Our Power, Our Planet:ANEEJ Calls for Urgent Renewable Energy Transition and Environmental Action on Earth Day 2026

BENIN CITY, NIGERIA. April 22, 2026 – The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) joins the global community in commemorating Earth Day 2026, themed “Our Power, Our Planet,” with a renewed call for urgent climate action, environmental stewardship, and accelerated transition to renewable energy in Nigeria.

Speaking on the significance of this year’s theme, the Executive Director of ANEEJ, Rev. David Ugolor, emphasized that “the theme reminds us that the responsibility to protect our environment is collective. Citizens, communities, governments, and institutions all have a role to play in driving sustainable energy solutions and confronting the realities of climate change.” He further noted that “transitioning to renewable energy is no longer optional, it is a practical necessity for achieving energy security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.”

Against the backdrop of persistent challenges in Nigeria’s power sector, including inadequate generation, unreliable distribution, and heavy dependence on fossil fuels, ANEEJ stressed the urgency of embracing cleaner energy alternatives. According to Ugolor, “solar, wind, and other renewable energy solutions present viable pathways to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, expand access to electricity, and drive inclusive economic growth without compromising the environment.”

Reaffirming ANEEJ’s long-standing commitment to environmental justice, Ugolor highlighted the organization’s impactful work in the Niger Delta: “for years, ANEEJ has stood with affected communities to challenge gas flaring and oil spills that have devastated livelihoods, polluted ecosystems, and contributed to climate change. Our advocacy has consistently pushed for stronger regulatory enforcement and greater accountability in the oil and gas sector.”

He added that “these efforts are not just about policy; they are about amplifying the voices of communities and ensuring that environmental governance reflects the realities on the ground.”

In alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action), ANEEJ continues to implement practical, community-driven initiatives to address environmental challenges such as flooding, deforestation, and poor waste management.

As part of activities marking Earth Day 2026, ANEEJ will carry out a community-based tree planting exercise across selected locations. The initiative will include the planting of African Mahogany seedlings donated by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission at COP28 in Dubai (2023), contributing to climate resilience, improved air quality, and ecosystem restoration.

Highlighting the importance of sustained action, Ugolor stated: “environmental protection must go beyond awareness, it requires consistent, practical steps. Tree planting, proper waste management, and a deliberate shift toward renewable energy are essential actions for building resilient communities.”

Reiterating the organization’s core message, Ugolor concluded:

“Protecting the Earth is not a one-day event but a continuous responsibility. From our advocacy in the Niger Delta to our community-based interventions, ANEEJ remains committed to driving practical solutions that empower citizens and safeguard our environment.”

ANEEJ calls on government institutions, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and citizens to intensify collaborative efforts toward environmental sustainability. Achieving climate goals requires deliberate action, shared responsibility, and long-term commitment.

As Nigeria commemorates Earth Day 2026, ANEEJ urges all citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices and embrace renewable energy as a viable solution to the nation’s power challenges. Together, we can build resilient communities and secure a sustainable future for all

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