CHUKS OYEMA-AZIKEN writes that the Taraba State government has taken impactful steps towards tackling climate change
On assumption of office, the Taraba State Governor, Lt. Col. Kefas Agbu did not hide his intentions to bequeath sustainable practices, that will move the state towards adopting green technology, and implementing stricter environmental regulations.
Taraba like most states in the country is faced with the challenges of environmental degradation, which has affected livelihood of the people, while endangering lives.
In ensuring his ambitious desires for giving Tarabans a befitting environment, the state government has continued to engage both local and foreign specialized partners.
To further show it’s seriousness, a Climate Change Road March Campaign Awareness recently held in Jalingo the state capital.
The Road March started from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to Taraba State Government House where the team was received by His Excellency the Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji. Aminu Abdullahi Alkali on behalf of the Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas.
The State Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change, Haj. Aishat Barde who led the Road March said it aims to sensitize people on the impact of climate change on the environment and to urge them to adopt sustainable practices that will help mitigate the effects of climate change.
The Commissioner spoke on the dangers posed by climate change, such as flooding, desertification, loss of biodiversity, and other environmental challenges.
She emphasized the need for environmental education at the grassroots level, to raise awareness and promote sustainable
In his speech, the Deputy Governor highlighted the importance of raising awareness about climate change, and the role that every individual must play in combating this global issue.
He emphasized the need for sustainable practices, stating that the state is moving towards adopting green technology, and implementing stricter environmental regulations.
The event was attended by several top government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State, Chief Barr G.T. Kataps Ngwii, commissioners, permanent secretaries, and other top government functionaries, alongside Several Unions, and NGOs,
The march created a significant impact, as it drew attention to the issue of climate change and encouraged more people to take action towards creating a sustainable future.
Observers believe that The Climate Change Awareness March in Taraba State was a step in the right direction, toward mitigating the negative impact of climate change on our environment.
The Road March is among several efforts the combination of Governor Agbu and his square peg in square hole Commissioner of Environment and Climate Change have embarked on towards giving a boost to the environment sector.
Noting their efforts, a group, Taraba State Women for Growth commended ongoing talks to bring smiles to the face of Tarabans who have suffered climate change and other environmental challenges.
The group in a press release signed by the Convener of the group, Mrs Dorathy Labo said Governor Kefas has within a very short time shown big determination to tackle the various environmental challenges in the state.
“The various moves by the state government gives us hope that very soon, environmental challenges will be a thing of the past in Taraba State,” the group said.
Since assumption of office, Governor Agbu has visited the Embassy of the United States of America in Abuja to among several areas discuss environment and climate change.
Also, arrangements in top gear as TARABA ACReSAL in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment is set for an aggressive tree planting campaign in Jalingo, Taraba State Capital.
The governor earlier met with German CUTEC E & E LTD in Abuja. The meeting discussed environmental issues relating to climate change, waste management and treatment, environmental laws and accessibility to carbon credit scheme by the German Government and European Union. The meeting was attended by Ms. Anne Dirkling, the country’s manager, Prof. Onyeche Theodre who is the director of International Operations and the representative of German Government at European Commission on Environment.
According to Barde “This is among several efforts which our amiable governor is working on to ensure the state is environmentally friendly for our people.
“We therefore urge Taraba people to support the governor and ensure we maintain global standard in environmental safety,” she added.
