The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable development through strategic partnerships and community engagement.
Speaking at the Climate Change Stakeholders Engagement Meeting themed “Driving Climate Action: A Low-Carbon Future for Sustainable Development, “held recently in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, emphasized the state’s readiness to collaborate with national and international partners.
The meeting, organized by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Climate Change and Sustainability in partnership with the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) and supported by the UK’s Department for International Development, brought together stakeholders to review and shape the state’s Climate Change Policy.
Mr. Ogbonna highlighted that Abia is the only Nigerian state with a Climate Investor Readiness Document, adding that the government has conducted key assessments and data collection for Nigeria’s Biennial Transparency Report. Abia has also participated in major international climate events, including COP 29 in Azerbaijan and sustainability summits in Germany and the Netherlands.
He noted the government’s efforts to involve local communities in climate decision-making, ensuring inclusive and effective adaptation strategies.
PACE’s lead consultant commended Abia’s progress and pledged continued support in developing a comprehensive Climate Change Policy. According to PACE experts, the policy will guide Abia’s transition to a low-carbon economy, promote sustainable land use, and attract development partnerships.
The event featured technical sessions and group work under the theme “Greening the Budget” to develop actionable components of the State Climate Change Policy.
