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HEDA Sues FG, Oil Giants Over Alleged Unlawful Oil Licence Transfer

The Incorporated Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre has dragged Federal Government, multinational oil companies and Nigerian government agencies before the Federal High Court in Lagos, challenging the legality of a major oil asset divestment deal. In the suit numbered FHC/L/CS/850/25, filed by Kunle Adegoke, SAN, HEDA is seeking the court’s determination on whether the transfer of interests in oil mining lease assets by Eni Societa Per Azioni, Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited, and Oando PLC was carried out in compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and other relevant regulatory frameworks. The civil society group alleges that the transaction was conducted in breach of several statutory provisions, including the Guidelines for Obtaining Minister’s Consent to Assignment of Interest in Oil and Gas Assets (2021), the Upstream Petroleum Environmental Regulations (2022), the Gas Flaring, Venting and Methane Emissions Regulations (2023), and the Upstream Petroleum Environmental Remediation Regulations (2024).  Joined in the suit as defendants are the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. HEDA is asking the court to declare the transaction unlawful, invalid, and of no legal effect, claiming that proper legal and environmental procedures were not followed. The organisation is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the relevant government agencies from recognising or approving the deal, and an order of nullification of any ministerial consent already granted. In a statement, HEDA’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, said the legal action was part of the organisation’s long-standing commitment to ensuring transparency, environmental justice, and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s extractive sector. “This suit is about more than just a corporate deal, it’s about the integrity of our regulatory systems and the future of environmental governance in Nigeria,” Suraju said. “We cannot continue to allow powerful interests to bypass laws meant to protect citizens, the environment, the economy, and integrity of the country.” The organisation maintains that the case represents a significant test of the Nigerian government’s willingness to enforce the PIA and uphold accountability in the oil and gas industry. With this legal step, HEDA aims to set a precedent that oil licence transfers and divestments must strictly adhere to Nigerian law, especially in an era where environmental sustainability and responsible governance are paramount.

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CategoriesClimate change

Federal High Court Grants HEDA’s Application to Compel FG to Release Gas Flaring Data

In a landmark judgment affirming the public’s right to environmental accountability and transparency, the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has granted the application of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), compelling the Federal Government of Nigeria to release critical information on gas flaring activities in the country. Delivering judgment in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/251/2021, Justice A.O Faji ruled in favour of HEDA’s request for an order of mandamus, thereby directing the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Minister of Finance to provide detailed data on oil and gas companies flaring gas in Nigeria between 2015 and 2020. Specifically, the Court ordered the Respondents to release the following: Names of all oil and gas companies involved in gas flaring in Nigeria; Volumes of gas flared by each company; Penalties due from the companies for gas flaring; and Actual penalties paid within the five-year period. The judgment, upheld HEDA’s position that public access to such data is fundamental to environmental justice and national accountability. Despite efforts by the Respondents’ legal team to have the suit struck out, the Court held that the application had merit and granted the reliefs sought. This legal victory stems from HEDA’s broader campaign for environmental justice, climate accountability, and transparent governance in Nigeria’s extractive sector. HEDA had initiated the suit after repeated Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to Ministry of Petroleum Resources with President as Minister and Finance Minister went unacknowledged. Reacting to the judgment, HEDA’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, described the Court’s decision as a major win for environmental rights defenders, anti-corruption advocates, and the Nigerian public. “This is a precedent-setting judgment. It affirms the power of civic engagement and the relevance of the judiciary in protecting environmental rights. With this ruling, the Government is compelled to be transparent about the operations of oil and gas companies and the true environmental cost of their activities,” said Suraju. He emphasized that HEDA will continue to pursue full enforcement of the judgment and advocate for sanctions against erring corporations, in addition to pressing for the utilization of gas flaring penalties for climate adaptation and development initiatives. HEDA calls on all stakeholders including civil society, the media, and the international community to join in demanding accountability from both the Nigerian Government and extractive companies operating in the country. This case reaffirms the importance of judicial action in enforcing transparency and environmental justice, especially where administrative silence has failed the public interest.

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CategoriesClimate change

Nigeria’s Judiciary Faces Credibility Crisis: HEDA’s Latest LAR Report Calls for Urgent Reform

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has issued a sobering assessment of Nigeria’s judicial system in its fifth Leadership Approval Rating (LAR) report, “Voice for Justice: A civic Lens on Nigeria’s Judicial System – Documenting Public Experience Opinions, and Reform Demands. The recently and widely-reported launch in Lagos, the report paints a stark portrait of public disillusionment with judiciary and demands urgent, far-reaching reforms. Based on a nationwide survey of 1,357 Nigerians across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, the findings reveal widespread perception of corruption, inaccessibility, and political interference within the judiciary. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, described the report as “a mirror held up to power,” reflecting the lived experience of citizens rather than abstract statistics. The key findings of the report include: Only 12% of the respondents rated the judiciary as highly accessible while 36.5% described accessibility as low. Half of those surveyed had never interacted with the courts, and when interaction occurred, they were mostly administrative such as obtaining affidavits or settling land disputes, rather than seeking substantive justice. Nearly half (49%) submitted to paying or “sorting” court officials, and 65.4% believed judicial corruption is high or extremely high. Beyond corruption and inefficiency, the judiciary was also seen as complicit in broader rights violations: 60% of respondents accused it of enabling police abuses and imposing excessive bail conditions. To address these challenges, the report calls for a comprehensive reform agenda including full judicial autonomy and restructuring of the NJC, improved pay, welfare, and security for judges, stronger anti-corruption enforcement, greater transparency, such as livestreamed court proceedings and the use of body-worn cameras, among others. Arigbabu stressed that the recommendations are not optional, but necessary steps to restore public trust and uphold democracy. He emphasized that many reforms require not new policies, but better applications of existing rules, such as reducing unnecessary adjournments and ensuring timely reviews of remand orders. Speaking at the launch, HEDA’s Senior Program Consultant, Sina Odugbemi urged civic actors, media, and citizens to intensify efforts in exposing corruption and advocating for change. “Corruption is everywhere, and we must expose it. We need journalism that digs deeper and citizens who demand accountability.” he said. HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, echoed these sentiments, affirming HEDA’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s institutions. “This report is a call to action. Public instituitons must be answerable to the people they serv. Together, we can rise to the challenge and transform the judiciary for the better.” As Nigeria’s judiciary stands at a crossroads, the message from citizens is clear: reforms are urgently needed and the time to act is now.

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CategoriesClimate change

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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CategoriesClimate change

Niger Delta Oil Pollution: Over 60% Suffers Negative Health Effects, Biodiversity – HEDA Reports

— Suraju Charges Government, IOCs on Ecological and Economic Sustainability for the Region A recent research and data-driven report by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has shed light on the devastating impact of oil and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta region. The report, titled “Leadership Approval Rating: Impact of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Six Oil-Producing States in Nigeria,” reveals that an alarming 60% of the population in the region suffers from health problems caused by oil pollution, while 75% of respondents reported negative impacts on local biodiversity. The survey, which sampled 1,074 people across six states, including Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers, found that 70% of respondents believe oil and gas activities have significantly contributed to environmental pollution. Water pollution, in particular, was cited as the most common type of pollution, with an average of 41% of respondents witnessing it firsthand. The comprehensive research findings also discovered that 61% of respondents reported negative health effects due to oil pollution, highlighting a pressing need for health interventions and environmental remediation. On the biodiversity loss, 75% of respondents reported that environmental pollution has affected local biodiversity, including animals, fish, and birds. Meanwhile, on the Government Accountability, 45% of respondents do not believe their state government holds oil and gas companies accountable for environmental damage, while 76% expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government’s responsiveness to environmental concerns.   Speaking about the findings of the report, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “The call for action is clear; for oil companies and government agencies to engage more proactively with communities, protect the environment, and the people who depend on it, and pave the way for a future that is both economically and ecologically sustainable.” The report’s findings are a stark reminder of the ecological and economic sustainability challenges facing the Niger Delta region. As Suraju noted, “The ratings are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of leases in various capacities and guiding development, enhancing accountability, and informing stakeholders.” The full report of the Leadership Approval Rating is available on the HEDA website and can be downloaded here (https://hedang.org/leadership-approval-rating-impact-of-oil-and-gas-exploration-activities-in-six-oil-producing-states-in-nigeria/). It is valuable resource, offering insights that can inform discussions, policies, and decisions that shape the nation’s future.

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CategoriesClimate change

We’re Hiring: Social Media Manager/Content Creator

Job Role: Social Media Manager/Content Creator Employment Type: Full-time Job Description: We are seeking a highly creative and dynamic Corp member to join our team as a Social Media Specialist/Content Creator. This role involves managing our social media platforms, creating engaging content, and enhancing our online presence. Key Responsibilities: Manage and grow our social media presence across platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Create engaging and high-quality content for our various platforms (graphics, videos, posts, and memes). Collaborate with the Communications and social media team to develop and implement content marketing campaigns that drive the organisation’s awareness and engagement. Engage with followers and respond to inquiries. Track and analyze social media performance. Assist in managing sponsored ads to increase reach. Qualifications: ·         Excellent writing and editing skills ·         Proficiency in video editing software. ·         Strong understanding of social media management and content strategies. ·         Ability to create engaging and high quality content ·         Creative mindset with attention to detail. ·         Good communication and collaboration skills. ·         Ability to work independently. Preferred: Corps Members with relevant skills are encouraged to apply. How to Apply: Submit your resume, Social media handles, and portfolio (social media campaigns content, and videos) to humanresources@hedang.org.

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CategoriesClimate change HEDA News

We are Hiring – Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development (EJSD) Officer

POSITION OVERVIEW: We are seeking a passionate and dedicated person to join our Environmental Justice and Sustainable development team. The successful candidate will be pivotal in advancing our mission by implementing strategies, programs, and policies that address environmental injustices, food security, climate justice and promote sustainable development practices within our organisation and our partner communities. Additionally, this role will involve utilizing research and report-writing tools to support evidence-based decision-making and advocacy efforts. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Develop and implement programs and projects that promote environmental equity, access to environmental resources, and sustainable development practices such as community-based initiatives, advocacy campaigns and policy reforms. Be in charge of HEDA’s EJSD program, which involves refining and developing indicators, establishing targets, monitoring project advancement, ensuring prompt data collection, compiling and submitting periodic reports, and collaborating with project teams on all project results and outcomes. Conduct Research and analysis on environmental justice issues, including environmental health disparities, community impacts of environmental degradation and opportunities for sustainable development at local, regional, and national levels. Conduct workshops, training sessions, and educational outreach programs to raise awareness about environmental justice issues and promote sustainable practices within the organization and the community. Develop reports, publications, and other materials to communicate the organisation’s work on environmental justice and sustainable development. Develop detailed budgets and budget narratives, ensuring accuracy and alignment with proposed activities. Develop and maintain relationships with external partners, including government agencies, non-profit organisations and private sector companies to advance our organisation’s goals in environmental justice and sustainable development. Write clear, concise, and persuasive grant proposals to secure funding by tailoring proposals to meet the specific requirements and priorities of funding agencies. Represent the organisation at various stakeholder events, workshops, meetings, and conferences as may be assigned. Perform any other tasks as assigned by your line manager QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental studies, Sociology, Sustainable development, public health, or a related field. Proven experience (minimum of 3 years) working in related field. Strong understanding of environmental justice principles, food security challenges, climate justice issues, and sustainable development practices. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency in research methodologies, data analysis, proposals and report writing tools. Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Commitment to social justice, equity, and environmental sustainability. How to Apply: To apply, email your letter of interest, and current CV to humanresources@hedang.org with the subject: “Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development Officer (insert your name).” Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. No phone inquiries. HEDA Resource Centre will contact shortlisted candidates. To learn more about the HEDA Resource Centre, please visit our website: HEDA Resource Centre – Human and Environmental Development Angenda (hedang.org)

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