The Rivers State Government has taken a significant step towards promoting environmental sustainability, urban beautification, and climate resilience by inaugurating a Joint State Committee on Tree Planting. The committee was inaugurated by the State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Sir Amairigha Edward Hart, at the ministry's office in Port Harcourt. This initiative aims to strengthen the state government's drive towards creating a healthier environment through coordinated tree planting programmes.
The committee comprises representatives from the Centre for Climate Change and Development Studies, Rivers State University, and the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. The commissioner expressed his delight at the calibre of personalities who have accepted to serve on the committee, appreciating their willingness to identify with the vision and programmes of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He emphasized that beyond accepting the responsibility, members must demonstrate commitment and ensure that their activities produce tangible results.
The commissioner charged the committee to facilitate and coordinate a collaborative tree planting initiative, while promoting a culture of environmental sustainability among residents and communities across the State. He further underscored the importance of collective participation in environmental management, noting that the success of the initiative would depend largely on the dedication and effective contributions of the committee members.
The Chairman of the committee, Professor Sodienye Abere, assured the commissioner that the committee would discharge its responsibilities diligently and deliver on the mandate entrusted to it. Abere pledged that members would not betray the confidence reposed in them, assuring that they would work collectively towards achieving visible and sustainable outcomes in the state's environmental management efforts.
The committee members include Professor Sodienye Abere as Chairman, Professor Patrick Chinemerem, Professor Hilkiah Igoni, Professor S. Ngah, Professor K.O. Okpara, Dr. W.S. Simbi-Willington, Dr. V. Ojadi, Dr. Juliet U. Ekennia, Dr. G. Ogboeli, and Dr. Mrs. Sandra Obomanu. Others are Mrs. Soibitein Duke-Harry, TPL Stella Enyadike, Mrs. Iyalla O.N. Ereforokuma, and Mrs. Daminabo Samuel as members, while TPL Ikpe Leyira Felicia serves as Secretary.
The government expressed confidence in the committee's ability to advance its environmental sustainability agenda, urging members to translate their assignment into meaningful actions that will promote a greener, healthier, and more environmentally resilient Rivers State. The initiative is expected to encourage environmental protection, improve the aesthetic outlook of urban centres, and promote climate-conscious development across Rivers State.
The inauguration of the committee marks a significant step in the government's determination to promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience. The committee's efforts will be crucial in creating a healthier environment and promoting a culture of environmental sustainability among residents and communities across the State.
Key points
- The Rivers State Government inaugurates a Joint State Committee on Tree Planting to promote environmental sustainability, urban beautification, and climate resilience.
