ISEAA Calls for Environmental Protection and Climate Resilience on World Environment Day
The Chairman of the Isuikwuato Environment Advancement Advocates (ISEAA), Comrade Ukandu Kelechi, has called for renewed commitment to environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development as the world commemorates World Environment Day 2026.
In a message issued to mark the occasion, themed “Our Environment, Our Responsibility,” the environmental advocate urged residents, community leaders, and government institutions to work together to preserve the natural resources that have sustained Isuikwuato for generations.
Concern Over Environmental Degradation
Comrade Ukandu noted that Isuikwuato remains richly blessed with forests, rivers, streams, springs, fertile farmlands, hills, valleys, and diverse wildlife. However, he warned that these natural assets are increasingly under threat from environmental degradation.
According to him, challenges such as indiscriminate bush burning, deforestation, erosion, pollution of water sources, unsustainable land use practices, improper waste disposal, and reckless hunting continue to endanger the environment and the wellbeing of communities.
He stressed that urgent action is needed to reverse these trends and safeguard the area’s ecological heritage.
Erosion Identified as Major Threat
The ISEAA Chairman identified soil erosion as one of the most pressing environmental challenges confronting many communities in Isuikwuato.
He explained that unchecked surface runoff continues to destroy farmlands, wash away fertile topsoil, damage roads, and threaten homes and public infrastructure.
To address the challenge, he advocated increased investment in erosion control measures, including improved drainage systems, afforestation programmes, slope stabilization initiatives, and community-driven environmental management projects.
Protecting Watersheds and Water Resources
A major focus of the address was the need to protect watersheds and natural water sources across Isuikwuato.
Comrade Ukandu emphasized that streams, rivers, springs, wetlands, and catchment areas play a critical role in ensuring water security, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining ecological balance.
He warned against pollution, encroachment, and environmental abuse of these resources, noting that their protection is essential for both present and future generations.
The environmental advocate also called for deliberate efforts towards the restoration, optimization, and sustainable management of important water bodies such as Nne Ochie, Aku, and Eze Iyi.
Building Climate Resilience for the Future
Addressing the effects of changing climate patterns, the ISEAA Chairman noted that communities are increasingly experiencing irregular rainfall, prolonged dry seasons, flooding, declining agricultural yields, and growing threats to water security.
He called for climate resilience to become a central component of local development planning.
According to him, achieving resilience will require sustained investment in environmental restoration, tree planting, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, watershed protection, and public environmental education.
Commendation for Environmental Progress in Abia
Comrade Ukandu commended the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for ongoing improvements in environmental sanitation and public cleanliness across Abia State.
He also praised the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, for supporting policies that promote environmental sustainability and a cleaner environment.
Special recognition was equally given to the General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Mazi Ogbonnia Okereke, for his contributions to improved sanitation and waste management across the state.
According to him, the environmental transformation currently visible in Abia demonstrates what can be achieved through strong leadership and effective implementation.
Applause for Isuikwuato Water Project
The ISEAA Chairman also applauded the Mayor of Isuikwuato LGA, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, for the successful installation of twenty solar-powered boreholes across various communities in the local government area.
He described the project as a significant intervention that has improved access to potable water, reduced hardship for residents, and contributed positively to public health and environmental wellbeing.
While celebrating the achievement, he urged beneficiary communities to take ownership of the facilities and ensure their proper maintenance to guarantee long-term sustainability.
Call for Wildlife Conservation
The address also highlighted concerns about wildlife depletion caused by uncontrolled hunting activities.
Comrade Ukandu called for responsible and regulated hunting practices, noting that wildlife conservation is necessary to protect biodiversity, preserve ecological balance, and prevent the extinction of vulnerable species.
He warned that indiscriminate hunting could disrupt food chains, reduce wildlife populations, and cause lasting environmental damage.
Collective Responsibility for a Sustainable Future
As part of his recommendations, the ISEAA Chairman called for increased investment in environmental sanitation equipment, expansion of rural water projects, stronger forest and wildlife protection laws, and broader environmental awareness campaigns.
He urged traditional rulers, development unions, youth organizations, women groups, schools, religious institutions, and community stakeholders to actively support environmental education and conservation efforts.
According to him, environmental sustainability cannot be achieved by government alone but requires the participation and commitment of every citizen.
He concluded by urging residents to embrace environmental responsibility and work together to build a cleaner, greener, healthier, and more resilient Isuikwuato for future generations.