Formed January 22, 2020, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has been a vocal advocate for citizens’ rights and environmental justice in Nigeria. Since its inception, the organization has championed various causes, including public health, environmental protection, and corporate accountability.
Founder and Executive Director of CAPPA, Akinbode Oluwafemi, emphasizes that the organisation’s mission is to nurture movements of African communities working together to demand democratic resource governance, inclusive participation in development, and accountability for corporate and state abuses.
CAPPA’s achievements are a testament to its commitment to promoting public health and environmental justice. This is an organization that has advocated for policies to reduce salt intake and tobacco consumption, and has urged the government to increase funding for tobacco control initiatives.
Oluwafemi has always advocated that, “festive seasons should not come with hidden health costs. Nigeria must reclaim its public spaces, regulate its food environment, and place public health above corporate profit.”
CAPPA’s report, “Unhealthy Food Hijack of Festive Periods in Nigeria,” exposed how food and beverage companies exploit festive periods to promote unhealthy products, contributing to Nigeria’s rising non-communicable disease crisis.
The organization has also been a strong advocate for environmental justice, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where oil extraction has devastated local communities. CAPPA has condemned Shell’s plans to sell its onshore subsidiary, citing concerns over environmental degradation and human rights abuses. Oluwafemi emphasized the need for stronger regulations and community consent in extractive industries.
As outcome for its unwavering efforts , there has been increased awareness and action on issues such as climate change, water justice, and environmental pollution. The organization’s campaigns, including “Junk On Our Plates” and “Big Debts Big Thirst,” have highlighted the need for corporate accountability and public participation in governance.
As Oluwafemi noted, “There is no just transition if communities do not share in its gains.” CAPPA’s work serves as a model for other organizations working towards a more just and equitable society.
But even despite its achievements, CAPPA faces obstacles, including shrinking civic space and limited resources.
However, the organization’s commitment to promoting citizens’ rights and environmental justice remains unwavering. As Nigeria continues to grapple with environmental degradation, public health challenges, and corporate impunity, CAPPA’s work is more relevant than ever.
CAPPA’s impact extends beyond Nigeria, serving as a beacon for other African countries navigating similar challenges. The organization’s efforts demonstrate that collective action and public participation can lead to meaningful change.
As Nigeria looks towards a more sustainable future, CAPPA’s voice will undoubtedly remain a crucial part of the conversation.
Its initiatives have inspired a new generation of activists and community leaders, ensuring that the fight for citizens’ rights and environmental justice continues.
CAPPA’s work attests to the power of advocacy and the importance of holding corporations and governments accountable.
As Oluwafemi aptly put it, “The struggle for justice is a collective responsibility, and CAPPA remains committed to playing its part.”
Source: The Kirijitimes
