29/06/2026
A Journey of Learning, Unlearning and Reimagining Climate Action: Reflections from School of Ecology 2026
Last month in Benin City, Edo State, our Director of Programs, Mr. Abraham Jeremiah Ritji Kassem, had the privilege of participating in the School of Ecology 2026 organized by the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF).
The journey from Northern Nigeria to Edo was not just a trip; it was an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the systems shaping our environmental realities and connect with other climate justice advocates.
Through powerful sessions and conversations, we explored critical themes including climate justice, extractivism, commodification of nature, environmental governance, neocolonialism, hunger politics, African environmentalism, agroecology, and sustainable alternatives.
One major lesson was that climate change is not only about the environment; it is about people, power, policies, livelihoods, and the way we define development.
The School of Ecology challenged us to ask:
๐ฑ If development destroys ecosystems and communities, can it truly be called development?
๐ฑ How do we move from seeing nature as a commodity to protecting it as the foundation of life?
๐ฑ How do we ensure communities most affected by climate change are not only heard but empowered to lead solutions?
The sessions on African environmentalism and agroecology strengthened our belief in local knowledge, sustainable food systems, and community-led solutions.
This experience reinforces FDIโs commitment to advancing climate action in Northern Nigeria through climate awareness, agroecology, sustainable waste management, youth leadership, and gender-inclusive solutions.
We sincerely appreciate HOMEF, Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, Dr. Mfoniso, faculty members, and all speakers for creating a transformative learning space.
The knowledge gained will continue beyond the classroom.
We look forward to our upcoming step-down training, where we will share these lessons and strengthen climate conversations within our communities.
Climate justice begins with learning, questioning, and taking action.