Stakeholders Push for Stronger Environmental Awareness , Sustainability
By Hannah Arikpo
The wife of the former Governor of Cross River State, Mrs. Onari Duke, has urged stakeholders and environmentalists to intensify awareness campaigns on environmental issues to ensure sustainability.
Onari, founder of the Obudu Education Conservation Centre and trustee of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), made the call in Calabar at the launch of a book titled “Understanding Our Environment: A Guide for Everyone.” She stressed that commitment to sustainability must be demonstrated through knowledge acquisition, positive behavioral change, community education, and encouraging younger generations to embrace eco-friendly lifestyles.
Representing the CEO of Lega C. Capital and wife of Senator Nela Duke Ekpenyong, Onari described the book as a timely intervention that highlights the environmental impact of everyday choices. “This will in no small measure contribute to the sustainability of our environment,” she said.
“When we understand that our water, soil, and species are interconnected, we begin to make wiser decisions. Prevention is easier than finding solutions. When young people learn this truth, they grow into leaders who foster societies that live in balance with nature,” she added.
Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Obol Moses Osogi, also commended the publication, noting its relevance at a time when issues such as climate change, deforestation, plastic pollution, flooding, and biodiversity loss demand urgent solutions. “In Cross River, we are blessed with one of Nigeria’s most ecologically diverse environments, from dense rainforests to winding rivers and coastal zones. This privilege comes with the responsibility to protect, educate, and advocate,” he said.
The reviewer of the book, Dr. Ambe Benjamin, Head of the Department of Geography and Sustainable Education, described its 13 chapters as a blend of global insight and local relevance. He noted that it draws strength from science, policy, history, and practice, providing an accessible guide that informs, challenges, and inspires readers to take responsibility for the environment.
Veteran journalist and Chairman of Avana Investment Limited, Calabar, Ikpoto Okon Osung, praised the author for producing an academic work that doubles as a discussion tool for schools, offices, homes, and communities. He described the book as a revelation for the public, many of whom know little about the environment.
The author, Dr. Comfort Agbor, explained that her inspiration was to contribute to existing knowledge, support research, and join global efforts in promoting pro-environmental behavior. She observed that many environmental hazards such as climate change, ozone depletion, poor waste management, and flooding are linked to human actions but are often wrongly attributed to witchcraft.
Dignitaries at the event included Barr. Edem Ekong, representative of the Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor, Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, who delivered the keynote address, and Grand Patron of Environmental Education, Prof. M. E. Inyang-Abia, among others.
