By PJ Usanga
The Catholic Caritas Foundation of Nigeria (CCFN) joined the global community in celebrating World Environment Day on June 5, 2024, with a focus on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience. The event, held at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), featured tree planting, public sensitization, and discussions on the importance of environmental conservation.
Rev. Fr. Zacharia Nyantiso Samjumi, Secretary General of CSN, emphasized the urgency of environmental protection, citing the devastating impact of the current cholera outbreak and other health issues linked to environmental pollution and degradation. He urged concrete actions beyond verbal affirmations.
Engr. Osilamah Braimah, Director of Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), delivered a keynote address highlighting the pressing environmental challenges in Nigeria, including deforestation, land degradation, and pollution. He reiterated the AEPB’s commitment to protecting and managing the environment in the Federal Capital Territory.
The event featured paper presentations on Lake Chad’s shrinkage and community plastic waste initiatives. Students from Regina Pacis College, Sanctus Lumen Christi Schools, and members of Catholic Women Organization (CWO) and Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON) attended the session.
World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 since 1973, is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This year’s theme aligns with the UN Decade-long campaign for Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), emphasizing the protection and revival of ecosystems crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
