ENUGU/Nigeria: International climate expert and prominent advocate for climate action in Nigeria, Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, has taken a pivotal step in combating climate change by spearheading a climate education and tree planting initiative in Enugu State.
The project, organized as part of the International Visitors’ Leadership Programme (IVLP) impact award granted to Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, witnessed the planting of 35 ornamental trees along the route from P&T Bus Stop to Ziks Avenue.
The primary objectives of this initiative are to raise awareness about the perils of climate change and urban air pollution while highlighting the positive role of urban greening in addressing these challenges. The Honorable Commissioner for Environment in Enugu State, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Environment, Mr. Albert Obiora Ekete, officially inaugurated the tree planting campaign.
The event was attended by 24 young leaders, along with dedicated staff from the State Ministry of Environment, CEO of Eco-cyclers, Ms. Oge Nwonye, a member of the State Government Palliative Team, Mr. Basil Ojengwa, and numerous volunteers. These young leaders were carefully selected from a pool of over 4,000 applicants to undergo training on essential topics such as climate change science, urban air pollution, and climate advocacy. The goal is to empower them to become active citizens and effective agents of change in promoting climate action.
Under the guidance of the State Ministry of Environment’s staff and the Permanent Secretary, each participant planted an ornamental tree (Green Ficus) as part of the campaign. An agreement with the State Ministry of Environment ensures the trees will receive proper care to ensure their survival and growth.
Professor Okereke emphasized the symbolic significance of the trees, describing them as a profound commitment to combatting air pollution and climate change, which have long plagued the state. He highlighted that these trees serve as silent sentinels, poised to purify the air, mitigate climate change effects, and restore the local ecosystem’s balance.
Professor Okereke expressed gratitude to the Honorable Commissioner for Environment, Prof. Sam Ugwu, Permanent Secretary Albert Obiora Ekete, and the entire State Ministry of Environment for their unwavering support. He also acknowledged the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and their partner, Meridian International, for the opportunity to contribute to climate awareness, leadership training, and the sustainable development of Enugu State through the IVLP impact program.
Furthermore, he pledged his commitment to collaborating with these organizations to empower more young leaders, both within the state and beyond, to become active citizens in promoting stronger climate and environmental action.
Looking ahead, the young leaders were informed that their next activity will involve visiting schools to educate students on the importance of urban greening and tree planting.
This ambitious initiative’s success was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Professor Okereke, Eco-cyclers, the Center for Climate Change and Development, and the Society for Planet and Prosperity. Together, they are sowing the seeds of change for a greener and more sustainable Enugu State.
