Governor Alex Otti's Giant Strides in the NEWMAP and Ministry of Environment

Gov Otti’s Giant Strides in the NEWMAP and Ministry of Environment

In the last 20 months, Abia has experienced a new lease of life in every sector of the state economy and life. In the environmental sector, the governor has been proactive in addressing environmental concerns in Abia State.

One notable initiative is the state government’s collaboration with the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) to tackle the erosion menace ravaging many parts of the state.

NEWMAP is supporting the state government’s programs in managing its watersheds and reducing the risk of flooding and erosion.
Recently, Governor Otti assured of increased counterpart funding to support NEWMAP’s efforts in the state to reclaim many communities under the siege of erosion menace and landslides.
This followed the state’s receipt of approval for counterpart requirements for NEWMAP-EIB funding, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.

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The Abia State Ministry of Environment, through NEWMAP, has carried out bold initiatives to address environmental challenges in the state. The Ministry, through the agency, implemented the governor’s directive for the immediate evacuation of residents of Ovom Street, Aba, an erosion site, and the engagement of contractors to address the issue of the erosion menace in the area to further safeguard against environmental degradation.

In addition to NEWMAP, the Ministry of Environment has been actively engaged in various environmental activities.
This includes the inauguration of the State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) Monitoring and Compliance Team, Aba Zone, by Governor Otti to enforce environmental laws and regulations.
The team is aimed at promoting a culture of environmental responsibility among citizens and ensuring that residents and businesses adhere strictly to the best practices in waste management and environmental sanitation.

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Furthermore, the state has put in place a framework to implement various initiatives that would promote environmental sustainability.
The state government collaborated with stakeholders in the sector by working closely with local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders to promote environmental sustainability and address environmental challenges.
The state government is expanding the environmental buffers around the state and protecting forest reserves.

Also, the Ministry put in place supervisory activities to prevent pollution and mitigate threats from economic activities.
In the area of renewable energy sources, there is an initiative to promote alternative energy such as solar and wind power to reduce carbon footprints.
Also, plans are underway to convert waste into useful, reusable products, thereby improving environmental sanitation and creating jobs.

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The Ministry of Environment has conducted awareness campaigns to educate residents on environmental protection and the importance of sustainable practices.