Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, emphasized that effective policy-making is essential for achieving a just energy transition in the country.
He stated this at the GreenFaith Nigeria Multifaith and Multisectoral Forum on Nigeria’s Just Energy Transition Plan in Abuja on Thursday.
“As we move towards cleaner energy, we must avoid repeating the old pattern of development that benefits a few while burdening the poor. Nigeria’s energy transition must be seen not just as an economic agenda but as a moral and developmental responsibility. The theme of this forum, ‘Faith, Justice, and Power: Advancing an Inclusive Just Energy Transition in Nigeria,’ is both timely and urgent.”
“Energy is not a luxury. It is tied to life, health, education, work, food security, industrial growth, national stability, and human dignity,” Banjo said.
He added that Nigeria is at a critical moment requiring energy for homes, hospitals, schools, farms, industries, small businesses, and places of worship, along with jobs and investments that expand opportunities.
Banjo reiterated that Nigeria’s energy transition should be viewed as a moral and developmental duty. The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria is ready to collaborate with GreenFaith to promote environmental protection and a just energy transition.
“We call on all levels of government to develop clear, consistent, and just policies that protect affected communities, support small businesses, expand clean and affordable energy, and create decent jobs,” he said. “Such policies must ensure no part of the country is left behind in this transition.”
He urged investors, development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector to ensure renewable energy investments are guided by conscience.
“So that the new energy economy does not perpetuate old injustices in cleaner language, but promotes local capacity, affordable financing, community ownership, skill development, transparency, and accountability,” Banjo added.
He emphasized that environmental responsibility extends beyond governments and institutions to individual citizens. Banjo urged Nigerians to adopt eco-friendly habits such as proper waste disposal, water conservation, and reducing plastic and paper waste.
He called for planting trees, keeping drainages clear, and preventing waterways from being blocked by waste or illegal structures.
“We must keep our markets, schools, churches, mosques, motor parks, and public spaces clean, avoid littering, provide waste bins, and maintain their surroundings,” he said. “Such efforts help keep these places free from pollution and blocked drainage, protecting public health and the environment.”
Banjo noted that the presence of GreenFaith Africa members highlights that climate and energy issues are global, not just national concerns.
He also said development should be measured not only by economic growth but by how well societies protect vulnerable populations affected by energy poverty and climate change.
Citing biblical teachings, Banjo reminded that creation is a sacred trust given to humans for responsible care and stewardship.
He highlighted environmental challenges across Nigeria, including oil pollution in the Niger Delta, desertification in the North, erosion in the South-East, and flooding in riverine communities, showing that environmental degradation directly impacts human dignity, livelihoods, and security.
Banjo praised GreenFaith Africa, GreenFaith Nigeria, and the Kukah Centre for their efforts in promoting climate justice and interfaith collaboration.
Sheikh Ibrahim Lithome, a Muslim scholar and Chairman of GreenFaith Africa, said the organization unites people of different faiths to promote climate justice.
“We know that our actions, selfishness, and activities have polluted the environment,” he said. “Religious teachings should guide our efforts to address environmental challenges and energy transition.”
Mr. Seyifunmi Adebote, Communication and Promotion Officer at the Embassy of Sweden, also urged religious leaders to raise awareness among their followers about environmental protection.
