Empowering Ogoni Youth for Climate Action and Sustainable Development

OGONI SPEAKS AT THE UNITED NATIONS! “The fight for Ogoni rights is a fight for existence.” These were the stirring words of our Founder and Chairperson, Nwanam Gold Sorbari, who stood tall yesterday at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, addressing the global gathering at the 24th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII). Gold didn’t just speak—she carried the voice, pain, and hope of the Ogoni people, a people who have long endured the bitter consequences of oil exploitation on their ancestral lands. “Pollution has contaminated our rivers and farmyards, undermined our livelihoods, and robbed us of our dignity. We demanded accountability… but the devastation remains. Now, the government wants to reopen these wounds with another round of exploitation and empty promises.” Her words were not rehearsed. They came from the heart of a young woman born into a land still reeling from decades of environmental destruction. A land where rivers no longer run clean, where the soil no longer yields freely, and where voices for justice have been met with violence and silence.

Gold didn’t stop at painting a picture of suffering. She called the world to action:

🟣 To invest in the restoration and cleanup of Ogoni land

🟣 To protect the rights and safety of Indigenous human rights defenders—especially women and youth

🟣 To recognize and respect our right to self-determination, our sacred connection to land, and our cultural identity.

“I am here not just as an advocate but as a daughter of Ogoni. Young women like me are rising—not with weapons, but with our voices, our stories, and our truth. We deserve a seat at the table.” Gold’s presence at the Forum is historic—not just for OYACAS, but for all Indigenous youth who continue to raise their voices in the face of oppression, neglect, and danger. This moment is not about recognition alone. It’s about renewed commitment, about global solidarity, and most of all, about dignity. We are immensely proud of our Chairperson and the courage she displayed on that world stage. Her words echo far beyond the UN halls—they echo through the mangroves of Ogoni, across the polluted creeks, and in the hearts of every young person who dares to dream of justice. This is OYACAS. This is Ogoni. This is the fight for survival, identity, and hope. 🕊️ Together, we rise.

Summary: Gold Sorbari addressed the UN, highlighting environmental degradation, advocating for Ogoni rights, and calling for international support.

"Distinguished colleagues and representatives, I speak on behalf of the Ogoni youth and our people. Our ancestral lands have suffered severe environmental damage from decades of oil exploitation, affecting our health, livelihoods, and culture. As Indigenous peoples, our right to self-determination is sacred. We call on the international community to recognize the urgent need for environmental restoration, protection of Indigenous human rights, and empowerment of our youth to participate in decision-making. It is only through collaboration, transparency, and commitment that we can restore dignity to affected communities and ensure that Indigenous voices are not ignored."

Summary: Gold represented OYACAS in Geneva, emphasizing Ogoni land restoration, Indigenous self-determination, and youth empowerment.

Today, another black day for a black man. I still remember the silence and a loud cry of blood that followed. The Ogoni Nine, brave souls who stood firm in the face of adversity to protect their land, their people, and our future. Their sacrifice was a testament to their unwavering commitment to justice, environmental preservation, and human dignity. Their only crime was speaking out against the environmental destruction caused by oil exploitation and for demanding the rights of their community. Their voices echoed the pain of a land desecrated and a people oppressed, inspiring countless Ogoni men and women to stand up for what is right. They were not thieves or killers that should be pardoned. They should be EXONERATED. As we honor their memory and reaffirm our resolve to continue their fight for justice and environmental integrity. Their legacy reminds us that one person's courage can ignite change and that silence in the face of injustice is a betrayal of their sacrifice. Let us carry forward their spirit of resilience, justice, and unwavering hope. May their souls rest in peace, and may their sacrifice continue to inspire us all to work tirelessly for a better, fairer world. Gbene Ogoni : Bue Ka Gbene Ogoni : Bue Zor Gbene Ogoni : Ka a le ne Bari

Summary: A tribute to the Ogoni Nine, honoring their sacrifice, highlighting the injustice they faced, and reaffirming OYACAS’s commitment.

As we continue to speak out against a grave issue that continues to haunt our society child molestation and the tragic loss of innocent lives. These acts are not just crimes; they are a betrayal of our humanity and a violation of our children’s rights. We have seen heart-wrenching cases like that of Ochanya, a young girl whose life was cut short after enduring unimaginable abuse. Her story is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. Ochanya’s case highlights the devastating impact of child molestation not only on the victims but also on their families and communities. It is crucial that we recognize the seriousness of this crime and work together to put an end to it. Every child deserves to grow up in an environment of safety, love, and care. No child should suffer at the hands of those who are supposed to protect them. Society must be vigilant, report abuse, and support survivors. Laws must be enforced firmly to punish perpetrators and serve as a deterrent. Education on child protection should be integrated into our communities to raise awareness and prevent future cases. We need to foster a culture of zero tolerance towards abuse. Our children are our future, and we owe it to them to create a society where they can thrive free from fear and harm. Ochanya’s story, while tragic, must serve as a catalyst for change. Let us pledge to protect our children, to speak out against injustice, and to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. Together, we can build a safer, more compassionate society where every child’s life is valued and protected.

Summary: OYACAS condemned child abuse, called for law enforcement, and emphasized child protection in communities.

Today marks the 14th anniversary of the UNEP report on Ogoni Land, a pivotal moment in our journey for environmental justice. This report unveiled the devastating impact of oil pollution and ecological degradation on Ogoni’s people and land, shining a global spotlight on their plight. It reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect vulnerable communities and preserve our environment. Let us renew our commitment to sustainable development, environmental accountability, and human dignity. Together, we can ensure that Ogoni’s voice is heard and that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier world. Gbene Ogoni - Bue Ka Gbene Ogoni - Bue Zor Gbene Ogoni- Ka a le ne Bari Nwanam Gold Sorbari Founder, OYACAS

Summary: Gold emphasized environmental restoration, sustainable development, and accountability for Ogoni communities.

"The incursion of herdsmen into Ogoniland poses severe threats to our environment, farmlands, and communities. This is not just a security issue—it is an environmental crisis. Our rivers, soil, and crops are at risk, and the livelihoods of our people are under threat. We urge government authorities and community leaders to take immediate measures to mitigate these impacts. As Ogoni youth, we will continue to raise awareness, monitor the situation, and protect our land and cultural heritage. Collaboration and vigilance are key to preserving our future."

Summary: Gold and King Suanu addressed environmental and agricultural impacts of herdsmen incursions.

FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF TRUSTEES, GOLD NWANAM SORBARI, LED DELEGATION TO GREEN AFRICA SEMINAR IN DELTA STATE, 2022. The Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ogoni Youth Alliance for Climate Change and Sustainable Development (OYACAS), Nwanam Gold Sorbari, proudly led a delegation to the Green Africa Seminar held in Delta State in 2022. The seminar brought together leaders, stakeholders, and advocates from across the region to discuss critical issues surrounding climate change, environmental sustainability, and the path toward a greener Africa. The OYACAS delegation actively participated in discussions, showcasing our commitment to addressing climate challenges and fostering sustainable development in Ogoni and beyond. This stands as a pointer to our mission to lead the charge in climate action and sustainable development. Together, we continue to amplify the voice of Ogoni youth on platforms that matter!

Summary: OYACAS delegation shared insights at the seminar, highlighting Ogoni youth leadership in climate action.

OYACAS DELEGATION PARTICIPATED IN THE CLIMATE INVESTMENT FUNDS AFRICA REGION STAKEHOLDERS DIALOGUE WORKSHOP, GHANA. Nwanam Gold Sorbari , representing the Ogoni Youth Alliance for Climate Action and Sustainability (OYACAS), participated in the Africa Region Stakeholder Dialogue Workshop on Climate Investment Funds (CIF) held in Accra, Ghana, from October 31 to November 1, 2019. This two-day consultation and capacity-building workshop brought together stakeholders from across the region to engage in critical discussions on climate finance and action. The event provided a platform to share insights, build partnerships, and enhance the capacity of stakeholders to address pressing climate challenges. OYACAS representative actively contributed to discussions, reaffirming our commitment to fostering sustainable solutions and amplifying the voice of Ogoni youth in regional and global climate dialogues. This underscored OYACAS’s resolve to remain at the forefront of climate advocacy, capacity building, and sustainability initiatives in Africa and beyond.

Summary: Gold highlighted youth participation in climate finance dialogues, stressing local leadership and sustainable solutions.