Latest news with #Yenagoa
CTV News
2 days ago
- Health
- CTV News
Health advocates urge Carney not to delay pledge for UN Global Fund fighting AIDS, TB
A health worker administers the malaria vaccine R21/Matrix-M to a child at the comprehensive Health Centre in Agudama-Epie, in Yenagoa, Nigeria, Monday, Dec. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba) OTTAWA — AIDS activists are urging the federal government to quickly renew Canada's support for fighting infectious diseases abroad, warning delays will further hinder global efforts to combat key illnesses. 'While some of the other nations around the world are retreating right now from investing in global health, Canada can and should be stepping forward swiftly, to save lives,' said Justin McAuley, a director with the Canadian branch of the ONE Campaign. His group is among 24 Canadian civil society organizations that asked the government to allocate $1.37 billion over three years for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. The fund is affiliated with the United Nations, and it supports developing countries in limiting and treating the three preventable illnesses, which in many regions are among the leading causes of death. Canada is one of the world's top supporters of the fund, which makes up the largest chunk of Ottawa's global health spending. Canada has contributed nearly $5 billion to the Global Fund since 2002, and the fund estimates it has saved 65 million lives in that time. Countries replenish the fund every three years, with their contributions usually rising over time as health-care systems build more capacity to treat and prevent these diseases. In each cycle, civil society groups issue what they call a fair-share metric to reflect how much each wealthy country can reasonably pledge to help the fund reach its goals. The office of Randeep Sarai, secretary of state for international development, referred questions about the $1.37 billion request to Global Affairs Canada. 'Canada looks forward to working together as part of the Global Fund partnership to secure a successful eighth replenishment of the fund this year,' the department wrote in a statement. 'Discussions regarding Canada's pledge are ongoing.' McAuley said he hopes Ottawa announces its pledge soon, to build momentum for other countries to follow suit. 'Canada has a unique role and legacy to play in the global health space,' he said. 'Our momentum will mean something on the world stage — if we come out early, and don't wait for the last minute.' Results Canada, another group asking Ottawa to meet the civil society target, noted the G7 summit that Canada hosted in Alberta 'focused on trade, conflict and climate — but overlooked two of the most powerful tools for global stability: health and education.' That has put the legacy of the Global Fund 'under threat,' the group argued in an email campaign. 'As countries cut international assistance, decades of hard-won gains hang in the balance.' UNAIDS reported on July 10 that HIV infections and deaths continue to drop, but sudden cuts by the United States and others 'threaten to reverse years of progress in the response to HIV.' U.S. Republicans recently reversed plans to cut PEPFAR, the world's largest HIV program, but Washington is still on track to slash its contribution to the Global Fund. Countries normally make pledges at an organized conference, such as the last cycle when prime minister Justin Trudeau visited the United Nations in New York in 2022. This year, there is no pledging conference, though McAuley expects leaders of large economies to make pledges before visiting South Africa for the G20 summit in November. He said global health is already under pressure from armed conflicts, climate-related events and the ongoing recovery of health systems from cutbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rich countries are cutting back on foreign aid as they increase military spending. Prime Minister Mark Carney promised in last spring's election to not cut foreign aid spending or development financing, though this was before he launched a review of government spending and committed to large amounts of military-related spending. McAuley said Carney ought to meet the metric outlined by civil society, or he'll be offside with his two last predecessors. 'Both Harper and Trudeau repeatedly stepped up and did Canada's fair share,' he said. 'Is Carney going to break that pattern now and step back?' This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2025. Dylan Robertson, The Canadian Press
Zawya
23-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Shell tasks Nigerian companies on offshore oil and gas projects
Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo) has urged the Nigerian companies to take advantage of more opportunities in its offshore and shallow water oil and gas projects for their benefits Speaking at the 5th Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, SNEPCo Managing Director, Ronald Adams, said projects such as Bonga Southwest Aparo, Bonga North and Bonga Main Life extension could grow Nigerian businesses and improve their expertise if they applied themselves seriously to executing higher value contracts. 'SNEPCo pioneered Nigeria's deepwater frontier with the Bonga development as the first deepwater oilfield exploration and production venture in the country,' Ron said in remarks which were delivered by Head Supply Chain, Charles Oranyeli. 'Our operations have greatly benefitted Nigerian businesses, and we expect them to get ready to take up more opportunities, ' he said. Adams said Nigerian companies could upscale their skills and continue to offer services in logistics, drilling, fabrication and construction of subsea manifolds, mooring and loading systems, pressure vessels and provision of gas processing equipment in deep-water, as well as procurement and civil works in shallow water. Since starting production at Bonga in 2005, SNEPCo has been supporting Nigerian contractors and service providers to grow their capacity through the development of systems and a competent workforce with the aim to deliver projects safely, on time and within budget not only in Nigeria but also in the West Arican subregion. The efforts have enabled Nigerian companies to play prominent roles in the safe and efficient operations of the Bonga Floating, Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel which produced the 1-billionth barrel of oil from the field on February 3, 2023. Adams added: 'SNEPCo sees Nigerian content development as a business driver and not a regulatory requirement and will continue to support our companies to lay even bigger roles in their support for oil and gas operations.' The three-day NOGOF is being hosted by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) with the theme: 'Driving Investment and Production Growth: Shaping a Sustainable Future for Nigeria's Oil and Gas Industry Through Indigenous Capacity Development.' SNEPCo is among the sponsors of the event, and is hosting an exhibition, highlighting its contributions to the development of the Nigerian economy and communities.
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ngeria: FG to oil firms, ramp up production to meet OPEC quota
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Gas, Ekperenkpo Ekpo, has called on oil and gas stakeholders to collaborate to meet the quota approved by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Ekpo gave the appeal on Wednesday during the ongoing 2025 Nigeria Oil and Gas Opportunities Fair (NOGOF) in Yenagoa. The minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Emeka Obi, noted that the oil output of 1.4 million barrels per day as of the first quarter of 2025 fell short of the 1.8 million barrels quota approved by OPEC. He pointed out that with the nation's oil reserve and a commitment by industry players, there is an opportunity to meet the quota. The theme of this year's event is: 'Driving Investment and Production Growth: Shaping a sustainable Oil and Gas Industry through Indigenous Capacity Development'. The minister commended the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) for the fair showcasing opportunities for Nigerian companies. He said that the growth of Nigerian content from five per cent in 2010 and 56 per cent in 2024 was a laudable achievement. Some 1,000 companies are participating in the fair, where major oil producers showcase opportunities and projects. Commission Chief Executive, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, in he s keynote address, pointed out that driving investment and production growth in Nigeria's oil and gas industry required a multifaceted approach. According to him, it would demand creating a favourable investment climate, developing indigenous capacity, and ensuring sustainability through environmental stewardship. 'By working together, we can shape a future where the oil and gas sector continues to be a pillar of our economy, contributing to national development and improving the quality of life for all Nigerians,' he said. Komolafe, who was represented by the Commission's Executive Commissioner, Health, Safety, Environment and Community, said that Nigeria's oil and gas industry has long been the mainstay of our economy, contributing significantly to the nation's foreign exchange earnings, providing substantial revenue for the nation's development. 'It is crucial to acknowledge the sector's role in our economic history while recognising the urgent need to adapt and transform it to meet future challenges and opportunities,' he said To achieve sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector, he pointed out that robust upstream investments are essential. According to him, attracting both local and foreign investment required concerted efforts to create an enabling environment characterised by stability, transparency, and regulatory certainty. He pointed out that investors must have confidence in the industry's legal and fiscal frameworks, confident that their investments are secured and will deliver profitable returns. 'Production growth, on the other hand, hinges on optimising our existing resources and exploring new frontiers. 'This involves adopting cutting-edge technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs. It also means investing in infrastructure development to support exploration, development and production activities,' he said By doing so, he said the nation can maximise its production capacity and ensure a steady crude oil and gas supply to meet both domestic and international demand. He reeled out the NUPRC's mission in promoting sustainable value creation from Nigeria's Petroleum Resources for shared prosperity, urging stakeholders not to lose sight of the need for sustainability and environmental stewardship as they focus on investment and production growth. 'The oil and gas industry has a significant environmental footprint, and it is our responsibility to mitigate its impact. This involves adopting cleaner technologies, reducing emissions, and ensuring responsible resource management. 'The NUPRC is positioned and has developed various initiatives that align with the national goals and the Petroleum Industry Act 2021. We recognise the connectivity between climate change and energy security, particularly within the context of upstream petroleum operations. 'We are committed to fostering a sustainable and resilient industry that minimises its environmental impact on our host communities, while optimising our hydrocarbon development for our collective benefit,' Komolafe said. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
16-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Nigeria: Bayelsa, BECL pledges timely installation of new 60 megawatts turbine
The Management of the Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited (BECL) has said it is intensifying efforts in the installation of the newly acquired 60 megawatt gas-powered plant to ensure unimpeded and reliable electricity supply in the State. Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, Managing Director of the firm, gave the assurance on Thursday while touring the ongoing works at the project site of the turbines in Elebele, Ogbia Local Government Area of the state. Represented by the Director of Operations of the company, Engr. Steve Bubagha jnr, Kemenana, reiterated the firm's resolve to deliver the project according to specifications and within timelines. He noted that the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, can be likened to the term light as he is working round the clock to ensure the project is delivered by December 2025 to light up Yenagoa and its environs. 'You can see for yourselves from the tour around the gas turbines today. Already, work on this site has reached advanced stages. These buildings, you see, people working on here are part of the gas-fired turbine power project. 'As we speak, we've started installing new poles and towers that will enable us to distribute power from the gas turbines to Bayelsans as promised by the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri. 'And so with the level of work already done, we are very optimistic that going by the governor's promise, that we are going to complete installation of the new 60 Megawatts gas turbines and supply electricity to Bayelsans by the end of this year.' Kemenanabo, who also bared his mind on the State of the relationship between the host community of the project, Elebele, and the Bayelsa BECL stressed that the firm and community enjoy a cordial working relationship, and have continued to synergize with the firm for the timely completion of the project without any form of impediment. 'Elebele, the host community of the project has been very cooperative. Infact Elebele describes itself as Bayelsa's most peaceful community. And so, we have been enjoying a cordial relationship with the people and leadership of the community', the BECL boss said Also speaking, the Technical Adviser to the State Governor on Media (Print) and Public Affairs, Mr Wisdom Ikuli, described Governor Diri's infrastructural project as semblance to those executed in the old Rivers State by the late Chief Melford Okilo. He noted that upon the completion of the project, the state would be better for it, as businesses will relocate from other parts of the country to the State, noting that the governor's giant strides are not limited to electricity alone, but in all facets of his 'ASSURED Prosperity' administration. It would be recalled that following last year's vandalisation of the PHED transmission lines supplying power to Bayelsa at the Ahoada-West Local Government Area axis of Rivers State and parts of Bayelsa State, the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, promised to purchase and install a new 60 megawatt gas-powered turbine to power the state. Copyright © 2022 Nigerian Tribune Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
16-05-2025
- General
- Zawya
Nigeria's Trans Niger oil pipeline bursts, spills crude, rights group says
YENAGOA, Nigeria: Nigeria's Trans Niger Pipeline, a major oil artery transporting crude from onshore oilfields to the Bonny export terminal, burst and spilled oil into the local B-Dere community in Ogoniland, an environmental rights group said on Thursday. This is the second incident affecting the Trans Niger Pipeline in two months. In March, the pipeline was shut after a blast that caused a fire. Nnimmo Bassey, executive director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation, said the spill, which occurred on May 6, was yet to be stopped, adding that the slow response showed a lack of care for the people and was "unconscionable." "We are in a disaster zone and further disasters can erupt from even an accidental spark of fire," he said. "The fact that this spill that happened a week ago is yet to be stopped sends a very strong point to why the government should focus on cleaning up Ogoniland and not seek to open new oil wells. The old wells should be shut down, and decommissioned." Ogoniland, one of Africa's earliest crude oil producing areas, has been dealing with oil pollution for decades, but its profits have often flowed to the big oil companies and to Nigerian state coffers. Local residents have long complained of toxic waste and little compensation. Nigerian oil consortium Renaissance Group, which now owns Shell's former onshore subsidiary that operates the pipeline, confirmed the explosion and said a team of investigators has been dispatched to determine the cause of the spill. The Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP), with a capacity of around 450,000 barrels per day, is one of two conduits that export Bonny Light crude from Nigeria, Africa's biggest oil producer. It was not immediately clear whether the TNP was shut. TNP did not immediately provide a statement when asked for comment. A prolonged outage could, however, force its operators to declare force majeure on Bonny Light exports. Pipeline sabotage and crude theft are some of the major reasons that forced oil majors like Shell, Exxon Mobil, Total and Eni to sell their onshore and shallow-water fields in Nigeria to concentrate on deep-water operations. Renaissance Group, which includes Nigerian exploration and production companies Aradel Energy, First E & P, Waltersmith, and ND Western, along with the international energy group Petroline, completed the acquisition of Shell's former onshore assets in March. (Writing by Chijioke Ohuocha; Editing by Aurora Ellis)
