Activists demand gradual phase-out of fossil fuel in Nigeria, Africa

Activists yesterday demanded a rapid phase out of fossil fuel energy in Nigeria and other parts of Africa to avoid further sinking of the country into a negative loop of poverty, lack of access to social and economic opportunities.

The call was contained in a message titled, “Our future is at stake. We demand a fossil- free Africa”, to commemorate Africa Day – Afrika Vuka celebrated on May 25. People from all walks of life gathered in more than 20 African countries in their thousands, to show their support in the continual fight against fossil fuels and advocate for climate justice.

Since its origins, Africa Day has been a symbol of aspiration for self-determination against the exploitation of natural resources that has seen the continent in perpetual conflict and on the brink of a devastating climate crisis.

Participants from oil and coal affected communities including fishing and farming communities; women and youth renewable energy clubs as well as civil society actors have all taken part in various activities to send a strong message that Africa doesn’t have to rely on fossil fuels to satisfy its energy demand, but rather lead the world in the just energy transition powered by low-cost renewable resources.

The activists are calling for more African governments to follow upon the Climate Vulnerable Forum pledge made by 16 African governments in November 2016 to accelerate the transition towards an economy powered by 100 per cent renewables.According to them, despite overwhelming evidence that continued fossil fuel use is killing the planet and humans, investors appear set on enriching themselves at the expenses of billions of people.