The National Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project in Kogi State, Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto has called for stronger commitment to environmental protection and climate action as the world marks the 2026 World Environment Day. In a message to commemorate the annual event today, June 5, Barrister Ladi Jatto emphasized the importance of nature-based solutions in addressing the growing challenges of climate change. Barrister Ladi Ahmed Jatto spoke against the background of this year’s United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) theme: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.” The Coordinator said that the realities of climate change are evident across communities in Kogi State and beyond. According to her, forests, wetlands and trees remain critical natural assets in combating environmental degradation, controlling erosion, reducing flooding and improving urban living conditions. Barrister Ladi Jatto said that the ACReSAL Project has been actively restoring degraded landscapes through watershed management, large-scale tree planting campaigns, community awareness programmes and the promotion of climate-smart livelihoods. “Nature is our best defense against climate change. We don’t fight climate change with speeches; we fight it with trees, policy, and action.” Barrister Ladi Jatto said that meaningful climate action requires government policies that are guided by science, effective implementation of environmental projects, and active participation of citizens in preserving natural resources. The ACReSAL coordinator described environmental protection as a critical component of national development, saying that climate stability is directly linked to food security, safer communities, and improved public health. “Environmental work is nation-building work. A stable climate means stable farms, safer cities, and healthier families in Kogi State and across Nigeria.” Barrister Ladi Jatto reaffirmed the commitment of the organisation to advancing climate resilience through policy advocacy, project delivery, and personal environmental responsibility. “The earth is not inherited from our ancestors; it is borrowed from our children. Let us return it better.”
The World of Faith Group of Schools (WOFGOS), a Christian-based institution, has begun the planting of 4,000 exotic trees in Abuja, towards building climate-resilient urban communities. The Administrator-General of WOFGOS, Mrs. Daisy Idahosa, said in an Abuja, that the initiative was part of events to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day (WED). Mrs. Daisy Idahosa said that the initiative would be implemented in partnership with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and other stakeholders with the theme: “Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future.” She said that the trees would be planted in designated urban spaces, schools and communities, to boost the Federal Capital Territory’s green canopy and combat the devastating effects of climate change. “This will create natural cooling zones against rising city temperatures.” She said that the 2026 WED theme, “Inspired by Nature, for Climate, for our Future,” was to advocate urgent climate action and nature-based resolutions. She called on the urban communities to take proactive steps toward environmental conservation, describing green spaces as “crucial” for human survival. Mrs. Daisy Idahosa commended school children for spearheading the school-led climate action, indicating their commitment toward building climate-resilient communities. The Director, UNIC Centre, Mr. Ronald Kayanja, lamented the escalating global temperatures, saying: “now is the time to act.” Ronald Kayanja, who said that the tree planting campaign would significantly mitigate the impact of climate change, called on developed nations to fulfill their climate-finance promises to developing countries. This, he said, would help in protecting livelihoods and strengthening vulnerable economies. He warned that the world faces a temporary overshoot of the 1.5-degree Celsius global threshold, which he said has continued to destroy homes and deepen hunger. “Local actions, such as urban afforestation are important to protecting vulnerable economies while developed nations fulfill their climate finance promises.” The Chairman, Parent-Teacher Association in the school, Joe Ukairo emphasised communities’ role in building urban resilience to climate change. According to him, securing the future of the younger generation requires active participation in local climate solutions. The first tree was planted at the WOFGOS premises by Mrs. Kachalla Fatima, President, Association of Flowers, Nursery and Landscaping Practitioners of Abuja. A School Friends of the Environment Club was also inaugurated at the event while awards were presented to the cleanest classroom in the school, winners of the essay writing competition on environment and materials recovery competition.
Scientists who predicted that the Earth is likely to shoot past a key global warming target within the next decade, are believed to be working on several climate-friendly technologies to address what they called “full-blown climate catastrophe.” The climate-friendly technologies include renewable energy that is said to be approaching tipping points. A new report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said that these transitions could allow humanity to break free of fossil fuels in some sectors and make a meaningful dent in the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving global warming. The report said that the tipping points are not guaranteed. The report is titled: “Cheaper. Cleaner. Unstoppable. Clean technologies that are delivering for the Climate,” and hinge on clear and sustained policies, investment, and public support to fulfill the potential. The approach gives those on the frontlines of the climate battle, reason for hope because once progress reaches a certain point, it can become self-reinforcing. The Director of the UNEP Copenhagen Climate Centre, Anne Olhoff reasoned that world economies and societies have been tied to fossil fuels for so long. “But we’re finally at the point where, at least in some cases, we’re poised to break the iron grip of coil, oil and gas.”
The new UNEP report offers the following five areas to watch, 1. Renewable energy, which described as the cheapest option. Over the past decade, the cost of renewable energy has fallen dramatically. In most parts of the world, installing solar power is now cheaper than building new coal or gas plants. As a result, renewables have become the largest destination for global energy investment, reaching around US$450 billion in 2024, according to the International Energy Agency. Since 2020, more than 75 per cent of new power capacity added globally has come from renewable sources, with solar and wind growing faster than any other energy technologies in history. In some countries, they now generate most electricity. The electricity sector accounts for roughly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. But the quick expansion of renewables, supported by rapidly expanding battery storage, is reshaping entire energy systems, as costs continue to fall, and investment and political support increase. 2. Electric vehicles that are are accelerating into the mainstream In 2025, electric vehicles accounted for more than a quarter of global new car sales, up from less than 3 per cent in 2019. This shift has been driven by falling battery costs, expanding charging infrastructure, and stronger policies. In Norway, electric cars now make up almost all new vehicle sales. China has scaled manufacturing at unprecedented speed, creating global supply chain momentum. Ethiopia, where electric vehicles make up 60 per cent of new car sales, is leading among the developing countries. Meanwhile, countries like Vietnam and Uruguay are also seeing rapid growth, faster than in many developed economies. Electric buses, delivery fleets, and two- and three-wheelers are also expanding quickly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where they play a major role in everyday mobility. Positive effects, beyond lower emissions, include cleaner air, lower fuel costs, reduced dependence on oil and gas, and integration with renewable electricity systems. 3. Smarter buildings to reduce the need for air conditioning Extreme heat is becoming one of the most pressing climate risks, particularly in cities, where temperatures can be 5–10°C warmer than in surrounding areas, placing a disproportionate burden on lower-income communities. One of the most effective responses relies on better design of buildings and urban spaces. A “passive-first” approach, using shading, ventilation, insulation, and reflective materials, can significantly reduce indoor temperatures without mechanical cooling. The low cost of this solution makes it available in a wide range of economic contexts. In some climates, these measures can lower indoor temperatures by 6–9°C, reducing or even eliminating the need for air conditioning. At scale, passive cooling strategies, combined with urban green spaces, such as parks and green roofs, could cut urban emissions by up to 25 per cent while also improving air quality, biodiversity, public health and quality of life. With nearly three billion people lacking access to adequate cooling, adopting these solutions at a wider scale is critical for emission reductions and for better health and climate resilience. When embedded in building codes and urban planning, their adoption can accelerate quickly, helping reduce energy demand and ease pressure on electricity systems during heatwaves. 4. Heat pumps for transforming how we heat and cool buildings Buildings are responsible for around 21 per cent of global emissions, and a large part of them are linked to heating and cooling. Heat pumps offer a more efficient alternative. They can both heat and cool buildings while using significantly less energy than conventional systems, and they are becoming increasingly affordable and cost competitive as production scales. Adoption is already widespread in parts of Northern Europe thanks to supportive policy frameworks. In other parts of the world, governments are strengthening appliance energy performance standards to accelerate the transition. This shift is particularly important in rapidly urbanizing regions across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, where cooling demand is expected to rise sharply, potentially driving a surge in electricity use. Getting ahead of this demand with technologies like heat pumps will be critical for managing both emissions and energy costs. 5. Cutting food waste as one of the fastest climate wins Food systems account for around 30 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, roughly one-third of all food produced globally is wasted, contributing to up to 10 per cent of emissions. Reducing food waste is one of the biggest opportunities to cut emissions, improve food security, and conserve land and water resources. Interestingly, cities are emerging as important drivers of change. They consume around 70 per cent of the world’s food supply and face a growing pressure to reduce and manage waste. From financial incentives for waste reduction in Bangkok to awareness campaigns in Rio de Janeiro and Yokohama’s innovative “SDG lockers” that redistribute surplus food, cities are testing solutions that could be scaled globally. Combined with better food literacy, improved tracking systems, and technologies that connect surplus food with consumers, these initiatives have the potential to reduce food waste and make food systems more sustainable.
It is a statement of fact that former Nigeria’s President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan remains one of the most recognizable political figures in Africa. Years after leaving office, he still commands goodwill across sections of Nigeria. His calm temperament, peaceful concession in 2015, and relatively moderate public image have earned him a level of respect uncommon in Nigeria’s bitter political environment. That is precisely why he has to be very careful and reflect deeply as he is being pressured to contest the 2027 presidential election. The call may sound desperate and interesting. It may also be flattering. Politicaians are already floating his name in television studios, newspaper columns, and elite gatherings. Some claim only Jonathan could stabilize Nigeria. Others present him as a compromise candidate capable of calming ethnic tensions and reducing political hostility. A few even romanticize his presidency as a “better era” compared to today’s widespread hardship and insecurity. But politics is not built on nostalgia alone. If Jonathan truly values his legacy, history, and personal dignity, he should politely walk away from the pressure to re-enter Nigeria’s dangerous presidential battlefield. Sometimes, the most honorable political decision is knowing when not to return. *Respect is Distinct from Electoral Reality* One of the biggest mistakes former leaders make is confusing public sympathy with electoral strength. Many Nigerians may admire Jonathan today, but admiration does not automatically translate into votes. Political memory is selective. Those praising him now are not necessarily prepared to defend him during a brutal national campaign. Nigerian politics is unforgiving. The same voices encouraging him today may disappear the moment the attacks begin. And the attacks will come. The opposition will reopen old wounds: insecurity under his administration, corruption allegations against some of his allies, the Chibok girls tragedy, fuel subsidy controversies, power sector disappointments, and claims of weak leadership. Social media warriors will resurrect every old criticism buried over the last decade. Nigeria’s current political climate is far more toxic than the one Jonathan left behind in 2015. Politics has become more vicious, more divisive, more tribalized, and more digitally weaponized. Why should a man who left office with global respect voluntarily walk back into that storm? *Jonathan Already Achieved What Many African Leaders Could Not* History has already been kind to Jonathan. In 2015, he became the first sitting Nigerian president to concede defeat peacefully. That singular act elevated his image internationally. While many African leaders manipulate constitutions, intimidate opponents, or cling desperately to power, Jonathan accepted electoral defeat and preserved democratic stability. That decision alone secured his place in history. Today, he is invited to global democracy forums, election observation missions, peacebuilding conferences, and diplomatic engagements across Africa and beyond. He enjoys something many former African presidents never attain: moral legitimacy. A failed comeback attempt could damage that carefully built reputation. History is filled with leaders who overstayed their political relevance and ended up diminishing their own legacies. A statesman can easily become just another desperate politician the moment he begins chasing power again. Jonathan should avoid that trap. *Nigeria’s Problem Transcends Recycling Old Leaders* One uncomfortable truth Nigeria must confront is this: the country cannot continue recycling the same political class while expecting transformational change. Nigeria is a young nation with millions of energetic and educated citizens. Yet leadership recruitment remains trapped within an aging elite circle where the same names rotate endlessly across decades. Bringing Jonathan back into the race may temporarily excite sections of the political establishment, but it does little to deepen democratic renewal. Instead, it reinforces the damaging belief that Nigeria’s future can only be entrusted to former rulers. A healthy democracy must constantly produce new leadership. Jonathan himself once benefited from generational political transition. He should now encourage the emergence of fresh national figures rather than participate in another elite recycling arrangement. *North-South Equation may Be Another Political Minefield* Nigeria’s fragile political balance must also be considered carefully. Whether people admit it openly or not, the issue of power rotation remains deeply sensitive. Any Jonathan candidacy would immediately reopen debates over zoning, regional entitlement, and political fairness. The country is already polarized along ethnic and regional lines. Another emotionally charged presidential contest involving a former president from the South-South could intensify national tensions. Jonathan may personally desire national unity, but Nigerian politicians often weaponize identity for survival. His entry into the race could trigger unnecessary political hostility at a time the country desperately needs healing. *Burden of Crushing Citizenry Expectations* There is also the danger of unrealistic expectations. Many Nigerians currently romanticize Jonathan because they compare yesterday’s problems with today’s harsher realities. This is common in politics. Former leaders often appear better after their successors struggle. But governing Nigeria in 2027 would be even harder than governing Nigeria in 2011. The economy is under severe strain. Youth frustration is rising. Insecurity has evolved into multiple complex threats. Public trust in institutions is weak. Citizens are angrier, poorer, and more impatient than ever before. Any president emerging in 2027 will inherit enormous pressures. Jonathan may discover quickly that the goodwill surrounding him today is less about genuine confidence in his leadership capacity and more about public disappointment with the present situation. That is a dangerous foundation for political ambition. *Elder Statesmanship And Political Comeback* Nigeria needs respected national voices outside active partisan combat. Jonathan can play a far greater role as a mediator, democratic advocate, continental diplomat, and elder statesman than as another presidential aspirant battling for party tickets and political allies. Former presidents carry moral authority when they remain above daily political warfare. Once they jump back into partisan struggles, that authority weakens. Rather than contesting elections again, Jonathan should focus on strengthening democratic institutions, mentoring younger leaders, promoting electoral reforms, interfaith harmony, and supporting peace initiatives across Nigeria and Africa at large. That path would preserve his dignity while expanding his historical relevance. *The Danger of Political Manipulation* Jonathan must also be careful not to become a tool in the hands of desperate political actors. Some of those urging him to contest may not genuinely believe in him. Nigerian politics often thrives on tactical manipulation. Certain groups may simply want to use his name to destabilize rival camps, negotiate power deals, or create bargaining leverage within broader political calculations. Once political interests change, such supporters can disappear overnight. A former president should never allow himself to become an instrument in games designed by ambitious power brokers. *Leaving Gracefully is also so Leadership* One of the rarest qualities in politics is the wisdom to leave the stage gracefully. Jonathan already has what many politicians spend their entire lives chasing: national recognition, international respect, historical significance, and relative peace of mind. Re-entering Nigeria’s brutal presidential contest risks unnecessary reputational damage. Sometimes, political restraint speaks louder than political ambition. For Jonathan, the wiser path may not be another campaign rally, another ballot paper or another presidential debate. It may simply be preserving the dignity which history has already given him. – Abdulkarim Abdulmalik is an Abuja-based Journalist and can be reached on: nowmalik@gmail.com
The Lagos State Government has taken stronger measures, including stricter monitoring, community engagement and science-driven interventions to combat illegal dredging and coastal degradation across its 187km coastline. The state Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Bush-Alebiosu, during a courtesy visit to him by the Head of Lagos Operations of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mrs. Ifeyinwa Omowole, said that the ministry is working closely with relevant agencies and other stakeholders to safeguard the state’s coastline and ensure sustainable development. According to him, illegal dredging remains a major threat to coastal communities, fisheries and critical waterfront infrastructure. He said that illegal dredging would hardly take place without the knowledge of some community members “We will continue to enlighten residents, carry out advocacy campaigns and engage stakeholders on the dangers of these activities.” The commissioner noted that while some Lagos residents aided perpetrators, others provided useful information that helped the government to identify and curb illegal operations on coastlines. He said that government is adopting evidence-based approaches to address coastal erosion. “You must first understand the problem before prescribing a solution. “We must understand the specific causes of erosion before implementing long-term interventions.” The Commissioner said that the State Government has engaged a Dutch consultancy firm, CDR International, to conduct studies that would guide its future shoreline protection projects. “We are currently concluding a pre-feasibility study that will point us in the right direction.” Bush-Alebiosu said that coastal erosion is not peculiar to Lagos, noting that several countries on the West African coast are facing a similar challenge. He expressed concern over the impact of indiscriminate dredging on the aquatic ecosystem and fish populations. “The more the seabed is disturbed, the further the fish migrate. “The farther fishermen have to travel to catch fish, the more expensive fish becomes for consumers.” The commissioner said that the ministry has strengthened surveillance operations against illegal dredging activities. He said that government is also addressing growing concerns over the activities of scavengers and illegal settlers on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Bush-Alebiosu said the ministry, in collaboration with physical planning authorities, task forces and security agencies, has intensified enforcement and monitoring on the highway. “The solution is consistency and sustained enforcement.” The commissioner added that the ministry was promoting innovative waterfront infrastructure, including deployment of floating concrete jetties and partnerships on new waterfront estate developments. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to preserving waterfront communities, protecting investments and unlocking economic potential of the coastal assets of Lagos through sustainable management and strategic partnerships. Earlier, Omowole said that NAN is committed to providing content for Nigerian media organisations as well as communicating government programmes and actions to the citizens. Meanwhile, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said that it has intensified flood preparedness efforts across Lagos State with a focus on communities identified as high-risk in the 2026 flood outlook. Head of Operations, NEMA Lagos Territorial Office, Mohammed Olatunde, assured that the agency is fully prepared for the rainy season and that adequate measures have been taken to mitigate flood risks. He said that forecasts by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicated that Badagry and Epe might experience high rainfall levels capable of triggering floods. He said that Alimosho, Ikeja and Surulere are vulnerable to flash floods due to increased rainfall, while Ikorodu and Isheri could be affected by possible water releases from Oyan Dam. According to him, NEMA has adopted a proactive approach to disaster management through location-specific warnings and intensified community awareness campaigns. “We do not just broadcast general warnings. Technical information is translated into simple language and disseminated through WhatsApp groups, phone calls and SMS to community leaders in flood-prone local government areas. “We are also conducting grassroots sensitisation programmes through our emergency management vanguards and volunteers across Lagos State. “In addition, we are working closely with NIHSA to obtain weekly updates that enable us to provide residents with timely information on emerging flood threats,” he said. Olatunde said the agency has strengthened collaboration with the Lagos State Government, particularly the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, to enhance flood mitigation efforts. He said the collaboration is focused on drainage maintenance, waste management and public awareness aimed at reducing flood risks. According to him, drainage channels remain the first line of defence against flooding, making the clearance of primary and secondary channels a priority ahead of peak rainfall periods. He said NEMA is also working with relevant stakeholders to ensure flood-risk information reached vulnerable communities promptly. Olatunde identified indiscriminate refuse dumping and construction on floodplains as major human-induced factors contributing to flooding in Lagos. He said the agency is supporting enforcement efforts by relevant authorities to discourage such practices. The NEMA official also commended the state government’s reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, describing it as a critical step towards reducing drainage blockages and promoting cleaner communities. He said the exercise, held on the last Saturday of every month, encouraged residents to clean their surroundings, clear drainage frontages and ensure proper waste disposal for evacuation by the Lagos Waste Management Authority. Olatunde advised residents to sustain active participation in environmental sanitation to reduce flood risks and prevent sanitation-related diseases across the state.
The basic fact about climate change is the long-term changes it creates in global temperatures, rainfall patterns, weather conditions and environmental systems caused largely by human activities. Such human activities including the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, industrialization and unsustainable land use practices. Such practices have become the most significant global issues of the 21st century, affecting countries, communities, economies and ecosystems across the world. In Nigeria, climate change has manifested through rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, desertification in the northern region, coastal erosion in the south, increased flooding and the loss of biodiversity. These environmental changes pose serious challenges to agriculture, food security, water resources, public health and economic development. Farmers face difficulties in predicting planting seasons due to changing weather patterns, leading to reduced crop yields and food shortages. Flooding destroys homes, infrastructure and farmlands, while desert encroachment threatens livelihoods in many northern communities. Climate-related disasters also increase poverty, displacement and conflicts over diminishing natural resources. Globally, climate change contributes to more frequent and intense heatwaves, storms, droughts, wildfires and rising sea levels. Many countries face enormous economic losses due to damaged infrastructure, reduced agricultural productivity and increased healthcare costs.
Vulnerable populations, particularly in developing nations, bear the greatest burden despite contributing the least to global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite these challenges, climate change has also accelerated innovation and opportunities for sustainable development. Around the world, governments, businesses and communities are investing in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower. These investments create jobs, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote cleaner environments. In Nigeria, the growing adoption of solar energy is improving electricity access in rural and urban areas while reducing carbon emissions. Climate action has also encouraged better environmental policies, afforestation programmes, sustainable agriculture and improved disaster preparedness. Global efforts to address climate change have strengthened international cooperation through agreements, research partnerships and climate financing mechanisms. These initiatives support developing countries in building resilience and adapting to environmental changes. Climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy technologies and green industries present significant economic opportunities for Nigeria and other nations seeking sustainable growth. In other words, climate change has presented serious environmental, social and economic challenges to Nigeria and the world. But it has also offered opportunities for innovation, green investment, sustainable development and international collaboration. Addressing climate change requires collective action by governments, businesses, communities and individuals to reduce emissions, protect natural resources and build a more resilient future for present and future generations. This is where Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper has come in to contribute to the efforts of the governments, institutions, authorities and concerned individuals towards solving challenges inherent in the climate change.
Starlink SpaceX Crisis Response Team has donated 91 communication equipment to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) for the purpose of enhancing emergency communication. They are also aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s disaster preparedness and emergency response. The donation followed proactive engagements initiated by NEMA with the technology company aimed at exploring innovative solutions. The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, made this known when she led the SpaceX delegation on a courtesy visit to the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Welcoming the guests, Vice President Shettima applauded the partnership between NEMA and SpaceX’s Starlink. He described the relationship as a strategic collaboration that would significantly improve emergency coordination and disaster response in Nigeria. He commended NEMA for embracing innovative technology to strengthen disaster management operations. This was even as the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, expressed appreciation to SpaceX Starlink for the donation of the satellite internet hardware. She said that it would help address critical communication challenges often encountered during emergency operations, particularly in hard-to-reach and underserved areas. Mrs. Zubaida Umar disclosed that the facilities would also support the operations of the Agency’s National Emergency Coordination and Communication Centre and further strengthen operational coordination and real-time emergency response management. The representative of SpaceX Starlink, Peter Kroetger commended Nigeria’s disaster management efforts and acknowledged NEMA’s institutional structure and commitment to emergency preparedness and response.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has declared his commitment to proactive environmental management and climate resilience. Speaking at a Stakeholder Meeting on Flood Predictions and the Downscaling of Early Warning Messages at the Government House in Kano, the governor said that his government is ever ready for timely interventions in emergencies, especially in flooding. The government, who was represented at the event by the state Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahiru Muhammad Hashim, stressed the determination of his government to design flood prevention strategy aimed at ensuring a flood-free rainy season in 2026,. According to him, this is part of the efforts to safeguard lives, property and critical infrastructure across the state. He said that stakeholders’ engagement has been convened to translate national climate forecasts into practical and community-based early warning systems capable of protecting residents from the devastating effects of floods. He recalled that his government’s proactive measures in 2025 successfully prevented major urban flooding despite predictions of heavy rainfall, adding that the administration is determined to build on that achievement with more aggressive interventions in 2026. “The government is scaling up its preparedness efforts to ensure a flood-free rainy season across Kano State. We are implementing a comprehensive strategy that combines infrastructure maintenance, environmental restoration, and community participation.” The major initiatives by the government include the commencement of a statewide drainage clearance exercise, distribution of desilting equipment to community self-help groups, removal of illegal structures obstructing waterways and the planting of 10 million tree seedlings to serve as natural barriers against erosion and flooding. The governor said that environmental sustainability and climate adaptation remain key pillars of his development agenda, and that government alone cannot win the fight against flooding without the support of residents and stakeholders. He therefore called on traditional institutions, community leaders, environmental groups, and the general public to support the government’s efforts by maintaining clean drainage channels and adhering to environmental regulations.
WigsTwinkles Beauty has launched a new line of easy-to-style bob human hair wigs, adding a focused collection of short-length units to its growing international catalogue. The collection is available immediately for worldwide delivery, with the brand’s established shipping network covering customers in the US, Canada, and the UK alongside its existing customer base across West Africa. The brand built its reputation on consistent sourcing standards and accessible pricing across borders. The new bob collection covers a broad range of preferences, featuring popular options like the classic bob short wig, the sleek blunt cut bob wig, and the high-volume curly bob wig. Each brings a different finish and aesthetic to the short hair category while maintaining the construction quality the brand is associated with. Sharp, Low-Maintenance Looks That Make an Impact The demand for short, well-constructed wigs has risen steadily alongside a broader shift in how women approach their hair routines. Longer installation times and high-maintenance styles are increasingly being set aside in favour of units that deliver an elevated finish with significantly less daily effort.
Twinkles Beauty’s bob collection addresses that demand with a range that does not reduce short hair to a single silhouette. The blunt cut bob wig is built for precision. Its edges are clean and defined, the cut falling at a consistent length that creates a structured finish well-suited to formal environments, corporate settings, and evening occasions where a polished appearance is non-negotiable. The weight of the unit is balanced to hold its shape through a full day without losing the crispness of the cut.
The curly bob wig occupies a different space within the collection. Where the blunt cut leads with structure, the curly bob leads with texture and movement. The curl pattern adds volume and dimension to the silhouette, producing a softer aesthetic that works across casual, social, and semi-formal settings. For women who want a short style that feels relaxed and ready without sacrificing quality, the curly bob is a well-considered option. Both variations, alongside the classic bob short wig are constructed from human hair, meaning they respond to heat styling and can be adjusted to suit personal preferences without damaging the integrity of the unit. How to Know a Good Bob Wig Not every bob wig on the market is worth the investment. Here is what separates a well-made unit from one that will disappoint after a few wears: The hair should feel full and consistent from root to tip, with no thinning at the ends. Wefts should be tightly sewn with no visible gaps or loose threading. The cap should sit flat against the head without bunching or lifting at the nape. Run your fingers through it. Quality human hair glides smoothly without snagging Minimal shedding when combed. Excessive fallout from the first use is a red flag. The hair should have a natural sheen, not a plastic or overly glossy finish. A good bob holds its shape. The hem should be clean, even, and consistent across the entire length. Blunt cuts in particular should have sharp, defined edges with no uneven or frayed ends. For lace front bob wigs, the lace should be thin enough to blend into the skin without heavy makeup. Human hair bobs can be restyled with heat tools without immediate dryness or breakage. Premium Sourcing and Global Accessibility The introduction of shorter lengths into the Twinkles Beauty catalogue does not alter the sourcing approach that has defined the brand’s product standards. Bob wigs present a particular construction challenge in that density must be distributed carefully across a shorter length to avoid the thinning at the ends that poorly constructed short units often produce. Twinkles Beauty’s bob collection maintains the full density and cuticle integrity that the brand applies across its longer offerings, producing units that look and feel complete from root to tip. The brand’s cross-border shopping model extends fully to the new collection. Customers placing orders from London, Toronto, or New York move through the same checkout process, encounter the same transparent pricing structure, and access the same delivery standards as customers ordering from within Ghana or Nigeria. There are no additional fees introduced at the final stage of checkout, and delivery timelines are communicated clearly before a purchase is completed. The logistics infrastructure Twinkles Beauty has developed over years of international fulfilment means that a customer on either side of the world can order with the same level of confidence. Availability Access to well-made hair should not be complicated by geography, and the launch of the bob human hair wig collection proves Twinkles Beauty’s continued commitment to making that a reality for its global customer base. The full bob collection, including the bob short wigs, blunt cut bob wigs, and curly bob wigs, is available now through the official Twinkles Beauty online store at twinklesbeauty.co. Customers can browse the complete range, review available specifications, and place orders directly through the platform.
General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr Babatunde Ajayi has described young people as critical drivers of environmental change and effective advocacy. Speaking at the 2026 Inter-Tertiary Institutions Environmental Summit in Lagos, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said: “I’m a very strong believer in efficient advocacy. The best way to make change happen is through young people who are still able to change their minds.” The Summit was held to engage students in discussions on environmental sustainability and transboundary pollution. It brought together students from the University of Lagos and Lagos State University for debates and discussions on environmental issues. LASEPA General Manager described universities as the bedrock for nurturing future environmental advocates and sustainability champions. He said that the summit focused on transboundary pollution and its impact on air, land and water resources across communities and countries. According to him, pollution generated in one location can spread beyond borders and affect neighbouring regions. “If you have intense air pollution in Lagos, acid rain can be experienced in Benin Republic, Togo, Ghana and even Burkina Faso.” Dr. Babatunde Ajay made reference to the recent Ojodu pollution incident, and said that discussions on such occurrences would help prevent a recurrence. “We feel that bringing this situation again to the limelight and making it the subject of discussion is one way to make sure it doesn’t happen again.” This was even as the Director of Partnerships, Grants Management and Innovation at LASEPA, Mrs. Shonibare Olabisi, said that more than 300 entries were received from public and private tertiary institutions across the state. She said that 212 essays qualified after screening by lecturers from the University of Lagos, while 10 students were shortlisted for the preliminary debate stage. Olabisi quoted former South African President Nelson Mandela as saying: “It always seems impossible until it is done.” She praised the students for emerging among the top entries within three weeks of submissions. According to her, the preliminary stage will produce six finalists for the grand finale scheduled for June 9 at the LASEPA Auditorium. An environmental expert, Olayinka Omotosho, argued that issues such as oil spills and water pollution required collaboration between states and the Federal Government. According to him, many environmental challenges cut across jurisdictions and cannot be addressed through isolated state actions. The debate was centred on the topic: “Combating Transboundary Pollution in Lagos State: A City-Level Intervention or National Effort?” The shortlisted students defended opposing positions before a panel of judges and environmental experts. One group argued that stronger state-level environmental regulations offered the most effective response to transboundary pollution, while the other maintained that national-level interventions would yield better results. Speaking during the session, Olabisi said that effective pollution control within states would prevent environmental problems from spreading beyond their borders. At the end of the contest, six students qualified for the grand finale scheduled for June 9.
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The new UNEP report offers the following five areas to watch,
Vulnerable populations, particularly in developing nations, bear the greatest burden despite contributing the least to global greenhouse gas emissions.
The 
Why Goodluck Jonathan Should Resist the 2027 Temptation, By Abdulkarim Abdulmalik
It is a statement of fact that former Nigeria’s President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan remains one of the most recognizable political figures in Africa. Years after leaving office, he still commands goodwill across sections of Nigeria. His calm temperament, peaceful concession in 2015, and relatively moderate public image have earned him a level of respect uncommon in Nigeria’s bitter political environment.
That is precisely why he has to be very careful and reflect deeply as he is being pressured to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The call may sound desperate and interesting. It may also be flattering. Politicaians are already floating his name in television studios, newspaper columns, and elite gatherings. Some claim only Jonathan could stabilize Nigeria. Others present him as a compromise candidate capable of calming ethnic tensions and reducing political hostility. A few even romanticize his presidency as a “better era” compared to today’s widespread hardship and insecurity.
But politics is not built on nostalgia alone.
If Jonathan truly values his legacy, history, and personal dignity, he should politely walk away from the pressure to re-enter Nigeria’s dangerous presidential battlefield. Sometimes, the most honorable political decision is knowing when not to return.
*Respect is Distinct from Electoral Reality*
One of the biggest mistakes former leaders make is confusing public sympathy with electoral strength.
Many Nigerians may admire Jonathan today, but admiration does not automatically translate into votes. Political memory is selective. Those praising him now are not necessarily prepared to defend him during a brutal national campaign. Nigerian politics is unforgiving. The same voices encouraging him today may disappear the moment the attacks begin.
And the attacks will come.
The opposition will reopen old wounds: insecurity under his administration, corruption allegations against some of his allies, the Chibok girls tragedy, fuel subsidy controversies, power sector disappointments, and claims of weak leadership. Social media warriors will resurrect every old criticism buried over the last decade.
Nigeria’s current political climate is far more toxic than the one Jonathan left behind in 2015. Politics has become more vicious, more divisive, more tribalized, and more digitally weaponized.
Why should a man who left office with global respect voluntarily walk back into that storm?
*Jonathan Already Achieved What Many African Leaders Could Not*
History has already been kind to Jonathan.
In 2015, he became the first sitting Nigerian president to concede defeat peacefully. That singular act elevated his image internationally. While many African leaders manipulate constitutions, intimidate opponents, or cling desperately to power, Jonathan accepted electoral defeat and preserved democratic stability.
That decision alone secured his place in history.
Today, he is invited to global democracy forums, election observation missions, peacebuilding conferences, and diplomatic engagements across Africa and beyond. He enjoys something many former African presidents never attain: moral legitimacy.
A failed comeback attempt could damage that carefully built reputation.
History is filled with leaders who overstayed their political relevance and ended up diminishing their own legacies. A statesman can easily become just another desperate politician the moment he begins chasing power again.
Jonathan should avoid that trap.
*Nigeria’s Problem Transcends Recycling Old Leaders*
One uncomfortable truth Nigeria must confront is this: the country cannot continue recycling the same political class while expecting transformational change.
Nigeria is a young nation with millions of energetic and educated citizens. Yet leadership recruitment remains trapped within an aging elite circle where the same names rotate endlessly across decades.
Bringing Jonathan back into the race may temporarily excite sections of the political establishment, but it does little to deepen democratic renewal. Instead, it reinforces the damaging belief that Nigeria’s future can only be entrusted to former rulers.
A healthy democracy must constantly produce new leadership.
Jonathan himself once benefited from generational political transition. He should now encourage the emergence of fresh national figures rather than participate in another elite recycling arrangement.
*North-South Equation may Be Another Political Minefield*
Nigeria’s fragile political balance must also be considered carefully.
Whether people admit it openly or not, the issue of power rotation remains deeply sensitive. Any Jonathan candidacy would immediately reopen debates over zoning, regional entitlement, and political fairness.
The country is already polarized along ethnic and regional lines.
Another emotionally charged presidential contest involving a former president from the South-South could intensify national tensions.
Jonathan may personally desire national unity, but Nigerian politicians often weaponize identity for survival.
His entry into the race could trigger unnecessary political hostility at a time the country desperately needs healing.
*Burden of Crushing Citizenry Expectations*
There is also the danger of unrealistic expectations.
Many Nigerians currently romanticize Jonathan because they compare yesterday’s problems with today’s harsher realities. This is common in politics. Former leaders often appear better after their successors struggle.
But governing Nigeria in 2027 would be even harder than governing Nigeria in 2011.
The economy is under severe strain. Youth frustration is rising.
Insecurity has evolved into multiple complex threats. Public trust in institutions is weak.
Citizens are angrier, poorer, and more impatient than ever before.
Any president emerging in 2027 will inherit enormous pressures.
Jonathan may discover quickly that the goodwill surrounding him today is less about genuine confidence in his leadership capacity and more about public disappointment with the present situation.
That is a dangerous foundation for political ambition.
*Elder Statesmanship And Political Comeback*
Nigeria needs respected national voices outside active partisan combat.
Jonathan can play a far greater role as a mediator, democratic advocate, continental diplomat, and elder statesman than as another presidential aspirant battling for party tickets and political allies.
Former presidents carry moral authority when they remain above daily political warfare. Once they jump back into partisan struggles, that authority weakens.
Rather than contesting elections again, Jonathan should focus on strengthening democratic institutions, mentoring younger leaders, promoting electoral reforms, interfaith harmony, and supporting peace initiatives across Nigeria and Africa at large.
That path would preserve his dignity while expanding his historical relevance.
*The Danger of Political Manipulation*
Jonathan must also be careful not to become a tool in the hands of desperate political actors.
Some of those urging him to contest may not genuinely believe in him. Nigerian politics often thrives on tactical manipulation. Certain groups may simply want to use his name to destabilize rival camps, negotiate power deals, or create bargaining leverage within broader political calculations.
Once political interests change, such supporters can disappear overnight.
A former president should never allow himself to become an instrument in games designed by ambitious power brokers.
*Leaving Gracefully is also so Leadership*
One of the rarest qualities in politics is the wisdom to leave the stage gracefully.
Jonathan already has what many politicians spend their entire lives chasing: national recognition, international respect, historical significance, and relative peace of mind. Re-entering Nigeria’s brutal presidential contest risks unnecessary reputational damage.
Sometimes, political restraint speaks louder than political ambition.
For Jonathan, the wiser path may not be another campaign rally, another ballot paper or another presidential debate.
It may simply be preserving the dignity which history has already given him.
– Abdulkarim Abdulmalik is an Abuja-based Journalist and can be reached on: nowmalik@gmail.com