Women, Earth and Equity Workshop Propels Ecofeminist Climate Solutions in Northern Nigeria

A rising cohort of ecofeminist leaders is charting a new course for Nigeria’s response to the climate crisis. Over two days in Abuja, the Savannah Cohort of the Women, Earth and Equity (WEE) Climate Workshop brought together climate advocates, researchers, and activists from across Northern Nigeria to forge climate solutions rooted in equity, justice, and firsthand experience.

Hosted by TechHer with the support of the Ford Foundation, the workshop provided a unique environment where discussions were transformed into concrete strategies. Through targeted training, powerful storytelling, and an interactive “pitch lab,” participants developed advocacy blueprints designed to tackle systemic inequities and promote sustainable change.

At its heart, the workshop highlighted the critical link between gender inequality and the escalating effects of climate change. With modules covering ecofeminism, feminist approaches to environmental challenges, advocacy for environmental justice, and methods for resourcing this work, the program enabled participants to bridge their personal narratives with strategic, collective action.

“This workshop is important for fostering dialogue, but it serves a more vital function as a channel for redistributing power,” stated Dr. Izeduwa Derex-Briggs, Program Officer for the Ford Foundation’s Office for West Africa, in her compelling call to action that opened the event. “When young feminists and climate advocates unite their voices, we do more than just envision an inclusive future, we start constructing it, with equity and justice as its foundation.”

Speaking at the launch of the WEE Climate Workshop’s Savannah Cohort in Abuja, Gladys Omenefu, Project Lead for the Young Feminist Solidarity and Climate Project (YFSCP), stressed the critical need to bridge the gender divide in climate action. The YFSCP, supported by the Ford Foundation, empowers young ecofeminists to champion gender-inclusive climate policies and shape agendas at local and regional levels. “Ecofeminist leadership is not a future goal; it is a present reality. The Savannah Cohort proves that young activists aren’t waiting for an invitation to lead—they are pioneering climate solutions that respect communities, confront inequality, and demand justice,” she affirmed.

The transformative effect of the workshop was clear in the testimonies of attendees, who departed with a stronger sense of purpose. Praise Ebube, an Abuja-based climate activist, reflected: “I arrived believing I had a solid grasp of climate solutions, but the sessions on ecofeminism and feminist policy showed me how deeply gender justice must be integrated into every climate strategy. I am leaving with a completely new framework for creating programs and advocating for truly equitable policies.”

Another participant, Wapnen Peter from Jos, shared a similar perspective: “The session on funding feminist environmental work was a pivotal moment for me. I now understand how the politics of funding can obstruct meaningful solutions. Unless we change how resources are distributed, grassroots groups, and women in particular, will continue to be marginalised. This workshop has given me the tools to advocate for justice in both policy and its implementation.”

As the WEE Climate Workshop’s Savannah Cohort drew to a close, participants departed equipped with enhanced knowledge, practical skills, and expanded networks to champion climate justice within their communities and beyond.

“We are determined to ensure this gathering is not an isolated event,” Omenefu said, affirming the long-term vision. “It is one piece of a larger movement of young leaders committed to transforming climate justice in Nigeria from a policy talking point into a tangible reality for every citizen.” She concluded by extending her gratitude to the Ford Foundation team for their support and active presence, acknowledging their partnership as essential for amplifying young feminist voices and energising this movement for change.

Capitalising on the success of the Savannah Cohort, TechHer is now planning the Evergreen Cohort in Southern Nigeria. This forthcoming workshop will integrate key takeaways from Abuja while broadening the dialogue to address new regional challenges, guaranteeing that feminist leadership remains central to shaping climate solutions across the nation.