Civil Society Mobilizes Against Nigeria’s Climate BOGA Entry: Latest Insights from EnviroNews on Environmental Impact, Climate Change, and Renewable Energy

The second day of ACS2 featured lively discussions led by various groups, including governments and civil organizations. Notably, Nigeria, Kenya, the European Union, and the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance (BOGA) hosted sessions focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Two key events were titled “African Leadership on an Orderly, Just and Equitable Transition Away from Oil and Gas” and “Partnerships for an Orderly, Just and Equitable Transition Away from Oil and Gas.” They aimed to display leadership and strategies for moving away from oil and gas dependency.

During these discussions, Nigeria and Kenya shared their plans. The EU and BOGA introduced support strategies for governments undergoing this energy shift. However, Nigeria’s approach raised eyebrows.

A surprising announcement came from Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of Nigeria’s National Council for Climate Change (NCCC). Nigeria has joined the BOGA Fund, even as it plans to restart oil exploration in Ogoniland, a region previously harmed by pollution from fossil fuel extraction. This contradiction caught the attention of many, especially civil society groups.

BOGA’s goal is to phase out oil and gas, but Nigeria supports a “phase-down” model, meaning they intend to keep fossil fuel operations going. At COP28, Nigerian officials made it clear that a full phase-out isn’t in their plans, complicating their involvement with BOGA. This left many questioning whether Nigeria is serious about transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation, pointed out that language matters. Using terms like “orderly” can sometimes hide agendas that delay action. For vulnerable communities, such phrases can be harmful. He stressed that real change requires urgency, especially for those already facing climate challenges.

The discussions at ACS2 reveal a broader trend: global energy debates where fossil fuel interests often shape discussions to their advantage. Justice for affected communities cannot be postponed. The climate crisis demands immediate, clear, and effective measures, free from vague language.

In a world facing increasing climate emergencies, clarity in communication and policy becomes essential. As civil society pushes for genuine transitions, their voices become even more critical. In the end, blending fossil fuel interests with the need for justice risks leaving marginalized communities in even greater peril.



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Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance (BOGA),civil society organisations (CSOs),climate change,Nigeria,Omotenioye Majekodunmi