Rep  Sam Onuigbo has established a strong nexus between Covid-19 which three years back held the world by its jugular and Climate Change describing both as 'global catastrophes that are not restricted by borders'

“ I see a strong nexus between what we went through with COVID-19, and the ongoing fight against climate change. For a start, . Thus, global efforts are requisite in tackling both disasters, as no one country can be safe, if the entire world is not safe. But the beauty and strength of humanity lies in our resilience—that never ending desire to overcome our challenges and build back better”, the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South federal constituency declared.

Rep Onuigbo was speaking at the  University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN while being honoured with  the "Excellence Award in Environmental Governance" award  by the Center for Environmental Management and Control (CEMAC) recently.

 The award was presented to the Federal lawmaker  by the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Charles Arinzechukwu Igwe,

on the occasion of the First International Conference on "Climate Change” with the  theme: “Climate Change in the COVID-19 Era”. The conference was hosted by the  University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in collaboration with the School of Environment and Safety Engineering (SESE), Jiangsu University, China. 

The award adds another feather in the lawmaker’s fitting cap, in recognition of his numerous contributions and leadership, as he continues on his Climate Change advocacy, consolidating on the success and momentum attained so far. 

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of UNN, Prof. Igwe explained that the  event is the first of its kind  expressing the University community’s delight at hosting the important conference. 

He stated that the theme of the conference, “Climate Change in the COVID-19 Era” is apt especially now that the global populace is challenged by extreme and unstable climate conditions, which has been further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 “there is hardly any part of the globe without climate change crisis. I therefore consider this conference very worthwhile and thoughtful, as it is expected to feature discussions and contents that will signal an integrated multidisciplinary approach to fostering and advancing the way forward”, he noted

He concluded by stating that there is still hope for the future, if we continue to raise awareness and consciousness of these challenges through conferences such as this.

In his remarks, Rep  Onuigbo expressed his joy in participating in the maiden international conference by the UNN,  stating that it is important that stakeholders meet from time to time to hold proper and in-depth discussions on issues that are germane to our existence and future.

He pointed out that in the past three years the World has been at the mercy of Covid-19 and highlighted  the causes, effects and relationship between the COVID-19 pandemic and Climate Change in our society, lifestyle and economy, while proffering possible action plans that will help us pull through these challenges

He also analysed  the Climate Change Act: its provisions, impact, implications and the next steps forward:

“ We have taken the first critical step by enacting a Climate Change Act. This Act offers us the legal framework to embark on coordinated and multilevel actions to combat climate change and build back in a sustainable and green way” he said. 

He thanked the VC of UNN, the university community and the organizers of the event for recognizing his many contributions towards a resilient recovery for people and planet, charging the participants of the

conference to not just learn, but also take actions to implement what they have learnt.

Other highlights of the event include An address by the host, Prof. Anene N. Moneke, Director, Center for Environmental Management and Control, UNN, and goodwill message from Prof. D.U Daolin, Dean, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, China 

The lead paper presentation by Prof. Yang-Chun Yong, Director, Biofuel Institute and Vice Dean, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University on the topic: “Carbon dioxide (CO2) Fixation and Transformation by Biotechnology.”

The event was attended by leaders of the environment and energy sectors, as well as other sectors of the economy. Attending virtually from the School of Environment and Safety Engineering, SESE, Jiangsu University were Prof. D. U. Daolin, Dean, SESE; Prof. Yang-Chun Hong and Prof. Yanzhai Wang.

Other special guests at the occasion were  Chief Sharon Ikeazor, Hon. Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Environment;  Prof. Bart O. Nnaji, former  Minister, Ministry of Power;  Engr. Gerald Osuagwu, Managing Director, Anambra-Imo Rivers Basin Development Authority

Others include Dr. Habiba Lawal, Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office; Prof. Mandir B. Matazu, 

CEO, Nigerian Metrological Agency; And Engr. Mrs. Uche Patrick-Obikile, Nigerian Metrological Agency