By Bayelsa Regional Editor
The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has called for accelerated action toward clean energy, environmental restoration, and stronger protection of ecosystems.
HOMEF, an ecology focused Non Governmental Organisation made the call in a statement on Wednesday to commemorate the 2026 World Earth Day.
The statement was signed by Miss Kome Odhomor, Communications/Meda Lead at HOMEF.
According to the group, the theme for 2026 is, “Our Power, Our Planet,” underscores the need for both individual and collective efforts to cut carbon emissions, transition away from fossil fuels, and safeguard biodiversity.
HOMEF warned that escalating environmental challenges from erratic weather patterns to biodiversity loss require urgent and transformative responses rather than gradual change.
The statement quoted the Executive Director of HOMEF, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, as maintaining that humanity must rethink its relationship with nature.
He noted that the theme serves as a reminder that people have the power to preserve the environment and secure a sustainable future, urging a shift “from colonial extraction to stewardship.”
Bassey highlighted the critical role ecosystems plays in sustaining life, noting that environmental degradation threatens health, food security, and future generations.
He cautioned that failing to act is equivalent to “burning our father’s house only to inherit the ashes.”
The environmental group also drew attention to persistent environmental hazards in Nigeria, particularly ongoing oil-related disasters.
It listed the long-burning Ororo 1 well fire off the coast of Awoye and a separate wellhead fire in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers, describing them as urgent ecological and public safety threats requiring immediate government intervention.
HOMEF urged relevant authorities to decommission hazardous sites, rehabilitate affected environments, and support impacted communities.
HOMEF also encouraged citizens to mark the day through practical actions such as tree planting, reducing single-use plastics, and embracing zero-waste practices.
The group emphasized that Earth Day should go beyond symbolic celebration, calling for a renewed global commitment to defend the planet and secure a livable future for all.
