From: Femi Mustapha
The Resource Justice Network (RJN) Nigeria has introduced its 2025–2028 Strategy in Abuja, with Rev David Ugolor, the founding National Coordinator of Publish What You Pay Campaign Nigeria, stating that shifting to a broader resource justice framework is essential for ending resource poverty in the country.
During the RJN Strategy Launch and Partners’ Dialogue titled Advancing Resource Justice in Nigeria: Towards an Ecosystem Approach, Rev Ugolor said the new strategy marks a major shift from focusing solely on transparency to emphasizing equity, inclusion, environmental sustainability, and fair distribution of benefits.
Ugolor, also the Executive Director of the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), reminded attendees that when the Publish What You Pay campaign began in Nigeria, the goal was clear: to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen involvement in natural resource management.
“We believed then, as we do now, that Nigeria’s resource wealth, if managed properly, could form the basis for sustainable development and shared prosperity,” he told a gathering of development partners, civil society actors, and stakeholders.
He highlighted that collective efforts over the years have led to significant reforms, notably the strengthening of transparency initiatives such as the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).
One of the most impactful results, Ugolor said, has been the value that NEITI data has brought to Nigeria. “The availability of credible oil revenue data has provided vital insights into how our economy is managed. It has helped deepen public understanding, shape policy discussions, and empower citizens and institutions to demand greater accountability,” he explained.
However, he emphasized that transparency alone is not enough. Despite advances, resource poverty persists, and many Nigerians — particularly those in resource-rich communities — have yet to benefit from the country’s natural wealth fully.
“It is in this context that the transition to the Resource Justice Network Nigeria is both timely and necessary,” Ugolor said. “The shift towards a broader resource justice framework reflects a change in thinking that goes beyond transparency to prioritize equity and inclusion.”
He expressed confidence that the Resource Justice Campaign will play a crucial role in addressing resource poverty if properly executed during 2025–2028.
Ugolor took the opportunity to thank the donor community for their ongoing support and partnership over the years, describing their contributions as essential in building and maintaining the movement.
As the network begins this new phase, he urged donors to continue backing the new leadership as they guide the transition and implement the strategy.
Reaffirming his personal commitment, Ugolor said: “As a founding National Coordinator, I remain committed to supporting this campaign and contributing to its ongoing growth and impact.
The journey ahead will demand strong collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to the principles that have guided us so far.”
He praised the leadership of RJN Nigeria and all member organizations for their resilience and dedication, expressing confidence that this new chapter will strengthen collective efforts to ensure Nigeria’s natural resources genuinely benefit all citizens, especially the most vulnerable.
