The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), in collaboration with the Abia State Ministry of Environment, has validated the Abia State Climate Change Policy, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable climate governance.
The validation workshop, organised with the support of the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) and the Abia State Government, brought together key stakeholders, including Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), civil society organisations, development partners, academia, local government representatives, clusters of persons with disabilities, and the media.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Ikechukwu Chidozie Oriuwa, stressed the importance of developing an inclusive climate policy aligned with national and international frameworks. He described the validation exercise as a crucial opportunity for stakeholders to review the draft policy and ensure it reflects the climate realities of Abia State.
Ogbonna assured participants of the state government’s commitment to strengthening climate governance and building resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change across the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Abia State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke, commended the Ministry of Environment and its partners for their dedication to addressing climate challenges. He pledged the legislature’s support for policies and laws that promote inclusive development in Abia State.
Also speaking, the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr Kingsley Anosike, praised the progress made in developing the climate change policy, noting that climate change remains a major source of environmental degradation in a developing economy.
The draft climate policy was presented by the Consultant and PACT Technical Team, led by Mr Adejumobi Fashola, who highlighted the document’s importance in unlocking climate finance. Participants, including persons with disabilities, reviewed the draft policy and made inputs aimed at strengthening its inclusiveness and implementation framework.
The Founder of CCD and Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, Mr David Anyaele, applauded the state government for its progressive approach to climate policy development. Similarly, the Acting Director of CCD, Mr Godwin Unumeri, commended stakeholders for their willingness to ensure the policy adequately reflects the needs and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
In her appreciation message, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Climate Change and Sustainability, Ms Esther Chioma Ajah, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting climate change and sustainability-related initiatives.
The workshop was attended by senior government officials, including Permanent Secretaries, Senior Special Assistants and Special Assistants, as well as representatives of MDAs, civil society organisations, development partners, academia, local government areas, disability clusters, and the media.
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