The Cross River State Government has officially launched activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day, reaffirming its commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action with an ambitious plan to plant millions of trees across the State.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Calabar, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, stated that this year’s theme, "Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future", highlights the urgent need for collective action in tackling environmental challenges and promoting sustainable urban development.
The Commissioner commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his unwavering support of environmental initiatives and the ministry’s programmes. He explained that the awareness walk and parade were organised to educate residents on the importance of environmental protection, climate resilience, sanitation, and tree planting.
Osogi expressed concern over recent incidents in which ageing trees collapsed within the Calabar metropolis, destroying property and causing serious injury to an individual. He disclosed that the government had already begun proactive measures, including the removal of expired and hazardous trees, pruning of vulnerable ones, and planting of replacement trees.
According to the Commissioner, the state government has set a target of planting five million trees this year. He added that the three urban development centres in the state have already received their allocations for immediate planting.
As part of the celebration, officials from the ministry, environmental stakeholders, students, and volunteers embarked on a sensitisation walk through major streets in Calabar. Participants also carried out a clean-up exercise, collecting litter along the route. The procession started from the Ministry of Environment headquarters, proceeded along Mary Slessor Road and Rabana Junction to Eleven-Eleven Junction, before returning to the Ministry.
The Commissioner noted that World Environment Day serves as a global platform for promoting sustainable environmental practices and raising awareness about climate-related challenges.
A symbolic tree-planting exercise was carried out by ministry staff and other volunteers—including the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Onah, along Murtala Muhammed Highway.
The two-day celebration will culminate in a symposium scheduled to hold on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.
By Sylvia Okoi
