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SCP 2026: HEDA TRAINS OVER 500 FARMERS, STAKEHOLDERS IN LOCAL LANGUAGES ACROSS 17 STATES ON SEASONAL CLIMATE FORECAST

In its continual efforts to bridge the information gap between smallholder farmers and climate science, HEDA Resource Centre has trained and sensitised over 500 farmer leaders, cooperative representatives, extension actors, and agricultural stakeholders on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) in local languages across 17 states and all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria. The just-concluded four-day hybrid training programme jointly organized by HEDA Resource Centre, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Country Women Association of Nigeria (COWAN), Nigerian Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA), and Association of Small Scale AgroProducers in Nigeria (ASSAPIN), was designed to improve farmers’ access to climate information and strengthen their ability to understand, analyse, and utilise seasonal climate forecasts for agricultural decision-making. The initiative also aimed at breaking the communication gap between climate forecasts, policy discussions, and practical implementation at community level. The programme deliberately mobilised participants with strong community reach and influence, including members of farmer cooperatives, extension networks, women farmer groups, and local agricultural associations who are in turn expected to further share lessons from the training within their communities and support wider awareness on climate-smart farming practices during the 2026 farming season. The programme combined virtual training with physical community participation. While sessions were delivered online, local partners across several states mobilised and gathered participants in central locations where they jointly participated in the training and sensitisation sessions. This approach ensured that farmers without smartphones, stable internet access, or digital literacy were not excluded from the programme. Speaking on the initiative, HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, noted that the gap between climate science and the farmer’s field remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing and underappreciated challenges. “Climate information is only useful when the people most affected can understand and apply it. This training is our commitment to closing that gap, not just in English, but in local languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and Pidgin which our farmers speak and understand,” Arigbabu said. The training recorded seven sessions held over four days, covering states including Adamawa, Bauchi, Niger, Kaduna, Oyo, Osun, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Benue, Nasarawa, Imo, Abia, Cross River, Bayelsa, Plateau, and Taraba. Participants included smallholder crop farmers, livestock keepers, fisheries and aquaculture practitioners, extension agents, agricultural researchers, cooperatives, and personnel from State Ministries of Agriculture. The sessions guided participants through the practical implications of the 2026 SCP for planting calendars and crop variety selection, flood risk awareness and early warning, livestock management under variable rainfall conditions, fisheries and aquaculture planning, soil and water conservation, and post-harvest loss reduction strategies. Lessons also focused on practical actions farmers can take before and during the farming season to improve resilience and food production despite changing climate conditions. Meanwhile, HEDA has called on institutions across sub-nationals, particularly State Ministries of Agriculture across the 36 states, to build on this momentum by ensuring that the 2026 SCP is further cascaded to local government and community levels before and during the planting season. The organization maintained that state governments must work more closely with NiMet to localize climate predictions for their specific agricultural zones and leverage state-owned radio and broadcast media to reach farmers who may not be accessible through virtual platforms. Similarly, the group urged the Federal Government, through its relevant agencies, to invest in expanding community-level climate information systems and extension support. According to HEDA, trained individuals embedded within farming communities can play an important role in translating technical weather and climate advisories into practical guidance that farmers can use throughout the farming season.

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Sadiya Umar Farouq CategoriesHEDA News

Alleged N37bn Fraud: HEDA Commends EFCC Move Against Ex-Minister Sadiya Farouq

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for declaring former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, wanted over alleged abuse of office and diversion of public funds amounting to about N37 billion. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organisation described the development as a significant step in the fight against corruption and a demonstration that no public official should be above accountability, regardless of status or political affiliation. The anti-corruption organisation recalled that it had earlier welcomed the court order directing the arrest of the former minister and demanded swift investigation and prosecution of all individuals implicated in the alleged fraud linked to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. According to Suraju, the allegations surrounding the mismanagement of humanitarian intervention funds represent a grave betrayal of public trust, especially considering that the funds were meant for vulnerable Nigerians facing poverty, displacement, and economic hardship. “HEDA commends the EFCC for taking the bold step of declaring the former minister wanted following allegations involving the diversion of public funds meant for humanitarian purposes and her subsequent failure to appear for court summons. This action sends a strong message that accountability must prevail in public service,” the statement said. The group further urged the EFCC and other relevant anti-graft agencies not to relent until justice is served and all looted public funds are recovered. The organisation stressed that anti-corruption efforts must go beyond media publicity and result in diligent prosecution, asset recovery, and institutional reforms capable of preventing future abuse of public resources. HEDA also called on citizens with useful information regarding the whereabouts of the former minister to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the interest of justice and national accountability. The civil society group reiterated its longstanding position that corruption within social intervention programmes undermines national development, deepens inequality, and erodes public confidence in government institutions. HEDA urged the Federal Government to strengthen transparency mechanisms within ministries, departments, and agencies handling public welfare and intervention programmes to ensure accountability and effective service delivery.

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Gov. Adeleke CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Commends Gov. Adeleke Over Dethronement of Apetu, Renews Call for Probe of Oluwo’s Alleged Criminal Record

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Osun State Government for the removal of Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede as the Apetu of Ipetumodu, describing the action as a decisive step toward restoring integrity and accountability within Nigeria’s traditional institutions, while renewing its call for an investigation into allegations surrounding the Oluwo of Iwo. In a statement issued by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA noted that the decision of Governor Ademola Adeleke to dethrone the monarch validates the organisation’s earlier call in September 2025 for decisive action following Oba Oloyede’s conviction for a $4.4 million fraud in the United States. The civil society organization described the government’s action as a reaffirmation of the principle that no individual, regardless of status, should occupy positions of authority while burdened with proven criminal records that undermine public trust and institutional credibility. “The removal of the Apetu of Ipetumodu is a commendable demonstration of political will and respect for the sanctity of traditional institutions. It sends a strong message that integrity must remain the cornerstone of leadership, whether in formal governance or traditional authority,” the statement read. The organisation, however, stressed that the development should not be treated as an isolated corrective measure but as a catalyst for systemic reform across traditional institutions in Nigeria. HEDA called on state governments, kingmakers, and relevant traditional councils to institutionalise thorough background checks and due diligence processes before appointing individuals to royal stools. According to HEDA, traditional rulers occupy sensitive cultural and moral positions as custodians of heritage and symbols of unity, and as such, must be individuals of unquestionable character and integrity. HEDA further urged the Osun State Government to sustain the same level of accountability by acting on its earlier demand for a probe into allegations concerning the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi. The organisation recalled that it in June 2024, had previously called on Governor Adeleke to constitute an independent panel of inquiry to investigate reports alleging past criminal convictions involving the monarch, noting that the matter remains unresolved despite its seriousness and continued public concern. “While we commend the decisive action taken in the case of Ipetumodu, we reiterate our call on the Osun State Government to act with equal urgency on the allegations concerning the Oluwo of Iwo. Consistency in upholding ethical standards is essential to maintaining public confidence in traditional leadership,” the organisation stated. HEDA emphasised that selective accountability could undermine reform efforts and weaken the broader objective of restoring honour, dignity, and credibility to traditional institutions across the country. The group concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritise integrity, transparency, and the rule of law in the selection and oversight of traditional rulers, noting that the long-term stability and moral authority of these institutions depend on the character of those who occupy them.

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Sadiya Umar-Farouq CategoriesHEDA News

Corruption: HEDA Welcomes Arrest Order for Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq, Demands Swift Justice, Recalls Earlier Call for Probe

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has welcomed the decision of the Federal High Court ordering the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary, Bashir Nura Alkali, over alleged fraud involving $1.3 million and N746.6 million. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organisation described the development as a major step toward strengthening accountability in Nigeria’s public sector, particularly in agencies responsible for social welfare and intervention programmes. The arrest warrant issued by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie followed the failure of the defendants to appear in court to answer to a 21-count charge bordering on alleged breach of trust, abuse of office, and diversion of public funds, as filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The organisation recalled that in January 2024, it had raised concerns and called for a swift probe and thorough investigation into N37.1 billion fraud allegations and financial irregularities linked to the former minister during her tenure. “HEDA has long advocated for a comprehensive probe into allegations surrounding the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs under the leadership of the former minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouq. This development reinforces the importance of sustained civic vigilance and institutional accountability,” Suraju maintained The anti-corruption organisation maintained that the alleged diversion of funds meant for vulnerable Nigerians represents a grave breach of public trust and underscores systemic challenges in the management of social intervention programmes. HEDA, therefore, called on the EFCC and relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure the immediate execution of the court’s order and guarantee that the defendants are brought before the court without further delay. It also urged that the prosecution of the case be conducted diligently, transparently, and without interference. Suraju further warned that the case must not be allowed to suffer the fate of prolonged trials or be undermined by procedural delays, noting that justice must be both swift and seen to be served. “HEDA is counting on the judiciary to remain firm and impartial throughout the proceedings, ensuring that the rule of law prevails irrespective of the status of the individuals involved.” Reaffirming its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, the group stressed that recovering any misappropriated funds and ensuring justice in this matter will send a strong signal that corruption in public office will no longer be tolerated.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA, NRGI, Miideekor and others to Convene Town Halls on Oil Divestment in Niger Delta

In a bid to strengthen transparency, environmental responsibility, and community participation in oil asset divestment attempts in the Niger Delta, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), in collaboration with the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), MIIIDEEKOR, Social Action, HOMEF, Kebetkache, and SDN have announced plans to convene community town hall meetings on oil divestment and transition accountability in the Niger Delta. In a statement issued and signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organisation said the initiative comes amid significant structural changes in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector driven by the divestment of onshore and shallow-water assets by international oil companies. HEDA noted that major multinational firms including Shell, ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and Eni have been purportedly transferring or selling oil assets to indigenous operators as part of corporate restructuring and global energy transition strategies. While the divestment trend presents opportunities for increased local participation in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, the organisation expressed concerns that host communities are left with unresolved environmental, economical and social liabilities. It warned that exiting companies could abandon oil spill sites, obsolete infrastructure, and outstanding liabilities without adequate remediation. The statement further explained that the process is guided by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and overseen by institutions such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. However, HEDA observed that affected communities often lack sufficient information about the divestment processes, their rights, and the responsibilities of both exiting and incoming operators. Suraju stressed the need for inclusive platforms where host communities can express grievances and demand accountability. He noted that the town hall meetings, which build on HEDA’s 2024 engagements on the subject, would facilitate dialogue, promote awareness, and document community concerns relating to environmental justice, development, and energy transition in the Niger Delta. According to the civil group, the town halls will bring together a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives of the NUPRC, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, National Human Rights Commission, state governments, host communities, traditional rulers, youth and women leaders, civil society organisations, and the media. The Port Harcourt session is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026, while the Yenagoa meeting will hold on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

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CategoriesAccountability HEDA News

HEDA Petitions CBN, Request Disclosure of Legal Fees Paid to Lawyers in P&ID Case

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has formally written to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, demanding full disclosure of legal fees paid to lawyers and law firms that represented Nigeria in the controversial Process and Industrial Developments Limited (P&ID) case. In a letter signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to the CBN Governor, the anti-corruption organization invoked the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act, 2011, requesting details of the names of lawyers and law firms engaged, as well as the exact amounts paid to them during the litigation process. HEDA, in its petition, emphasized that the request aligns with its mandate to promote public accountability, transparency, and good governance in Nigeria. The organization noted that while the case between Nigeria and P&ID heard at the Commercial Court of the High Court of England (Claim No: CL-2019-000752) was ongoing, the CBN facilitated payments to legal representatives on behalf of the Nigerian government. According to Suraju, “The public has a right to know how much was expended from national resources on legal representation in the P&ID case. Transparency in this regard is crucial for accountability, as it will help Nigerians understand the financial implications of international trade disputes involving the country.” HEDA further stated that the request also forms part of a research initiative the organization is conducting on the cost of trade disputes between states and private enterprises, adding that the P&ID case remains a vital reference point for such a study. The civil society organization urged the CBN to provide the requested information within seven (7) days in line with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.

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CategoriesHEDA News

Job Vacancy: Legal Officer

LOCATION: Ikeja, Lagos. REPORTS TO: Management Position Overview: We are seeking a competent and detail-oriented Legal Officer to provide legal support to our organisation. The successful candidate will be responsible for handling legal research, drafting and reviewing legal documents, supporting litigation processes, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing legal advisory services to support the organisation’s programmes and operations. Key Responsibilities Qualifications and Requirements How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter to humanresourceshedang.org with the subject line “Application –Legal Officer”

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Muhammed Adoke CategoriesAnti-corruption HEDA News

No Victory for Adoke, Says HEDA as Court Dismisses Libel Suit on Technical Grounds

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court dismissing the libel suit filed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, against former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, over allegations linked to the OPL 245 case. In a statement issued and signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organization described the ruling as “no victory for Adoke,” noting that the court did not affirm the substance of the forgery allegations contained in his petition to the police. According to synchronised media reports emerging from the stable of The Cable online platform, the court dismissed the suit on the ground that Suraju was not expressly named in Adoke’s petition requesting an investigation into alleged forgery of materials used in proceedings in Milan and London. The court held that because Suraju’s name did not appear in the petition, the legal ingredients required to establish defamation were not satisfied. Reacting to the decision, HEDA stated that it welcomes the judgment, emphasising that the court did not embarrass itself by ruling that Adoke’s fantasies of forgery were truthful, even though Adoke had tried to make that argument before the Nigerian Police – despite the email having clearly emanated, as affirmed by the London Metropolitan Police, from an email account of his crony Abubakar Aliyu. The group further stressed that the ruling was based strictly on technical considerations relating to naming and identification, not on validation of the allegations. HEDA further maintained that Adoke in his Motion of Notice denied his frivolous and concocted allegations that Mr. Suraju and HEDA forged the RAI tape and the agroupproperties email. Instead, he argued that he never identified Lanre by name in the Petition to the Police, the implication presumably being that a person who is not named cannot suffer defamation and further dissociated himself from his own handwritten adoption statement with the police to the contrary. The civil organisation also challenged Adoke to publicly clarify the identity of the individual or individuals he accused in his petition. “The judgment has raised a question for Adoke: are you brave enough to come out into the open?” the statement read, urging him to state clearly who he believes was responsible for the alleged forgery. Meanwhile, contrary to the vain labour of The Cable online platform to rewrite history on the phantom charges preferred against our Chairman being withdrawn on political expediency of the London case, the fact of the matter was that of concocted charges of cybercrime hurriedly and poorly put together by “fantastically corrupt” immediate past Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, who David Cameron must have had in mind when describing Nigeria in that ignoble terms, in collaboration with a desperate Adoke and some corrupted police officers, contrary to Adoke’s forgery allegation in his petition. “The impressive defence legal team of Mr. Suraju led my Dr. Muiz Banire SAN put forward a robust defence, including the subpoena of Adoke and Malami as witness, leading to Malami and Adoke running tail in limbs to withdraw the charges.” the statement added. Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, HEDA stated that the dismissal of the suit does not alter its long-standing position on the OPL 245 transaction or its broader anti-corruption advocacy. The organisation pledged to continue defending its integrity and to pursue all lawful avenues in the public interest.

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