In response to the urgent issue of child domestic labor in Nigeria, HEDA Resource Centre has partnered with various civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and media outlets. This collaboration aims to address the severe risks child domestic work poses to a child’s development and well-being. HEDA, represented by her Monitoring and Evaluation Compliance Officer, Barakah Danmole, took part in the Talkam Against Child Labour program, organized by the Devatop Centre for Africa Development, in commemoration of the World Day Against Child Labour. The Talkam Project is dedicated to enhancing regulations and advocacy while striving to change community attitudes towards Child Domestic Workers (CDWs). The event held in Lagos, brought together a diverse audience, including government agency representatives, NGOs, media professionals, and community influencers. A keynote address explored the root causes of child domestic labor in Nigeria, followed by a panel discussion where experts shared insights on the challenges faced by CDWs and proposed actionable solutions. A highlight of the program was the launch of the Talkam App, available on both iOS and Android platforms. This innovative tool allows users to report cases of child abuse easily and anonymously. The program, with its slogan “If you see am, Talkam!” encourages the public to report suspected abuse via the app or the website. The program concluded with a powerful call to action for all stakeholders. Celebrities were urged to use their influence to champion public advocacy and awareness campaigns. NGOs were encouraged to enhance rescue, rehabilitation, and support services for child domestic workers. Government agencies committed to pursuing legal reforms and community outreach efforts, while community leaders and religious institutions were called upon to provide support programs and educational initiatives about the rights and needs of CDWs.Educational institutions pledged to offer scholarships, counseling, and implement anti-discrimination policies, and the media was tasked with leveraging investigative journalism and strategic partnerships to raise awareness and drive change. By uniting these diverse voices and resources, the program aims to create a robust and comprehensive response system to protect and support Child Domestic Workers across Nigeria. Together, we can foster a safer, more equitable environment for every child.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a prominent anti-corruption and human rights organization, has urged Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to probe allegations that the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, is an ex-convict and therefore unfit for his traditional and cultural leadership position. In a letter signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization expressed serious concerns over reports by international and local newspapers on the previous criminal records of the King of an ancient and revered Kingdom like Iwo. The petition referenced a May 19, 2024 article from “The Mail,” featuring a photograph of the Oba Rasheed Akanbi with the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, under the headline: “Dodgy Royal: Nigerian King who Harry called his ‘in-law’ is ‘CONMAN jailed and deported after trying to cash stolen £247K cheque’. The article also noted, “The Funky King (Oluwo) was jailed 15 months in 1998.” Furthermore, “The SUN” newspaper reported that Oba Akanbi, described as a “convicted fraudster,” was arrested in Boston in 1998 for attempting to cash a stolen cheque worth £247,000 from Boeing. The report alleged that Akanbi, using the alias Joseph Pigott, was jailed for 15 months and deported to Nigeria in April 1999. He allegedly attempted to re-enter the US in 2011, leading to another deportation. HEDA underscored the essential role of traditional rulers as custodians of their people’s heritage and symbols of authority and respect. The civil society organisation emphasized that traditional rulers must possess impeccable character and be above reproach, despite the 1999 Nigerian Constitution excluding them from formal governance roles. Their influence and importance as a fourth tier of government remain significant. Given the gravity of these allegations, HEDA has urged Governor Adeleke to take swift action by establishing a special panel of inquiry to investigate the claims against the Oluwo and implement appropriate legal measures as necessary. The organization highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s traditional institutions. HEDA’s letter concluded with a call for immediate and decisive action from Governor Adeleke to strengthen and protect the sanctity of traditional institutions in Nigeria.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called for an immediate suspension and comprehensive investigation into allegations of certificate forgery against Geoffrey Nnaji, the Minister of Science and Technology. In separate petitions addressed to President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, HEDA urged immediate action to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s public offices and institutions. The petitions, signed by HEDA Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, were prompted by a June 6, 2024 report from an online news outlet, Peoples’ Gazette, which claimed that Mr. Nnaji submitted a forged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate during his Senate confirmation process. The report also highlighted potential discrepancies in his B.Sc degree certificate and noted that Mr. Nnaji listed secondary education as his highest qualification on his 2023 Enugu State governorship election form. In the letter to President Tinubu, the civil society organisation expressed grave concerns over the Nigeria’s State Security Service (SSS), which allegedly discovered these discrepancies but failed to act or report to the senate or president. This negligence, the petition argued, compromises the SSS’s duty and mirrors past incidents involving other prominent figures accused of similar forgeries. HEDA cited Sections 465 and 467 of the Criminal Code Act, which define forgery and its punishment, respectively. The anti-corruption group urged President Tinubu to refer the allegations to the Inspector General of Police for a diligent investigation and subsequent prosecution. It also called for the immediate suspension of Mr. Nnaji to maintain accountability and transparency in governance. Similarly, in the petition to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, HEDA called on the National Assembly to launch a thorough investigation into the forgery allegations. Highlighting the importance of rigorous verification processes, HEDA stressed that the integrity of processes must be upheld. The petition also referenced past cases of certificate forgeries involving high-profile figures like former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun and former Aviation Minister Senator Stella Oduah. HEDA etc and criticized the SSS for its repeated failure to report such forgeries, thereby undermining the Senate’s constitutional duties and the nation’s integrity. HEDA recommended involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a secondary clearance process for all future nominees to prevent further certificate scandals. “We strongly urge the National Assembly to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter. It is crucial that the SSS’s role and the potential lapses or compromises in the clearance process are scrutinized and rectified,” the petition stated. Both petitions underscored HEDA’s unwavering commitment to a Nigeria free from corrupt practices. The civil society group urged swift action from both the President and the National Assembly to ensure that public office holders maintain the highest standards of integrity.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria, is thrilled to announce the call for nominations for the 7th Edition of the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards (GFIIA 2024). Named in honor of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, a distinguished human rights activist and legal luminary, the Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards aim to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional integrity and contribute significantly to societal improvement. The awards’ board, chaired by Professor Itse Sagay and co-chaired by Professor Ayo Atsenua, includes esteemed members such as Mr. Femi Falana SAN, Comrade Femi Aborisade, Professor Nsogorua Udombana, Dr. Abiola Akiode-Afolabi, Comrade Achike Achude, and Mr. Olarenwaju Suraju. They are committed to honoring those who exemplify integrity and make remarkable contributions to society. According to a statement from HEDA’s Chairman, the GFIIA 2024 nomination period officially began on Monday, June 24, 2024, and will remain open until Sunday, August 11, 2024. The subsequent two-week phase will involve collation, shortlisting, and board feedback, concluding on September 16, 2024. Voting will take place from Monday, September 23 to Friday, October 18, 2024. The awards presentation is scheduled for December 10, 2024. HEDA’s Chairman, Olarenwaju Suraju, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to celebrating individuals who embody the values championed by Chief Gani Fawehinmi. The awards seek to honor those who, despite the temptations of corruption and unethical practices, choose a path of transparency, honesty, and integrity. These individuals serve as role models, inspiring others to follow suit. The Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards feature four distinct categories to encourage public participation: the Outstanding Integrity Award, Outstanding Impact Award, Valuable Whistle-blower Award, and Nigerians in Diaspora Integrity Ambassador Award. To nominate deserving individuals for GFIIA 2024, the public is encouraged to visit the official nomination portal at www.gfa.hedang.org. HEDA Resource Centre remains committed to upholding the legacy of Chief Gani Fawehinmi by promoting integrity, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria. The Gani Fawehinmi Impact and Integrity Awards continue to be a platform for recognizing and celebrating those who make a significant positive impact on society.

Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaint and Anti-Corruption Commission, has stressed the crucial role of sub-national anti-corruption efforts in tackling Nigeria’s corruption problem. He emphasized that corruption has permeated all levels of government, compromising the judicial system and eroding citizens’ trust. Speaking at the HEDA Resource Centre’s X-Space June Edition, Muhuyi highlighted the strategic importance of anti-corruption efforts at the sub-national level, citing the vulnerability of state and local governments to corrupt practices. He criticized governments for lacking the political will to combat corruption, despite promises to do so. Rimingado emphasized the need for adequate funding and empowerment of state anti-corruption bodies, sharing his own experience with illegal suspension and the support he received from anti-corruption actors like HEDA Resource Centre and CISLAC. He commended collaborative efforts with anti-graft agencies and stakeholders in Kano State and expressed willingness to support other state anti-corruption agencies. Despite facing challenges, Rimingado remains committed to the fight against corruption, emphasizing the need for passion and anti-corruption education to drive the fight at the sub-national level. He urged state governments to support state anti-corruption bodies and demonstrate political will to combat corruption.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), in partnership with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and supported by Oxfam through the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, has launched an extensive workshop series to educate small-scale Nigerian farmers, extension workers, and staff of Agricultural Development Programmes (ADP) across ten states. The workshop series, which was held across ten Nigerian states – Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Benue, Adamawa, Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Ekiti, and Osun – provided essential training on climate predictions and crop weather calendars to over 500 participants. Sulaimon Arigbabu, the Executive Secretary of HEDA, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to work with NiMet and our partner Oxfam under the AACJ project to deliver this critical training. We have engaged participants from all local governments across the ten states to ensure widespread dissemination of this valuable information.” He added, “The primary objective of the workshop was to equip small-scale farmers, extension workers, and ADP staff with crucial information for the upcoming farming season. Participants benefited from training on utilizing downscaled Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and Crop Weather Calendars. Significantly, the growing seasons for each state are as follows: Nasarawa: April 30 – October 27 (203 days); Kwara: April 30 – October 25 (180 days); Oyo: April 10 – November 29 (231 days); Benue: April 24 – November 1 (189 days); Osun: April 10 – November 30 (233 days). The predicted growing season in Niger state is from May 9 to November 8 (184 days); Ogun state is March 31 to December 1 (249 days); for Plateau, it is from May 19 – November 9 (186 days); Adamawa state’s length of the growing season is from April 21 – November 1 (193 days); and for Ekiti state, it is between April 13 and November 27 (227 days). He added, “By providing access to climate predictions and crop weather calendars, we hope to improve agricultural practices and enhance the well-being of farming communities across the country.” The workshops, organized by HEDA and NiMet, reflect a longstanding collaboration aimed at ensuring farmers have access to NiMet’s seasonal climate predictions and crop weather calendars. This initiative strengthens the agricultural sector and supports farming communities through improved climate prediction and planning resources.

Continuing our commitment to fostering dialogue on critical issues, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is delighted to announce the June edition of our monthly advocacy series, “Chatting with HEDA,” on X-Space. This month, we shift our focus to the vital importance of anti-corruption efforts at the sub-national levels. The virtual program is scheduled for Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 3:00 PM WAT on HEDA X-Space. Join us for an enlightening discussion titled “The Strategic Importance of Anti-Corruption at Sub-National Levels,” as we delve into the imperative of anti-corruption measures in our society. Barr. Muhyi Magaji Rimingado, Executive Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. His insights will provide attendees with valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities in the fight against corruption. The “Chatting with HEDA X-Space” series serves as a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas on pressing societal issues. This month’s discussion is particularly pertinent as we explore pathways to drive anti-corruption efforts at the sub-national levels. We are thrilled to have Barr. Muhyi Magaji Rimingado as our guest speaker for this insightful conversation. His expertise will undoubtedly enrich our understanding and inspire meaningful discussions on the future of anti-corruption in Nigeria. The event is open to the public, and we encourage active participation from attendees. Join us as we engage in constructive dialogue and explore innovative solutions to enhance our collective fight against corruption. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation on anti-corruption at the sub-national levels at the upcoming “Chatting with HEDA” X-Space event.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urged the Federal Government to prioritize the welfare of Nigerian workers in the ongoing minimum wage negotiations. The current economic realities make the proposed wage of #62,000 by the federal government to labour unions grossly inadequate to meet the basic needs of workers and their families. In a statement issued and signed by HEDA Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group condemned the Nigerian Governors Forum’s claim that states cannot afford a minimum wage of #60,000, given the history of corruption and embezzlement among governors. “It’s hypocritical for governors accused of looting billions of Naira from the states and considering the increased federal allocation received in the recent months to claim they can’t afford a living wage for workers,” Suraju said. This stance is particularly concerning given the recent nationwide strike, which had a significant impact on the country, resulting in billions of naira in lost revenue and crippling economic growth. “The tripartite committee of the government must consider the long-term implications of their negotiations on Nigeria’s future. The current economic realities and the rising cost of living in Nigeria demand a more comprehensive approach to minimum wage negotiations. Furthermore, the history of corruption and embezzlement among governors and other public officials must be taken into account to ensure that workers are not shortchanged.” He maintained. HEDA urges the Federal Government to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians generally and order the downward review of the astronomical electricity tariff recently imposed on the country as part of negotiation for a minimum wage that reflects the true value of their labor. This is crucial for promoting economic justice and prosperity for all Nigerians. HEDA remains committed to fighting for a just society where workers are valued and compensated fairly, and will continue to advocate for policies that promote economic justice and prosperity for all Nigerians.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has expressed grave concern over the alarming rates of deforestation and desertification in the southern region of Nigeria. To address this, HEDA has urged the Federal and State Governments to recognize the vital role traditional rulers play in preserving the environment and natural resources. In a statement issued to commemorate the 2024 World Environment Day, themed “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” HEDA Executive Secretary Sulaimon Arigbabu emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments and traditional rulers to preserve natural resources and prevent further deforestation and desertification. Deforestation, desertification, and drought resilience in Southern Nigeria have severe implications on the environment, economy, and human well-being. These issues result in the loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, decreased water quality, food insecurity, and significant economic losses. Arigbabu highlighted specific instances of environmental degradation, such as farmers in Ekiti State complaining about the indiscriminate cutting of trees in forests and similar incidents in Oyo State, where people cut fruit trees to make charcoal and wood, thereby harming the environment. However, he highlighted the crucial role traditional rulers have played in their communities, where they have successfully prevented individuals from cutting down trees and have held those who have caused environmental harm accountable. “By taking a firm stance against environmental degradation, these traditional rulers have protected their communities’ natural resources and promoted sustainability.” He added that traditional rulers and faith leaders can maintain security and stability in local communities, support local food production, enhance food security, promote sustainable development, and ensure a more secure and prosperous future for all. Arigbabu also stressed that traditional rulers have effectively managed crises, such as conflicts between herders and farmers, and have been instrumental in protecting natural resources. He cited the Argungu fishing festival in Kebbi State as an example of traditional rulers’ commitment to environmental conservation and diversification of local economies. HEDA is calling on the government to review environmental laws and assign responsibilities to traditional rulers, as well as consequences for failure. Traditional rulers are crucial in managing insecurity and preventing the invasion of forests by bandits and criminals. “Government can deepen the democracy by giving traditional rulers some level of authority and power to protect their environment from deforestation, desertification, and drought, and by harnessing their grassroot expertise and influence, we can protect the environment, promote sustainable development, and ensure a more secure and prosperous future for all,” Arigbabu maintained.  

As President Bola Tinubu marks his one-year anniversary in office, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the President to prioritize people-centric economy policies and intensify efforts to combat corruption in the country. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organization acknowledged attempts for progress by the administration in its first year but emphasized that more needs to be done to ensure the economic and fiscal issues are addressed with overall human face and environmental protection. Suraju said, “We urge President Tinubu to prioritize policies that promote economic growth, social justice, accountability, and human development, and demonstrate the necessary political will to drive these agendas forward with integrity.” HEDA also called on the Presidency to intervene in the ongoing Kano Emirate tussle by calling all the dramatis personae (judiciary, law enforcement officers, politicians, and kingmakers) to order, and not plunge the peaceful state into another conflict. The situation is gradually assuming some volatile nature, and the judiciary has become an active player in the volatility and requires urgent attention to prevent loss of property and lives. “We call on the President to use his good offices to resolve the issue amicably and ensure peace in the state,” He added. Furthermore, HEDA has also called on President Tinubu to intervene immediately in the minimum wage negotiations between the government and the labour union. With the union threatening an indefinite strike, which would cripple the economy and exacerbate the suffering of Nigerians, it is imperative that the President takes decisive action to address the issue and concerns of the working masses and the hardship brought by some of the harsh economic policies of the government. He added, “We urge the President to engage in meaningful dialogue with the labour union and find a lasting solution to the minimum wage impasse, in order to prevent a potentially disastrous strike action.” The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, a corruption-free society, and social justice for the benefit of all Nigerians.