The Oilwatch International, a civil society group, is urging the Nigerian government to take meaningful steps to combat climate change, particularly in the Niger Delta. During their Annual General Meeting in Port Harcourt on November 1, 2025, coordinator Kentebe Ebiaridor highlighted that years of oil exploration have led to severe environmental damage and health issues for local citizens.
Ebiaridor emphasized the need for a shift to renewable energy sources. He pointed out that enforcing strict emission controls in the oil and gas sectors could significantly reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, he suggested adopting energy-efficient technologies across buildings, industries, and transportation to help lower energy consumption.
To make communities more resilient, Ebiaridor called for comprehensive climate adaptation plans. These plans would help people cope with challenges such as rising sea levels, droughts, and floods. He also noted the importance of assisting vulnerable communities with climate-resilient infrastructure and agriculture initiatives.
Expressing concern over environmental neglect, Ebiaridor urged the government and oil companies to end gas flaring and to utilize gas as a raw material. The lack of transparency in the oil and gas sector was also a point of frustration for him.
Dr. Emem Okon, another prominent voice in this discussion, advocated for targeted climate finance aimed at supporting rural women, who often bear the brunt of climate impacts like flooding. As the Executive Director of Kebetkatche Women Development and Resource Centre, Okon highlighted the proactive measures women in the Niger Delta are taking to tackle climate change.
She stressed that providing vocational skills and startup funds would help women face climate-related disasters. Her call for “implementable strategies for climate justice” underscores the urgent need for sustainable development in the region.
Ken Henshaw, Executive Director of We the People, highlighted the legal side of environmental protection. He raised concerns that oil companies often abandon areas after operations, neglecting their duty to restore the environment. Henshaw criticized these companies for manipulating public perception and called for reforms in the Petroleum Industry Act to ensure fairness to local communities affected by oil spills.
He also proposed creating a global court to address environmental crimes, known as “ecocide,” ensuring that companies take responsibility for damage caused by their activities.
The collective messages from these advocates create a clear picture: urgent action is needed to protect both the environment and the people affected by climate change in the Niger Delta. As Ebiaridor and others assert, accountability is crucial to ensure a sustainable future for all.
For more information on climate change impacts and statistics in Nigeria, you can refer to reputable sources like the World Bank or the Nigerian Meteorological Agency.
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climate change,Niger Delta,Oilwatch International,Sustainable solution
