… As Commissioner Emenike calls for environmental protection
By Iheanyi Enwerem
Governor Hope Uzodimma has reaffirmed the commitment of the Imo State Government to environmental sustainability and climate resilience as the state joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2026 World Environment Day.
Speaking through the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, PhD, at an event held in Owerri on Friday, the Governor described this year’s theme, “Climate Action,” as timely and significant, noting that climate change remains one of the greatest challenges facing humanity.
He observed that rising temperatures, irregular rainfall patterns, flooding, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and other environmental concerns continue to threaten livelihoods, food security, public health, and economic development across the globe.
Governor Uzodimma stated that his administration has continued to implement strategic policies and programmes aimed at protecting the environment and improving the quality of life of citizens. These, he said, include initiatives in afforestation, erosion control, waste management, environmental sanitation, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable agriculture.
The Governor called on traditional rulers, Presidents-General, civil society organisations, educational and research institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to work together in advancing climate action across the state.
He also urged residents to adopt environmentally friendly practices such as tree planting, proper waste disposal, energy conservation, and the protection of water resources, stressing that collective efforts are essential to building a healthier and more sustainable future.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Chief Major Emenike, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting a cleaner, greener, safer, and climate-resilient Imo State under the leadership of Governor Uzodimma.
Emenike assured that the Ministry would continue to intensify environmental protection initiatives and encouraged Imo residents, particularly the youth, to embrace innovation, environmental education, and sustainable lifestyles that support conservation and climate resilience.
Also speaking, Mr. Chukwuma Iheanacho commended Governor Uzodimma for his unwavering support for the Ministry’s programmes and policies, while appreciating the Deputy Governor for her consistent encouragement of environmental initiatives in the state.
A major highlight of the event was the ceremonial tree planting exercise performed by the Deputy Governor and other dignitaries, symbolising the state’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Among those in attendance were the Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Henry Okafor; Director-General of the Imo State Consumer Protection Commission, Dr. Obioma Okafor; General Manager of Eastern Waste Management Company, Mr. Nick Samolsvatov; Professor Maurice Obasi of Imo State University, representatives of partner agencies, civil society organisations, students, and other stakeholders.