Prior to the 1st International Anti-Corruption and Climate Change Conference, HEDA Resource Centre, led by its. Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, alongside international anti-corruption stakeholders, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Mr. Ola Olukoyede, at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja. HEDA Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, commended Mr. Olukoyede for his leadership and the EFCC’s achievements, including the disbursement of recovered looted funds to victims  of corruption. The HEDA delegation included Nicholas Hildyard (Co-founder CornerHouse), Antonio Tricarico (Recommon), Simon Taylor (Co-founder Hawkmoth), Cecilia Ogwuche (HEDA Program and Legal Officer), and Tonye Dappa. Each shared their insights and support for the EFCC’s mission. Nicholas Hildyard commended the EFCC’s relentless fight against corruption, referencing the OPL245 case. He highlighted its importance and suggested regular updates on such cases via the EFCC website. On his part, Antonio Tricarico echoed Nicholas’s sentiments, stressing the obligations of OE D member states and the growing interest of the U.S Department of Justice in Corruption cases. Simon Taylor raised concerns over lawyers’ fees deducted from recovered funds, urging more transparency in the disbursement process. In response, EFCC Chairman Mr. Olukoyede acknowledged the challenges and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to partnering with CSOs. He emphasized a new directive to maintain detailed records of cases and ensure timely prosecution. The Chairman expressed his displeasure with paying lawyers from the proceeds of crime and highlighted the issue at the recent Nigeria Bar Association’s Annual General Conference. The meeting wrapped up with a presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, marking another step forward in strengthening the fight against corruption.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre, a prominent environmental justice and anti-corruption organization in Nigeria, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse or review the recent appointment of Mr. Ajuri Ngelale as the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action (SPEC). The organization argues that this appointment violates the provisions of the Climate Change Act 2021, which established the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC). In a letter addressed to the President and signed by HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, the civil society group highlighted that Mr. Ngelale’s new role conflicts with the responsibilities legally assigned to the Director-General of the NCCC, the body mandated to lead Nigeria’s climate governance efforts under the Climate Change Act. HEDA acknowledged Mr. Ngelale’s commendable work as the President’s official spokesperson but expressed strong reservations about his suitability for the highly technical role of Designated National Authority (DNA) on Climate Action. According to the organization, the DNA position requires extensive expertise in international climate change policies, negotiations, and science—a background that is typically acquired over many years within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). “The assignment of Mr. Ngelale as the National Focal Point (NFP) for climate action is an aberration of the international system and ethos, given that DNAs are expected to possess deep technical knowledge and experience,” the letter states. HEDA further argues that it would be practically impossible for Mr. Ngelale to effectively perform the duties of the DNA while also serving as the Presidential Spokesperson. The Climate Change Act 2021, which HEDA references as the principal legislation governing climate action in Nigeria, specifically empowers the NCCC, chaired by the President, to lead the country’s climate governance efforts. The Act designates the Director-General of the NCCC as the primary administrator of climate policies and initiatives, making the creation of the Special Presidential Envoy position redundant and potentially conflicting with the NCCC’s mandate. HEDA’s letter stresses the importance of adhering to the existing legal framework, which has been recognized both locally and internationally as a robust foundation for Nigeria’s climate governance. The group cautions that the appointment of Mr. Ngelale, along with the attached Terms of Reference (ToR), undermines the authority of the NCCC and could lead to inefficiencies and duplicative costs, especially given Nigeria’s current economic challenges. In light of these concerns, HEDA urged President Tinubu to withdraw or dissolve the Office of the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and the associated Presidential Committee on Climate Action and Green Economic Solutions. The organization suggests that if the President wishes to retain Mr. Ngelale in a special envoy role, the ToR should be revised to avoid overlapping with the legally defined responsibilities of the NCCC. HEDA concludes its appeal by emphasizing the need for the President to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s climate governance institutions and prevent potential international embarrassment. The organization expresses confidence that President Tinubu, known for his commitment to fairness, rule of law, and democratic values, will reconsider the appointment in the nation’s best interest.

Following the recent invasion of the Abuja office of the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has strongly condemned the unwarranted act of intimidation against the civil society organization by the security operatives. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group maintained that the attack represents a disturbing threat to the democratic principles and freedoms that form the bedrock of our nation. He said, “We firmly stand in solidarity with SERAP and call on President Bola Tinubu to immediately direct the DSS to halt all forms of harassment, intimidation, and attacks on SERAP or any other civil society group. Civil society organizations (CSOs) are vital stakeholders in nation-building, playing an essential role in ensuring accountability, protecting human rights, and upholding democratic values. Any form of threat, harassment, or suppression of their activities is an assault on these values and an affront to the rule of law. “As civil society groups, we exist to serve the public good, and our work must be protected, not threatened. The recent attack on SERAP undermines the collective efforts of CSOs to foster a transparent and accountable governance system in Nigeria. We urge the Nigerian government to immediately investigate the officers responsible for this invasion and ensure that those involved are held accountable for their actions,” Suraju maintained. HEDA Resource Centre believes that a vibrant civic space is essential for democracy to thrive. It is therefore the duty of the government to protect and support civil society organizations as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and international human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a party. “We will continue to collaborate with like-minded organizations to challenge any attempt to shrink civic space or curtail the fundamental rights of Nigerians. We urge President Tinubu and relevant authorities to ensure that the rights and safety of civil society groups are upheld so they can continue to operate freely in the interest of our nation.”

The Nigerian government is facing mounting pressure to uphold President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to block Shell’s controversial divestment of its onshore oil fields. A coalition of 175 international and local organizations, led by Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), is urging the government to resist Shell’s efforts to push through the sale of its assets under the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to Renaissance African Energy—a Special Purpose Vehicle based in the British Virgin Islands with murky ownership. Concerns raised by the coalition focus on Renaissance’s lack of transparency, questions surrounding its technical and financial capacity, and the potential risks to host communities. Shell is financing 70% of the acquisition, raising further doubts about Renaissance’s independence and ability to manage assets responsible for 30% of Nigeria’s oil production. The government’s stance is backed by a report from S&P Global, an international consultancy firm hired by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC). The report highlighted major issues with the deal, particularly Shell’s environmental record in Nigeria. It flagged concerns about Shell’s inadequate estimates of the environmental damage caused by its operations, with the Bayelsa State Oil and Environment Commission estimating cleanup costs in Bayelsa at $12 billion—much higher than Shell’s projections. In a letter addressed to the NUPRC’s Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, and copied to President Tinubu, HEDA Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju expressed dismay at the NUPRC’s silence on the Shell-Renaissance deal. The commission had swiftly announced approvals of other divestments, such as the Eni-Oando and Equinor-Project Odinmim deals. This silence suggests alignment with S&P Global’s recommendation to reject Shell’s proposed transaction. The coalition expressed alarm over reports that Shell may be pressuring government officials to overlook the findings of S&P Global’s assessment. While no direct accusations of bribery have been made, HEDA emphasized that these reports warrant serious investigation. The matter has been referred to relevant regulatory and investigative bodies for review. HEDA, along with its coalition partners, is calling for the immediate public release of the S&P Global report, emphasizing the need for transparency. “This report was commissioned with public funds, and NUPRC has a duty to ensure accountability in this process,” said Suraju. The coalition is prepared to pursue all legal avenues to protect Nigeria’s environmental and economic interests. Key members of the coalition include the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), Ijaw Elders Forum Lagos, Friends of the Earth International, Greenpeace Africa, and many others from both national and international spheres. Together, they are committed to ensuring that the Shell-Renaissance deal does not move forward without due diligence and full transparency.

In a bid to mitigate the severe impacts of floods on smallholder farmers and local communities in Nigeria, HEDA Resource Centre has urged the Federal Government to prioritize early warning systems and farmer education. This appeal was made during a high-level advocacy dialogue in Abuja, which focused on proactive climate action. The event, titled “Protecting Smallholder Farmers and Vulnerable Communities from Climate-Related Shocks,” featured the launch of two pivotal reports on flood impacts and access to climate information. Organized with support from OXFAM under the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) Project, the dialogue underscored the need for equipping vulnerable communities with the tools and knowledge necessary to respond effectively to climate-induced disasters. Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA Resource Centre, highlighted that early warning systems (EWS) are crucial for mitigating climate change risks. “Timely and actionable information enables farmers and communities to prepare, adapt, and protect their livelihoods from floods and droughts,” Arigbabu stated. He emphasized that despite Nigeria’s substantial infrastructure for EWS, a lack of political will remains a significant barrier. “We have the information, the agencies, and the technology; what’s missing is the commitment to ensure that this information reaches those at risk in time,” he explained. Moses Ogbaji, Benue State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, echoed the call for climate-resilient farming practices. He shared Benue State’s success with smart agriculture, using early-maturing, drought-resistant crops to mitigate the risks of erratic weather patterns. “Benue is leading by example, demonstrating how smart agriculture can ensure food security and resilience,” Ogbaji said, encouraging other states to adopt similar practices. Stakeholders agreed on the urgent need for early warnings and proactive measures to be central to Nigeria’s climate resilience strategy. They advocated for the adoption of smart agricultural practices, community-based early warning systems, and enhanced preparedness to protect farmers and secure food resources. HEDA Resource Centre remains dedicated to advocating for these changes, ensuring that vulnerable communities are equipped to thrive amidst climate challenges.

As climate-related disasters such as floods and droughts continue to disrupt farming communities in Nigeria, stakeholders and experts at the recent HEDA Resource Centre’s high-level advocacy dialogue in Abuja have urged the agricultural sector to embrace mobile technology and media as vital tools for building climate resilience. Stakeholders in the agriculture sector gathered through the theme, “Protecting Smallholder Farmers and Vulnerable Communities from Climate-Related Shocks: Implementing Early Warning Systems for Food Security and Livelihood Resilience in Nigeria,” to discuss how mobile technology and media platforms can deliver timely, climate-smart information to farmers, enabling them to mitigate climate risks effectively. The event brought together agricultural and climate change experts from both the private and public sectors. Farmers, researchers, and development partners examined strategies for safeguarding smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities from the increasingly frequent climate-induced shocks. HEDA Resource Centre’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, highlighted the urgent need for Early Warning Systems (EWS) that can proactively provide farmers with actionable information, emphasizing the importance of anticipating climate-related disasters before they happen. Yusuf Kelani, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Climate Change Matters, assured stakeholders that the government is also making strides toward enhancing climate resilience. He revealed plans to develop a climate alert system that will send early warning messages to all citizens via their mobile phones, ensuring that even the most vulnerable communities are better prepared for climate-induced hazards. Similarly, Rahmah Aderinoye, CEO of Rashak Farms Agri-Allied Limited, addressed the cultural barriers that prevent women farmers from accessing climate risk information. She advocated for targeted outreach that includes women and People Living with Disabilities (PWDs) to ensure inclusivity. As the dialogue concluded, participants reaffirmed the need for collaboration across sectors to make climate-resilient agriculture a reality. From integrating mobile technology into farming practices to overcoming cultural barriers that hinder the inclusion of women farmers, the experts agreed that timely, accessible information is the key to safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring food security amidst growing climate threats.

Stakeholders at the 1st International Anti-Corruption and Climate Change Conference, organized by HEDA Resource Centre in partnership with Hawkmoth and supported by the MacArthur Foundation, called for a people-driven energy transition and divestment proposal, prioritizing the public good and holding International Oil Companies (IOCs) accountable. The two-day event brought together government officials, anti-graft agencies, civil society organizations, international partners, media to discuss corruption, climate change, and sustainable development in Nigeria and West Africa. The conference featured keynote speakers including the Minister of Environment, Dr Ishaq Salako represented by Director of Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Iniobong Abiola-Awe, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), Chairman, House of Representative Committee on Information, Hon Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, among others with several panel discussions, and extensive recommendations. Participants commended HEDA’s leadership in advocating for transparency in the oil and gas sector and stressed the urgency of the event’s agenda. Key highlights included calls for legal reforms, institutional strengthening, raising public awareness, and international cooperation to combat corruption and climate change. The participants also emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector, with particular attention to reviewing the Petroleum Industry Act. Discussions focused on the detrimental effects of corruption and environmental degradation on local communities, especially in the Niger Delta. Stakeholders underscored the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy and transitioning to renewable energy sources. The event concluded with several key recommendations, including promoting a people-driven energy transition, enhancing corporate accountability for environmental damage, retrieving stolen public funds, and empowering communities through inclusion and sustainable development initiatives. The conference were graced by the United States Embassy, Abrahamian Andray,  Director National Human Rights Institute, Mrs. Agharese Arase, Faith Nwadishi, Executive Director, CTA, Isac Botti, Social Action, Founder/Publisher, Premium Times, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi. Others are NEITI Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, Country Director, Stakeholders Development Network, (SDN), Mr Gbenga Komolafe, Commission Chief Executive, NUPRIC, Executive Director, Ms Emem Okonm, Director, CDD, Dr. Dauda Garba, Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Hon Terser Ugbor. Also,  Rev. Nimmo Bassey, Member, HYPREP, Mr Celestine AkpoBari, CEO, Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, Bankole Oloruntoba, MD/CEO Rural Electrification Agency, Mr Abba Aliyu, Senior Officer Natural Resource Governance Institute, Tengi George Ikoli, Co-founder, Cornerhouse, Mr Nicholas Hildyard, CEO, Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, Mr Bankole Oloruntoba. It also includes the Kano Anti-Corruption Commission, Barr Muhyi Magaji, ED, ANEEJ, Rev David Ugolor, ED African Centre for Governance Asset Recovery and Sustainable Development, Juliet Ibekaku-Nwagwu, Transparency International, USA, Ms Annalise Burkhart, Recommon, Antonio Tricarico, Hawkmoth co-Founder, Simon Taylor, the media, labour, Civil Society Organisations from Nigeria and Africa among many others. The international conference reinforced HEDA’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development across Nigeria and West Africa. You can download the communique of the International Anti-Corruption and Climate Change Here

HEDA Resource Centre, in collaboration with Hawkmoth and supported by the MacArthur Foundation, is proud to announce the 1st International Anti-Corruption and Climate Change Conference. 🗓 Date: September 3-4, 2024 📍 Venue: FCT, Abuja This landmark event will convene national and international stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, focusing on climate change, energy transition, and oil licensing. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping our future! Scan the barcode to register now for the event.

In celebration of International Youth Day (IYD), HEDA Resource Centre hosted an enlightening X-space session, spotlighting youth-led campaigns for social and environmental justice under the theme “From Clicks to Action.” The session brought together leading voices in climate justice, human rights, and youth advocacy. Dr. Azeezat Yishawu, Speaker of the Nigeria Youth Parliament, emphasized the youth’s critical role in policy-making and the power of digital platforms in promoting environmental awareness and accountability. She noted the challenges of misinformation, accessibility, and data privacy in digital advocacy, calling for strategic solutions to enhance the impact of online campaigns. Climate Justice activist Olumide Idowu underscored the necessity of addressing climate change across sectors, highlighting digital platforms’ role in combating plastic pollution, advancing climate justice, and promoting renewable energy solutions like solar power. He also discussed the importance of innovative policies, such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), to drive sustainable climate action and the potential of transforming waste into wealth. Human Rights advocate Barrister Inibehe Effiong passionately addressed the balance between citizens’ rights to protest and the government’s duty to protect public safety. He criticized the Nigerian government’s human rights record, advocating for peaceful protests as a vital tool for civic engagement and accountability. Journalist AbdulKareem Mojeed of Premium Times shed light on how digital innovation is reshaping climate change narratives in Africa. He stressed the disproportionate impact of climate change on Africa and the need for better journalism to inform policy, raise public awareness, and amplify marginalized voices. Mojeed called for bridging the digital divide to ensure climate resilience initiatives reach vulnerable communities. The session underscored the power of youth-driven digital campaigns in addressing climate change and human rights issues, urging stakeholders to leverage digital platforms for meaningful, lasting change.  

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has expressed strong support and commendation for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) commitment to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of N50billion allocated to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). This substantial amount, as clarified by EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, is not a donation but a part of recovered proceeds of crime, which the government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has wisely directed towards the student loan scheme to benefit indigent Nigerian youths. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group commended the EFCC’s proactive stance in overseeing the disbursement and utilization of these funds, ensuring they achieve their intended purpose and impact. Suraju noted, “As a civil society organization dedicated to promoting accountability and good governance, we recognize the critical role of oversight in guaranteeing that public resources are effectively utilized for the benefit of society’s most vulnerable segments.” He added, “the dedication of #50billion to student loan support is in tandem with the UNCAC provision on the utilization of recovered proceeds of corruption to the direct benefit of “victims of corruption. The EFCC’s initiative to monitor these funds is a commendable step towards fulfilling the objectives of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. With proper oversight, this initiative has the potential to significantly enhance educational opportunities for Nigerian youths, and contribute to national development.” HEDA remains committed to collaborating with the EFCC and other stakeholders to promote transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of public funds. The organization will continue to support efforts aimed at building a more equitable and just society.