Rev. David Ugolor Calls for Stronger Commitment to Resource Justice at RJN Nigeria Strategy Launch
Abuja, Nigeria.. April 22, 2026 – The Executive Director of the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) and Founding National Coordinator of the Publish What You Pay (PWYP) Campaign Nigeria, Rev. David Ugolor, has called for renewed commitment to advancing resource justice in Nigeria as a pathway to tackling persistent resource poverty and inequality.
Speaking at the Resource Justice Network Nigeria (RJN Nigeria) 2025–2028 Strategy Launch and Partners’ Dialogue in Abuja, themed “Advancing Resource Justice in Nigeria: Towards an Ecosystem Approach,” Rev. Ugolor emphasized the critical role of transparency and accountability in the management of Nigeria’s natural resources.
He highlighted the significant contributions of civil society advocacy in driving reforms in the extractive sector, particularly through mechanisms such as the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). According to him, NEITI’s work in publishing credible oil revenue data has provided valuable insight into how Nigeria’s economy is managed, while empowering citizens, policymakers, and stakeholders to demand accountability.
“Transparency has proven to be a powerful tool for national development,” he stated. “The availability of oil revenue data has deepened public discourse and strengthened oversight. However, transparency alone is not enough.”
Rev. Ugolor noted that despite progress made over the years, many Nigerians—especially those in resource-rich communities—continue to face the realities of poverty and underdevelopment. He stressed that addressing these challenges requires a broader and more inclusive approach.
He described the transition from Publish What You Pay Nigeria to the Resource Justice Network Nigeria as timely and necessary, noting that the new framework expands the focus from transparency to issues of equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
“If we are to effectively tackle the challenges of resource poverty in our country, the Resource Justice Campaign will play a pivotal role,” he said.
Rev. Ugolor also commended the donor community for its longstanding support in strengthening civil society engagement in the extractive sector. He urged development partners to continue supporting the new leadership of RJN Nigeria as it implements its 2025–2028 strategic plan.
“As the network enters this new phase, sustained partnership and collaboration will be essential to achieving meaningful impact,” he added.
He reaffirmed his personal commitment to the campaign, pledging continued support to the Resource Justice Network Nigeria in advancing its mission of ensuring that the country’s natural resources benefit all citizens, particularly marginalized communities.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including civil society organizations, development partners, and policy actors, to mark the unveiling of RJN Nigeria’s new strategic direction and to strengthen collaboration towards achieving resource justice in Nigeria.
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