Community Advocacy Campaign on Oil Extraction Risks in Nigeria's Kolmani Basin
The Kolmani River Environmental Youth Network (KolNet) has completed an advocacy initiative to educate communities in Nigeria's Bauchi and Gombe states about the environmental and health risks of new crude oil extraction. The campaign, drawing parallels to the Niger Delta, aimed to build proactive vigilance against potential oil spills, gas flaring, and water contamination. The initiative successfully engaged over 120 residents and established a youth-led environmental monitoring network.
PRESS RELEASE | AUGUST 10, 2025
Landmark Advocacy Campaign on Oil Extraction Risks Completed
Community-led action strengthens environmental vigilance across Bauchi and Gombe States.
Proactive Vigilance in a New Oil Frontier
The Kolmani River Environmental Youth Network (KolNet) has successfully completed a major advocacy initiative aimed at educating communities in the Kolmani basin. Supported by the Global Greengrants Fund, the campaign reached over 120 residents.
Launched in response to the discovery of crude oil in the region, the project addresses deep concerns regarding potential pollution, health crises, and displacement similar to the experiences documented in the Niger Delta.
Core Focus Areas
The campaign targeted four primary environmental risks associated with new oil exploration activities.
Oil Spills
Prevention of soil degradation and toxic leakages.
Gas Flaring
Monitoring air quality and health impacts.
Water Safety
Guarding against groundwater contamination.
Governance
Demanding accountability and transparency.
Campaign Impact
120+
Residents Reached
Communities across Bauchi and Gombe equipped with environmental literacy.
70+
Women Trained
Active participants in local environmental decision-making spaces.
25+
Youth Watchers
Members of the new Kolmani Youth Climate Watch Network.
"Our message to the communities was simple: prevention is far easier than remediation. We must act now so we do not repeat the mistakes of the Niger Delta."
Future Outlook
Building on the campaign's success, KolNet has outlined key priorities to sustain and expand its environmental advocacy efforts.
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Expansion of regional radio programs to reach remote areas.
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Strengthening women's leadership initiatives in local governance.
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Deepening community-led environmental monitoring across Northern Nigeria.
© 2025 KolNet. All rights reserved. Campaign supported by Global Greengrants Fund.