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Africa’s first integrated multi-currency blended finance vehicle for infrastructure equity

ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investments Limited (“ARM-Harith”), a leading pan-African private equity fund manager focused on sustainable energy and infrastructure investment, has announced the first close of its Successor Fund, a climate transition Fund (the “Fund”) at ~US$76 million equivalent.

The Fund is the first integrated multi-currency blended finance platform purpose-built for African institutional investors, denominated in both US dollars and local currency within a single structure for investment into infrastructure equity. Targeting US$200 million at final close, it is designed to unlock African institutional capital at scale and accelerate investment in energy transition and climate-resilient infrastructure across Sub-Saharan Africa.

This structural innovation directly addresses one of the most persistent barriers to African infrastructure investment: the mismatch between hard currency fund structures and the local currency revenues generated by the assets they finance. By integrating a more dynamic currency profile from the outset, the Fund mitigates currency risk at the project level and enables greater domestic institutional investors’ participation, particularly pension funds on terms aligned with their own balance sheets and regulatory frameworks, while international and other investors with access to hard currency retain US dollar exposure.

The first close is anchored by a combined US$20 million of catalytic capital from FSD Africa Investments (FSDAi) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) through its Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA). This capital is designed to de-risk participation by domestic pension funds and other institutional investors across the continent, supporting the broader ambition of scaling local capital mobilisation for African infrastructure.

The Fund will be deployed into essential infrastructure projects that deliver real-economy impact and resilient cashflows across climate-resilient assets in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Speaking on the milestone, Rachel More-Oshodi, Chief Executive Officer of ARM-Harith, said:

“This first close is both an achievement and an inflection point for ARM-Harith. With our first fund, we demonstrated that domestic institutional capital can be mobilised into infrastructure equity. With this successor fund, we are building on that foundation by bringing local and hard-currency capital together within a single platform — better aligning the structure of the capital with the realities of African infrastructure assets. This is a fundamental redesign: one that recognises local market realities, mobilises domestic savings, attracts international capital, and allocates risk more intelligently. The institutions that are backing us understand the significance of this shift. They are not only investing in a fund; they are helping to shape a more practical, scalable way to finance the infrastructure Africa needs.”

Joao Duarte Cunha, Manager of AfDB’s Renewable Energy Funds Division, stated, “The successful first close of the ARM-Harith Successor Fund marks a major milestone for renewable energy investment in sub-Saharan Africa. SEFA’s catalytic participation demonstrates the African Development Bank’s commitment to unlocking long-term institutional capital and shows how blended finance can mobilise private investment into sustainable infrastructure.”

On bridging the gap between pension capital and infrastructure equity, Anne-Marie Chidzero, Chief Investment Officer at FSDAi said: “The constraint has never been capital itself, but the absence of investment products structured to meet pension funds’ liability-matching needs, particularly around tenure, risk allocation, and currency alignment. Our investment structure was designed to bridge that gap — enabling pension funds to participate in infrastructure equity while remaining fully aligned with their investment objectives and obligations.”

Through its predecessor fund, ARM-Harith financed critical transport infrastructure and over 700 MW of installed power capacity, enabling approximately 22,500 jobs and avoiding an estimated 2.6 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. The Successor Fund will build on this momentum, targeting projects that deliver strong commercial performance with measurable climate and development impact, contributing to regional integration and sustainable development across the continent.

About ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investments Limited

ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investments Limited is a leading African infrastructure fund manager with over 80 years of combined investment experience across the continent. The firm specializes in equity investment across energy, transport and logistics, digital, waste and water infrastructure, with a strong focus on sustainability, operational excellence, and long-term value creation. ARM-Harith has been at the forefront of successful mobilization of domestic institutional capital, particularly Nigerian pension funds, into African infrastructure equity for over a decade, and its portfolio has included landmark transactions in power generation and transport.Website: https://armharith.com/For media enquiries and investor relations, please contact: ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment Limited [ir@armharith.com]

This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. The ARM-Harith Successor Fund remains strictly restricted to “Qualified Investors” as defined under the Rules and Regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigeria and the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Mauritius. Prospective investors must meet the suitability criteria established by the SEC or the FSC, and investment remains subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the Fund’s authorised transaction documents.

ARM-Harith achieves US$76 Million First Close for its Climate Transition Fund 

Wife of Niger State Governor, Hajiya Fatima Umaru Bago, has called on wives of local government chairmen, women leaders, traditional and religious institutions and other stakeholders to mobilise communities and ensure every woman and child benefits from maternal and child healthcare services across the state.

She made the call during the flag-off of the 2026 first round of the June/July Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Week (MNCHW) in Tafa, Tafa Local Government Area, held in collaboration with development partners and funded by the United States Government.

The governor’s wife also urged pregnant women and nursing mothers to regularly visit health facilities, noting that more women and children are increasingly accessing healthcare services across the state.

“Healthcare is a shared responsibility. Government cannot do it alone. We all have a role to play in ensuring that mothers and children receive the care they deserve,” Mrs Bago noted.

She urged residents to become advocates of primary healthcare in their communities to improve access to essential health services and ensure that no woman or child is left behind.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Bagana, said the health of women and children remains critical to the state’s development agenda.

“Our determination is to strengthen healthcare delivery, expand access to essential services and improve the quality of life of our people,” he stated.

Earlier, the Executive Director of the Niger State Primary Health Care Development Agency, NSPHCDA, Dr. Junaidu Inuwa, said the campaign was aimed at ensuring healthcare services reach communities across the state.

In separate goodwill messages, development partners, including the World Health Organization, WHO, and the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, described the initiative as a demonstration of Niger State’s commitment to improving maternal, newborn and child health outcomes through integrated health and nutrition services.

Speaking on behalf of development partners, Chief of UNICEF’s Kaduna Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birukila, represented by Grace Odeyemi, said sustained collaboration would help build a healthier and more resilient state.

“Together, we can build a healthier, stronger and more resilient Niger State where every mother survives and every child thrives,” she said

Niger First Lady mobilises stakeholders for maternal, child health campaign

The Deputy National Financial Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Oladimeji Fabiyi, has alleged that ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir Lawal, requested N5 billion from former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, to support his alleged governorship ambition in Adamawa State.

Fabiyi made the claim while speaking on the internal disagreements within the party on Symfoni TV, alleging that the dispute came from Atiku’s refusal to provide the requested funds.

He said, “When it was time for congresses Atiku equally made so many concessions and that concession almost caused Atiku his leadership in Adamawa because Adamawa ADC lost credible people that would have shored up the strength of the party because Atiku allowed what Babachir Lawal wanted in Adamawa.

“Babachir wanted to be governor of Adamawa state, Atiku had no objection.

“Atiku told him, ‘if you want to be (governor) no problem but follow the democratic process, go through the primaries and all that. Then he (Babachir Lawal) came back for N5 billion from Atiku to support his governorship ambition and Atiku stated he did not have. That’s what lead to all of these things.”

Babachir Lawal demanded N5bn from Atiku for Adamawa guber bid – ADC chieftain

The Federal Government has said that Nigeria is on the path to recovery, defending the current administration’s reforms despite prevailing hardship and security challenges

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said this at a national press conference on Tuesday to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration in Abuja.

Akume said said available economic indicators showed that the country’s fortunes were improving under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, the Tinubu administration remained committed to delivering on its promises as it approached the 2027 general elections, stressing that the government would seek a revalidation of our mandate from Nigerians.

He added that Nigeria’s economy has recorded steady growth, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding by 4.07 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2025 and 3.89 per cent in the first quarter of 2026.

“Nigeria is on the part to recovery. Government will never claim that every challenge has been solved. Inflation has been painful, though it is on a downward trend.

“Insecurity still threatens lives and livelihoods, but evidence shows that the country is moving in the right direction,” he said.

Nigeria on path to recovery – FG

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II Junction in Abuja, declaring that the era of abandoned public projects has ended.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the President said the completion of the strategic road project underscored his administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure capable of stimulating economic growth, easing transportation and improving the quality of life of Nigerians.

“We don’t start projects to abandon them. The era of uncompleted projects in Nigeria is fading away. We finish what we start, and even finish the ones we did not start,” Tinubu said at the inauguration ceremony.

Describing infrastructure as the backbone of economic development, the President said the newly completed road would unlock new opportunities for businesses and residents across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“What we are doing here today goes far beyond laying asphalt or mixing concrete. We are paving the way for a brighter future. Infrastructure is the very artery of economic growth. If you want to unlock the potential of a city, if you want to create jobs, if you want to make life easier for the market woman, the corporate worker and the industrialist, you build roads,” he stated.

Tinubu noted that his administration had steadily advanced the OSEX project, beginning with the commissioning of the first phase from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I Junction in 2024 and the inauguration of the 15-kilometre left-hand service carriageway in 2025.

According to him, the completion of the main carriageway from Ring Road I to Ring Road II represents another milestone in the ongoing transformation of Abuja.

The President also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for what he described as focused and result-oriented leadership.

“The structural transformation we are witnessing in the Federal Capital Territory is a testament to what happens when you have focus, vision and dynamic leadership. I want to commend the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and his entire team for their commitment and dogged determination in reshaping the FCT for long-term prosperity,” he said.

Addressing Wike directly, Tinubu added: “You have shown that public service is about performance, not excuses. You have kept the contractors on their toes and you have kept our vision alive. This is the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda delivering quality results for the Nigerian people on time.”

He said the road would reduce traffic congestion, lower transportation costs and expand Abuja’s economic footprint by improving connectivity between Apo and Wasa districts.

Earlier, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike attributed the successful completion of the project to the determination of the administration and the commitment of the contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, to deliver within the agreed timeline.

The minister disclosed that when the contract was awarded in late 2025, he had sought assurances from the contractor that the project could be completed in time for President Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

“I asked them a simple question: can you deliver this project? I told them I wanted it ready for Mr. President’s third anniversary. They said yes. I asked again because I was not comfortable considering the scope of the work, the dual carriageway, culverts and bridges. They assured me they would deliver, and today they have kept their promise,” Wike said.

He revealed that he personally inspected the project site more than ten times to monitor progress and ensure compliance with agreed timelines.

“This means that nothing is impossible if we are determined and committed to achieving results. With proper understanding between government and contractors, and with government fulfilling its obligations, we can achieve a lot,” he added.

Wike said the completion of the road was consistent with the Tinubu administration’s policy of ensuring continuity in governance and completing projects inherited from previous administrations.

“We did say every project we inherited, we are going to continue with it and finish it. That’s the essence of leadership. One of the criteria of good leadership is continuity of projects initiated by other administrations, not just projects initiated by you,” he said.

According to him, about 80 per cent of projects completed by the FCT Administration since 2023 were inherited from previous governments.

“Some people would have said there is no need for that, let us start our own projects. But Mr. President understands that these projects are funded with public resources and government is a continuum. We cannot abandon projects littered across the FCT,” he said.

The minister also disclosed that infrastructure had been fully provided at the relocation site for traders and artisans operating at the Apo Mechanic Village, fulfilling a longstanding government promise to move the informal sector to a more suitable environment.

Responding to critics who claimed little is being achieved, Wike pointed to ongoing and completed projects across Abuja’s satellite towns, including roads in Kwali, Karu and Kubwa, as well as water projects in rural communities.

“Sometimes it baffles me when people say nothing is happening in this country. Are we doing all these things in heaven or here on earth where people are living?” he asked.

He expressed confidence that residents of the FCT would ultimately appreciate the administration’s efforts and support President Tinubu for fulfilling promises made to them.

In her remarks, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the OSEX project as a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the nation’s capital.

She commended President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, noting that strategic investments in roads, bridges and other critical projects were translating government policies into tangible benefits for citizens.

Mahmoud also praised Wike’s leadership and commitment to delivering infrastructure that is reshaping Abuja and improving the quality of life of residents.

The newly commissioned road is expected to enhance mobility between key districts of the capital city, support urban expansion and strengthen Abuja’s transportation network as part of the broader modernisation agenda of the FCT Administration.

Tinubu commissions OSEX Main Carriageway, vows end to era of abandoned projects  

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway, OSEX, from Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II Junction in Abuja, declaring that the era of abandoned public projects has ended.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the President said the completion of the strategic road project underscored his administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure capable of stimulating economic growth, easing transportation and improving the quality of life of Nigerians.

“We don’t start projects to abandon them. The era of uncompleted projects in Nigeria is fading away. We finish what we start, and even finish the ones we did not start,” Tinubu said at the inauguration ceremony.

Describing infrastructure as the backbone of economic development, the President said the newly completed road would unlock new opportunities for businesses and residents across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

“What we are doing here today goes far beyond laying asphalt or mixing concrete. We are paving the way for a brighter future. Infrastructure is the very artery of economic growth. If you want to unlock the potential of a city, if you want to create jobs, if you want to make life easier for the market woman, the corporate worker and the industrialist, you build roads,” he stated.

Tinubu noted that his administration had steadily advanced the OSEX project, beginning with the commissioning of the first phase from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I Junction in 2024 and the inauguration of the 15-kilometre left-hand service carriageway in 2025.

According to him, the completion of the main carriageway from Ring Road I to Ring Road II represents another milestone in the ongoing transformation of Abuja.

The President also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for what he described as focused and result-oriented leadership.

“The structural transformation we are witnessing in the Federal Capital Territory is a testament to what happens when you have focus, vision and dynamic leadership. I want to commend the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and his entire team for their commitment and dogged determination in reshaping the FCT for long-term prosperity,” he said.

Addressing Wike directly, Tinubu added: “You have shown that public service is about performance, not excuses. You have kept the contractors on their toes and you have kept our vision alive. This is the spirit of the Renewed Hope Agenda delivering quality results for the Nigerian people on time.”

He said the road would reduce traffic congestion, lower transportation costs and expand Abuja’s economic footprint by improving connectivity between Apo and Wasa districts.

Earlier, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike attributed the successful completion of the project to the determination of the administration and the commitment of the contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, to deliver within the agreed timeline.

The minister disclosed that when the contract was awarded in late 2025, he had sought assurances from the contractor that the project could be completed in time for President Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

“I asked them a simple question: can you deliver this project? I told them I wanted it ready for Mr. President’s third anniversary. They said yes. I asked again because I was not comfortable considering the scope of the work, the dual carriageway, culverts and bridges. They assured me they would deliver, and today they have kept their promise,” Wike said.

He revealed that he personally inspected the project site more than ten times to monitor progress and ensure compliance with agreed timelines.

“This means that nothing is impossible if we are determined and committed to achieving results. With proper understanding between government and contractors, and with government fulfilling its obligations, we can achieve a lot,” he added.

Wike said the completion of the road was consistent with the Tinubu administration’s policy of ensuring continuity in governance and completing projects inherited from previous administrations.

“We did say every project we inherited, we are going to continue with it and finish it. That’s the essence of leadership. One of the criteria of good leadership is continuity of projects initiated by other administrations, not just projects initiated by you,” he said.

According to him, about 80 per cent of projects completed by the FCT Administration since 2023 were inherited from previous governments.

“Some people would have said there is no need for that, let us start our own projects. But Mr. President understands that these projects are funded with public resources and government is a continuum. We cannot abandon projects littered across the FCT,” he said.

The minister also disclosed that infrastructure had been fully provided at the relocation site for traders and artisans operating at the Apo Mechanic Village, fulfilling a longstanding government promise to move the informal sector to a more suitable environment.

Responding to critics who claimed little is being achieved, Wike pointed to ongoing and completed projects across Abuja’s satellite towns, including roads in Kwali, Karu and Kubwa, as well as water projects in rural communities.

“Sometimes it baffles me when people say nothing is happening in this country. Are we doing all these things in heaven or here on earth where people are living?” he asked.

He expressed confidence that residents of the FCT would ultimately appreciate the administration’s efforts and support President Tinubu for fulfilling promises made to them.

In her remarks, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the OSEX project as a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the nation’s capital.

She commended President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, noting that strategic investments in roads, bridges and other critical projects were translating government policies into tangible benefits for citizens.

Mahmoud also praised Wike’s leadership and commitment to delivering infrastructure that is reshaping Abuja and improving the quality of life of residents.

The newly commissioned road is expected to enhance mobility between key districts of the capital city, support urban expansion and strengthen Abuja’s transportation network as part of the broader modernisation agenda of the FCT Administration.

Era of abandoned projects over – Tinubu declares

The Federal Government has insisted that President Bola Tinubu is committed to building a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at a press conference as part of the activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day.

“This year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration. It offers an opportunity to take stock of our progress as a nation, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and reaffirm our collective commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria,” he said.

Idris posited that Democracy Day remains a significant occasion for reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, celebrating the resilience of democratic institutions, and honouring the sacrifices of patriots who fought to entrench democratic governance in the country.  

“Democracy Day occupies a unique place in our national calendar. It provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our democratic journey, celebrate the resilience of our institutions, and honour the sacrifices of patriots who stood firm in the struggle for democratic governance,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale, MKO, Abiola and other heroes of democracy whose sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today. He also acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and numerous pro-democracy activists who played pivotal roles in the struggle to restore and consolidate democratic governance in Nigeria.

He described Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule as a remarkable national achievement and a testament to the resilience, determination and democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people.

“Twenty-seven years of uninterrupted democratic governance is a milestone worthy of celebration. It is a testament to the determination of Nigerians to uphold democratic values, strengthen national institutions, and continuously strive for a more prosperous and united nation,” he stated.

The minister noted that this year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration, providing an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the nation’s progress, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and renew their collective commitment to national development.

According to Idris, the administration remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting national unity, expanding economic opportunities, and delivering sustainable development for all Nigerians through the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He stated that the press conference was organised to provide Nigerians and the international community with an overview of the administration’s journey over the past three years, highlighting key milestones, challenges encountered, and the vision guiding government policies and programmes.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, George Akume, and Chairman of the Interministerial Committee for Democracy Day 2026, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, described Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance as a major national achievement and a testament to the resilience of the Nigerian people and democratic institutions.

Akume stated that President Tinubu’s administration has remained focused on delivering tangible benefits to Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that reforms in key sectors of the economy are already yielding measurable results.

“The policy decisions of this administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange reforms, were difficult but necessary. They have created fiscal space for critical investments in infrastructure, social interventions, education, healthcare, and economic development. As revenues improve and the economy stabilises, Nigerians will increasingly experience the benefits of these reforms,” the SGF said.

Democracy Day: Tinubu building stronger, more inclusive Nigeria – FG

The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has refuted what described as a misleading video that is circulating on social media, which it said inaccurately depicts the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General OO Oluyede.

In a statement released by Major General Samalia Uba, Director of Defence Information, on 9 June 2026, the DHQ characterized the video as fabricated, deceptive, and completely unrelated to any official communication, statement, or engagement involving either of the senior military officials.

The military high command stated that the content was intentionally created to mislead the public and create confusion regarding the activities and leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The Defence Headquarters urged the public to completely disregard the video, emphasizing that it did not originate from any official military source or authorized communication channel.

“Initial evaluations conducted by the military suggest that the video shows clear indications of digital manipulation and was likely produced using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to create a false narrative,” the statement said.

The DHQ expressed concern about the increasing misuse of emerging digital technologies and social media platforms to fabricate content involving senior military officials, cautioning that such actions could undermine public trust and pose a threat to national security.

The military also warned social media influencers, bloggers, content creators, and online commentators against sharing, reposting, or amplifying unverified military-related information for the sake of online engagement and visibility.

Reiterating its commitment to national security, the Armed Forces of Nigeria urged media practitioners and the public to verify information through official Defence Headquarters channels, while assuring Nigerians of its ongoing dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, peace, and security.

Defence Headquarters debunks viral video, warns against misinformation

A commercial bus driver lost his life on Tuesday following a fatal multiple-vehicle accident at Cele inward Oshodi area of Lagos.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment of the agency, Adebayo Taofiq.

According to the statement, the crash involved a commercial mini bus popularly known as “Korokpe” and a Toyota Tundra pickup truck with registration number EPE 554 YC.

Initial findings by security operatives at the scene showed that the driver of the commercial bus suffered severe injuries from the impact of the collision and died instantly.

LASTMA officials who were on routine traffic monitoring along the corridor were said to have quickly moved to the scene to coordinate emergency response efforts, control traffic movement and prevent further obstruction on the busy route.

The agency explained that its officers worked together with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force from the Cele-Ijesha Division to recover the remains of the deceased driver.

The body was later released to members of his family within the area.

The statement added that the damaged vehicles involved in the accident were promptly evacuated from the road by LASTMA officials to restore normal traffic flow and ensure public safety.

The vehicles were later handed over to the police for detailed investigation to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the accident as well as possible legal responsibilities.

“The vehicles were thereafter handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for exhaustive investigation into both the immediate and remote causes of the crash, with a view to determining liability and facilitating any necessary legal proceedings,” the statement said.  

Despite the disruption caused by the crash, traffic movement was restored along the corridor following swift intervention and traffic management measures put in place by LASTMA personnel.

Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of  LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, sympathised with the family of the deceased and urged motorists, especially commercial drivers, to always drive responsibly and obey traffic regulations.

Commercial bus driver dies in Lagos auto crash

Health stakeholders and experts have raised concerns over the deployment and consumption of Genetically Modified Organism, GMO, foods in Nigeria, alleging that they could contribute to the spread of cancer and other terminal illnesses in Africa’s most populous country.

The concerns were expressed on Tuesday during a one-day media training on biosafety and agroecology in Nigeria attended by journalists, including DAILY POST.

The training focused on Nigeria’s food future, biosafety regulations, and the perceived negative impacts of GMO crops on health, biodiversity, and food security.

Recall that in March 2026, the National Committee on Naming, Registration, and Release of Crop Varieties, Livestock Breeds, and Fisheries approved and registered four new transgenic cotton varieties without requisite clearance from the National Biosafety Management Agency, NBMA.

The development came amid growing national debate over the deployment of GMO crops in Nigeria. The House of Representatives had also conducted an investigative hearing on the introduction of GMOs into the country’s agricultural system.

DAILY POST reports that the adoption of GMO crops has continued to generate mixed reactions among scientists, policymakers, farmers, and civil society groups.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ifeanyi Casmir, a health expert, cautioned Nigerians against embracing GMO foods, warning that the country’s major staple crops could become controlled by proprietary interests.

“Now, the worry we have is the quest to take our staple foods, cassava, maize, beans, and cowpea, which Nigeria is one of the leading producers of globally, and to now modify them and make them proprietary. And our farmers, smallholder farmers, which globally is being agreed upon by the FAO and other agencies, are the feeders—those who produce the food that feeds the world.

“Over 80 percent of GMO crops in Nigeria and in other parts of Africa and the world depend on the use of herbicides and pesticides.

“Are you aware that 7 out of every 13 herbicides used currently in our country, including with the ban on it, have been known to cause cancer and are considered highly hazardous pesticides?” he said.

Also speaking, Programme Director at Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Nnimmo Bassey, said concerns over biodiversity loss and food security continue to drive opposition to GMO crops.

“So key issues, key reasons why we are still on this campaign, are the fact that GMOs can contaminate Nigeria’s genetic resources and can bring about loss of biodiversity, which will then critically impact Nigeria’s food security, right?

“And we’ve had the Cotton Farmers Association of Nigeria come out to say that the GMOs do not have a substantial or significant advantage over the conventional varieties. But at the same time, these GMOs are causing soil degradation, right? So after planting the crops, farmers have reported that the soils are no longer supporting the local varieties. So this is a situation that we don’t want to become mainstream in Nigeria,” Bassey stated.

Similarly, the executive director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), Akinbode Oluwafemi, urged the federal government to exercise caution in its approach to GMO adoption.

“There are global concerns over the health implications of GMOs. And so many countries have taken precautionary principles against GMOs.

“We don’t want the Nigerian government to open again our food system to an unproven science. There is an attempt to takeover our food environment by big corporations outside our chores,” he said.

According to available data, cancer cases have continued to rise in Nigeria, with about 128,000 new cases reported annually.

The stakeholders collectively urged the Nigerian government to urgently review its GMOs policy and stronger support for biodiversity, agroecology, and indigenous seed systems as better alternatives to GMOs.

GMO foods spread cancer, other diseases in Nigeria – Stakeholders send message FG