From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Resource Justice Network (RJN) Nigeria has officially launched its 2025–2028 strategic roadmap, signaling a decisive shift from merely demanding transparency to pursuing “resource justice” as the primary vehicle for ending poverty in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.
Speaking at the RJN Strategy Launch and Partners’ Dialogue in Abuja, titled “Advancing Resource Justice in Nigeria: Towards an Ecosystem Approach,” Rev. David Ugolor emphasized that the era of focusing solely on data disclosure must evolve into an era of equity and inclusion.
Rev. Ugolor, 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, reflected on the movement’s evolution.
While the initial goal was to promote accountability through initiatives like the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), he argued that transparency is a tool, not the end goal.
“The availability of credible oil revenue data has provided vital insights into how our economy is managed.
“However, transparency alone is not enough. Resource poverty persists, and many Nigerians—particularly those in resource-rich communities—have yet to fully benefit from the country’s natural wealth”, he stated.
The new RJN strategy marks a transition toward a “broader resource justice framework.”
Ugolor expressed gratitude to the international donor community, noting that their support was the bedrock of the movement’s past successes.
As the RJN enters this new phase, he urged continued backing for the network’s fresh leadership to ensure the 2025–2028 strategy is executed effectively.
“The journey ahead will demand strong collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to the principles that have guided us so far,” Ugolor added, reaffirming his personal commitment to the cause.
The launch concluded with a call to action for civil society actors and stakeholders to move beyond the books and into the communities, ensuring that Nigeria’s vast natural resources finally translate into shared prosperity for all.
