As part of its effort to address climate change with innovative and lasting solutions, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), with support from OXFAM under the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, has trained 20 journalists, creatives, and climate advocates on the use of data and storytelling to spotlight climate issues and drive positive impact.
The four-day Climate Creatives Bootcamp, held in Epe, Lagos, from Tuesday, September 23, to Friday, September 26, 2025, exposed participants to sessions on climate reporting, digital tools, innovative advocacy, and community-centered storytelling. The program was designed to bridge the gap between the lived realities of climate change and the often shallow or sensational narratives found in mainstream reporting and creative content.
Guided by experts working at the intersection of climate justice, media, creative arts, and technology, participants explored the science and impacts of climate change, the human rights dimensions of climate justice, and the role of technology in shaping environmental decisions. Modules also examined how data and digital media tools can amplify marginalized voices, counter misinformation, and demand accountability from leaders.
HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, said the initiative underscores the vital role of the media and creative sectors in shaping public understanding of climate issues. He noted that storytelling backed by data has the power to not only inform but also mobilize communities and influence policymakers.
At the close of the bootcamp, participants were grouped for pitch presentations. The top two groups received grant prizes of ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively, to implement their innovative climate solutions focusing on air quality and food security.
The bootcamp, which followed an earlier virtual masterclass, is part of HEDA’s broader commitment to promoting climate justice, good governance, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
