Written by Magdalene Ime Idiang Nigeria’s positioning in the global energy crisis is both crucial and precarious. The country has one of the highest energy poverty rates on the continent with 6 out of every 10 Nigerians without access to any form of electricity while simultaneously experiencing some of the worst impacts of the climate crisis[1]. This has created a triple crisis in food, energy, and climate, posing significant challenges for adaptation and mitigation measures. The struggle to implement sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria is ongoing, requiring urgent and effective policy responses. From within this framework, Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP)[2] became a critical response to the interconnected crises of climate change and energy poverty. With nearly 90 million Nigerians still lacking access to electricity, the transformation of the country’s energy system is imperative. The ETP sets an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 while ensuring that energy remains affordable, sustainable, and locally owned. However, despite these aspirations, the country continues to face rolling blackouts and frequent electricity grid failures. The need for modern, environmentally safe, and sustainable energy systems, grounded in the principles of equity and justice, is more urgent than ever. Since independence, Nigerian governments have pursued energy provision by attracting investments from multinational corporations such as Royal Dutch Shell, Mobil, Chevron, and Total[3]. These corporations have predominantly developed large fossil fuel-based projects, with high-voltage transmission lines supplying urban and industrial areas. This approach has left millions of Nigerians, especially those in rural areas, without access to electricity while exposing them to the environmental and health impacts of fossil fuel pollution. Communities that suffer these effects receive little to no compensation, deepening socio-economic disparities. In response to these injustices, communities affected by fossil fuel extraction, including women and youth have organized nonviolent resistance against oil firms to reclaim their lands, livelihoods, and homes. A recent example is the ongoing protest by residents of Ogale in the Niger Delta against the planned resumption of fossil fuel extraction in their region. The protesters, carrying placards and chanting resistance slogans, condemned the government’s decision as a betrayal of environmental justice. Community leaders in Ogale emphasized that rather than reopening oil wells, the government should prioritize cleaning up the long-standing contamination and investing in sustainable livelihoods. Protesters also questioned Nigeria’s commitment to its Energy Transition Plan, arguing that expanding fossil fuel projects contradicts global climate goals and further endangers local communities already suffering from environmental destruction. The community also called for Shell to be held accountable for its historical role in polluting their land and water. The landmark case in which Ogale and other Niger Delta communities are suing Shell in the UK for decades of oil spills remains a critical step toward environmental justice. Before any discussions about resuming oil operations, Shell must first clean up the environmental damage and compensate affected communities. A Questionable Commitment to Energy Transition As we march forward with the quick trip of achieving energy transition in 2050, we need to ask ourselves questions relating to pace the transition should be played out. Although Nigeria has formally initiated a shift toward renewable energy, including the Energy Transition Plan of 2022 and the Climate Change Act, implementation remains a major challenge. The government’s plan to resume oil operations raises concerns about whether the ETP is a genuine commitment or merely a response to a new Western consensus on climate change. In contrast, other African countries have made significant strides in renewable energy development. Morocco, for example, has completed the world’s largest concentrated solar power station, aiming to power one million homes[4]. Similarly, Kenya has been a continental leader in geothermal power generation, producing the bulk of its electricity from geothermal sources. The Olkaria Geothermal Power Station in the Great Rift Valley is Africa’s largest geothermal power project, serving as an example of how countries can successfully transition to sustainable energy. Addressing the Challenges of Energy Transition in Nigeria The African Coalition for Sustainable Energy Access (ACSEA), through its Nigeria Platform, Lift Humanity Foundation (LHF), and Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation (EHF), has conducted extensive reviews of the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP) (2022) and other related policies[5]. While discussions on climate change and energy transition have long centered on emission reduction targets, these organizations have gone beyond policy assessments by organizing consultative workshops to raise awareness  and concerns about the ETP’s clauses and advocate for a people-centered implementation mechanism. These recurring awareness dialogues have underscored the consequences of neglecting the Nigerian ETP, particularly regarding its social, environmental, economic, and cultural impacts. They have also emphasized the importance of broadening the local impact of these policies and connecting the current energy transition plan to the challenges of unemployment, ultimately fostering a climate-resilient society. A major concern raised during these discussions is that many renewable energy projects in Nigeria tend to replicate the structure of conventional fossil fuel-based energy projects. These initiatives are often large-scale, centrally owned, and integrated into the national grid, relying heavily on international financing and public-private partnerships. As a result, local communities, which lack the financial and technological capacity to compete with foreign companies such as Ormat Technologies—are frequently excluded from policy decisions. Furthermore, international financial institutions, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), exert substantial influence over these projects, often prioritizing financial returns over the needs of local populations. This top-down approach to energy policy formulation must be challenged to ensure that Nigeria’s ETP genuinely serves the interests of its people. The Path Forward: Ensuring no One is Left Behind. With already existing policies drafted and implemented to allow only the wealthy have access to Renewable energy infrastructure, the ultimate question in Nigeria’s energy transition remains how to make renewable energy affordable and accessible, particularly in a country marked by severe income inequalities. Equally important is ensuring that communities have ownership over the various energy mix  through off-grid and mini-grid options. Without community ownership and control, renewable energy could remain as exclusionary as fossil fuel-based systems. To achieve true

Written by Nweze Emmanuel Obinna Faith leaders from diverse communities in Nigeria have called upon the government to prioritize justice and equity in implementing the country’s energy transition program. This appeal emphasizes safeguarding the environmental and health rights of communities affected by the harmful consequences of fossil fuel activities. During a two-day Multi-Faith Leaders National Consultative Dialogue on Medium and Long-Term Climate Goals, organized by GreenFaith Nigeria in collaboration with Eco Steward and Humanitarian Foundation (EHF), GreenFaith Africa, The Kukah Centre, and Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, the leaders urged corporations such as Shell, ENI, TotalEnergies, and CNOOC to address the environmental damage caused by their operations. They demanded these companies take responsibility for cleanup, provide reparations, and cease harmful exploration activities. In a unified statement, the faith leaders declared:“We, representing diverse religious traditions from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones—Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and traditional communities—speak as one on the urgent need for a fair transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, ensuring a sustainable future for all Nigerians.” The Ecological and Social Toll of Fossil Fuels The group highlighted the devastating environmental and social consequences of fossil fuel exploitation, which exacerbates climate change, fuels biodiversity loss, and results in widespread land contamination. These activities displace communities, disrupt livelihoods, and trigger human rights violations and conflicts. Since the discovery of fossil fuels in Nigeria and other African nations, the benefits to local populations have been minimal. Overbearing influences from international corporations, financial institutions, and foreign governments, coupled with weak regulatory frameworks and corruption, have deprived African nations of equitable gains. Compounding the issue, over 85% of the fossil fuels extracted from Africa are exported, hindering the continent’s energy development and perpetuating poverty. A Call for Spiritual and Environmental Responsibility Faith leaders emphasized that protecting the environment aligns deeply with spiritual teachings. Across religions, safeguarding creation and promoting justice are sacred duties, as articulated in holy scriptures. These obligations require adherents to respect the sanctity of the Earth and ensure the well-being of future generations. The leaders urged government and international collaborators to uphold these principles in executing energy transition strategies. They proposed a Nine-Point Agenda, stressing the inclusion of local communities and faith leaders in decision-making, equitable access to renewable energy, and public education to foster a green future. Key Demands and Actions Among their core demands were: Voices of Leadership and Commitment Pius Oko, Program Manager at GreenFaith Africa, commended the collective resolve of the faith leaders, saying:“We are not only envisioning a better future but are committed to taking bold steps to bring that vision to life. Our shared faith and commitment to justice drive us toward a renewable and equitable future.” Similarly, Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, Executive Director of The Kukah Centre, painted a poignant picture of the Niger Delta’s plight, stating:“Our lands, once fertile, now bear the scars of exploitation. Oil spills poison our waters, gas flares darken our skies, and communities are fragmented by environmental degradation and inequality. This unsustainable path betrays our sacred duty as stewards of creation.” Imam Faud Adeyemi, Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, underscored the pivotal role of faith leaders, describing them as pillars of trust and moral guidance in their communities. He emphasized the need for faith leaders to champion a clean energy future actively:“We must lead by example, guiding our communities toward hope and transformation. This journey requires courage, compassion, and collective effort.” Meryne Warah, Global Director of Programs at GreenFaith, highlighted the critical role of advocacy and awareness, urging faith leaders to leverage their influence to raise issues affecting vulnerable communities. A Path Forward For Nigeria to achieve its energy transition goals, faith leaders must act as stewards and educators, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice. Their advocacy ensures that the transition reflects the values and aspirations of all Nigerians, leaving no one behind. The dialogue reaffirmed the belief that an inclusive and just energy transition is attainable. With cooperation, compassion, and trust, Nigeria can pave the way for a renewable future that aligns with the principles of fairness, equity, and sustainability.

WORLD TEACHERS DAY 2024 CONFERENCE . Written by Nweze Emmanuel Obinna Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation in partnership with Ecocykle foundation, Sauvers Lead Initiative, Women and Girl Child Development Initiative and with support from HBCU Green Fund, held a Teachers climate conference in commemoration of the world teacher’s day at Primark International School Jikwoyi FCT Abuja. The conference which was to celebrate the incredible contributions of teachers worldwide, those who inspire, nurture, and guide our future generations. As well as build their capacity on climate change knowledge and motivate them to be champions of climate literacy, brought together teachers and students from different schools. Mr Nweze Emmanuel, the Program Director for Ecosteward Foundation in his remarks stated that we face the pressing realities of climate change. The world looks to our educators to help prepare young minds for the challenges ahead. Climate education is no longer optional—it is essential. It is through education that we can raise awareness, foster critical thinking, and empower students to become responsible stewards of the environment. Mr Nweze emphasized that teachers are at the heart of this transformation. They have the unique opportunity to mould young hearts and minds, to instil a deep respect for the planet, and to inspire actionable solutions to climate challenges. By integrating climate science, sustainability practices, and eco-consciousness into their classrooms, teachers can empower the next generation to lead with responsibility, compassion, and innovation. Pius OKO, the GreenFaith Africa Program Manager Pius OKO, the GreenFaith Africa Program Manager, In his presentation remarked that on this World Teacher’s Day 2024, we honor the incredible contributions of teachers, who, in their roles as climate educators, are now at the forefront of one of the most critical challenges of our time—climate. He highlighted that this year’s theme, “Teachers as Climate Educators,” reflects a powerful truth: teachers are the architects of our collective future. They hold the responsibility of equipping our youth with not only academic knowledge but also the values and skills to navigate the complexities of climate change. By doing so, teachers inspire young minds to recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and foster the courage and innovation necessary to drive sustainable solutions. Mr. OKO further emphasized that, at GreenFaith, climate education is recognized as a crucial step in advancing climate justice, particularly in communities most vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change. By leading their students to embrace ecological responsibility, educators are shaping a generation of climate-conscious leaders dedicated to safeguarding our planet. Miss Laureta Boniface, the co-founder Ecocykle Foundation in her presentation stated that this inaugural Teacher’s Climate Conference held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has made great strides in promoting climate education in Nigeria. The event, which brought together educators and students from various schools, geared a crucial session on Circular Economy and Climate Change led by Ecocykle. Miss lauretta pointed out the importance of equipping Nigeria’s teachers and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the pressing challenges of climate change through innovative approaches to sustainable living, including waste management, recycling, and eco-friendly items as a key strategy for mitigating and adapting to climate impacts. The success of the event has prompted calls for similar initiatives to be adopted and implemented in other states across Nigeria exacerbating a culture of climate awareness among teachers and students she stated The principal Primark International School, Sir Oko Agaji in his closing remark thanked the organizers stating that climate change is affecting every aspect our livelihood and there is need for more awareness even within the education sector. While thanking the organizers for the initiative, Mr Oko emphasized that as leaders in education, our influence extends far beyond the classroom. we have the power to cultivate an environmentally aware and resilient generation—one that is prepared not only to adapt to climate change but to lead the charge in addressing it. Together, we can build a future where sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the core of every community.