BY AROGUNDADE MICHAEL GBADURA
The Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, on Saturday, July 20, 2024, inaugurated a five-year Climate Action Strategic Plan to promote green economy and advance liveable and prosperous Anambra State.
The Convener and Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Kate Omenugha, inaugurated the plan at the maiden Climate Action Summit with the theme: “Tremendous Strategy for a Sustainable Future”.
The summit featured the Investiture of Climate Action Ambassadors and Students’ Environment Police.
Omenugha said part of the plan was to plant one million trees in five years.
“We have put together a five-year road map for tree planting and climate action. The goal is for us to have a better tomorrow, a liveable and prosperous Anambra state.
“But to achieve this, it requires teamwork, which is why we are having this summit, so that we can rub minds on how and what we can do differently so that we can catch up with the world.
“We cannot continue to pay lip service to the devastating effects of climate change in the university environment and the state, therefore, we must solve it and take back the ecosystem,” she said.
In his keynote address, Dr Joseph Onoja, Director-General, Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), said tree planting and restoration of the country’s forests could help Nigeria tackle issues concerning climate change.
“Nigeria’s forest cover has dwindled since after independence. So, an action plan such as tree planting will go a long way in restoring Nigeria’s forest cover.
“This move is vital for the Nigeria’s ecological balance, economic development and cultural heritage.
“We commend the management of COOU for the great decision towards institutionalising environmental sustainability and high-impact climate change mitigation programmes in the university,” he said.
In his remarks, Dr Felix Odimegwu, Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, commended the university for identifying with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s green initiative.
He urged relevant stakeholders and students to key into the project to achieve a healthier, cleaner and greener state.