Abia State has recorded a major milestone in strengthening its climate governance framework following the successful validation workshop for the Abia State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan.
The event convened critical stakeholders from government institutions, academia, civil society organizations, and development partners to review, refine, and endorse strategic measures aimed at promoting climate resilience and sustainable development across the state.
One of the prominent participants at the workshop was Dr. Chinwenwa Precious Ngwuli of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. A respected environmental expert with a Ph.D. in Forest Genetics and Silviculture and a Lecturer in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Dr. Ngwuli played an active role in the technical deliberations.
She contributed valuable insights drawn from her extensive research and professional experience in forest ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable natural resource management.
During the discussions, Dr. Ngwuli highlighted the crucial role forests and biodiversity play in both climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Ngwuli advocated strongly for inclusive climate policies that not only protect the environment but also enhance rural livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized populations.
She stressed that climate action must address socio-economic challenges at the grassroots level, noting that protecting biodiversity and strengthening forest ecosystems should go hand in hand with creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women, youth, and communities most affected by climate change.
The validation workshop also served as a platform for participants to harmonize the policy framework with Nigeria’s national climate commitments and international best practices, while ensuring that Abia State’s unique ecological realities and socio-economic priorities are adequately captured.
When fully implemented, the Abia State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan is expected to drive coordinated climate responses across sectors, encourage sustainable land-use practices, improve ecosystem resilience, and support community-based adaptation initiatives.
Stakeholders noted that the active involvement of experts like Dr. Ngwuli demonstrates the vital role of academic and scientific contributions in developing evidence-based policies that promote environmental sustainability and inclusive growth throughout Abia State.
