Nigerian Leader Joins Global Board for Resource Justice

A Nigerian advocate who has spent years fighting for communities in oil-rich regions just earned a seat at one of the world's most influential tables for resource justice.

Tijah Bolton-Akpan, executive director of Policy Alert, now represents Anglophone West Africa on the global board of the Resource Justice Network. The coalition spans dozens of countries and pushes governments and corporations to manage natural resources transparently and equitably.

Bolton-Akpan announced the appointment last month on Facebook, sharing his excitement about shaping policies that put communities first. He joins three other African board members from Guinea, Chad, and Zimbabwe to advocate for the continent's resource-rich regions.

For years, communities sitting on top of valuable oil, gas, and minerals have watched profits flow elsewhere while dealing with environmental damage and broken promises. Bolton-Akpan's organization has been on the front lines of this fight in Nigeria's Niger Delta, demanding fiscal transparency and stronger protections for oil-producing communities.

The new board member recently called for tougher enforcement of methane rules in the Niger Delta, where gas flaring has polluted the air and water for decades. His track record of standing up to powerful interests made him the choice of Resource Justice Network members across West Africa.

The Ripple Effect

Bolton-Akpan's appointment comes as the Resource Justice Network itself transforms. The organization recently rebranded from its original name, Publish What You Pay, to better reflect its expanded mission beyond transparency into true justice for resource-rich communities.

His election signals growing recognition that African voices must lead conversations about African resources. Rather than outside organizations dictating terms, people like Bolton-Akpan who understand local realities will now help set global standards.

The network's work touches millions of people living in mining and drilling zones across Africa, Latin America, and Asia. When these communities gain fair compensation and environmental protections, entire regions can escape poverty cycles that have persisted for generations.

Bolton-Akpan thanked outgoing board members for steering the network through its transition period, particularly Vincent Egoro, the previous Africa representative. He also credited colleagues in Nigeria's chapter for their support and belief in revitalizing the country's role in the network.

Communities that have long felt powerless against extraction industries now have a champion who knows their struggles firsthand and has the global platform to demand change.