In a bid to support a post-extractive future for Owukpa women, whose peaceful efforts led to the halting of environmentally destructive coal mining activities in their community in 2021, Yes to Life, No to Mining (YLNM)—a global solidarity network for Indigenous Peoples, impacted communities, and local organisations advocating for the right to say “No” to mining—partnered with Eco Defenders Network to distribute multi-functional solar power systems to about 40 women.
The event in Owukpa was met with great enthusiasm. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for this initiative, which will help address their energy needs at home and in their businesses.
Speaking at the event, Shehu Akowe of Eco Defenders Network, representing YLNM, emphasized that this gesture calls on the government and well-meaning Nigerians to advocate for ecologically and socially just energy alternatives. He noted the support of energy systems that value diverse ways of life and protect the land, air, and water on which everyone depends.
Akowe further stated that Nigeria’s vast solar and wind potential should be harnessed to create clean energy alternatives to coal. “Embracing these technologies will help move us beyond the violent and harmful practice of extraction, which assumes the Earth has no limits, and instead provide communities with clean energy systems.”
In response, two beneficiaries, Mrs. A.A. Cecilia and Mrs. G. Enenche, expressed their gratitude, acknowledging that this gesture would help address the long-standing issue of energy deficiency in Owukpa. They thanked the organization for the solar-powered systems, affirming that the new lights would improve their homes and businesses. They also urged the government to embrace solar energy as a viable alternative to their community’s ongoing energy access challenges.
Madam Julie Ooja, a community environmental mobilizer and member of Owukpa who has long supported her fellow women in their fight for a cleaner environment, also expressed her appreciation to YLNM for supporting Owukpa’s women. She reiterated that the women would continue to advocate for the closure of the coal mine while also calling for the development of better infrastructure, including improved roads, schools, functional hospitals, and access to clean, portable water and reliable electricity.
Shehu Akowe emphasized the importance of unity in advocating for life-sustaining, post-extractive futures that respect human dignity and environmental integrity.
