The Enugu State Government has launched a climate policy and action plan to combat threats posed by climate change in the state.
The launch held on Monday in Enugu was titled: “Enugu State Climate Policy, Climate Action Plan, and Climate Education Manual for Schools.
It aims to provide a comprehensive framework to mainstream climate change action in the state
Speaking at the event, Gov. Peter Mbah reiterated his administration’s determination to ensure that environmental best standards are observed to address climate change issues.
He said since the climate issues remained real, there is need to develop a comprehensive solution.
Mbah, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr Ifeanyi Ossai, commended the development partners that helped in actualising the climate action place and policy.
He also said the climate manual for students was important to create awareness on the dangers of climate change and need to protect their environment.
“For us to channel their intellectual level to productivity and growth, we must provide enabling environment, basic infrastructure to drive that growth and development.
“We have to do that on responsible and environmentally friendly way, and this is why this manual is critically important to us as a government,” Mbah said.
He thanked the Africa Climate Foundation (ACF) and University of Bristol for their support.
The governor further advocated for attitudinal change from deforestation to forestation to mitigate effects of climate change.
He said the state government and lawmakers would work together to enact a law prohibiting illegal felling of trees.
The State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu described the event as a bold step toward securing a sustainable and Climate-resilient future for the state.
He said that climate change had become a global challenge which had consequential impact on livelihoods and ecosystems .
” It distorts national and sub- national socio-economic values and activities.
“The state’s new climate policy presents a comprehensive roadmap for integrating sustainability into every sector of the economy.
“It is a strategic framework designed to drive green investments, create thousands of jobs, and position Enugu as a leader in Nigeria’s low-carbon transition,” Ugwu said.
The Special Adviser to the governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke said Climate Smart Agriculture remained one of the ways to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change.
The Secretary to the Enugu state Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, added that the government will inaugurate an implementing committee to execute the actions.
Also speaking, the Chief Field Officer, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Enugu, Mrs Juliet Chiluwe commended the state for its Smart Green School and the climate action and policy.
“One of our mandates is to ensure that children attain rights in all circumstances and context.
“So UNICEF is a critical member of the table to ensure social protection of child rights in alliance with the climate change,” she said.
NAN
