The wife of the Enugu State governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, has called for a comprehensive and sustainable strategy that prioritizes both environmental protection and economic growth in the face of climate change.
Mrs. Mbah made this call during an Award Presentation Ceremony for the winners of Enugu State’s first essay competition on climate change, titled “What measures can Enugu State take to address climate change while promoting economic growth, and what role can the youth play in this process?”
The event was organized by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, in partnership with the First Lady’s Office and the ministries of Youth and Sports, Education, and Environment.
Describing climate change as a complex challenge that impacts health, the economy, and livelihoods, Mrs. Mbah, represented by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, stated that Enugu State has already felt its effects—irregular weather patterns, soil degradation, and decreased agricultural yields. She emphasized that tackling climate change directly could lead to sustainable economic development for all citizens.
Mrs. Mbah outlined several measures to combat climate change, including promoting sustainable agriculture, investing in renewable energy, strengthening environmental governance, supporting green industries, enhancing urban planning and infrastructure, and advocating for policy changes.
Earlier in his address, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, the Senior Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, expressed his commitment to making the event an annual affair.
He highlighted the initiative’s goal of instilling a sense of responsibility in the youth, encouraging them to engage in state policies and programs, particularly in the fight against climate change. He urged the essay competition winners to view themselves as ambassadors for the state in fostering awareness and advocacy on this critical issue.
Additionally, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Chijioke Ugwu, along with his Education counterpart, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, reinforced the initiative’s role in raising awareness and mobilizing students and youth in Enugu State as climate activists.
They emphasized that climate consciousness has been integrated into the school curriculum and educational system, with youth being the most vital actors in climate action.
In their goodwill messages, Hon. Obiajulu Ugwu, representing Enugu South Rural in the state house of assembly, Dr. Mara Huber, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Education Innovation, and Dr. Maxwell Ngene, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at ESUT, spoke about the global devastation caused by climate change. They commended the governor for his significant strides in state development and combating climate challenges.
The essay competition awarded Chukwuebuka Onyia as the overall winner, receiving a cash prize of 250,000 Naira, while Chinaza Arinze took first runner-up with a prize of 150,000 Naira, and Cynthia Ani secured third place with 100,000 Naira.
The winners praised the organizers, particularly the state government, for the transparent manner in which the competition was conducted, noting that their victories were free from political influence. This, they said, demonstrated that the governor is a leader for all, regardless of social status.
