The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for hydrocarbon investments to address energy poverty, emphasizing that Africa is not a net contributor to global emissions.

The Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Energy, Olu Verheijen, made this statement on Tuesday in Houston Texas, United States during a session at CERAWeek by S&P Global, themed “Policy and People: Pathways to a Just Transition.”

The session, chaired by Vera Blei, Head of Market Report & Trading Solutions at S&P Global, featured key speakers including Scott Tinker, CEO of Tinker Energy Association, and Sunita Narain, Director-General of the Centre for Science and Environment.

Africa’s Role in Global Emissions
Nigeria, along with other African and middle-income countries, continues to advocate for a just energy transition amid the global push for net-zero emissions. Under its “Decade of Gas” initiative, the Nigerian government has adopted natural gas as a transition fuel to support economic growth while reducing carbon emissions.

Verheijen highlighted that Africa and other low-income countries contribute only about 3–4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, in contrast to China and the United States, which account for approximately 30% and 13% of global CO₂ emissions, respectively.
Together, both countries are responsible for nearly 40% of global emissions.

Creating an Attractive Investment Environment, Verheijen emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a stable investment climate and addressing climate-related risks through clear and transparent policies.

“In Nigeria, we are ensuring that we create an enabling environment for investments. On climate change, we recognize the importance of risk perception in our markets and are committed to transparent policies that stand the test of time, enabling the deployment of capital,” she stated.

She also underscored the need for greater regional integration to attract capital and enhance market efficiency.

“We need to strengthen economic integration across African nations to create a larger, more attractive market for investment. By pooling resources, integrating markets, and leveraging collaboration across the continent and regional blocs, we can drive sustainable development,” she added.

Data-Driven Policy for Sustainable Growth
Verheijen stressed the importance of better data collection and analysis in Africa to support informed decision-making and policy development.

“Even if Africa experiences exponential economic growth and reaches middle-income status, the continent will still not be a major contributor to global emissions. The bulk of emission reductions will have to come from developed nations, which must diversify their energy sources and invest heavily in carbon removal and reduction technologies,” she explained.

She further noted that a balanced approach is necessary to ensure that developing economies can utilize their natural resources to drive prosperity, while also adopting climate solutions that enhance adaptability and sustainability.

Through strategic investments and policy reforms, Nigeria and the broader African continent aim to bridge energy poverty, attract investment, and contribute to a more sustainable global energy transition.

Employees of Kano State Investment and Properties (KSIP) have raised concerns over the non-implementation of the newly approved N71,000 minimum wage in their salaries.

The Kano State Executive Council, led by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, approved the wage increase, scheduled to take effect from November 2024. However, KSIP workers are yet to receive the revised salary, despite the growing economic pressures caused by inflation.

*Allegations Against the Managing Director*

Reports indicate that KSIP’s Managing Director, Auwalu Muktari Bichi, has already adjusted his own salary in line with the state government’s new policy, while the same adjustment has not been extended to other employees.

A source within KSIP questioned the Managing Director’s decision, stating:
“How can he claim the budget has not been approved, yet he increased his own salary? This is unfair to the workforce.”

Employees argue that, as a corporate entity operating a five-day workweek with professional standards, they are entitled to the salary increment approved by the governor.

*Calls for Investigation Amid Staff Complaints*

Discontent among KSIP employees has fueled calls for a thorough investigation into the administration of Auwalu Muktari Bichi. Allegations against him include frequent threats of dismissal against staff over minor issues not classified as violations under the company’s Conditions of Service.

There are also claims that he has involved family members in the company’s operations, a situation reportedly well-known within KSIP. The Kanawa Taxi Association controversy, already under investigation by the state’s anti-graft agency, has been cited as another instance of alleged misconduct.

One concerned staff member urged the authorities to intervene, stating:
“The state anti-graft agency and the supervising ministry must investigate these claims to prevent abuse of power. Ignoring these issues could undermine public trust in the administration.”

*Government’s Stance on the Minimum Wage*

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had previously received a report from the State Minimum Wage Committee, which was tasked with reviewing and recommending salary adjustments. However, no official update has been provided on the implementation process.

A similar delay was previously experienced by workers at the Kano State Water Board, who also faced uncertainties regarding their wage increase.

*Managing Director Responds to Allegations*

Speaking to some Journalists, KSIP Managing Director Auwalu Muktari Bichi confirmed that he had adjusted his own salary in compliance with state government policy.

Justifying his decision, he stated:
“Political appointees have a different status from regular staff. I directed the Finance and Accounts Department to implement my adjustment accordingly.”

Despite his explanation, KSIP employees are urging the state government to intervene and ensure that all staff members benefit from the approved wage policy, as stipulated by the Kano State Executive Council.

Kano State Commissioner of to Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with online media organizations in the state.

This assurance was given during a stakeholders’ meeting with the Association of Online Media Organizations, as part of the ongoing engagements with key players in the information sector.

Comrade Waiya emphasized the critical role of online media in modern information dissemination, noting that digital platforms deliver news in real-time, ensuring immediate updates on breaking events that reach a global audience.

He stated that the government recognizes the importance of the online media sector and will collaborate with them to effectively communicate its policies and programmes.

“As key stakeholders in the information ecosystem, your role is invaluable. The government will ensure that you are actively involved in its activities, including capacity-building initiatives and training programmes to enhance professionalism in the field,” the Commissioner said.

While acknowledging the importance of freedom of expression, Waiya urged online media practitioners to uphold ethical journalism by respecting individual rights and promoting professionalism.

He also encouraged unity among members of the Association to strengthen their impact on public information dissemination.

In a statement signed by
Sani Abba Yola
Director, Special Duties Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal AffairsIn their separate remarks, members of the Association of Online Media Organizations commended the Commissioner for recognizing their contributions to public enlightenment. They, however, appealed for government support, particularly in securing retainership arrangements to improve their financial sustainability and providing regular training for new and existing members.