Key stakeholders in Imo State have urged the state government to adopt proactive strategies to combat the socio-economic and health challenges posed by climate change. The call was made during the inaugural meeting of the Imo State Climate Change Technical Committee held in Owerri, bringing together experts from diverse fields including environment, public health, law, and media.
The committee raised concerns over the state’s lack of a climate policy or legal framework, stressing the urgency of domesticating the National Climate Change Act of 2019 and the Energy Transition Plan of 2021. This step, they said, would address severe environmental issues such as flooding and gully erosion while fostering sustainable practices.
Victoria Ibezim-Ohari, Director of Spaces for Change, and Temple Oraeki, an environmental expert, highlighted that Imo ranks 24th among Nigeria’s 36 states in terms of climate change vulnerability. They noted significant losses in lives and economic value due to recurring environmental crises.
The stakeholders emphasized the need for policies to regulate emissions, tackle gas flaring, improve public health, and transition to a low-carbon economy. Dr. Obiora Elizabeth and other members
