The Abia State government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships that drive socio-political and economic growth, with a focus on climate change adaptation and mitigation.
Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna, emphasized the administration’s openness to innovative ideas and its dedication to transparency and accountability.
During an engagement meeting and training session for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP) Nigeria, Ogbonna assured participants that every resource allocated to the project would be utilized effectively and accounted for.
He said that the state government has carefully selected local participants, including women, NGOs, CSOs, disability clusters, and vulnerable youth groups, to engage in the assessment and interaction process.
Commissioner Ogbonna urged participants to leverage the training opportunity to address their climate-related challenges and explore potential solutions.
Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike, reiterated the administration’s commitment to implementing policies and programmes that positively impact the living standards of Abia’s citizens.
Anosike encouraged participants to align themselves with the state’s vision and prioritize the greater good over personal interests.
The UNDP representative, Mrs. Ibironke Olubamise, commended the state government’s enthusiasm and openness to the programme, highlighting that this marks the first time Abia State has participated in the initiative.
The GEF SGP Nigeria program, implemented by UNDP, provides grants and technical support to vulnerable communities, promoting local environmental initiatives and enhancing livelihoods.
This collaborative effort underscores Abia State’s dedication to sustainable development and its willingness to engage with local and international partners to drive positive change.
The two-day programme brought together stakeholders in environmental matters, including Prof. Ijeoma Iheukwumere, Special Adviser on Environment, Ms. Esther Chioma Aja, Special Adviser on Climate Change, Special Adviser on Disability Matters, Mr. David Anyaele, Special Adviser on Budget and Planning, Dr. Eric Egwuibe and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa.
