, Dr Winnie Lai Solarin is already looking at helping women involved in livestock farming to adapt successfully to climate change, increasing production sustainably and developing new markets. One of the project’s achievements, according to Mrs. Winnie Lai-Solarin who is the Director of Animal Husbandry Services of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, would be to train farmers in preserving feed as silage-a fermented, high-moisture stored fodder, which comes in handy at times when livestock feed becomes scarce.

  • CNG Initiative: Transforming lives through cleaner, cheaper transportation

    CNG Initiative: Transforming lives through cleaner, cheaper transportation

     The removal of the PMS subsidy and subsequent deregulation of Nigeria’s petroleum market have introduced formidable challenges, with soaring PMS prices straining the common man’s finances. In response, President Bola Tinubu initiated the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi) to address the adverse effects of policy changes, providing a sustainable, affordable, and eco-friendly energy alternative through natural gas. This groundbreaking initiative aims to promote Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles (EVs) as viable substitutes for traditional fossil fuels, addressing the significant challenge of convincing Nigerians, predominantly reliant on premium Motor Spirit, to embrace the CNG alternative. Under the leadership of Mr. Zach Adedeji, the PCNGi swiftly launched numerous CNG conversion centers across Nigeria, marking a rapid initiation of the transition to natural gas-powered mobility. The establishment of these centers signifies a monumental game-changer in a nation heavily dependent on fuel consumption and grappling with soaring energy costs. CHINYERE OKOROAFOR reports that this initiative holds exceptional promise, offering extensive benefits to all Nigerians

    The elimination of the PMS subsidy and the subsequent deregulation of Nigeria’s petroleum products market have presented considerable challenges. The surge in the price of PMS has imposed substantial financial strain on the average citizen. In response to the escalating fuel costs in recent months, Nigerians have actively explored alternative options. Addressing this pressing issue, President Bola Tinubu took a proactive step by launching the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi). This initiative is designed to effectively counteract the adverse consequences of policy changes, providing a more sustainable, affordable, and environmentally friendly energy alternative through Natural Gas for the transportation sector and the entire Nigerian populace.

    The primary objective of this groundbreaking initiative is to alleviate the burden on the masses. It centers on promoting the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles (EVs) as viable substitutes for traditional fossil fuels. However, a significant challenge looms – convincing Nigerians, whose vehicles predominantly run on premium Motor Spirit, to embrace the CNG alternative. This challenge necessitates innovative solutions to facilitate the widespread adoption of CNG in a nation heavily reliant on conventional fuel sources.

    Fueled by the vision of the President and propelled by the urgency to address a pressing issue afflicting the masses during challenging times, the PCNGi, under the adept leadership of Mr. Zach Adedeji, Acting Chairman of the Federal Internal Revenue Service (FIRS), has demonstrated agility and purpose. In recent weeks, the initiative has successfully launched numerous CNG conversion centers across the nation, including key locations like Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, and Kaduna States, marking a rapid and impactful initiation of the transition to natural gas-powered mobility. The establishment and operationalization of these centers signify a monumental game-changer. In a country heavily dependent on fuel consumption and grappling with the repercussions of soaring energy costs without the cushion of subsidies, a practical and efficient alternative is imperative. This development holds exceptional promise as it unfolds, offering extensive benefits to all Nigerians. The centrality of transportation in the daily lives and livelihoods of the populace underscores the transformative potential of this initiative, promising a positive ripple effect across various facets of society.

     The transition to natural gas energy embarked on a significant trajectory with the formal presentation of two CNG-powered buses to the State House in Abuja on October 27, 2023, by the PCNGi. This marked the initiation of a transformative revolution, symbolizing the nation’s preparedness for positive change. In rapid succession, this milestone was followed by the inauguration of the CNG Conversion Center in Lagos on October 28, 2023, situated at FEMADEC Energy Group’s station in Abijo along the Lekki-Epe Expressway. Subsequently, the Abuja CNG conversion center, located at the National Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was commissioned a few days later. Within a span of two weeks, several other CNG conversion centers have been inaugurated in various states, including Ogun and Kaduna. This swift and widespread deployment signifies a dynamic and proactive approach to establishing a robust infrastructure for natural gas-powered mobility, with the promise of more centers to be launched in the near future.

     The PCNGi’s rapid establishment of CNG conversion centers not only underscores their serious commitment but also demonstrates their dedication to meeting Nigerians’ aspirations for an improved quality of life and a cleaner environment, providing access to more affordable and environmentally friendly fuel for daily use. The socio-economic benefits of these conversion centers, particularly for the residents of Abuja, the FCT, become apparent upon closer examination, offering multiple reasons for optimism regarding their future commutes and livelihoods. Abuja, being historically one of the hardest-hit cities during fuel crises, whether due to scarcity or price increases, has experienced recurring challenges in recent years. The residents of the capital city have consistently borne the brunt of the hardships associated with fuel-related issues. The advent of CNG conversion centers in the city is a transformative reality, bringing genuine relief to the residents and addressing the longstanding issues tied to fuel crises.

     At the inauguration of the Abuja CNG conversion center on November 2, the Program Director of the PCNGi, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, stated that the transformation of PMS vehicles into Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bi-fuel vehicles at this facility signifies a significant transition in their approach to future planning. “It goes beyond simply changing the type of fuel, it reflects a shift in mindset, a deliberate decision to adopt cleaner and more cost-effective energy alternatives.” On the safety concern of most Nigerians regarding natural gas, Engr. Oluwagbemi further noted that “Abuja residents should be aware that driving a car that has been converted to run on CNG can be considered safe, provided that the conversion is executed correctly and in strict adherence to all relevant safety protocols.

    Read Also: How Tinubu is fighting insecurity, by Gbajabiamila

     “Converting a petrol-powered vehicle to operate on CNG involves installing a CNG conversion kit. This kit includes essential components like a CNG storage cylinder and a pressure regulator. This is the reason the government is diligent in creating certified conversion centres and employing the services of certified CNG installers. This ensures that your vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection and certification process after the conversion.”

     With the above considerations, it is reassuring that the proposed energy transition is not only cheaper, but also safer, and will truly work out in their overall best interest of citizens. Other advantages of a widespread adoption of this transformative shift in mindset and lifestyle include the following, among others. That CNG is a more cost-effective alternative to traditional fuels like PMS cannot be overemphasized. The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) stated that the cost of an equivalent litre of CNG to PMS is between N320 and N350. Comparing this to regular gasoline which now retails for an average between N550 – N600 per litre shows that CNG is better for Nigerians than PMS in this austere period.

     The savings achieved by converting vehicles to CNG can significantly reduce the overall cost of commuting for Abuja residents, offering relief from the burden of high fuel prices and the inflation that is galloping out of control. Another related advantage is that the adoption of CNG in public transportation, such as buses and taxis, will lead to more affordable fares, and by extension reduced cost of production or overheads for individuals and businesses in the capital city. This will not only make public transport more accessible but also reduce traffic congestion and the environmental impact of private vehicle usage.

     During the handing over ceremony of the CNG buses at the State House in Abuja on October 27, Zacch Adedeji, the chairman of the steering committee for the PCNGi, stated that while the federal government is looking to roll out more conversion centres across the country in the next 6 months, citizens can expect partnerships with the private sector, cooperatives, state, and union-operated mass transit operators with the aim of rolling out over 11,500 CNG-fueled vehicles during the same timeframe. By virtue of this CNG transition, a CNG economy is sure to emerge in the coming months, opening up various value chain opportunities for the private sector to appropriate. Thus, as the CNG industry gains momentum, businesses in the capital city can explore such opportunities for investment and partnership, driving economic growth and diversification in the process.

     One of such partnerships could be in Research and Development. The conversion center can serve as a hub for research and development, fostering collaboration with local universities and institutions. This, in turn, can lead to innovations in CNG technology and infrastructure. The potential is limitless and exciting. A direct consequence of this CNG economy is job creation as the establishment of the conversion center in Abuja is already generating numerous employment opportunities across the emerging value chain. This development is not only benefiting residents of the capital city, it’s also drawing workers from other states as they fill the direct and indirect opportunities springing up for enginners, technicians, kit producers, maintenance workers etc. The impact on reducing unemployment and increasing the GDP of the FCT cannot be ignored.

    Another most important and timeous advantage of the CNG transition is the environment benefit to the city. CNG is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to traditional gasoline or diesel. By converting vehicles to CNG, the emission of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere in Abuja will be significantly reduced, resulting in reduced air pollution, improved air quality, and overall public health.

     The PCNGi’s focus on CNG and EVs therefore aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. The Abuja conversion center will play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges and advancing the positioning of the city as environment friendly, actively contributing to a greener, healthier environment for present and future generations. A most critical benefit of this milestone is the enhancement of Energy Security for the FCT and by extension, the country. The PCNGi, with the active take-off of CNG conversion, is on course to insulating the country from the volatility of global oil markets and ensure a stable and affordable energy supply for Abuja residents. Thereby, minimizing the hardship that is usually occasioned by international price fluctuations and supply disruptions. At a time Abuja residents are grappling with the challenges of rising fuel prices, traffic congestion, rising cost of living, and environmental degradation, the most important benefit the CNG transition and the establishment of the CNG Conversion center in Abuja will bring is in actively and effectively alleviating the cost of living for all residents,

     The CNG Conversion center offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly lifeline by providing reduced fuel costs, improved public transportation, and a cleaner environment as CNG gains prominence. In addition, the center’s operations will contribute to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements that will benefit the entire region. The Abuja CNG conversion center is therefore not just a symbol of renewed hope, it is an investment in the well-being of Abuja residents and a testament to the government’s commitment to providing succor in the face of adversity.