By Abasi Ita
A new wave of climate conscious leaders is emerging in Port Harcourt following the successful completion of a major environmental initiative aimed at strengthening community resilience in the Niger Delta.
This follows the conclusion of the primary phase of engagement of the Climate Action for Advocacy and Sustainable Development project, marking a significant step toward grassroots driven responses to climate change.
The capacity building initiative, designed to positively influence environmental awareness, focused on equipping local communities with the knowledge and tools needed to tackle environmental challenges.
Implemented by the Centre for Development Support Initiative Nigeria with support from the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme, the project targeted communities including Amadi Ama, Abuloma and Azuabie, where residents, particularly young people, were empowered to take active roles in environmental protection.
Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Head of Communication at CEDSI, Joseph Uyok, said the project has helped bridge the gap between awareness and action.
According to him, “What we have done is to move beyond conversations about climate change to practical solutions. The response from the communities, especially young people, has been encouraging and shows that real change is possible at the grassroots.”
The programme featured climate literacy campaigns, with educational manuals distributed to both in school and out of school youths to improve understanding of climate issues and solutions.
It also introduced nature based solutions through the establishment of eco demonstration farms and tree planting exercises aimed at boosting environmental sustainability and resilience.
Programme Coordinator of CEDSI, Joseph Mgba, said the initiative was designed to ensure long term impact through youth inclusion and continuous engagement.
He said, “We deliberately created Climate Action Clubs and trained Eco Champions so that the knowledge gained will not end with the project. These young people will continue to drive advocacy and sustainable practices within their communities.”
The initiative further strengthened youth participation by providing advocacy and digital tools to amplify community voices in environmental policy discussions.
A youth leader in Ukukalama, who spoke on behalf of community leaders and beneficiaries, acknowledged the positive impact of the project and described it as timely and transformative.
He said, “This project has opened our eyes to the realities of climate change and what we can do as a community. We are now more conscious of our environment and ready to take responsibility for protecting it.”
The project maintained a strong focus on inclusivity by engaging persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, ensuring that no one was left behind in the push for a climate resilient future.
Although the project has reached its close out stage, stakeholders said it represents a transition rather than an end. They expressed confidence that the knowledge and structures established will continue to inspire sustainable practices and community driven development across the Niger Delta.
Organisers added that the impact is already visible, with empowered youths and residents leading efforts to build a more environmentally secure future for their communities.