ABIA STATE VALIDATES CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY AT STAKEHOLDERS WORKSHOP .

ABIA STATE VALIDATES CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY AT STAKEHOLDERS WORKSHOP .

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, has emphasized the State Government’s commitment to strengthening climate governance and building resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change across the State.

Declaring open the workshop on
stakeholders’ validation on the Abia State Climate Change Policy held on Friday at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Budget and planning, Umuahia, the Commissioner stated that the policy document positions the State as a proactive sub- national actor in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts in Nigeria.

The Commissioner represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Ikechukwu Chidozie Oriuwa, conveyed the Commissioner’s goodwill and underscored the importance of inclusive stakeholder participation in producing a practical and implementable policy document.

Mr. Oriuwa noted that the validation exercise marked a critical milestone in Abia State’s climate action journey, as it provided an opportunity for government agencies, civil society organizations, development partners, and other stakeholders to review, refine, and align the policy with both national and international climate frameworks.

In his remarks, the member representing Ohafia south constituency and also Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke, commended the Ministry of Environment and all partners involved for their dedication to addressing climate challenges in the State. He assured participants of the Legislature’s readiness to support policies and laws that promote environmental sustainability, climate resilience, participation of citizens with disabilities and socio-economic development in Abia State.

The workshop featured intensive technical sessions facilitated by FCDO Consultant, Mr. Josiah Aramide, who worked extensively with all relevant stakeholders present. Through guided discussions, reviews, and consensus-building, participants contributed inputs aimed at ensuring the effective production of a robust, inclusive, and workable Climate Change Policy document for the State.
Participants at the workshop expressed satisfaction with the collaborative process and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the successful adoption and implementation of the Abia State Climate Change Policy.
The validation workshop is expected to pave the way for the finalization and formal adoption of the policy.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment Prof Ijeoma Iheukwumere, S A to the Governor on Climate Change and sustainability Ms Esther Chioma Aja Permanent Secretaries, citizens with disabilities and other relevant stakeholders were present during the meeting