Cross River committed to mangrove restoration- Gov. Otu

Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling climate change by advocating for the restoration of the state’s mangroves.Otu made this remark during a courtesy visit by officials of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, highlighting the state’s proactive stance as the first to enact a Climate Change Law.

Emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges, he called for greater support for ongoing projects and increased investment in training and awareness initiatives at the community level.

“Our mangroves have suffered, but we are working on sustainable solutions. This is a testament to our full support and commitment to climate action.

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“Our roadmap is strong, and our people are ready to collaborate for a greener economy,” he said.

Also speaking during the visit, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, commended the Cross River government for its leadership in climate governance.

Maduekwe, who is also a Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Change, described mangroves as Nigeria’s ‘low-hanging fruit’ in climate mitigation, highlighting their economic and environmental significance.

She noted that a stakeholder town hall meeting had been held in Calabar, the state capital, to establish a concrete roadmap for mangrove restoration and conservation.

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“We are excited to see a state that has not only adopted the Climate Change Law but has also developed a solid framework for a green economy.

“While we continue to engage other states, Cross River stands out as a model in driving climate action,” she said.

She, however, stressed the need for a strong legal framework to ensure effective climate action, noting that operationalizing a climate change fund would be crucial in attracting global financial support.

On her part, Dr. Edu Effiom, Director-General of the Cross River Council on Climate Change, reiterated the state’s efforts in mangrove restoration and carbon investment, noting that significant progress was being made.