Norway congratulates 2012 Rafto Prize winner

Norway congratulates Nnimmo Bassey from Nigeria on the award of the 2012 Rafto Prize. 

“The prize is recognition of Nnimmo Bassey’s tireless efforts to raise awareness of the human rights dimensions of the challenges we face in relation to climate change and the environment,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide. 

It was announced today that the 2012 Rafto Prize has been awarded to Nnimmo Bassey from Nigeria. Mr Bassey is Chair of the Executive Committee of Friends of the Earth International. In its announcement, the Board of the Rafto Foundation emphasised Mr Bassey’s long-term fight for people’s right to life, health, food and water in a world affected by complex and threatening climate change and large-scale environmental degradation. 

“We hope this award will inspire further efforts to combat pollution caused by oil companies in the Niger Delta. Mr Bassey has himself experienced political oppression and knows all too well that for most people the fight for the environment goes hand in hand with the fight for political power,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Holmås. 

In its decision, the Rafto Foundation highlighted the long-standing support Mr Bassey has given to local communities in their fight for their rights.