The Chairman, Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Anambra State, Dr. Emman Ude Akpeh, wants government and citizens of Anambra State to take actions to protect the threatened ecosystems.
He also called on them to initiate necessary adaptation measures to tackle the realities of a changing climate.
Dr Ude Akpeh made the call in his message for the month of May themed, “Biodiversity Restoration and Climate Resilience”.
He noted, “Anambra’s rich biodiversity – from the Niger River basin to its forests and wetlands faces threats from deforestation, pollution, and unsustainable land use.
“These challenges exacerbate climate vulnerabilities, including flooding and soil degradation.
“Yet, nature is our greatest ally: healthy ecosystems sequester carbon, purify water, and sustain livelihoods.
Dr Ude Akpeh recommended reforestation and urban greening, while urging citizens to join tree-planting drives to restore degraded lands.
“Advocate for green spaces in urban planning to combat heat islands and improve air quality.”
“Embrace Climate-Smart Agriculture by promoting agroforestry and organic farming to enhance soil health and biodiversity, he advised.
Dr Ude Akpeh also solicited support for farmers to adopt drought-resistant crops and water-efficient practices.
The NSE Chair equally called for efficient disaster preparedness. “Collaborate with local governments to strengthen flood prevention systems.
“Train communities on early warning signs and eco-friendly mitigation strategies,” he counselled.
He urged Anambra to align with global momentum as May ushers in the World Environment Day on June 5 2025.
“Hosted by the Republic of Korea under the theme #BeatPlasticPollution, let’s amplify this campaign by organizing clean-ups targeting plastic waste in rivers and markets.
“Let’s partner with businesses to phase out single-use plastics,” he further advised while also calling for innovation and collaboration.
“True resilience requires unity. Engage with youth groups to lead digital campaigns on biodiversity”.
Get traditional leaders to integrate indigenous conservation knowledge and private sector to fund green startups (e.g., eco-tourism, renewable energy).
Ude Akpeh charged, “As Chinua Achebe once said, “We cannot trample upon the humanity of others without devaluing our own.”
“Similarly, we cannot degrade nature without harming ourselves. Let May be a month of action.
He called on everyone to plant tree and clean waterways around them in the month.
“Let every policy advocacy effort becomes a stitch in the fabric of a sustainable Anambra”.
Ude Akpeh maintained that with collaboration of stakeholders, Anambra can be salvaged from environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.
“Together, we can turn the tide,” he submitted.
