Feature story
The workshop took place 1-2 April in Abuja, under the theme: “Understanding the United Nations Human Rights System to Strengthen International Advocacy.”
The workshop was facilitated by the WCC, alongside leaders from the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Christian Council of Nigeria, and civil society organizations from Ogoni and the broader Niger Delta region.
Most Rev. Dr Henry Ndukuba, archbishop, metropolitan, and primate of The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and WCC central committee member said: “The church stands firmly in support of human rights because they are rooted in the very essence of God’s creation.”
The workshop was designed to equip church leaders and partners from the Niger Delta, including Ogoniland, with foundational knowledge about the UN human rights system, including mechanisms for engagement and advocacy.
“WCC has done what they should do; by the grace of God, we will do what we should do,” said Ndukuba.
Participants received training on effective advocacy strategies, lobbying techniques, and safe data collection to amplify their voices at national and international levels.
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The World Council of Churches (WCC) Africa Regional Programme Office, Abuja, in collaboration with the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, convened a two-day Human Rights Training Workshop for church leaders and partners from the Niger Delta, Photo: WCC
Rt. Rev. Dr Evans Onyemara, Christian Council of Nigeria general secretary, said: “It is the role of the churches in these regions to come together and raise their voices in advocacy, and then the WCC will give you support. It is not the WCC that will take the lead. It is your problem and we should see you behave as though you want to get it solved.”
Participants deepened their awareness of the human rights implications of environmental degradation in Ogoniland and the Niger Delta, particularly the rights to health, clean water, and a safe environment.
Most Rev. Dr Benebo Fubara-Fubara Manuel, immediate past president of the Christian Council of Nigeria said: “To achieve positive results, we must consistently use our pulpits and platforms to speak out on the issues affecting Ogoniland and the entire Niger Delta. By doing so, our message will reach the right people.”
Participants were supported to create concrete action plans for post-workshop advocacy efforts aimed at achieving justice and environmental remediation.
Rev. Dr Wushishi Ibrahim Yusuf, WCC programme executive for Peacebuilding in Africa said: “As church leaders, we are called not only to preach the gospel but also to stand as watchmen and advocates for justice. The church must not be silent. If we are truly called to be salt and light in the world, then we must stand boldly against corporate greed, government negligence, and environmental injustice.”
There is growing concern over the renewed call for oil exploration in Ogoniland despite the lack of improvement in the living conditions of host communities.
Jennifer Philpot-Nissen, WCC programme executive for Human Rights and Disarmament, said: “The aim of the workshop was to bring together individuals from churches and organisations which are already engaged in advocacy and activism in their region and others who would like to get engaged, and further equip them with advocacy skills and tools to raise their voices at the local, national and global levels. WCC will continue to stand with the people of Ogoniland and the Niger Delta in their calls for justice and the remediation of their devastated environment.”
Learn more about the WCC work on "Human dignity and rights"
