The Quest for Growth and Development Foundation, a non-governmental organization (NGO) has called on residents of the Erema community in Ogba–Egbema–Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State to assert their rights by embracing renewable energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
As a way to mark the 2025 Africa Week of Action, which is scheduled for 18 to 24 August with the theme titled “Kicks Total Out of Africa,” a sensitisation meeting was held recently to achieve a sustainable environment that aligns with the global goals.
Speaking during a one-day sensitisation programme on energy justice, the group’s coordinator, Mr Smith Nwokocha, said communities must not only be aware of their rights but also take ownership of their energy future by advocating for cleaner and more sustainable sources of power.
Nwokocha explained that while oil has long sustained the local economy, its continued exploitation has left behind environmental degradation and social challenges.
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He argued that renewable energy offers an opportunity for local empowerment, healthier living conditions, and economic self-reliance.
“We want to give the community a strong voice and sensitise them to know their rights and educate them to own their energy system,” Nwokocha said. “With the same energy used to promote fossil fuels that destroy lives and health, why not switch it to renewable alternatives?”
Traditional ruler of the Erema community, His Royal Highness Eze Alexander Osa, also supported the call, lamenting the destructive impact of oil exploration on farmlands, food production, and the health of residents. He stressed that the shift towards sustainable alternatives would safeguard the environment while creating opportunities for young people.
“Our community need help. The oil company that come they have remove everything from our ground. Our ground is not yielding any food again. So many things are causing harm on us,” he said.
Some community members who welcomed the initiative added that the time had come to explore agriculture, renewable energy, and other sustainable enterprises as a way of reducing dependence on oil.
They further expressed concern about the long-term social and health effects of oil exploration in the Niger Delta.
