On Friday, May 9, 2025, We the People inaugurated the fourth cohort of its Rights Academy at the Conference Hall, We the People, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, welcoming 22 students into the 15-week training and mentorship fellowship. The Rights Academy is focused on nurturing young activists and campaigners committed to addressing ecological crises and rights violations, particularly those stemming from oil and gas pollution, as well as the effects of climate change in the Niger Delta.

The Niger Delta has experienced significant effects from seven decades of crude oil and gas extraction. Due to extensive and careless extractive practices. More than 240,000 barrels of crude oil are spilt each year in the region, devastating the livelihoods and health of the local population. In the region, there are at least 178 active gas flare points.

However, the ecological devastation in the region has a disproportionate impact on women, who serve as primary carers, complicating their ability to support their families through farming and fishing. The operations of international oil companies have subjected them to perilously elevated levels of toxins, making their land and water unfit for use. The fourth cohort of the Academy is dedicated to enhancing the abilities and initiatives of women in the pursuit of ecological justice.

During his welcome address, Jude Edu, the Rights Academy Prefect, encouraged the participants to strive to be proactive campaigners and advocates for the environment, particularly in holding multinational oil companies accountable for their ecocide in the region.

The fourth cohort of the Rights Academy will span 15 weeks, incorporating both physical and virtual sessions along with practical campaigning activities. Professionals from diverse disciplines will lead students through a thoughtfully designed curriculum, providing the essential knowledge needed to become engaged ecological advocates.