The Anambra State First Lady, Mrs Nonye Soludo has launched an ambitious tree planting campaign in Awka to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
The event was attended by government officials, environmental activists, community members, and other stakeholders.
Mrs. Soludo emphasized the critical importance of tree planting in mitigating climate change, enhancing air quality, and preserving biodiversity, describing the initiative as a key component of the state government’s broader environmental conservation efforts.
Mrs. Soludo also highlighted her “Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo” initiative, which focuses on transforming health and the environment, stating that trees play a vital role in the ecosystem, not only by beautifying our environment but also by contributing to global efforts against climate change.
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, said that the Governor Chukwuma Soludo administration launched the “One House, Two Trees” campaign an initiative that mandates every landowner to plant at least two trees within their compound.
He added that, additionally, the 35% green spacing initiative requires that every land developer dedicates 35% of their land to green areas, including gardens and tree cover.
Dr. Odimegwu announced that June 10th has been designated as Anambra Tree Planting Day, which is included in the environmental bill before the House of Assembly and emphasized their commitment to enhancing the ecological and climate resilience of Anambra by launching the tree planting and urban forestation initiative.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, COOU, Prof. Kate Omenugha, expressed her support and pledged to ensure the success of the tree planting campaign.
Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu and Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba, praised the developmental strides by the Soludo administration in agriculture and environmental management, noting that the initiative is expected to mobilize thousands of volunteers, including students, to participate in planting and caring for the trees even as they urged the community to join hands in making Anambra a livable smart mega-city.
Contributing, the Managing Director of Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWMA), Sir Mike Ozoemena, and Chairman of the Anambra Urban Regeneration Council, Architect Michael Okonkwo, emphasized that the initiative is about securing a greener future for future generations while pledging their full participation in the Anambra tree planting process.
The symbolic planting of the first set of trees at the event set the stage for extensive tree planting activities planned throughout the state.
Mrs. Soludo Launches Anambra State Tree Planting Initiative
