About 160 out of 179 communities in Anambra State are currently grappling with the threat posed by erosion gullies.
The Commissioner for Environment, Felix Odimegwu, said this at the 2023 spouses/award night of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka branch, held in Awka.
According to him, the devastating erosion menace is as a result of actions and inactions of the people, which, he said, need collective efforts and expertise to control.
While re-emphasizing the need for collective action and expertise to mitigate the impact of the erosion issues, the commissioner said negligence will undoubtedly continue exacerbating the environmental vulnerabilities.
“Environment is everybody’s business. Looking at what is happening in the state today, the ecological problems we’re confronting, it is high time we all took responsibility for our actions and inactions.
“And the engineers must play their roles and ensure the right thing is done at every point in time, especially in the areas of designs and the construction, because unsustainable designs and unprofessional construction are parts of the major causes of environmental challenges,” he said.
He commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his efforts in transforming Anambra into a green and prosperous homeland.
He specifically praised the governor for steering the state towards becoming a destination lounge rather than a departure lounge.
The commissioner applauded the ongoing infrastructural developments facilitated by the governor and stressed the positive strides made in the environment ministry.
In recognition of his contributions to the NSE and his commendable initiatives within the Ministry of Environment, Odimegwu was honoured with a prestigious award by the NSE Awka branch during the event.
Presenting the award to the commissioner, the chairman, NSE Awka branch, David Okeke, said the honour was in acknowledgment of his support for the society and further lauded the positive impact of his stewardship and endeavours within the ministry, especially in fostering positive change in the state.
Other awardees at the event include a United Kingdom-based engineer, Ifeakanwa Roseline; former chairman of NSE, Awka branch, Dr Odinaka Okonkwo and the guest speaker, Professor E.N. Ikezue.
They all described the initiative as a good motivation that will spur them to do more for the people.
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