In a bold step towards addressing the growing environmental challenges posed by climate change, the Enugu State Government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, has unveiled a comprehensive climate policy and action plan. The initiative, which includes a detailed climate education manual for schools, aims to tackle the environmental threats facing the state while promoting sustainable development.
The announcement was made on Monday in Enugu during an event that saw the launch of the “Enugu State Climate Policy, Climate Action Plan, and Climate Education Manual for Schools.” Governor Mbah, represented by his Deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, reiterated his administration’s commitment to integrating climate action into various sectors of the state’s economy, with a clear focus on building a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Governor Mbah highlighted the importance of acting swiftly to address the negative impacts of climate change, which have already begun to manifest across the state. He stressed that the climate policy would provide a comprehensive framework for environmental protection while also creating a sustainable pathway for economic development in Enugu.
In his address, Mbah emphasized that addressing the climate crisis is not only a global issue but also a matter of pressing local concern. He said, “We must do this in a responsible and environmentally friendly way,” referring to the need for policies that both foster growth and preserve the environment. Mbah also expressed gratitude to the development partners who contributed to the creation of the climate action plan, including the Africa Climate Foundation (ACF) and the University of Bristol, whose support has been instrumental in realizing the state’s climate goals.
One of the key components of the newly launched climate policy is the introduction of a climate education manual designed for students in Enugu. This initiative aims to raise awareness among the younger generation about the importance of environmental protection and sustainable practices.
Governor Mbah pointed out that educating students on climate change is vital for shaping the future of the state and the country. “For us to channel their intellectual capacity toward productivity and growth, we must provide an enabling environment and basic infrastructure to drive that development,” he said. The climate education manual will serve as a tool to teach students the principles of climate action, with the hope of fostering a culture of environmental responsibility in future generations.
A significant part of the state’s climate action plan revolves around tackling deforestation, which has contributed to the environmental degradation in many parts of Enugu. Governor Mbah announced that the state government, in collaboration with lawmakers, would be working to enact a law prohibiting illegal tree felling. This move aims to curb deforestation, which is a key driver of climate change, and to promote forestation efforts as part of the state’s broader environmental sustainability goals.
In his address, Mbah stressed the need for a change in attitude toward environmental conservation. He called for a shift from deforestation to forestation, recognizing that preserving and expanding forested areas can play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The launch of the climate policy also marks a significant milestone in Enugu’s journey toward sustainable development. Prof. Sam Ugwu, the State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, spoke about the long-term goals of the climate action plan, describing it as a “bold step toward securing a sustainable and climate-resilient future for the state.”
Ugwu pointed out that climate change is a global challenge that has direct consequences on livelihoods, ecosystems, and economies. He highlighted how the new policy would help integrate sustainability into every sector of the state’s economy, ensuring that the state’s development plans align with environmental protection and climate resilience.
“The state’s new climate policy provides a comprehensive roadmap for integrating sustainability into every sector of the economy,” Ugwu explained. He added that the policy would not only help drive green investments and create thousands of jobs but also position Enugu as a leader in Nigeria’s low-carbon transition.
The launch of the climate policy was met with strong support from various experts and stakeholders, who weighed in on the importance of the plan. Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, highlighted that “Climate Smart Agriculture” would be a key strategy for mitigating the devastating effects of climate change. By focusing on sustainable agricultural practices, the state aims to reduce emissions while ensuring food security for its population.
In addition, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, revealed that the state would soon inaugurate an implementation committee to oversee the execution of climate-related actions. This committee will play a critical role in ensuring that the goals outlined in the climate policy are achieved in a timely and effective manner.
UNICEF, which has been actively involved in environmental and social protection initiatives in Nigeria, also expressed support for Enugu’s climate action efforts. Mrs. Juliet Chiluwe, the Chief Field Officer of UNICEF in Enugu, commended the state for its Smart Green School initiative, which aligns with UNICEF’s goals of protecting child rights and ensuring social protection in the face of climate change.
Chiluwe emphasized that the protection of children’s rights in the context of climate change is crucial, and she praised Enugu for taking steps to ensure that the state’s children are educated about the impacts of climate change. UNICEF, she said, remains a critical partner in advancing policies that protect vulnerable populations from the consequences of environmental degradation.
With the launch of the climate policy and action plan, Enugu State is positioning itself as a leader in climate action and environmental sustainability in Nigeria. The state’s commitment to addressing climate change is not just about reducing emissions but also about creating new opportunities for economic growth through green investments and job creation. By prioritizing environmental education, sustainable agriculture, and legislation to protect forests, Enugu is taking significant steps toward building a sustainable future.
The implementation of the climate action plan, however, will require continued collaboration between government agencies, local communities, development partners, and international organizations. The success of this initiative will depend on collective action and the political will to enforce policies that promote environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
As Enugu continues to lead the charge in addressing climate change, its efforts may serve as a model for other states in Nigeria and across the African continent, demonstrating that local actions can have a profound impact on global climate goals.
