Niger Delta Communities Demand Ecological Restoration

Oil-producing host communities in the Niger Delta have urged for full ecological restoration of degraded lands and waterways to combat environmental damage and health issues. This call was made during a community network and assembly dialogue organized by Oilwatch International in Port Harcourt.

Mr. Kentebe Ebiarider, the coordinator of Oilwatch International and Programme Manager at Environmental Rights Action, stated that the dialogue marked a shift towards practical ecological restoration. The theme was “From Environmental Damage to Ecological Restoration: The Role of Host Communities in Reclaiming their Land.” Ebiarider emphasized the need for greater focus on restoring ecosystems and livelihoods, moving beyond merely documenting pollution incidents.

Mr. Alagoa Morris, Chief Operating Officer of ECARD, highlighted over 20 years of community-led monitoring of environmental issues. Participants, including Mr. George Ibiso from Bille Kingdom, reported severe health challenges linked to gas leakage, which has polluted water and air quality, affecting fishing and farming activities.