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Bayelsa Media Dialogue Champions Renewable Energy Advocacy

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By Eunice Nnachi

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – A media-community dialogue hosted by Connected Advocacy at the Ebis Hotel in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, highlighted the critical role of local media in promoting renewable energy access amid Nigeria’s ongoing extractive sector reforms.

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The weekend event, “Strengthening Local Media Reportage on Renewable Energy Access as a Just Transition in Nigeria’s Extractive Sector Reforms,” drew over 30 journalists, community leaders, and advocates.

The dialogue emphasised the importance of a “just energy transition,” which places communities affected by fossil fuel extraction at the centre of energy reform narratives.

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The convener, Prince Israel Orekha, emphasised journalists’ responsibility to advocate for change that benefits vulnerable communities, citing the power of compelling storytelling and data-driven journalism to drive social change.

Keynote speaker Godson Jim-Dorgu emphasised this point, claiming that combining personal narratives with factual data results in powerful stories that resonate with policymakers and the general public.

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He emphasised the need for inclusive energy reforms that prioritise the voices of communities affected by oil extraction.

Participants engaged in group discussions to brainstorm ideas for improving media coverage of energy transitions.

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Key takeaways included the value of collaborative storytelling, using social media to amplify community voices, and sharing authentic stories that reflect the realities of those most affected by fossil fuel extraction.

Mr. Tonye Yemoleigha, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Bayelsa Chapter, emphasised the importance of storytelling in driving sustainable renewable energy implementation at the community level, drawing on lessons learnt from previous ecological practices.

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.Mrs. Grace M. Orumieyefa, Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists Bayelsa Chapter, emphasised the significance of direct media engagement with communities in ensuring accurate representation of local realities regarding renewable energy access.

Orekha concluded the event by urging attendees to use their platforms to advocate for renewable energy access and engage younger audiences via social media.

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The dialogue provided an important platform for media outlets, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and community leaders to collaborate on promoting renewable energy democracy in Bayelsa State and beyond.

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