CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Demands EFCC Investigation into Non-Executed Contracts in Ondo Community

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic for failing to execute shoreline protection contracts in Ayetoro Community, Ondo State. In a petition to Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, EFCC Executive Chairman, HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, expressed concern over the worsening environmental and socio-economic crisis in the community. Oil exploration has caused significant land loss to Atlantic Ocean incursions, leaving many residents homeless and disrupting their livelihoods. In 2004, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) awarded a ₦2.5 billion contract to Gallet Nigeria Limited, with a ₦650 million mobilization fee, to address shoreline erosion. After four years of non-execution, the contract was terminated. It was re-awarded in 2009 to Dredging Atlantic for ₦6.5 billion, with a ₦2.5 billion mobilization fee, but the project remained incomplete. HEDA highlighted the devastating impact of these failed contracts on Ayetoro, including displacement of residents and worsening climate challenges. The organization warned that continued neglect poses a broader threat to Nigeria’s coastal communities, potentially leading to submersion of cities along the Atlantic coastline. The civil society group urged the anti-graft agency to thoroughly investigate Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic, prosecute those responsible, and recover misappropriated funds to address the community’s needs. “This is a clear case of how corruption deprives communities of essential resources while compounding environmental and socio-economic hardships,” said Arigbabu. “The EFCC must act decisively to restore accountability and bring justice to Ayetoro Community.” HEDA commended the EFCC for its anti-corruption efforts and expressed hope for swift resolution, alleviation of Ayetoro residents’ suffering, and safeguarding of Nigeria’s coastal regions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, public accountability, and environmental justice, urging stakeholders to protect Ayetoro Community and ensure a sustainable future.

CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA and UNILAG Consult Launch Anti-Corruption & Good Governance Courses

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has partnered with UNILAG Consult to introduce Diploma Programs on Anti-corruption, Good Governance, and Illicit Financial Flow, as part of HEDA’s 20th anniversary celebration. During the unveiling at UNILAG Senate Lounge, Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, emphasized the urgency of addressing corruption in Nigeria, stating that corruption, coupled with impunity, is the nation’s biggest challenge. Arigbabu stressed the importance of citizen involvement in the fight against corruption and the need for comprehensive training on good governance and illicit financial flow. Professor Ismail Ibrahim, Managing Director of UNILAG Consult, expressed the university’s enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the program’s potential to reshape the national narrative on corruption. Prof. Ayodele Atsenuwa, Chairman of HEDA’s Board of Trustees and UNILAG Deputy Vice-Chancellor, commended the initiative, noting that the diploma program would enhance participants’ capacity in anti-corruption, good governance, and illicit financial flow. The 9-month program, covering core areas of good governance, anti-corruption, and illicit financial flow, offers a post-graduate diploma and targets various institutions and groups, including lawmakers, anti-corruption bodies, civil society, media, and academia. The course, available both on-campus and virtually, combines disciplines like economics, law, and governance, providing practical tools to combat corruption and foster transparency and accountability.

CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Landmark Projects and Impacts

… Launches Research Publications on Corruption and Electoral Reform A leading civil society organization in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) recently concluded its week-long celebration commemorating its significant milestones: 20 years of anniversary and 23 years of impacts in nation-building through its anti-corruption, good governance, human rights, environmental justice, and sustainable environment mandates. HEDA, in the milestones celebration, embarked on a journey that unfolded through a series of captivating events, each serving as testament to its unwavering commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and social justice in Nigeria. The week-long celebration commenced with a Media Leaders Interactive Dinner, where luminaries from various sectors converged to exchange ideas and insights on pressing issues facing the nation. This gathering served as a platform for robust discussions and collaborative initiatives aimed at driving positive changes in Nigeria. A pivotal moment followed with the unveiling of HEDA’s Academic Program/Training in collaboration with the prestigious University of Lagos (UNILAG) Consult Ltd. This groundbreaking initiative promises to equip future leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex societal challenges such as anti-corruption, good governance, illicit financial flows, and foster sustainable development. In line with its commitment to environmental stewardship, the organization spearheaded a Community Outreach and Campaign against Plastic Pollution in Lagos. The detrimental effects of single-use plastic pollution, particularly Styrofoam and similar items, were raised to promote eco-friendly practices, igniting a movement for a cleaner, greener Nigeria. The grand finale of the celebration took center stage with an Anniversary Lecture themed, a Navigating and Nexus of Anticorruption and Good Governance in Nigeria: Striking a Balance for Economic, Social and Environmental Justice, delivered by the Executive Chairman, Economic Financial and Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede. The thought-provoking discourse delved into critical issues shaping the nation’s socio-political landscape. Notably, the event also marked the public presentation of two significant research publications by HEDA Resource Centre: “The Unresolved Corruption Allegations and Scandals under the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration (2015 – 2023)” and “The 2023 General Elections: Trends in Politics and Elections in Nigeria,” shedding light on pivotal moments in Nigeria’s recent election history. Amidst the festivities, HEDA Resource Centre extended heartfelt appreciation to its partners, supporters, and dedicated staff members who have been instrumental in its journey of impact. From far and wide, allies and friends joined in the celebration, underscoring the depth of collaborative efforts in advancing the organization’s mission. HEDA Chairman of the Governing Board, Olanrewaju Suraju, expressed gratitude to all who honoured the organization with their presence, emphasizing the organization’s unwavering commitment to its mandate. He highlighted the important roles of dedicated staff members, past and present, whose tireless efforts have propelled HEDA Resource Centre to height of excellence. The story of HEDA Resource Centre is a testament to the power of collective action and unwavering determination in effecting meaningful change. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice, transparency, and societal transformation.