With support from the Ford Foundation and in collaboration with the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), the Foundation championed the cause of impacted communities in Nigeria’s energy transition. Aligned with the thematic agenda of Energy and Industry, Just Transition, and Indigenous Peoples, the December 5, 2023 event at the Nigeria Pavilion advocated for community engagement in shaping energy policies, sharing insights from Nigeria’s sustainable energy journey, and emphasizing Africa’s voice in climate negotiations.
The thought-provoking short film, ‘After Oil, We Flourish,’ set the tone for the plenary session. The discourse featured perspectives from notable figures including Nnimmo Bassey and Chief Mrs. Ebiyemi Omatseye, the Olujimi of Warri. Participating remotely, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri highlighted the environmental damage resulting from oil activities in the region and emphasized the significance of adopting an inclusive approach that extends beyond cleaner energy adoption to encompass environmental restoration and community development.