Ruth Orji |I-Witness News
In furtherance to the Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s CFR, vision of Urban Forestation and Tree planting Initiative launched, June 10, 2024 in Awka to combat erosion and other natural disasters. Anambra State Ministry of Environment, has continued to take more steps to mitigate climate change and environmental degradation as they plant more trees in Onitsha, yesterday.
In his welcome address, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Dr. Felix Odimegwu underscores the need for tree planting as it helps to mitigate climate change through its natural roles in carbon sequestration, wind breaking, prevention of soil erosion, provision of shelter, maintenance of sustainable biodiversity as well as air purification among others
According to him, the present government has changed the narrative in Onitsha as the city is presently one of the cleanest in the country contrary to what was obtainable in the past, highlighting that the tree planting initiative is to complement the good road network already provided
Stating that trees play pivotal role in climate regulation, act as a carbon sink, stores carbon dioxide in their roots, trunks and leaves which help to mitigate climate change as well as control soil erosion, capture rain water, manage stormwater flow, prevent flood and noise pollution thereby improving the quality of lives.
Contributing, the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties, Beverley Ikpeazu urges for collective effort in tree planting so as to help the ecosystem and make lives worth living.
In their separate remarks, Hon. Commissioner of Information, Paul Nwosu, Arch. Mike Okonkwo, (AURC), Onitsha South TC Chairman.Hon. Emeka Orji commend the Tree Planting initiative as it would aid for a clean, green and sustainable environment.
Others are Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Hon. Christian Aburime, TC Chairman, Onitsha North, MD/CEO ASWAMA, Hon Mike Ozoemene, and Fegge Chairman, Mr Okwudili Obumneme were in attendance.
The high point of the event was planting of trees along the Port Harcourt Road and the ogene music that rented the air.
