Stakeholders in the environmental sector have called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to end gas flaring and address other activities contributing to environmental degradation across the country.
The call was made by the Coordinator of the Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN), Nigeria Chapter, Mr Friday Nbani, during the network’s chapter meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The meeting, themed, “Building Collective Power for a Just Transition in Nigeria,” brought together stakeholders to discuss environmental protection and the need for an inclusive transition to cleaner energy.
Nbani expressed concern that activities such as gas flaring and coal mining continued to worsen environmental conditions, while communities bearing the consequences received inadequate attention.
He said the meeting would provide an opportunity for participants to develop recommendations for the government and relevant agencies on environmental protection, improved sanitation and the safety of residents in affected communities.
He also called for a clear roadmap to end gas flaring, insisting that environmental policies should prioritise the welfare of people over financial interests.
“We want a strategy where everybody can work in an environment that looks decent,” he said.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation, Dr Michael David, said Africa contributes a relatively small proportion of global emissions but remains among the regions most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
David lamented the environmental impact of oil exploration in communities, particularly in the Niger Delta, alleging that some oil companies leave behind pollution that continues to affect residents.
He further warned that sustained investment in fossil fuels could pose challenges as countries increasingly embrace cleaner energy alternatives.
The environmental advocate urged Nigerians to demand clear commitments from political candidates on climate change, food security and affordable energy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The campaign should not just be about region and tribe and religion, but it should also be about what they can do to end food insecurity and energy poverty,” he said.
In her remarks, the Co-lead of the Africa Just Transition Network, Nigeria Chapter, Dr Amani Stella, advocated a gradual and inclusive shift towards cleaner energy.
She stressed the importance of involving women and local communities in decisions concerning the country’s energy transition, noting that government policies must guarantee affordable energy while protecting vulnerable populations.
“Whatever they are doing, the community members need to be carried along. It has to be a process, a gradual transition,” she said.
The meeting underscored the need for collective action and collaboration among stakeholders to address environmental challenges and safeguard the livelihoods of communities affected by pollution and climate change.
