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HEDA at AACJ Nigeria Consortium Planning Workshop: Charting the Path for Climate Justice in 2025

From May 5 to 7, 2025, HEDA Resource Centre joined its African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) consortium partners for a pivotal country-level planning workshop in Lagos. The gathering brought together key coalition members including PACJA, Oxfam in Nigeria, Oxfam Novib, Natural Justice, FEMNET, African Youth Commission (AYC), Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet), GIFSEP, YMCA, and others to reflect on shared progress and set a bold strategic direction for the final phase of the AACJ project. Since the inception of the AACJ initiative, HEDA and its partners have made meaningful contributions across five strategic pathways: strengthening social movements, amplifying African climate narratives, advancing human rights, building community resilience, and pushing for climate-just policies. Our joint efforts have resulted in tangible outcomes across Nigeria, including: Adoption of beekeeping practices by smallholder farmers in Kaduna; Distribution of over 13,500 tree seedlings in Benue State; Training of more than 300 women on briquette-making in Niger State; Legal advocacy to uphold the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act; Climate radio programs and flood early warning training for local communities; Support for policy wins such as the Adamawa State Climate Change Bill and the ban on single-use plastics. In 2024, under the “Adaptive Capacity” pathway, HEDA reached over 5,000 residents with early warning systems, trained 165 public officials across the country, and conducted evidence-based flood-impact research that informed policy responses at both state and national levels. Looking ahead, 2025 will see an expansion of community pilot projects, increased youth-led advocacy, and the launch of a unified national media campaign to elevate frontline climate stories. HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices that matter most and advancing a just, inclusive climate future. Together with our partners, we continue to weave a resilient fabric of climate justice across Nigeria.

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CategoriesClimate change

HEDA Deepens Partnership with NEITI on Extractive Sector Transparency

As part of our sustained commitment to promoting accountability and environmental justice in Nigeria’s extractive sector, a delegation from Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, at the NEITI House in Abuja. Welcoming the HEDA team, Dr. Orji emphasized NEITI’s core mandate of fostering transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive industries, stressing that active collaboration with accountability actors like HEDA is crucial to the success and credibility of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) process in Nigeria. “We see HEDA as a major stakeholder and one of the leading civil society organizations supporting NEITI’s vision of reforming the extractive sector,” Dr. Orji remarked. He commended HEDA’s consistent investigative efforts, especially in critical areas such as marginal field awards, beneficial ownership disclosures, and host community impacts. Of particular note was HEDA’s recent publication: “Marginal Fields’ Awards, Regulators’ Independence, and Environmental Justice: Paradox of Beneficial Ownership and the Host Communities.” Dr. Orji applauded the report, describing it as timely and aligned with NEITI’s mission. He acknowledged the report’s findings on corruption risks associated with the 2020/2021 marginal field awards and the ongoing concerns around transparency in beneficial ownership—issues NEITI is currently addressing. “Your work provides valuable insights and data that reinforce our advocacy and reform efforts,” Dr. Orji stated. “We look forward to deepening collaboration with HEDA to meet the expectations of the EITI process in Nigeria.” Responding, HEDA Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described NEITI as more than a partner, calling it a strategic institution capable of transforming Nigeria’s extractive governance landscape. He reiterated HEDA’s unwavering support for NEITI’s mandate and commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for integrating NEITI into its monitoring framework. Mr. Suraju noted that Nigeria’s extractive sector challenges go beyond poverty—they are rooted in systemic corruption, conflict, and the failure to enforce regulatory frameworks. He affirmed HEDA’s commitment to continue playing a watchdog role while working closely with institutions like NEITI to uphold transparency, integrity, and environmental justice. This visit marks another milestone in HEDA’s efforts to forge strong institutional partnerships aimed at reforming Nigeria’s extractive industry and ensuring that natural resources truly benefit the people.

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CategoriesClimate change

EFCC’s Monitoring of MDA Budget Implementation a Bold Step Towards Preventive Anti-Corruption in Nigeria — HEDA

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, for his commission commitment to budget transparency and preventive anti-corruption measures, especially in the monitoring of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in the 2025 budget cycle. During a recent courtesy visit to the EFCC corporate headquarters by a delegation of HEDA Resource Centre led by its Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, Mr. Olukoyede disclosed that the Commission is actively tracking funds released to MDAs to ensure that public resources are not misappropriated. HEDA views this proactive move as a significant and commendable shift from reactive recoveries to preventive strategies, which aligns with global best practices in anti-corruption. Mr. Suraju, on behalf of HEDA, lauded the Commission’s performance under Olukoyede’s leadership, particularly the unprecedented conviction and recovery rates recorded in 2024. “At HEDA Resource Centre, we consider the EFCC not just an agency, but a symbol of Nigeria’s anti-corruption resolve. The international perception of Nigeria would have been far worse but for the integrity and efforts consistently demonstrated by the Commission,” he said. He also praised the Commission for expanding its focus to emerging areas of corruption such as environmental degradation and extractive industry abuses.  “This forward-thinking approach deserves commendation. We believe this is a trail worth blazing and sustaining,” Suraju added. HEDA further reiterates its unwavering support for the EFCC and commits to continued partnership in promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance. The pivotal visit including HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu; Liaison, Legal and Program Officer, Dabotonye Dappa; Cecilia Ogwuche, Azeez Salau, further deepens the collaboration between both institutions as they work towards building a Nigeria where public funds serve public interests.

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CategoriesClimate change

HEDA and NiMet Strengthen Partnership to Enhance Climate Resilience for Smallholder Farmers

As part of HEDA’s continuous efforts to enhance climate resilience and support sustainable development in Nigeria, we are pleased to announce the formalization of our partnership with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration, which began in 2010, aims to expand the delivery of agro-meteorological information to smallholder farmers across Nigeria. The MoU signing ceremony held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 was attended by our Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, and Legal and Liaison Officer, Miss Tonye Dappa. The 5-year MOU between HEDA and NIMET, which is subject to renewal by both parties upon its expiration would among other things, boost the capacity of both parties through collaboration and provision of relevant tools to enhance the availability of agro-meteorological development programs and improve the research and capacity building for both parties. The expected benefits of the MOU to NIMET include the boost of food security of the country and visibility of the agency; while to HEDA, the expected benefits of the MOU include enhancing its deliverables and improve its strategic planning and campaigns. NIMET include the provision of historical and real-time weather data on the HEDA website to support the organization and its partners in assessing climate related risks associated within the agricultural sector, participate in research, review, meetings, assist HEDA with expert analysis and management of agro-meteorological data. The responsibilities of HEDA include collaboration with NIMET in conducting need driven research and resource development, acknowledgement of NIMET in projects, involve NIMET staff in HEDA’s campaigns and speaking opportunity in relevant meetings/topics, assist NIMET in increasing the reach of its downscaling and stepdown activities. The MOU also presents an opportunity for future novel areas of collaboration. HEDA expressed its gratitude to NiMet’s Director-General/CEO, Professor Charles Anosike, for his leadership and support. According to Arigbabu, the partnership will enable us to improve early warning systems, promote climate-smart agriculture, and enhance national resilience to climate change. “We look forward to working with NiMet to co-create educational climate content for farmers and ensure inclusive access to vital weather and climate information. By working together, we can bridge the gap between climate science and grassroots action, ultimately benefiting smallholder farmers and rural communities across Nigeria.” He added. He reaffirmed HEDA’s continued commitment and support to the work of the NIMET and serving as a crucial link between NIMET and those who critically require its information. Mr. Arigbabu also mentioned the potential for future partnerships between NIMET and young people in creating climate-related content using the agency’s studio.

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CategoriesHEDA News

S/Court’s FOI Judgement: A Long-Deserved Victory for Nigerians – HEDA

— Urges CSOs, Journalists, and Citizens to judiciously use the FOI Act Following the recent landmark judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, affirming the applicability of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2011 to all tiers of government, including state institutions, the civil society and anti-corruption organization has commended the apex court on its ruling, described it as victory for the Nigerian people.   In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group further maintained that the judgment is a long-deserved victory for the Nigerian people, reinforces the constitutional right of citizens to access public records and demand explanations from their leaders. “The judgment represents a decisive step toward deepening democratic governance and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach all Nigerians through openness and accountability,” Suraju stated. HEDA commends the Supreme Court for its bold and progressive interpretation of the law. The ruling dismantles the excuse by state institutions that the Freedom of Information Act does not apply to them due to the absence of state-enacted versions. This judgment signals the end of opacity in state-level governance, empowering every Nigerian to hold government agencies accountable. The anti-corruption organization further urges pressure groups, civil society actors, journalists, and citizens to judiciously use the FOI Act in demanding transparency in public administration. “This decision must not be celebrated in theory alone; it must spark renewed vigor in civic activism and institutional oversight, especially at the sub-national level.” This ruling validates the decade-long advocacy of civil society organizations championing open governance despite institutional resistance.” Suraju maintained.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Sets Five-Point Agenda for New NNPCL Boss, Ojulari

HEDA Resource Centre has urged Engr. Bayo Ojulari, the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), to prioritize transparency, accountability, and institutional reforms as he takes over the helms of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Ojulari, who officially assumed office on Friday following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been tasked with steering the NNPCL at a critical juncture for the nation’s economy. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society and anti-corruption organization noted Ojulari’s appointment while setting a five-point agenda for his leadership. Suraju emphasized the importance of transparency in contracting processes and financial disclosures, aligning operations with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He also highlighted the need for bold anti-corruption measures, including independent audits and investigations into legacy issues such as crude oil theft, procurement fraud, operational inefficiencies, and environmental despoliation of oil corporations  “HEDA charged Engr. Ojulari on his appointment calling on him to champion transparency and reform in the oil and gas sector. This is a pivotal moment for the NNPCL to demonstrate commitment to good governance and national interest,” Suraju stated. The organization further urged the new GCEO to focus on rehabilitating Nigeria’s refineries, particularly the Port Harcourt Refinery, to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and enhance energy security. Addressing environmental accountability was also highlighted, with calls for justice and remediation for host communities affected by oil exploration. HEDA further warned against political interference in the NNPCL’s operations, stressing that undue influence could compromise progress and national interest. The group further called on President Tinubu, as the Petroleum Minister, to champion and sustain wholistic implementation of reforms that would reposition the corporation as a globally competitive and transparent entity. Ojulari’s appointment, which replaces Mele Kyari, has been met with mixed feelings from stakeholders. HEDA assured the public of its commitment to monitoring and engaging with stakeholders to ensure accountability and sustainable development in the sector.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Sues Shell, FG, Others Over Oil Licence Transfer

The Incorporated Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre has initiated legal proceedings against Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Renaissance African Energy Company Limited, and several key government agencies over the transfer of an oil exploration licence. The suit marked FHC/L/CS/651/2025, filed by Kunle Adegoke, SAN, on behalf of the plaintiff at the Federal High Court in Lagos, raises critical concerns regarding compliance with Nigeria’s legal and regulatory frameworks governing the petroleum industry. The lawsuit names seven defendants include the Attorney General and Minister for Justice of the Federation, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCLtd), Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. HEDA Resource Centre contends that the transfer and divestment of Shell’s oil exploration licence to Renaissance African Energy Company Limited may have contravened provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and related regulations. Key issues raised by HEDA include concerns over the legality, transparency, and regulatory compliance of the transaction. The plaintiff asserts that the process failed to meet statutory provisions, including the requirement to conduct and disclose an Environmental Evaluation Study under the Upstream Petroleum Environmental Regulation, 2022. HEDA argues that allowing the transaction to proceed without adhering to these legal requirements could set a dangerous precedent and undermine national and public interest, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and the welfare of communities in the Niger Delta. HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, stressed the urgency of transparency and compliance in the oil licence transfer, stating, “This transaction threatens public interest and the environment if legal requirements, like the Environmental Evaluation Study, are ignored. The welfare of Niger Delta communities and sustainable management of petroleum resources must be prioritized to avoid setting a harmful precedent.” The legal application seeks several declaratory and injunctive reliefs, including an order restraining all parties from proceeding with, approving, or enforcing the transfer until full compliance with Nigeria’s legal framework is ensured. HEDA emphasizes that strict adherence to regulatory processes is crucial for transparency, accountability, and the sustainable management of the country’s petroleum resources. The Federal High Court is expected to hear the case in the coming weeks, with stakeholders in the petroleum industry and environmental advocacy groups closely monitoring its implications. This suit highlights the ongoing scrutiny of oil and gas transactions in Nigeria and reinforces the call for regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship in the sector.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Urges Tinubu, NUPRC to Hold Shell Accountable for Environmental Clean-Up

Following the recent reported approval of Shell Petroleum Development Company’s (SPDC) $2.4 billion divestment of its onshore assets in the Niger Delta to Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings, The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) strongly urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure that Shell fulfills its obligations by addressing the environmental devastation it has caused in the Niger Delta before finalizing this divestment. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group emphasized that Shell must not be allowed to walk away from decades of environmental degradation, legal liabilities, and social injustices inflicted on host communities. According to Suraju, the reports indicate the divestment was concluded despite ongoing litigations, a court-ordered injunction barring the sale, and over N500 billion in environmental damages being demanded by affected communities. He condemned this development, stating, “This blatant disregard for judicial authority not only undermines Nigeria’s legal system but also sets a dangerous precedence where multinational corporations can evade responsibility with impunity.” Furthermore, HEDA criticized the approval of the transaction without proper consultation with impacted communities, describing it as yet another act of marginalization against local populations whose lives and livelihoods have been severely affected by oil pollution. “Shell has a long history of environmental infractions in the Niger Delta, leaving communities to suffer the consequences of oil spills, gas flaring, and ecosystem destruction. These damages have led to the loss of livelihoods, severe health risks, and the destruction of aquatic and agricultural resources. It is, therefore, unacceptable for Shell to divest its assets without first remediating the affected areas. The burden of cleanup and legal liabilities must not be transferred to the incoming Nigerian operators, who may lack the technical and financial capacity to address these longstanding issues. HEDA aligns with the concerns raised by host communities, environmental groups, and civil society organizations, all of whom have called for a halt to the sale until Shell takes full responsibility for its environmental footprint. “The Federal Government must prioritize justice over profit by ensuring that Shell and its partners commit to a comprehensive and independently monitored cleanup process before exiting the onshore oil sector. Additionally, we are calling on the NUPRC to uphold its regulatory integrity and resist any external pressure that undermines transparency and accountability in the sector. The Commission must act in the best interest of the Nigerian people rather than succumb to corporate or political interests.” The people of the Niger Delta deserve justice, clean water, and a restored environment. HEDA Resource Centre stands firmly with affected communities in demanding that Shell cleans up its mess before exiting. The organization pledges to explore all legal and advocacy channels to ensure that this demand is met.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Commends EFCC’s Anti-Corruption Efforts on Ex-AGF Idris N109 Billion Fraud Case, Calls for Swift Judicial Action

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. This commitment is evident in the ongoing trial of former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, and others accused of diverting N109.5 billion in public funds. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group commended the EFCC’s resolve in pursuing the case. He emphasized, “The massive scale of the alleged fraud highlights the urgent need for accountability in public office. We urge the judiciary to ensure justice is served promptly, as prolonged trials can embolden corruption and erode public trust in our legal system.” While acknowledging the importance of due process, the anti-corruption group stresses that justice should not be compromised by technicalities or unnecessary delays. Suraju added, “The judiciary plays a vital role in reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight by handling cases like this with urgency and fairness. We demand the same level of commitment in handling the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.” HEDA further demand the prosecution of States Commissioners of Finance and Governor who were part of the Paris club refund corruption for the which the former Accountant General is standing trial. HEDA remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance. The civil society organization calls on all stakeholders in the justice system to work towards a judicial process that strengthens Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, ensuring those found guilty face the full consequences of the law.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Report Exposes Oil Licensing Flaws, Weak Regulations, Environmental Injustice

As part of its effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the Nigeria’s oil licensing bidding process, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has exposed serious flaws in Nigeria’s oil licensing process, highlighting regulatory failures, financial misconduct, and environmental injustice in the Niger Delta.  At the public presentation of its latest report in Ikeja, Lagos, HEDA revealed that several companies awarded marginal oil field licenses in the 2020/2021 bidding round lacked proper registration and failed to meet legal and financial requirements. The report, with the support from Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), titled “Marginal Fields’ Awards, Regulators’ Independence, and Environmental Injustice: Paradox of Beneficial Ownership and the Host Communities”, also raised concerns over the unchecked environmental damage caused by oil companies. Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, condemned the awarding of contracts to unregistered companies, questioning the credibility of Nigeria’s oil sector regulations. “Out of approximately 38 companies, 18 are not even registered, and many have failed to file their annual returns. This is not about the supply of goods and services; we are talking about Nigeria’s main economic sector,” he said. He stressed that the failure to enforce due diligence had led to massive revenue losses for the country and called for collaboration between regulatory agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Beyond financial misconduct, Suraju warned that environmental pollution in the Niger Delta remains a pressing concern. He urged civil society, the diplomatic community, and international organisations to intervene, particularly as oil companies attempt to divest from Nigeria without fulfilling their environmental responsibilities. The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, commended HEDA’s efforts in promoting transparency and accountability, reaffirming NEITI’s commitment to ensuring responsible resource management. “Beneficial ownership transparency is not just about knowing who owns what. It is about protecting our nation’s resources from corruption, illicit financial flows, and mismanagement. Host communities must be protected, compensated, and empowered.” Book Reviewer and Lecturer, University of Lagos, Prof. Dayo Ayoade, criticised the licensing process, describing it as compromised by political influence and corruption. “The 2020/2021 marginal fields bidding round exhibited procedural abuse and corrupt practices, leading to significant financial losses. Some of the winning companies were owned or backed by politically exposed persons,” he said. Ayoade added that 11 out of the 35 surveyed companies were inactive under the CAC, while several lacked the tax clearance certificates required for eligibility under the Public Procurement Act 2007. He further warned that oil companies seeking to exit Nigeria must first be held accountable for their environmental damage. “Before these companies are allowed to exit, they must remediate the damage done, pay compensation, and fulfill their decommissioning responsibilities.” You can download the report here

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