The Media Awareness and Justice Initiative (MAJI), a non-governmental organisation, has called on the government to leverage data in developing policies, enforcing regulations, and raising awareness on the impact of climate change. The call was made during a stakeholders’ consultation forum organised by MAJI for civil society organisations and environmentalists in Port Harcourt on Friday, July 25, 2025.
MAJI’s Executive Coordinator, Mr. Onyekachi Okoro, emphasised the importance of the forum’s theme, “Strengthening Data for Climate Action in Nigeria.”
Okoro stressed the critical role of data-driven decision-making in addressing climate challenges.
According to him, MAJI plans to collect relevant data and develop a baseline document to serve as a reference point for tracking progress.
“This baseline document will be used to engage stakeholders, build capacity, and provide technical training to improve environmental governance across the country,” he said.
He expressed concern over the poor air quality in Port Harcourt, describing it as a major health threat due to the cumulative impact of fossil fuel production, artisanal refining, and gas flaring.
Okoro also cited additional concerns such as emissions from vehicular movement and heavy machinery, which he said posed a significant risk to public health.
He urged the government to prioritise the protection of lives and livelihoods by using available data to shape effective climate policies and enforce environmental regulations.
Okoro also stressed the need for sustained public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of climate change and the importance of environmental protection.
He reaffirmed MAJI’s commitment to promoting climate justice and encouraging the use of green energy solutions. such as solar and other renewable sources, to reduce environmental impact.
Also speaking, Mr. Steve Obodoekwe, an environmentalist from the Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development, highlighted the dangers of poor air quality in the Niger Delta region.
Obodoekwe noted that while issues like land and water pollution received considerable attention, “air pollution is often overlooked, despite its severe and silent toll on human health.”
He commended MAJI for its continued efforts in advocating for clean air in Rivers, and the wider Niger Delta region.
By Precious Akutamadu