The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has launched a book titled “Nigeria Socio-Ecological Alternative Charter,” calling for a transformation of the country’s ecological landscape.
At the first Nigeria Socio-Ecological Alternatives Convergence in Abuja on Thursday, HOMEF’s Executive Director, Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, presented the book, describing it as a clear roadmap towards achieving a collective vision for Nigeria’s ecological wellbeing, based on fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Dr. Bassey noted that while Nigeria is blessed with an exceptional climate and ecosystem, the natural habitat is at a critical turning point due to human-induced climate change and biodiversity loss from destructive extraction practices.
He highlighted widespread ecological threats, citing the severe pollution from oil and gas extraction in the Niger Delta and the escalating impacts of solid mineral extraction.
The Nigeria Socio-Ecological Alternatives Convergence, co-created with civil society organizations, frontline communities, activists, and academics, aims to develop an alternative ecological blueprint for Nigeria.
This approach respects the rights of the earth and seeks to protect both the planet and its people.
“The Charter represents a powerful call for a fundamental transformation of Nigeria’s socio-ecological landscape.
It outlines a vision and plans for creating a sustainable, fair, and balanced society that prioritizes the well-being of individuals and the preservation of the natural world,” Bassey said.
In his keynote address, “The Dynamics of Climate and Impacts of Migration, Conflict and Food Security in Nigeria,” Prof. Gundu, Vice Chancellor of the University of Mkar, Benue State, emphasized that industrial pollution is exacerbating climate change challenges.
He called for greater awareness of climate justice to prevent future epidemics caused by environmental degradation.
Additionally, in his paper titled “Does the Tragedy of the Commons Explain the Lessons Derived from the Economic History of Nigeria and Resource Extraction?”, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba questioned why gas flaring continues in the Niger Delta despite global efforts to address climate issues.
He criticized the lack of adherence to international best practices for dealing with oil spills in Nigeria, pointing out that oil companies often neglect proper protocols.
“Why are top-of-science methods and international best practices for spills in petroleum-bearing communities not used in Nigeria?
The attitude that ‘anything goes’ has prevailed in dealing with oil prospecting companies for a long time. Companies often do what they cannot do elsewhere in Nigeria, paying lip service to their commitments.
When they pollute Nigeria’s environment, their approach is markedly different than it would be elsewhere,” Nwajiuba remarked.
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