The Nigerian Government has recognised Anambra State as a national benchmark for climate adaptation and environmental management, citing its transformative community-led initiatives and effective governance.
The commendation was made by the Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal, during the launch of the €175 million Nigeria Climate Adaptation, Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) in Abuja.
The project, a partnership between the European Investment Bank and the Nigerian Government, aims to address flooding, gully erosion, and land degradation nationwide.
In a dialogue with Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Dr Felix Odimegwu, the Minister described Anambra ‘as the most proactive and effective state in tackling environmental challenges’, noting its community-driven initiatives, rapid erosion response, and waste management systems as a national model.
Anambra, once one of Nigeria’s most erosion-prone states, has significantly improved its environmental outlook through climate-smart urban planning, decentralized waste recycling, and grassroots sustainability programmes, making it a major beneficiary of the NEWMAP initiative.
Dr. Odimegwu attributed the state’s progress to collective efforts among communities, institutions, and development partners and reaffirmed Anambra’s commitment to long-term environmental reforms and shared climate goals.
Environmental experts and civil society groups welcomed the Nigerian government’s recognition, urging other states to adopt Anambra’s people-centered approach to environmental governance.