Imo govt, group partner to tackle climate challenge

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The Imo State government, in partnership with “Spaces For Change”, which is a non-governmental organisation, has set up a Technical Committee to address climate change in the state

Inaugurating the 16-member committee in Owerri on Saturday, the state Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Major Ejikeme Emenike, said that the state government was determined to tackle all climate challenges.

Emenike said that the inauguration of the 16-member committee was done to advance the domestication of climate change policies and tackle environmental challenges in the state.

He charged the committee to find solutions to climate change impacts and ways to support sustainable development efforts in the state.

Emenike said that the rate of environmental degradation has remained a concern to many while soliciting support from members of the public to find a lasting solution.

In her remarks, the Executive Director, “Spaces for Change,” Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, said that the inauguration ceremony marked a significant step forward in the collective efforts to address the pressing climate challenges facing the state and to ensure that they take decisive action towards environmental sustainability.

She said: “The inauguration was the result of collaborative efforts between Spaces for Change and the Imo State Ministry of Environment and Sanitation, with invaluable support from the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), UK.”.

Represented by Chetachi Success Udeh, the Senior Legal Officer of the group, Ibezim-Ohaeri disclosed that they are embarking on a project that will not only enhance Imo State’s capacity to address its unique environmental challenges but also advance the domestication of climate change laws within the state.

She said, “The primary objective of this initiative is to develop and domesticate a comprehensive climate change policy tailored to Imo State. This ambitious project seeks to address the state’s specific climate vulnerabilities while aligning our environmental strategies with national and global standards.”.

According to her, the Special Technical Committee, which will serve as the driving force behind this critical initiative, through the work of the Committee, will create a legislative framework that directly responds to Imo State’s environmental needs, reflects international climate change protocols, and integrates the perspectives of diverse stakeholders.

She said that other states such as Lagos, Delta, and Rivers have already established legal frameworks to guide their climate change actions, adding that Imo State cannot afford to be left behind, especially given the pressing climate challenges we face.

She said, “With increasing environmental concerns across the state, it is imperative that we act now to ensure that Imo State is equipped with the necessary legislative tools to address these issues effectively and sustainably.”.

She pointed out that the project also recognises the importance of partnership and collaboration; thus, the formation of this committee represents a convergence of critical voices and brings together key stakeholders from government, traditional institutions, civil society, the private sector, women’s groups, youth groups, and academia.

She assured that by involving these key stakeholders, they will ensure that the provisions of the policy are inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the realities of our communities.

Ibezim-Ohaeri gave an insight that over the next few months, this Technical Committee will be entrusted with several key responsibilities: Strategic Oversight: Providing guidance for the development of a climate change policy that aligns with the realities of Imo State, ensuring it meets legislative standards and incorporates stakeholder input.

They will also ensure stakeholder engagement and strengthen the capacity of institutions and communities to effectively respond to climate challenges and ensure readiness for the policy’s implementation, as well as be part of campaigns to educate citizens about climate change, promote sustainable practices, and encourage public participation.

While thanking everyone for their commitment to the crucial project, she assured their commitment to have the opportunity to position Imo State as a leader in climate action, not only within Nigeria but also on the global stage.

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