Quest for Growth and Development Foundation, a non-governmental organisation has raised fresh concerns over the health dangers posed by fossil fuel projects, calling on insurance companies to divest from such investments and channel their resources into renewable energy.
According to the statement shared to TPCN on Saturday, the event was held along the AXA office in Circular Road/GRA Port Harcourt of Rivers State.
Speaking at an awareness event with the theme “Global Day of Action: Insure Our Survival,” Smith Nwokocha, the NGO’s coordinator said fossil fuel exploration and use had left devastating impacts on communities, particularly in the Niger Delta, where pollution and climate change-related disasters such as flooding have continued to endanger lives.
“We are calling on all those insurance companies involved in investing and insuring fossil projects. Instead of insuring fossil fuels that destroy our environment and impact our health negatively, let them invest in renewable energy projects that are environmentally friendly and not destructive in any form,” the coordinator said.
He lamented that life expectancy in the Niger Delta had been severely compromised due to prolonged exposure to pollution.
“We have a statistic that if you live above 40 years in this region, you must give thanks to God because of the impact of climate change on our health,” he added.
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The group noted that fossil fuel dependency had contributed to rising cases of respiratory illnesses, waterborne diseases, and other climate-induced health risks.
It stressed that the transition to renewable energy was not only necessary for environmental protection but also for safeguarding public health.
“Renewable energy is a welcome development to our society. Fossil fuel has been a danger to our environment. Studies show that in recent times, it has caused more harm than good. It is time to draw the line between fossil fuels and renewable energy,” Mr. Edgar, a community member of Oroworukwo said.
The NGO further disclosed plans to intensify grassroots advocacy by educating students in schools on the dangers of fossil fuels and the benefits of clean energy, to foster early awareness among young people.
The organisation urged insurance companies to act responsibly by withdrawing cover from fossil fuel projects and supporting renewable energy ventures that guarantee a healthier and more sustainable future.
