The state tree planting exercise is one of the programmes mapped out for the implementation of the International Visitors’ Leadership Programme (IVLP) impact award given to Okereke by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.
The state tree planting exercise was kicked off by the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Prof Sam Ugwu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of State Ministry of Environment, Mr. Albert Obiora Ekete. The exercise involved the planting of 35 ornamental trees along the road from P&T Bus Stop towards Ziks Avenue.
The flag-off was witnessed by 24 young leaders, staff of the state ministry of Environment, CEO of Eco-cyclers, Ms Oge Nwonye, a member of the state’s government Palliative Team, Mr. Basil Ojengwa, and other volunteers. The trees (Green Ficus) were planted by the participants with help and support from the staff of the State Ministry of Environment that came with the Permanent Secretary.
The young leaders had been selected from over 4,000 applications to be trained on the fundamentals of climate change science, urban air pollution, and climate advocacy to equip them to become more active citizens and more effective in spreading the message of climate action.
Each of the participants planted a tree after the flag-off by the Permanent Secretary. The campaign also involved an arrangement with the State’s Ministry of Environment to water and care for the trees to ensure they survive and flourish.
He said that trees symbolise a profound commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of air pollution and climate change that have been plaguing the state.
He said that trees stand as silent sentinels, poised to purify the air, mitigate the effects of climate change, and restore the balance of the local ecosystem.
Okereke lauded the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and their implementing partner Meridian International for giving him the opportunity to contribute to climate awareness, leadership training and sustainable development of the state through the IVLP impact programme.
He expressed commitment to empower more young leaders in the state and beyond to become active citizens in promoting stronger climate and environmental action in the state. The programme was supported by Eco-cyclers, the Centre for Climate Change and Development and Society for Planet and Prosperity.
