By Abbas Nazil
The Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria has called for a just and inclusive energy transition that protects vulnerable communities and ensures environmental sustainability as the country moves toward cleaner energy sources.
Speaking at the GreenFaith Nigeria Multifaith and Multisectoral Forum on Nigeria’s Just Energy Transition Plan in Abuja, Fr. Michael Banjo warned against development models that prioritize profit and economic growth while neglecting poor and marginalized populations.
He stressed that Nigeria’s energy transition must be guided by justice, stewardship, and respect for human dignity rather than focusing only on investment figures and industrial expansion.
According to the Catholic priest, energy access is closely connected to healthcare, education, food security, employment, industrial development, national stability and the general wellbeing of citizens.
Fr. Banjo said the future of Nigeria should not be shaped solely by economic indicators but by how society treats vulnerable people affected by energy poverty and climate change.
He noted that communities already suffering from environmental destruction, displacement and poor living conditions must not be excluded from the benefits of renewable energy development.
Reflecting on the forum’s theme, “Faith, Justice, and Power: Advancing an Inclusive Just Energy Transition in Nigeria,” he described care for the environment as a sacred responsibility rooted in religious teachings and moral obligations.
Quoting the Book of Genesis, Fr. Banjo explained that humanity has been entrusted with the duty to both develop and protect the earth responsibly.
He said human progress, innovation and industrial activities must remain guided by justice, restraint and respect for creation.
The Catholic leader also referenced the late Pope Francis’ encyclical *Laudato Si’*, which describes the earth as “our common home” and calls for environmental protection and social justice.
Fr. Banjo warned that natural resources meant for all people should not be exploited for the benefit of a privileged minority.
He expressed concern over worsening environmental challenges across Nigeria, including oil pollution and gas flaring in the Niger Delta, desertification in northern communities, gully erosion in the South-East and recurring flooding in Kogi and Benue states.
According to him, environmental degradation and climate change are contributing to poverty, migration, insecurity, displacement and public health problems in many parts of the country.
He stated that damage to the environment ultimately harms human dignity and weakens the wellbeing of communities.
Describing the current period as a critical moment for Nigeria, Fr. Banjo acknowledged the urgent need for reliable energy to power homes, schools, hospitals, farms and industries.
However, he cautioned that the country must avoid repeating past development patterns that enriched a few individuals while leaving many citizens behind.
The priest called on governments at all levels to create fair and consistent policies that support clean and affordable energy, protect affected communities and create decent jobs for Nigerians.
He also urged investors, financial institutions and development partners to ensure renewable energy projects remain ethical, transparent and community-centered.
Fr. Banjo warned that the emerging clean energy economy must not reproduce old inequalities under a different name.
Beyond government action, he encouraged ordinary Nigerians to contribute to environmental protection through responsible habits such as proper waste disposal, recycling, water conservation, tree planting and maintaining clean surroundings.
He praised GreenFaith Africa, GreenFaith Nigeria and the Kukah Centre for promoting climate justice, renewable energy awareness and interfaith cooperation on environmental issues.
Fr. Banjo reaffirmed the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria’s commitment to supporting initiatives that protect the environment, uplift poor communities and promote a fair energy transition across the country.
He concluded by praying for wisdom, courage and unity as Nigeria works toward addressing its environmental and energy challenges.
