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The Abia State Government has intensified its campaign for climate resilience to mark World Environment Day 2026, warning residents to shun indiscriminate refuse disposal, embrace tree planting and prepare for possible flooding as changing weather patterns threaten lives, livelihoods and infrastructure.
The call was the highlight of a statewide climate awareness campaign organised by the Abia State Ministry of Environment on June 5 under the global theme “Global Call for Climate Action”. The event drew government officials, environmental advocates, youth groups, development partners and members of the public, who reaffirmed commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Leading the campaign, Commissioner for Environment Mr Philemon Ogbonna warned that environmental neglect drives flooding, erosion and ecological degradation. He urged residents to keep surroundings clean, dispose of waste responsibly and keep drainage channels free of obstruction, stressing that prevention remains the best defence against climate-related disasters.
According to Ogbonna, climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present reality already affecting communities through rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, environmental degradation and increased flood vulnerability. He said forecasts by meteorological authorities show Abia is among states facing heightened environmental risks this rainy season, prompting the government to strengthen preparedness measures statewide.
He also disclosed that the government has reactivated Local Emergency Committees in all 17 local government areas to coordinate grassroots responses, monitor vulnerable communities and reduce the impact of potential flood incidents. He added that extensive public enlightenment campaigns are ongoing through radio, community outreach and stakeholder engagements to equip residents with critical information on flood preparedness and environmental safety.
He further revealed that contingency plans are being strengthened to provide emergency support where necessary, including arrangements for temporary shelters should severe flooding affect vulnerable communities. The commissioner explained that government is also deepening collaboration with development agencies, environmental organisations and civil society groups to improve climate adaptation and disaster response capacity.
Highlighting the importance of nature-based solutions, Ogbonna called for increased tree planting across communities and cautioned against indiscriminate felling of trees. He observed that trees play a critical role in carbon absorption, environmental stability and biodiversity conservation, while also helping to reduce the impact of extreme weather conditions.
The commissioner expressed concern over unpredictable weather patterns, describing recent climatic shifts as evidence of a changing global environment that demands urgent, collective action. He said safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation among government, institutions, communities and citizens.
He also pointed to ongoing environmental reforms under the administration of Dr Alex Otti, noting that efforts to improve sanitation, environmental management and public awareness are contributing to a cleaner and more environmentally conscious Abia.
The climate action rally started at the Ministry of Environment and moved through major roads and public areas in Umuahia, including Azikiwe Road, Federal Medical Centre axis, Umudike Junction and Isi Gate. Participants distributed messages on climate change, environmental protection and responsible waste management, urging residents to become active partners in building a sustainable future.
The campaign ended at Agbama Olokoro Community Hall in Umuahia South LGA, where the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment Mr Ikechukwu Oriuwa, representing the commissioner, led a ceremonial tree planting after an interactive session. He said tree planting symbolized renewal, stewardship, ecological restoration and the collective responsibility of this generation to protect the planet for future generations.
Oriuwa said Abia is advancing partnerships to promote sustainable practices, including circular economy initiatives focused on waste reduction, resource efficiency and sustainability.
Director of Climate Change in the Ministry, Mr Chris Ike, highlighted dangers of deforestation, noting that trees improve environmental balance, air quality and ecosystem protection. He urged residents to plant trees in homes, schools, public spaces and communities, describing each tree as a practical step toward climate mitigation and environmental recovery.
Speaking with journalists after the event, environmental advocate and youth representative Queen Amazu said climate action requires participation from every segment of society. She noted that environmental challenges affect agriculture, education, health, energy and community development.
According to her, the growing impact of flooding, erosion and changing weather conditions shows the urgency of sustained public awareness and community-driven solutions. She stressed that sustainability begins with individual actions and local initiatives that can produce far-reaching global benefits.
As the world continues to confront the escalating challenges of climate change, the World Environment Day observance in Abia served as both a warning and a call to action, underscoring the urgent need for governments, communities and individuals to work together in building resilient, healthier and more sustainable societies.
The event reinforced a simple but powerful message: protecting the environment is not the responsibility of government alone. It is a collective obligation that will determine the safety, prosperity and wellbeing of future generations.
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