As the World experiences climate change with its negative effects, Enugu state Government has moved to draft state ‘s climate policy, action plan and financial framework to enable transition to a greener economy, describing the move as “an opportunity to reinvent ourselves, to innovate, and to lead in the face of global change.”
The state Government explained that the move was aimed at gradually transitioning from a coal city to pioneers in clean energy solutions, setting ambitious targets for renewable energy generation.This the government said, will be achieved by harnessing the power of wind, solar, and other renewable sources.
Speaking on the State’s Vision for a Climate Resilient and Green Economy during the inception workshop and stakeholders consultation for the Draft of Enugu state Climate Policy Action plan and Climate Finance Framework held ,Thursday, July 18, at the Old Government Lodge,Enugu, Secretary to the State Government,Professor Chidiebere Onyia said the meeting was
taking first steps towards a sustainable future for Enugu state.
“The State Climate Policy will outline our vision for a climate-resilient and green economy and our Climate Action Plan will serve as a framework guiding our actions today and, in the years, to come. It will be a shared objective based on our local context, but also looking ahead to the opportunities presented by the global transition,” he said.
He stressed the importance of collaboration in developing a state climate policy and action plan that not only meets the current needs but also safeguards the future for generations to come.
Speaking on potentials of Enugu state , Professor Onyia said, “”Our state has a rich history, deeply intertwined with coal production and the energy sector. For decades, our communities thrived on the economic benefits that this industry brought. However, as we stand at a crossroads, we must acknowledge the pressing challenges posed by climate change and the critical need to transition to a greener economy. This transition is more than an obligation; it is an opportunity—an opportunity to reinvent ourselves, to innovate, and to lead in the face of global change “
He expressed the hope that the draft of the policy will center on three key pillars, namely, : sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. He explained that sustainability will be at the heart of the climate policy.
” We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and strengthening our ecosystems. This includes investing in renewable energy sources, promoting energy efficiency, clean transportation, climate-smart agriculture and adopting circular economy principles that minimizes waste and maximizes resource use.
“We want our state to lead the charge in gradually transitioning from a coal city to pioneers in clean energy solutions, setting ambitious targets for renewable energy generation. By harnessing the power of wind, solar, and other renewable sources, we can ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future while creating new jobs in emerging industries”, he said
On inclusivity, the SSG said the State’s vision for a green economy must be rooted in inclusivity.
” We must recognize that the transition to a sustainable future must leave no one behind. This is especially important in a state with a legacy tied to coal which has both benefited and harmed several communities.
“We must support communities and workers in this sector through this transition by investing in training and reskilling programs, ensuring that everyone has a role in the green economy.
“We must engage with local communities, especially those historically reliant on coal, to develop strategies that reflect their needs and aspirations. By prioritizing equity in our climate policy, we can create a more just and resilient economy.
On innovation, he said innovation is crucial to achieving our climate goals noting that, ” we must cultivate a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship that drives the development of new technologies and sustainable practices. This he said, involves partnering with academic institutions, businesses, and non-profits to invest in research and development that will move the state ahead.
“Our vision is for a vibrant ecosystem where startups and established companies alike collaborate to bring innovative solutions to our environmental challenges. By leveraging our resources and the unique skills that our youths bring, we can position our state as a leader in the green economy in Nigeria”, Prof Onyia said.
He urged participants to consistently engage in open dialogue, share expertise, and co-create solutions that reflect the State ‘s shared vision.
Pix- Prof Sam Ugwu
He also urged them to embrace the transformative path with optimism and determination, noting that the path ahead may be challenging, but it is also filled with endless possibilities. “Together, we can create a climate-resilient and green economy that honors our history while ensuring a better future for all, ” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, observed that Climate change has become a global challenge with its consequential impacts on livelihoods and ecosystems distorting national and subnational socio-economic values and activities. He said the reality of climate change is no longer a distant threat; but a pressing challenge that demands immediate and concerted action.
He said Enugu State and its economy were not left out of the negative and threatening impacts. “We are witnesses to the changes in weather patterns – such as usual variations in rain falls and dry seasons, increased frequency and intensity of flooding events with its impact on our homes, farms; deep gully erosion that is splitting roads in halves, and endangering lives and properties.
Pix- Prof Chukwumerije Okereke
“In the face of these challenges, it is our responsibility to act decisively and collaboratively to mitigate these impacts and adapt to the changes that are already upon us, ” he said..
According to the Commissioner Climate change policy and action plans were essential in reducing and ameliorating situation.
He said the workshop was aimed at developing a science Based Climate Policy. One major uniqueness of this project is that we will write a policy that is based on a rigorous assessment of the current climate profile for the state. We will work to understand our carbon footprint, emission profile, the vulnerabilities we face, and the opportunities we have to make a positive impact. Comprehensive data and scientific analysis will form the bedrock of our discussions and strategies.
The Commissioner said their goal was to craft specific, actionable, and measurable strategies that will guide our efforts in both mitigating anda adapting to climate change. We will focus on key sectors such as energy, transportation, agriculture, water resources, and urban planning, among others.
He added that the workshop was also aimed at developing a framework that will help the state to mobilise and attract climate finance that can be used to build a resilient and prosperous future for Ndi Enugu in the face of climate change
He assured participants that their contributions would be considered.
“Our discussions today and in the coming days will lay the foundation for a policy that not only addresses the immediate challenges but also paves the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come.
“With collective will and concerted effort, we can make a difference. Our state’s Climate Policy and Action Plan will reflect our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic resilience. It will be a living document, evolving with new knowledge and experiences, and guiding us toward a future where our environment thrives, our economy prospers, and our communities are resilient, Prof Ugwu said.
He commended the Governor of Enugu State for showing deep interest in Climate Change by devoting a huge part of the Ministry of Environment to Climate Change. This is one of the first of its kind.
He also thanked the Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof Chidiebere duties and other stakeholders
In an interview, Prof Chukwumerije Okereke, Senior Adviser to tbe Governor and President of the Society on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, said the meeting was for the development of Enugu state climate change policy and action.
He added that the priorities were how to increase the generation of renewable energy to serve millions of people and be able to empower economic resources in Enugu state. in Enugu state. How to build climate resilience to tackle flooding ,gully erosion and other challenges.
” His Excellency ithe Governor is so focused on disruptive innovation, we want to see how we can use action on climate policy to create a positive disruptive innovation. that will help to position Enugu state as a leader in green energy generation, green transmission and green development.Climate change is an opportunity if well approached. It will create hundreds of thousands millions of green jobs for the youths of Enugu state”.
He said the greener the city, the better for the people. It elongates the lives of the people.
On reducing the dangers of cooking with charcoal, Prof Okereke said ,Enugu state Government was making an arrangement to set up a company produce a clean way of cooking to reduce emissions.
In his goodwill message, Commissioner for Youth and Sports , Lloyd Ekweremadu, described the workshop as timely. He noted the importance of the workshop.,saying that, “in the green economy , there are many opportunities for young people to get jobs. He added that it was important to make plans for the future of the youth..
Author: Maureen Ikpeama