Reps Investigate Annual $9.5 Billion Losses Attributed To Gas Flaring.

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Favour Bassey Otu
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Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has formally established an Ad hoc Committee with the sole purpose of investigating the alleged $9.05 billion revenue loss resulting from gas flaring in Nigeria over the past decade.

During the inauguration of the House ad hoc committee on Gas Flaring, which took place on Monday, Abbas urged the committee members to delve into the root causes of gas flaring and present recommendations to put an end to this detrimental practice.

He emphasized that the investigation signifies a pressing recognition of the imperative to comprehend and mitigate the environmental, social, and economic ramifications associated with gas flaring.

“The task bestowed upon this ad hoc committee is of utmost importance, as it directly impacts the well-being of our citizens and the economic prosperity of our nation,” stated the Speaker.

“You have been charged with the responsibility of investigating, perhaps, one of the most harmful practices in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria.

“Gas flaring and venting have been a significant environmental, economic, health and social concern in our country for many years.

“The flared gas represents lost revenue that could have been generated through its sale or utilization. Official records indicate that we lose about 2.5 billion dollars annually to gas flaring,” he said.

He said that as a major contributor to climate change and environmental degradation, gas flaring has direct and indirect impacts on soil, water, and wildlife.

According to him, gas flaring represents a tremendous waste of valuable resources; it is a precious energy source that could be utilized for various purposes, such as electricity generation, heating, or industrial processes.

Earlier, the Chairman of the committee, Rep. Babba Munir (APC-Kaduna State), said that the members were representing the interests of all Nigerians.

He said that the issue of gas flaring had lingered for decades despite several undertakings by oil companies to stop it.

“We are here to give everyone a fair hearing, to know where the loopholes are, where we need to tweak our laws to ensure we get optimal results.

“We do not have to revisit how important it is to our revenue drive needed for infrastructure, security, education, and health.

“It is a win-win situation for even the oil companies because if revenues are generated, it is spent on securing our nation, on infrastructure that will better their operations.

“We are insisting and putting our feet down that all agencies of government and oil companies

“Once you are invited, we expect you to come with your full submissions and with the highest representation of your organization,” he said.

The committee invited Total/Mobil V Domestic wing, Total/Oando JV, Total Energies, African Petroleum Pic., now Ardova PLC, to appear before or on Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Others are Azman Oil and Gas Limited, Matrix Oil And Gas Shata Ltd, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, National Council on Climate Change and Nigerian Petroleum Development Company.

Also to appear are Yinka Folawiyo Petroleum Company (Aje Oil Field-Offshore), Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy, and Belemaoil Producing Limited.

Walter Smith Petroman Oil Limited, Green Energy International Limited, Millenium Oil and Gas Company Limited, Folawiyo Energy Eroton Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited and Niger Delta Petroleum Resources Ltd.

NAN reports that the Nigerian Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency said Nigeria lost N891 billion to gas flaring in 18 months.

According to data from NOSDRA on August 8, 2022, Nigeria lost a total of N707bn in 2021 and N184bn in the first half of 2022, totaling N891bn.

According to the NOSDRA report, oil and gas companies operating in the country flared a total of 126 billion standard cubic feet of gas in the first half of 2022, leading to a loss of $441.2 million, (about N183.54 billion) in the six-month period.

On the other hand, the agency said, in 2021, about 23,862.271 barrels of oil (3,770,238.864 litres/119 tanker trucks) were spilled.

Giving a breakdown of the gas flared in the country in the first six months of 2022, the agency disclosed that while companies operating in the offshore oilfields flared 62.2 billion SCF of gas, companies operating onshore flared 63.9 billion SCF of gas, valued at $223.6 million.

In 2021, there were around 382 publicly available oil spill records. Out of the 382 occurrences, a total of 33 of these oil spill sites were not visited by a joint investigation team, and 122 of these had no estimated quantity of oil spilled provided by the companies involved.

Two major oil spills were recorded in 2021, with over 250 barrels spilled into inland waters and over 2,500 barrels spilled on land, swamps, shorelines, and the open sea, the report said.

A total of seven medium oil spill incidents were recorded in 2021, with 25-250 barrels spilled into inland waters, or 250-2,500 barrels spilled on land, swamps, shorelines, and the open sea.

In terms of minor oil spills, about 239 cases were recorded with up to 25 barrels spilled into inland waters or 250 barrels on land, swamps, shorelines, and the open sea.

(NAN)

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT: ECOWAS Parliament, EALA to Sign MoU With NILDS to Train Legislators.

By
Favour Bassey Otu
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The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has revealed its plan to enter into a significant collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).

The purpose of this MoU is to enhance capacity building for their respective staff members on legislative matters.

During a recent visit to the Director General of NILDS, Prof Abubakar Sulaiman in Abuja, the Speakers of EALA, Honourable Joseph Ntakirutimana, and his ECOWAS counterpart, Honourable Sidie Mohammed Tunis, expressed their support for this partnership.

Honourable Tunis emphasized the importance of such cooperation, stating that it will bolster the capacity of ECOWAS member states and the entire African continent. He underscored the significance of regional bodies like ECOWAS and EALA taking charge of their affairs rather than relying on the African Union’s centralized decision-making process in Addis Ababa.

Honourable Ntakirutimana praised NILDS, likening it to the American Democratic Institute (NDI) in terms of its ideas and intellectual resources. He expressed delight that NILDS is based in Nigeria and stressed the need for the institute to maintain autonomy from external influences. He welcomed the idea of capacity building and called for sufficient funding from the Nigerian government to enable NILDS to effectively serve Nigeria and Africa without external interference.

Professor Abubakar O. Sulaiman, the Director General of NILDS, reiterated the institute’s commitment to serving Africa in various capacities. He highlighted the initial support received by the institute from the Africa Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) when it operated under the National Assembly, after which the Nigerian government took over funding responsibilities.

The collaborative efforts between NILDS, ECOWAS Parliament, and EALA aim to bolster legislative knowledge and skills among staff members, leading to more effective governance and representation. The MoU will further solidify this partnership and foster mutual growth and development.

The meeting also saw the presence of esteemed figures, including NILDS lead consultant, Prof Attahiru Jega, Chairman of NILDS Academic Advisory Board, Prof Nuhu Yaqub, Secretary General of ECOWAS, Dr John Azumah, delegation to ECOWAS Parliament, Hon Awaji-Inombek Abiante, and a member of Tanzania House of Representatives, Hon. Dr Mlozi Shogo.

NDPC Tasks Data Controllers and Processors on Data Protection Compliance, Registration.

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Social Plus Africa
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The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) is tasked with ensuring data protection compliance and registration for all organizations that collect and process data in Nigeria.

This requirement is in accordance with the provisions of the Data Protection Act, which mandates data controllers and data processors to register with the Commission within six months of the enactment of the law.

The Act covers organizations such as banks, telecom operators, educational institutions, government parastatals, insurance companies, and others that handle people’s personal data.

The registration process is set to take place between the date of the law’s enactment and December 31, 2023. Registered organizations are also required to submit their annual audit reports to the Commission between January and March each year.

The primary goal of the NDPC is to protect the rights of individuals to control and safeguard their personal information in an interconnected world. It is responsible for creating awareness, conducting investigations, and imposing penalties on data protection violators.

The implementation of the Data Protection Act is also expected to increase foreign direct investment in Nigeria, as investors will have confidence in the country’s legal framework for data protection.

Data subjects, which include all Nigerians who have their data with government or private organizations, have certain rights under the Data Protection Act. These rights include giving or withholding consent for data collection, the right to rectify incorrect data, data portability, erasure, and the right to refuse data processing, among others.

Data controllers and data processors are obligated to take measures to ensure the security of the data they hold. This involves implementing technological and organizational measures to protect the data from unauthorized access or breaches.

The signing of the Data Protection Bill into law on June 12 has transformed the National Data Protection Bureau into a Commission, which will be responsible for driving the implementation of the data protection law in Nigeria. The Commission’s work is essential for safeguarding individuals’ data and promoting trust in the economy, thereby attracting foreign direct investments to the country.

Gov. Bello Extends Heartfelt Congratulations To Akeredolu, SAN, On His 67th Birthday.

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Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State sends his warmest congratulations to his esteemed colleague and legal luminary, Arakunri Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on the occasion of his 67th birthday.

Governor Bello acknowledges Akeredolu not only as a senior colleague but also as a statesman whose wise counsel and kind guidance have significantly enhanced the leadership of the Governors Forum over the past six years.
He commends the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association as one of the eminent figures in Africa’s legal profession, applauding his relentless efforts in advancing the cause of justice, upholding the rule of law, and strengthening democratic institutions in Nigeria.

Governor Bello praises Akeredolu for his exemplary leadership, which has resulted in remarkable progress and the delivery of democracy dividends to the people of Ondo State, including notable achievements in infrastructure development, security, and various other vital sectors of the state’s affairs.

The governor takes this opportunity to extend his heartfelt prayers for Akeredolu’s good health and long life, while also wishing him many happy returns on this special day.

Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, CON, born on 21 July 1956 in Owo, became President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2008, and he is the current Governor of Ondo State, also serving as the chairman of the Southwest Governors Forum.

82 Salutes to Major General Jemibewon: Kogi State Governor Extends Warm Congratulations

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Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, sends heartfelt congratulations to Major General David Medayese Jemibewon (Rtd), the esteemed elder statesman and former military governor of Oyo State, as he celebrates his 82nd birthday. In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, ONOGWU Muhammed, Governor Yahaya Bello expresses admiration for Major General Jemibewon’s significant contributions to the nation-building process.

The governor acknowledges the profound impact that Major General Jemibewon has made on various aspects of Nigeria’s governance and development. Throughout his military career, Major General Jemibewon demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of society, inspiring both current and future generations of leaders with his patriotic and selfless service.

Governor Bello states, “As we honor Major General Jemibewon with 82 salutes, we celebrate a remarkable individual whose dedication to the nation leaves an enduring legacy. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to him for his numerous achievements and milestones in service to Nigeria. His exemplary leadership and selfless devotion continue to inspire us all. May his wisdom and contributions continue to guide and shape the future of our great nation.”

Furthermore, Governor Bello deeply appreciates General Jemibewon’s tireless contributions to the development of Okunland and Kogi State in general. He sends his prayers and well-wishes, hoping for God’s continuous blessings of good health and long life for the elder statesman.

Born on 20 July 1940, Major General Jemibewon served as the military governor of the now-defunct Western State between August 1975 and March 1976 during the military regime of General Murtala Muhammed. Subsequently, he governed Oyo State after its creation from part of the old Western State between March 1976 and July 1978 during the military regime of General Olusegun Obasanjo. Later, Jemibewon served as the Minister of Police Affairs in the cabinet of President Olusegun Obasanjo between 1999 and 2000 after the return to democracy.

Governor Yahaya Bello’s message stands as a testament to Major General Jemibewon’s remarkable journey of service and his enduring impact on Nigeria’s progress and development.

ECOWAS, EALA Forge Closer Ties to Foster Economic Integration In Africa.

By
Favour Bassey Otu
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The ECOWAS Parliament and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) have set forth a collaborative vision to foster Economic integration by facilitating the visa-free movement of people, thus propelling business, trade, and investment across the African continent.

The plan for increased cooperation between the two regional legislative bodies was revealed during a courtesy visit paid by Rt. Hon. Ntakirutimana Joseph, the Speaker of EALA and his East African Counterparts, to Rt. Hon. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, in Abuja on Thursday.

East African Legislative Assembly Members with the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament during a courtesy visit to the ECOWAS Parliament.

Both sides expressed their commitment to working out the necessary frameworks for legislative action that will promote seamless integration.

According to Hon. Sidie Tunis, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, “The aim of ECOWAS is integration, of which free movement plays a pivotal role, if the two regions can collaborate and work together, considering the fact that we represent the people, we believe we can achieve this dream for Africa to become one”.

During a press conference held after a productive closed-door meeting, Hon. Joseph emphasized the significance of building an Africa where unrestricted movement and business can flourish. He stressed the potential for both regions to work together in unity to achieve this shared dream of a more integrated Africa.

Despite facing challenges such as economic crises and political issues within some member countries, Hon. Joseph highlighted that these obstacles could be overcome through mediation and support from ECOWAS, fostering the exchange of ideas and knowledge.

Accompanied by Dr. Mlozi Shogo, a member of the Tanzanian parliament, Hon. Joseph also took the opportunity to seek the support of the ECOWAS Parliament for the candidature of Dr. Tulia Ackson, the Speaker of the Tanzanian Parliament, in her bid for the Speakership of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

Speaking alongside Hon. Joseph during the press conference, Speaker Tunis emphasized that free movement is a fundamental aspect of collaboration between the two regions. He believed that resolutions could be reached to enhance the mobility of people between West Africa and East Africa, ultimately leading to a more united Africa.

The esteemed guests also engaged in discussions with Dr. Omar Touray, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, at the ECOWAS headquarters, further solidifying their deliberations.

Regarding the candidature of Dr. Ackson, Speaker Tunis revealed that the African Union has already endorsed her, expressing their support as Africans who wish to see her represent the continent in the IPU. This endorsement also received praise during their visit to the Nigerian National Assembly, where the delegation was received by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu.

Deputy Speaker Kalu stated that the visit marked a significant step forward for Africa in pursuing closer collaboration for mutual interests and enabling a unified voice for the continent. He stressed that unity would enable Africa to tackle pressing issues like climate change and human trafficking, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

In conclusion, the delegation offered words of encouragement to Dr. Tulia Ackson in her aspirations to become the Speaker of the IPU, recognizing her as an emblem of women’s empowerment and progress not only in Africa but globally. With the determination of both ECOWAS and EALA to foster integration and cooperation, a more interconnected and prosperous Africa seems closer than ever.

FIRS Sets New Record with N5.5 Trillion Tax Revenue in First Half of 2023

By
Favour Bassey Otu
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0

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has achieved a milestone by announcing a remarkable tax revenue collection of N5.5 trillion for the first half of 2023, covering January to June.

This unprecedented achievement marks the highest tax revenue collection ever recorded by the Service in any six-month period of a fiscal year.

The news was shared through a statement issued by Johannes Oluwatobi Wojuola, the Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman for Media and Communications. During a presentation of the 2023-2024 tax revenue outlook to the National Economic Council at a meeting held on July 20th, 2023, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Mr. Muhammad Nami, Executive Chairman of the FIRS, proudly announced this significant accomplishment.

According to the 2023 Half-Year Collection Report included in the presentation, the FIRS surpassed its target for the first half of the year, achieving over one hundred percent of its N5.3 trillion mid-year target.

The report further revealed that tax revenue collected from the oil sector during the period amounted to N2.03 trillion, surpassing the target of N2.3 trillion, while non-oil tax collection reached N3.76 trillion, exceeding the target of N2.98 trillion.

Mr. Nami emphasized that the excellent performance was largely due to improved voluntary tax compliance, facilitated by the automation of FIRS’ tax administrative processes. Notably, the Service collected a record-breaking N1.65 trillion in tax revenues in June 2023, the highest-ever for a single month.

Despite facing challenges such as the impact of currency redesign and the 2023 General Elections on the economy during the first and second quarters of the year, Mr. Nami commended the organization’s “good head start” and expressed optimism about meeting the yearly target.

The FIRS Executive Chairman credited the achievements to enhanced voluntary tax compliance by taxpayers, the continued improvement of automation in tax administration processes, including updated VAT filing procedures, and persistent engagement with stakeholders in both the formal and informal sectors of the economy.

Looking ahead, Mr. Nami assured the nation of better days ahead in terms of tax revenue collection, anticipating improved performance in the second half of the year. He expressed confidence in the positive impact of the current government’s policies on the economy and the ongoing enhancements to tax administration processes.

This remarkable feat comes after the FIRS achieved a total collection of N10.1 trillion in 2022, setting a new record as the highest tax collection ever made by the agency in a single year.

Nigeria Poised to Lead Africa’s Digital Technology Revolution, Says NITDA DG

By
Favour Bassey Otu
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The Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential to become the leading digital technology hub in Africa.

With its youthful and tech-savvy population, along with favorable legislation and policies, Nigeria is well-positioned to drive the growth of the tech ecosystem in the continent.

“Nigeria’s tech prowess ignites a flame of innovation that illuminates Africa’s path towards a prosperous digital future, fostering job creation and driving economic growth across the continent. Leveraging Nigeria’s youthful and tech-savvy population, favorable legislations, and policies, the country is well positioned to become Africa’s leading digital technology hub” – He said.

This statement was made during the launch of Global Tech Africa (GTA), an initiative by the Future Map Foundation, implemented in collaboration with Ascend Studios Foundation, NITDA, and the U.S. Consulate General, Lagos.

The GTA Conference aims to unite African and international tech stakeholders, unlocking growth opportunities and nurturing the tech ecosystem in Africa. Distinguished partners, including Business Sweden, Venture Garden Group, RivExcel Health, and renowned Tech Giants worldwide, are also supporting the initiative.

Africa is poised to play a vital role in the global tech ecosystem, offering innovation, talent, and new market prospects in mobile technology, e-commerce, fintech, ag-tech, and the digital economy. Emphasizing the impact of GTA in Africa, NITDA’s Director General, Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, underscores Nigeria’s tech prowess, igniting innovation that illuminates Africa’s path to a prosperous digital future, fostering job creation and driving economic growth across the continent.

The United States has played a key role in creating an enabling environment for Nigeria’s tech ecosystem. The U.S. Mission Nigeria remains committed to promoting partnerships that advance Nigeria’s tech and startup scene, catalyzing technological progress and reinforcing a robust U.S.-Nigeria trade and investment relationship. Nigeria’s rapid recognition as a hub for tech talent and innovation has led global tech companies to acknowledge its potential, and the U.S. Mission is eager to collaborate with both U.S. and Nigerian tech companies to harness this immense opportunity, according to U.S. Consul General Will Stevens.

The GTA Summit, slated for the 25th of July 2023 in Lagos, will bring together 300 tech stakeholders from the private, public, and development sectors. Following the summit, the GTA Conference will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, from the 17th to the 20th of November 2023.

Speaking about the prospects GTA offers to participants, Dr. Inya Lawal, President of Ascend Studios Foundation, and Abdulsalam Umar, COO of Future Map, assert that GTA will garner support from private, public, and development sectors to explore tech infrastructure and investment opportunities, support startups, and promote grants/seed investments. Additionally, GTA will encourage increased participation and growth of Women and Girls in the Tech Ecosystem.

The GTA conference aims to provide a platform for stakeholders, including investors, regulators, consumers, academia, and the general public, to engage in discussions and explore opportunities for collaboration, shaping the future of Africa’s tech landscape. The conference will feature plenary sessions, breakout sessions, pitch competitions, exhibitions, sideline networking, and cocktail sessions.

The summit and conference will also highlight the opportunities presented by the Nigerian Start-Up ACT, offering a meeting forum for investors, regulators, and entrepreneurs to explore investment and global partnership prospects.

GTA will serve as a platform for consumers, enthusiasts, and the general public to engage with technology experts and practitioners, showcasing the latest technology trends in Africa and providing insights into future innovations.

UN, Nigeria Unite for ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ to Tackle Hunger Challenges.

By
Favour Bassey Otu
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0

The United Nations is calling on all Nigerians to embrace the new project ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ by participating in farm estates, farming clusters, and backyard farming. This call was jointly made by the United Nations, the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, along with other key players during a pre-food system stock-taking event in Abuja, as reported by Adebola Brooksyn.

Food systems are integral to human existence, impacting health, the environment, economies, and cultures. Concerns about achieving the Sustainable Development Goal of zero hunger have prompted urgent action, prompting Nigeria to respond to the United Nations’ call for improving food systems.

At a media engagement during the stock-taking event, Nebeolisa Anako, the Permanent Secretary of Budget and National Planning, and other key stakeholders affirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security reflects the government’s dedication to feeding the nation.

Various obstacles, such as lack of appropriate technology and climate change, hinder food sufficiency in Nigeria. Collaboration with development partners is seen as essential to achieving food security.

To ensure that no one goes to bed hungry, the promotion of dry-season farming through micro and macro irrigation is highly encouraged. By collectively embracing these initiatives, Nigeria aims to bolster its food security and contribute to global efforts to combat hunger

NADDC AND AUTO INDUSTRY KEY PLAYERS HOLD VALIDATION WORKSHOP ON ACTION PLAN FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

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Social Plus Africa
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The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and major Automotive Industry key players are set to position Nigeria among the leading countries in Vehicle Electrification.

The Director General, NADDC, Mr. Jelani Aliyu, MFR, made this known at the validation workshop of the ‘Draft National Action Plan for the Development of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria’, held Tuesday 18th July, 2023 at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

In his welcome address, the Director General encouraged participants and the general public to embrace advanced technology, because it can be leveraged to uplift the lives of hundreds of millions of the nation’s citizens.

He reiterated the NADDC’s committment to Vehicle Electrification in Nigeria, which has resulted in the local assembly of the Hyundai Kona EV and Jet Motors Electric Buses and Vans.

The Action Plan is dedicated solely on strategic

development of the Vehicle Electrification ecosystem in Nigeria: to provide the necessary fiscal and non fiscal incentives, programs and initiatives aimed at expediting the mass production of Electric Vehicles and development of an effective nationwide charging infrastructure. To also enable the ubiquitous attainability and sustainable ownership of the very many different types of these zero emission forms of transportation by both public and individual end users.

Jelani added that that the Council has demonstrated its dedication to developing applicable advanced solutions with the development of the 100% Solar Powered EV Charging Stations at three universities, UDUS, UNN, UNILAG and at the NADDC Headquarters, Abuja.

Representing the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Director, Industry Development Department of the Ministry, Adewale Rasheed, explained that the workshop would guarantee inclusiveness and synergy among stakeholders in the development of the Action Plan.

According to him “This validation workshop will lead to the development of the detailed and comprehensive plan for the development of electrical vehicles in Nigeria”

Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Dr. Bashir Gwandu, stated his agency’s commitment to support and work with the NADDC in applicable research for the development of the Electric Vehicle value chain.

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