Nigeria coastal communities losing land to Atlantic Ocean due to climate change activist warns

An environmental activist in Nigeria is raising the alarm about coastal communities losing significant land to the Atlantic Ocean due to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. The warning came during a West African Climate Justice Movement gathering, where activists called for stronger regional solidarity to address climate impacts like erratic rainfall, desertification, and forced migration. The activist criticized carbon offset projects and carbon trading schemes as false solutions that allow wealthy nations to continue polluting while taking control of forests and community lands in Africa. He cited forest concession agreements in Nigeria where foreign companies have reportedly acquired large areas for carbon credits without benefiting local communities. The event also featured calls for immediate emissions reductions by historically responsible countries and a united West African response grounded in justice, equity, and sustainable development. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions between carbon market projects and local community rights in the region.