By Grace Ofurum
The Imo State Climate Change Technical Committee has emphasized the urgent need for a legal framework to address climate change issues specific to the state. This was the focus of discussions during the inaugural stakeholders’ consultation and project inception meeting held at the Spaces for Change office complex in Owerri.
Speaking at the meeting, Mrs. Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, Executive Director of Spaces for Change, represented by the Senior Legal Officer, Barr. Chetachi Ude, highlighted Imo State’s significance as a major natural gas hub in West Africa. She stressed that the state should take a leading role in developing policies to address gas emissions and align with its unique characteristics as an oil-producing state.
Mrs. Ude noted that while a National Climate Change Policy exists, it has yet to be domesticated in Imo State. She called for the formation of a committee to develop an actionable framework tailored to the state’s needs.
Independent consultant Mr. Temple Oraeki, in his presentation, outlined the impacts of climate change in Imo State and reviewed the National Climate Change Act (2019). He advocated for a comprehensive legal framework for effective implementation of climate initiatives, emphasizing public health concerns and the need for a climate policy, budget, monitoring system, and action plan.
Mr. Oraeki further highlighted the objectives of the National Climate Change Act, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2060, 100% energy access by 2030, and reducing emissions by 20%. He noted that states with the necessary resources could attain these goals.
Mr. Chukwuma Iheanacho, Permanent Secretary of the Imo State Ministry of Environment and Sanitation, assured attendees of the government’s support in establishing guidelines for climate change governance. He emphasized the critical need for legal backing to address climate change comprehensively, noting its far-reaching impacts on all aspects of life.
He pointed out ongoing government efforts to tackle challenges such as flooding, agricultural emissions, deforestation, and ecological degradation. He also stressed the importance of advocacy and awareness to combat climate-related issues effectively.
Stakeholders from various sectors expressed concerns about the disproportionate effects of climate change on vulnerable groups, including the less privileged, women, and youth. They urged the government to intensify interventions.
The committee established a subcommittee to draft the climate policy. A presentation by Dr. Elizabeth Obiora on climate-driven health challenges and the vulnerabilities of affected populations was among the highlights of the event.
