Environmental stakeholders have called for enhanced public awareness on carbon offsetting and climate action, particularly within communities in the Niger Delta, where environmental degradation from harmful human activities remains a growing concern.
The call was made during a one-day multi-stakeholder dialogue on carbon offsetting, organised by Search for Common Ground in Asaba, Delta State.
The event brought together experts, government officials, civil society actors, and community representatives to explore collaborative solutions to carbon emissions and climate-related challenges in the region.
The dialogue is part of an 18-month EU-funded project titled “A Community-Centred Approach to Transforming Criminality and Violence in the Niger Delta”, currently being implemented in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States by a consortium led by Search for Common Ground.
Speaking with journalists at the event, Mr. Joshua Chorbe, Program Manager for the project, stressed the urgent need to equip local communities with knowledge on carbon credits and offset opportunities.
“This dialogue is aimed at raising awareness on carbon offset opportunities and fostering discussions on how communities can benefit from these mechanisms,” Chorbe stated.
“Beyond gas flaring, there are everyday practices, like open burning and poor waste management, that contribute to carbon emissions. We want communities to understand their role in both the problem and the solution.”
Also speaking, Professor Iwebgue Chukwujindu Maxwell, Director of the Advanced Research Centre at Delta State University, Abraka, highlighted the various sources of carbon emissions from daily activities.
“From our cooking systems to how we dispose of waste, carbon is released into the atmosphere. Burning refuse, vehicle emissions, and of course, gas flaring, these all compound the climate crisis,” he said.
“Everyone must take responsibility for protecting the environment.”
Apostle Godsflag Agbon, a retired environmental health director and community member from Burutu, underscored the health implications of unchecked emissions.
“Carbon emissions are affecting our air, water, and skin,” he said. “This dialogue is enlightening, and I urge Search for Common Ground to continue the advocacy and partner with government to sustain community outreach.”
Representing the Delta State Government, Mrs. Vivian Douye Briggs, Director of Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment, emphasized the role of public policy and inter-governmental collaboration in enabling carbon markets.
“Delta State is committed to climate action. Last year, the Governor signed an MoU with a UK-based firm to initiate a mangrove restoration and seagrass project.
“This will not only conserve the environment but also generate carbon credits for sale in the global market, bringing economic benefits to the state,” she explained.
Stakeholders at the dialogue collectively agreed that a multi-sectoral and community-led approach is essential to reducing emissions, promoting sustainable practices, and unlocking the economic potential of carbon offset initiatives in the Niger Delta.
