Written by: Mariam Idris
The Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet) hosted a transformative two-day workshop from July 10–11, 2025, at Park Hotel, Rumuola, Port Harcourt.
Centered on Youth and Women-led Adaptation and Economic Justice in the Fossil Fuel Phase-Out, the event brought together civil society organizations, academics, media, youth leaders, women’s groups, and community representatives from across the Niger Delta.
This critical engagement aimed to enhance the adaptive capacity of local communities and amplify the voices of youth and women in shaping climate and economic justice policies amidst Nigeria’s transition from fossil fuels.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Abuh Stephen, National Network Coordinator of CSDevNet, warmly welcomed participants and highlighted the urgency of the climate crisis.
He pointed to the increasing frequency of floods, droughts, and extreme weather in the region, urging for collective and informed action to build resilient and inclusive communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Barr. Michael Keania, Country Director of Natural Justice, painted a stark picture of climate-induced disasters, including recent fatalities from floods in Mokwa, Niger State.
He challenged participants to interrogate government preparedness and called for a robust accountability framework to improve disaster prevention and response systems.
Building Resilience: Knowledge That Transforms
The workshop featured several expert-led sessions: Dr. Unekwu Onuche from the University of Africa, Bayelsa, emphasized the need for flood-resistant and early-maturing crops, agricultural insurance, and the inclusion of farmers in climate policy planning.
Dr. J.J. Otene spoke passionately on Seed Sovereignty, arguing that farmers must retain the right to save, sell, and exchange seeds to protect food security and agricultural heritage.
The two-day workshops reflect on key diverse mitigation strategies, Personal accountability in climate action and Insurance as a resilience tool for farmers.
Additionally, the CSOs Positioning and Climate Justice Demands was presented Dr. Godwin Uyi Ojo, a leading climate justice advocate, examined the engagement of Civil Society Organizations in the global climate process.
He pointed out deep inequalities in the COP (Conference of Parties) negotiations and emphasized the need for: Inclusive adaptation planning that centers youth and women, Strong disaster preparedness frameworks, Accelerated climate finance and emission reduction efforts.
In a breakout session led by Paul Joseph, participants developed advocacy plans focused on messaging, stakeholder engagement, and networking. Groups crafted clear, action-oriented slogans to drive awareness and pressure decision-makers into prioritizing climate adaptation and economic justice.
Challenges Identified and Solutions Proposed
The workshop culminated in a review of pressing challenges facing communities, including poor infrastructure, low farmer income, displacement, environmental degradation, and food insecurity. Corresponding recommendations were proposed:
- Improve rural road access through public-private partnerships
- Boost farmer income via grants, digital markets, and training
- Mitigate floods with early warning systems and infrastructure
- Address governance gaps with citizen engagement and accountability
- Support displaced populations with planned resettlement and livelihood options
- Enhance food security through climate-smart agriculture and nutrition programs
- Combat environmental degradation with reforestation and enforcement of environmental laws
Closing Reflections
As the event drew to a close, Mr. Abuh Stephen expressed heartfelt appreciation to all attendees and speakers. He praised the dynamic contributions and reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration among stakeholders to turn ideas into impactful actions. “This workshop,” he said, “is not an end, but a beginning towards resilience, equity, and sustainability in our communities.”