The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) joins forces at the 2023 Annual Partners Meeting and community of practice, organized under the Extractive Industry and Climate Change Governance Fund managed by the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) to  foster dialogue and share insights among partners, aiming to find innovative solutions to address critical issues within the fund’s focus area and the broader resources sector. The two-day meeting held in Ghana’s capital, Accra, attended by organizations under the fund, provided a valuable platform for the exchange of ideas, discussions on key issues, and the sharing of lessons learned from projects undertaken under the fund or recently completed. HEDA, represented by its Legal and Acting Program Manager, David Ogungbesan, and Legal and Program Liaison Officer, Cecilia Ogwuche, joined other esteemed organizations, including the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), Global Rights, Institute for Energy Security, Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Centre for Extractives and Development (CEDA), and several other partner organizations. Delivering a presentation on behalf of the civil society organisation, David reported on HEDA’s recent project funded by the Extractive Industry and Climate Change Governance Fund, titled “Assessment of 2021 Petroleum Licensing Round for Marginal Fields in Nigeria and Stakeholders Engagement.” Under this project, HEDA had engaged leading experts in the extractive sector to conduct a comprehensive research and assessment of the 2021 marginal field bidding process. The findings of that assessment were validated during an expert meeting, and the subsequent report was published under the title, “Spotlighting the Oil and Gas: A Review of the 2020/2021 Marginal Fields Bid Licensing Round in Nigeria.” Meanwhile, following the public presentation of the report on June 26, 2023, HEDA held scheduled consultations with various state actors, including the Ministry of Environment, NOSDRA, NESREA, NUPRC, and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). These engagements resulted in commitments and assurances that the study’s findings would serve as the foundation for policy reforms and the effective enforcement of best practices in the extractive sector. HEDA emphasized the importance of building upon the project’s findings, particularly with regards to investigating corruption and financial kickbacks during the marginal field bidding process, as well as monitoring the exploration of the awarded marginal fields and their impact on the environment. The organisation further commended the efforts of NUPRC under the Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe for his reform oriented leadership and more importantly, the ongoing enforcement of the metering process of oil exploitation and export by the extractive companies. The meeting concluded with a presentation by ACEP, emphasizing the need for all partners to responsibly utilize funds in accordance with the project’s principles and to ensure transparent reporting and accountability. HEDA expressed its sincere appreciation to ACEP for providing funds and resources to partner organizations, enabling engagement in the extractive sector and the promotion of climate justice. This collaboration is vital in addressing the challenges faced in the extractive industry and working toward sustainable solutions for the benefit of all stakeholders.

In collaboration with the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief (Oxfam), under the African Activities for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, HEDA Resource Centre had an extensive two-day community outreach program aimed at raising awareness about climate change in Benue State. The organization successfully wrapped up this crucial initiative with an advocacy meeting hosted at the Ministry of Agriculture, presided over by Commissioner Prof. Moses Ogbaji. Commissioner Prof. Ogbaji expressed his sincere appreciation for HEDA’s unwavering dedication to this cause, particularly in rural areas where communities bear the brunt of severe climate change impacts, including floods and other hardships. Meanwhile,  prior meeting with the commissioner, HEDA diligently visited various communities spanning different local government areas within the state. HEDA primary objective was to educate residents about the consequences of climate change and shed light on how people inadvertently contribute to this pressing issue. Drawing from their extensive experience and research, HEDA recommends a range of solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. These include the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices such as cultivating drought-resistant crops, efficient water management, & agroforestry. Additionally, we also urged them on the implementation of community-based programs … designed to enhance resilience to climate change, encompassing flood mitigation measures and early warning systems. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, as well as the promotion of efficient waste management and recycling systems to decrease environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Reforestation and afforestation efforts are also encouraged. Meanwhile, as part of the community outreach for climate change, HEDA visited various locations including the Abwa Community Market Square in Abwa Community along the Makurdi-Gboko road in Markurdi Local Government, Chief Msughter Lonumbe Compound in Tsiee Community, Buruku Local Government, and NKST Primary School in Kuwa, Agboughul community, Makurdi Local Government Area. By implementing these solutions, communities in Benue State can strive towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.

In a bid to tackle high-profile corruption cases in Nigeria and recover stolen funds and properties abroad, the International Anti-Corruption Court (IACC) has been hailed as a game-changer by various stakeholders, including the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA). These stakeholders spoke at the 33rd Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), organized by HEDA in collaboration with the Integrity Initiative International (III), held in Abuja, on Tuesday. Delivering his address, the Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, asserted that Nigeria has been grappling with the debilitating effects of corruption for decades, stressing that it was a challenge that had permeated various facets of the Nigerian society The AGF who was represented by the Deputy Director Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Yusuf Abdullahi Abdulkadir, said the establishment of this court is expected to be a significant step towards curbing the pervasive corruption that has plagued the country for years. He said: “In recent years, the fight against corruption has taken center stage in international discourse. Corruption, in all its forms, poses a grave threat to the stability, progress, and development of nations around the world. It undermines trust in governments, weakens institutions, hampers economic growth, and perpetuates social injustice. It is a cancer that knows no boundaries, affecting both developed and developing countries alike. “To effectively combat corruption on a global scale, we have witnessed the emergence and evolution of various international anti-corruption mechanisms and frameworks. These mechanisms serve as crucial tools in our collective effort to eradicate corruption, and they include conventions such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and regional initiatives like the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption. “While these mechanisms have undeniably made significant strides in the battle against corruption, the growing advocacy for the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court (IACC) demands our serious consideration. The idea of an IACC represents a paradigm shift in our approach to combating corruption at the international level. “An IACC would provide a specialized forum for addressing high-level corruption cases that often cross national borders and involve powerful individuals and entities. It would aim to ensure that those responsible for corrupt acts, regardless of their position or nationality, are held accountable for their actions. This would send a powerful message that corruption will not be tolerated anywhere in the world.” On his part, HEDA Chairman, Mr. Olanrenwaju Suraju, said Nigeria has long been grappling with endemic corruption, crippling the nation’s development and causing severe economic hardship for its citizens. He expressed his support for the initiative, stating that an external institution would provide an unbiased platform for swift and fair trials. He emphasized that the establishment of an IACC would send a strong message that Nigeria is committed to combating corruption at all levels. “The International anti-corruption court and other initiatives will assess to prevent the prevailing high-level corruption that is resulting in not just to countries but even individual pockets, billions of dollars that could have been used to provide basic amenities, supports and services to people and also prevent the prevailing cases of insecurity across the world”, he said.

A former Prime Minister of Senegal and anti-corruption activist, Mrs Aminata Toure, has urged the Nigerian government to lead the push for global anti-corruption courts through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) to try money laundering and illicit financial flows (IFFs). She made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the 33rd Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR) multi-stakeholder conference, organised by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Foundation Integrity Initiative International (III) and MacArthur Foundation, themed, ‘International Mechanisms and the Fight Against Corruption’. Toure, who served as Senegal’s prime minister from September 2013 to July 2014, said if Nigeria and other African countries want to fight corruption, they should enlist the cooperation of UN member countries. She said, “Member countries need to mobilise the needed resources for the anti-corruption court at the ECOWAS level while each country maintains its existing anti-corruption mechanism at the local level.” Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to get the buy-in of countries at the regional, continental, and global levels for effective delivery of the International Anti-Corruption Court (IACC).

The pressing need for the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court has emerged as a promising solution to combat corruption within Nigeria’s public sector and address illicit financial flows on a global scale. This call to action was passionately conveyed by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) during a recent anti-corruption radio program in Abuja. HEDA’s Legal Officer, David Ogungbesan, emphasized the significance of establishing an international anti-corruption court. He underscored that such a court is crucial in enhancing the prosecution of corrupt individuals and urged Nigerians to rally behind this advocacy. Ogungbesan stressed that the existence of an international court dedicated to combating corruption would serve as a deterrent for public officials engaged in corrupt practices, thereby assisting local law enforcement agencies and improving the overall administration of justice in the country. Furthermore, he pointed out that it offers an opportunity for Nigeria and other nations to collaborate internationally in their efforts to curb corruption. “The consequences of corruption on Nigerian society are evident to all. We believe that prosecution is a vital measure to prevent corruption. The establishment of an international anti-corruption court will complement the efforts of local law enforcement agencies and address the injustices in the system. It provides a platform for Nigeria and other countries to collectively combat illicit financial flows without conflicting with their domestic legal systems,” he emphasized. Ogungbesan disclosed that not only the former Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari but also more than 100 world leaders have expressed their support for the creation of an international court dedicated to prosecuting corruption. He acknowledged that there might be challenges in establishing such a court but encouraged citizens to hold their leaders accountable and embrace the initiative for its numerous benefits. “The public needs to take this advocacy seriously, engaging their representatives and endorsing this idea,” Ogungbesan urged. Adding her perspective, Dabotonye Dappa, a Programme Officer at the West African Bar Association, also urged Nigerians to support the initiative for a specialized court focused on prosecuting corruption. She highlighted the issues of judicial independence and the lack of political will among leaders as significant challenges in the fight against corruption. “In addressing the lack of political will, the judiciary plays a pivotal role. Therefore, we advocate for a truly independent judiciary, free from external influence. When it comes to combating corruption, our recourse is often through the courts. If we have judges who are influenced by the very corrupt individuals we are fighting against, we find ourselves back at square one,” Dappa emphasized. The “PUBLIC CONSCIENCE” radio program is a syndicated weekly initiative employed by PRIMORG to draw the attention of both the government and citizens to corruption and integrity issues in Nigeria. The program is made possible with the support of the MacArthur Foundation.

In a resolute effort to combat corruption and promote transparency in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) embarked on a crucial advocacy visit to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The visit, led by Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, Chairman of HEDA, aimed to establish a collaborative effort between the anti-corruption group and UNODC to bolster the fight against corruption. The HEDA delegation presented meticulously crafted policy briefs, stemming from the Two-Day Anti-Corruption Conference held in July, along with other extensive research conducted by the organization. The proposed partnership between HEDA and UNODC aims to engage a diverse range of stakeholders in the fight against corruption and actively consider the recommendations contained within the policy briefs. During the visit, Suraju, emphasized the depth of research and the careful crafting of the policy briefs. These comprehensive documents were organized into five distinct sections, each addressing critical sectors: Anti-Corruption and Law Enforcement Agencies, the Media and Civil Society Organizations, the Presidency and Federal Ministry of Justice, the Nigerian Judiciary, and the Parliament; stressed the need to address emerging issues, foster public discourse, and stimulate debates based on the content of these briefs. He further underlined the importance of enhanced coordination and oversight of law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies in the execution of their duties, a facet that has often been lacking and entangled in political considerations. Discussions during the visit covered a wide array of significant topics. These included the discussion of the Proceeds Of Crime (Recovery And Management) Act, 2022, challenges faced by anti-corruption agencies and the Judiciary, and the role of the Ministry of Justice in supervising asset recovery processes. The anti-corruption advocate also expressed concerns regarding the involvement of the previous administration in asset recovery management for personal interests, which had compromised transparency and accountability in the fight against financial crimes. The Country Director of UNODC, Dr. Oliver Stolpe, acknowledged HEDA’s unwavering dedication to combating corruption. He highlighted concerns about the current state of the system and emphasized the potential for transformation under the leadership of a committed Chief Justice capable of driving judicial reforms. Dr. Stolpe also commended the Jigawa State Judicial Service Commission for its recruitment processes and its willingness to collaborate with UNODC on codifications. In the context of the National Assembly, he addressed past challenges in establishing a working relationship and the difficulties faced, even with supportive individuals identified within the parliament. HEDA ‘s advocacy visit to UNODC represents a pivotal step in the ongoing battle against corruption in Nigeria. The presentation of meticulously researched policy briefs and the productive discussions with UNODC representatives underscore a shared commitment to combating corruption and promoting accountability in the nation. The collaboration between HEDA and UNODC offers hope for a future marked by transparency and responsible governance.  UNODC has pledged to review the policy briefs and further engage with HEDA on strategies for promoting these recommendations. UNODC is also set to extend an invitation to HEDA, as a member of the steering committee, to participate in the implementation of its engagement with the National Bureau of Statistics, a vital step towards organizing an anti-corruption summit. The visit was attended by key figures from UNODC, including Country Director Oliver Stolpe, Coordinator of the Anti-Corruption Unit, Princess Chifero, and Head of the Integrity and Health Department, Muchaneta Mundopa. HEDA’s delegation include; Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, Legal Officer Cecilia Ogwuche, and Tonye Dapa, Program Officer of the West African Bar Association.

In the ongoing fight against corruption, the Human and Environmental Developmental Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) recently made a significant advocacy visit to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja. Under the leadership of Olanrewaju Suraju, Chairman of HEDA, the delegation delivered a meticulously crafted set of policy briefs to the EFCC. These briefs were the outcome of the Two-Day Anti-Corruption Conference held in July. The primary aim of this collaborative effort, as outlined by Suraju, was to actively engage the anti-corruption agency in the anti-graft initiatives and encourage the engagement of a diverse range of stakeholders while taking into account the recommendations put forward in the policy briefs. These anti-corruption briefs were carefully organized into five sections, with a focus on pivotal sectors, including Anti-Corruption and Law Enforcement Agencies, the Media and Civil Society Organizations, the Presidency and Federal Ministry of Justice, the Nigerian Judiciary, and the Parliament. Their intent was to address emerging issues, stimulate public discourse, and foster constructive dialogues. Suraju also underscored the importance of robust cooperation among all law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, encompassing the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), in the execution of their mandated responsibilities. In response to this cooperative endeavor, the Acting Chairman of EFCC, Mr. Abdulkarim Chukkol, acknowledged HEDA Resource Centre’s steadfast commitment to the anti-corruption cause. He expressed his concerns regarding the current state of the system and its readiness for transformation through strengthened collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders. Furthermore, he firmly pledged to thoroughly consider the recommendations from the policy briefs and actively work towards their implementation. Present at the meeting were Mr. Abdulkarim Chukkol, the Acting Chairman of EFCC, along with the HEDA Resource Centre team, including Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, Legal Officer Cecilia Ogwuche, Program Officer from the West African Bar Association, Tonye Dapa, and Abdulazeez Salawu.  

In a strategic and forward-thinking move, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), under the leadership of Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, initiated a significant engagement with the Ministry of Environment. The primary objective of the visit was to address critical issues pertaining to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), as detailed in the Report on Nigerian Energy Transition Plan, Feasibility, Implementation, and Challenges. This comprehensive report was the fruit of a collaborative effort involving HEDA Resource Centre, the law firm of Olaniwun Ajayi, and the Vance Center for International Justice. Suraju provided a thorough and insightful overview of the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan during the meeting. He highlighted HEDA’s extensive review of the ETP, a collaboration with legal experts, and underscored pressing concerns such as the use of fossil fuels, methane emissions, and the efficient utilization of mineral deposits. One of the key findings of the report was the prevalent practice of awarding licenses without rigorous reviews or adequate stakeholder engagement, involving entities such as NOSDRA, NEITI, and NUPRC. Suraju emphasized the significance of implementing the recommendations outlined in the recently developed Policy Briefs. In his response, the Minsiter, Dr. Ishaq Salako expressed the minister’s prior involvement in addressing methane emissions and a strong willingness to deepen collaboration with HEDA and other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Dr. Salako committed to facilitating connections between HEDA and the Methane emissions control officers in Abuja, as well as the Climate Change officials. Furthermore, the minister expressed his intention to partner with HEDA for the active implementation of Nigeria’s international commitments of fossil fuel proliferation, climate change mitigation, and participation at the COP28 held in Dubai. The discussions further emphasized the pressing need to enhance the capacity of CSOs and the media for advocacy in environmental sustainability and protection of the environment. As a symbol of their commitment and dedication to addressing Nigeria’s transition towards sustainable energy, the HEDA team presented copies of the ETP review to the Minister. This partnership holds great promise in addressing critical issues and fostering positive change in Nigeria.

In a significant move within its continued drive for holistic and sustainable fight against corruption, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) extended its advocacy visits to the House of Representatives leadership. The delegation, led by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, presented policy briefs derived from the Two-Day Anti-Corruption Conference held in July, supported by the organization’s extensive research efforts to representatives of the House, led by Honourable (Prof) Julius Ihonvbere, the House Leader During their visit to the House of Representatives, the HEDA delegation engaged with lawmakers, including Professor Julius Ihonvbere, the House Leader of the National Assembly, Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Affairs and Spokesman of the House of Representatives, and Honourable Prince Kayode Akiolu, Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption. Suraju emphasized the significance of the legislative agenda, particularly in addressing contemporary corruption challenges. He advocated for a more strategic involvement of the legislative branch in anti-corruption discourse, underlining the need for the legislature to exercise oversight and maintain checks and balances over executive and judicial actions. The anti-corruption advocate also called upon the House to collaborate with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders on issues pertaining to anti-corruption, accountability, climate change, and sustainable development. Professor Julius, the House Leader, expressed the House’s appreciation to HEDA for its longstanding dedication to improved accountability and Nation-building. He further conveyed the current Assembly’s readiness to partner with Civil Society Organizations (CSO) to advance and implement its legislative agenda. He also revealed plans to establish a CSO office within the Assembly to enhance the engagement and promote people-oriented legislature; law making, oversight and budgeting. Prof. Ihonvbere, on behalf of the team, committed to expediting the passage of accountability oriented bills passed by the 9th Assembly but was not accented to by the last administration, such as the Witness Protection, Assets Declaration Amendment, and Whistle-blower Bills. Suraju appreciated Hon. Amin Rotimi for facilitating the visit and assured the Parliamentarians of HEDA and other CSOs support in the promotion of good governance and probity in public offices.

The Executive Secretary of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda, (HEDA Resource Centre), Sulaimon Arigbabu, has stressed the profound and far-reaching impact of poverty on individuals and communities, therefore underscored the urgent need for a multifaceted approach to eradicate poverty, emphasizing the creation of jobs and the establishment of robust social protection systems. During a recent radio interview with Women FM in Lagos, Arigbabu highlighted the devastating consequences of poverty, which can lead to hunger, malnutrition, disease, and social exclusion. He urged immediate action to address these pressing issues. “Poverty is not merely an economic concern; it permeates every aspect of people’s lives. Recognizing the critical importance of providing jobs and social protection is the first step toward effective poverty eradication.” He said. During the interview, Arigbabu outlined two key components of the strategy to combat poverty. He emphasized the significance of job creation, explaining that it provides individuals with the necessary income to meet their basic needs and enhance their overall quality of life. Arigbabu called for initiatives that invest in education and promote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to equip individuals with the skills required for meaningful employment while stimulating entrepreneurship and job opportunities. Arigbabu also underscored the crucial role of social protection as a safety net for individuals facing challenging times. Social protection safeguards individuals from falling into extreme poverty when they lose their jobs or experience crises. He highlighted the value of well-organized social insurance programs and social assistance programs in providing vital support to vulnerable populations. The human rights activists provided a comprehensive roadmap for poverty eradication through these approaches. He emphasized the need to invest in education to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for gainful employment. Additionally, Arigbabu called for a focus on SMEs, infrastructure development, and the reduction of trade barriers to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities. The interview concluded with a call to action, urging governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector to collaborate in implementing these strategies effectively. By working together to create an enabling environment for job creation and social protection, significant progress can be made in reducing poverty and improving the well-being of those in need. As the world continues its fight against poverty, Arigbabu’s words and the endeavors of organizations like HEDA stand as a beacon of hope, offering concrete solutions and a pathway to a brighter future for vulnerable communities.