Connected Advocacy has held a media-community dialogue to strengthen local media reportage on renewable energy access as a just transition in Nigeria’s extractive sector reforms in the oil-rich Bayelsa state.
A major component of the dialogue was to chart a future for energy access in Nigeria.
Over 30 journalists, community leaders, advocates, and storytellers attended the dialogue on January 30.
The event provided a platform for local journalists to not only enhance their capacity to report on energy reforms but also to engage with community leaders and policymakers to ensure that vulnerable communities, heavily impacted by oil, gas and coal extraction, are included in the ongoing transition to renewable energy.
In his address of welcome, the Convener of the Dialogue, Prince Israel Orekha, said that the central vision of the event is to empower journalists and advocates to become champions of a just energy transition through compelling storytelling and data-driven journalism.
Orekha emphasised the role of local media in Nigeria’s just transition, adding that journalists have a responsibility not only to report on issues but to advocate for change that align with the needs of vulnerable communities.
He underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing between media professionals and community leaders with the ultimate goal of ensuring that Nigeria’s energy transition is inclusive and equitable for all, particularly the communities directly impacted by fossil fuel and coal extraction.
He urged journalists to leverage their platforms, especially social media, to tell stories that advocate for change.
The executive director also encouraged journalists to use their personal social media pages to share stories, highlight successes, and raise awareness about the importance of renewable energy access for affected communities.
He emphasized the power of social media to connect with younger audiences and spark conversations that could lead to tangible action.
Also, Mr Tonye Yemoleigha, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Bayelsa Chapter, highlighted the need for storytelling that would help drive sustainable renewable energy implementation at the community level.
He called for a closer look at the importance of nature based solutions, green skills, and green jobs together with the economic benefits that it would bring.
Also, Grace M. Orunieyefa, Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ), Bayelsa Chapter, underscored the imperative of media engagement with the local community.
In his keynote address, Godson Jim-Dorgu, Executive Director, Environmental Health and Safety Network, Bayelsa, provided a deep understanding into the intersection of storytelling and data-driven journalism.
Titled: “The Imperative of Storytelling and Data-Driven Journalism in Advocating for a Just Transition to Renewable Energy in the Niger Delta: Bridging Narratives and Data for Sustainable Change”, Jim-Dorgu made a compelling case for the power of stories in driving social change.
He highlighted the importance of using data alongside personal stories to create a holistic narrative that resonates with both the human experiences of affected communities and the facts that support the need for renewable energy solutions.
He stressed that journalists should leverage data to back up the stories shared by communities, creating a powerful combination that could shape public opinion and policy decisions.
Jim-Dorgu also discussed the concept of energy democracy—ensuring that all communities, especially those impacted by oil extraction, have a voice in the energy transition process.
Through data-driven journalism, he encouraged journalists to advocate for inclusive energy reforms that would not only address environmental degradation but also improve social and economic conditions in affected regions.
Participants at the dialogue explored how journalists could amplify the voices of communities affected by fossil fuel extraction, ensuring that their stories are told with authenticity and respect.
Newsmen reports that Journalists left the dialogue equipped with new knowledge, strategies, and connections to begin advocating for a just transition in their communities.
They understood that the role of the media in energy transition is not just about reporting on issues—it’s about shaping the future.
The dialogue concluded with the following recommendations:
“Local media outlets should continue to emphasize the positive impacts of transitioning to renewable energy, focusing on the social and economic benefits for vulnerable communities.
“Collaboration between media outlets, NGOs, and community organizations should be strengthened to ensure a unified voice in advocating for a just energy transition.
“Journalists should actively use social media platforms to amplify community voices, share compelling narratives, and engage the public in conversations about the energy transition.
“Data-driven journalism should continue to play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy in reporting and advocating for sustainable energy solutions.”
