The Ejiro and Otive Igbuzor Foundation, with support from the Global Greengrants Fund, held a research validation and sensitisation workshop at Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, today, April 11, 2025, with a focus on the impacts of gas flaring in oil-producing communities.
The workshop, themed “Advocacy Against Gas Flaring in Ughelli North LGA,” brought attention to the environmental and socio-economic consequences of gas flaring, with a particular emphasis on its damaging effects on women’s livelihoods and local biodiversity.
During the event, the lead researcher, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada, presented findings from recent assessments conducted at flow stations in Evwrerni, Eruemukohwoarien, Ogor and Orogun/Kokori. He explained that his research had documented widespread environmental degradation caused by the exploitative activities and effluent discharges of oil companies operating in these areas.
The executive director of the foundation, Monday Osasah said the workshop was organised to reinforce stakeholder commitment to environmental justice, sustainability and inclusive community development. He pointed out that advocacy grounded in solid research was critical to advancing policy reforms and protecting vulnerable populations from the adverse impacts of gas flaring.
Osasah explained that the workshop was part of the foundation’s ongoing drive to promote environmental equity and advocate for responsible extractive industry practices. He noted that fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders was essential to building momentum for meaningful action.
The event attracted key participants, including members of academia, community leaders, civil society organisations, representatives from oil companies, and officials from the ministries of oil & gas and environment. Discussions centered on the urgent need for collaborative efforts to mitigate the harmful impacts of gas flaring and hold polluters accountable.
To broaden public engagement, the foundation had earlier invited well-meaning citizens to follow the event remotely through live updates shared on the Igbuzor Foundation’s Meta page.
