ENUGU/Nigeria: In a strategic move aimed at bolstering climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has appointed Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, an internationally recognized academic, as the Special Adviser (SA) on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development.
The appointment, announced in a statement signed by Professor Okereke and made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos, signifies the state government’s commitment to leveraging scientific expertise in tackling climate challenges.
Professor Okereke, a native of Enugu, brings a wealth of experience in climate governance, environmental policy, and international development to his new role. Renowned as one of Africa’s foremost researchers in climate justice, low-carbon development, and green economic transition, Okereke’s appointment is poised to drive impactful change in Enugu State.
With a distinguished career spanning academia and policy, Professor Okereke holds a Chair in Global Governance and Public Policy at the University of Bristol, UK, and serves as the Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Development at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Nigeria. Additionally, he holds visiting positions at esteemed institutions such as the London School of Economics and the University of Oxford.
Over the past two decades, Professor Okereke has been at the forefront of pioneering climate initiatives across Africa, collaborating with governments, businesses, and NGOs to advance climate policy and green economy transitions. Notable projects led by Okereke include the analysis of adaptation components of African Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for the African Development Bank and the development of Rwanda’s groundbreaking Green Growth and Climate Resilience Project.
In acknowledgment of his significant contributions to climate science and policy, Professor Okereke has been appointed as a Coordinating Lead Author for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group III Sixth Assessment Report. His leadership in global scientific assessment projects and networks has earned him prestigious accolades, including the recent recognition as a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences.
In response to his appointment, Professor Okereke expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to Enugu State’s climate agenda, stating, “I am very delighted to be contacted by His Excellency to be part of his transformation agenda in Enugu state to raise the climate consciousness of the state and help develop a science-based plan to reduce climate impacts in the state.”
Highlighting his proactive approach to climate action, Professor Okereke detailed ongoing initiatives, including training sessions for young climate leaders and climate education programs for schoolchildren, supported by grants and awards such as the International Visitors’ Leadership Programme (IVLP) impact award from the U.S Department of State.
The appointment of Professor Okereke underscores Enugu State’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and climate resilience, with the expectation that his expertise will significantly benefit the state during his tenure.
Secretary to the Governor of Enugu State, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, conveyed the appointment letter, emphasizing the potential positive impact of Professor Okereke’s dedication and expertise on the state’s climate agenda.
Professor Okereke’s appointment operates on a pro-bono basis, reflecting his commitment to advancing climate action for the betterment of Enugu State and its residents.
