BY SOLOMON OKPO
UYO, The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Obareki, has called for urgent and collective action to address the growing threat of climate change, stressing that environmental sustainability must become a shared responsibility among citizens and communities.
Lady Obareki made the call during an environmental awareness programme organized under the Improving Environmental Health thematic area of the Patience Umo Eno Golden Initiative For All (GIFA). The event attracted participants from communities across the Uyo Federal Constituency and focused on promoting environmental consciousness and sustainable practices, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing the gathering, Lady Obareki emphasized that climate change is no longer a distant concern but a current reality with far-reaching consequences for society.
“We were not gathered to listen to abstract scientific theories or engage in political debates. We are here because climate change is no longer a distant challenge reserved for future generations. Climate change is happening now. It is real, it is here, and it affects us all,” she said.
She noted that the programme reflects the commitment of the Office of the First Lady and GIFA to environmental protection and community empowerment through practical solutions aimed at improving environmental health and sustainability.
According to her, raising awareness at the grassroots level is essential to building climate-resilient communities and fostering environmentally responsible behaviour among residents.
As part of activities marking the programme, tree seedlings were distributed to participants, including students and market women, to encourage afforestation and support environmental conservation efforts across communities.
The organizers also distributed eco-friendly solar lamps to beneficiaries as a means of promoting clean energy adoption and reducing dependence on environmentally harmful energy sources.
The event underscored the importance of community participation in tackling environmental challenges and reaffirmed Akwa Ibom State’s commitment to advancing environmental health, climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives.
Participants commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would help strengthen environmental awareness and encourage practical actions toward preserving the ecosystem for future generations.
