Abia completes climate change policy to attract global funding

Abia State is positioning itself to tap into global climate financing with the finalization of its Climate Change Policy. The state government has concluded work on the document, which is now awaiting the final approval of Governor Alex Otti before it can be implemented.

Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, stated that the policy is designed to offer a comprehensive framework for addressing climate-related challenges. He emphasized that once operational, the policy will signal to the international community that Abia State is serious about combating climate change, thereby opening doors to various funding opportunities across different sectors.

The policy's implementation is anticipated to bring significant environmental benefits. Kanu explained that it would help mitigate issues such as flooding, erosion, heat waves, and food insecurity, while simultaneously fostering sustainable development within the state. This proactive approach underscores Abia's commitment to environmental resilience and long-term sustainability.

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The Abia State Climate Change Policy Document is ready for sign-off by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State. As soon as the Governor signs off on that document and it becomes operational, the international community will begin to take Abia State more seriously in the state’s efforts to combat climate change, particularly with regard to opening up several climate funding opportunities across sectors in the state.

In addition to the policy, Governor Otti has directed immediate action on specific erosion and flood sites. The Ministry of Environment is set to deploy mitigation measures at the Amamba Uzuakoli erosion site in Bende Local Government Area and the Ipupe Ubakala flood site in Umuahia South Local Government Area. Teams have already conducted assessments, and work is commencing to prevent further environmental degradation and protect lives and property.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Environment continues its rigorous environmental sanitation inspections across all 17 local government areas. This includes environmental health education, sensitization campaigns, and sanitary inspections in communities. The state has issued numerous abatement notices for violations of environmental health regulations, with a notable compliance rate following follow-up inspections, highlighting a sustained enforcement effort.

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The implementation of the policy will reduce climate issues in Abia State, for example, in such areas as health, flood, erosion, heat waves and decline in food security, among others, while guaranteeing sustainability.