The Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has welcomed the recent visit of the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to Abia State under its Partnership Agile Governance and Climate Programme (PACE).
The group lauded Governor Alex Otti for his public commitment to advancing climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives, describing the engagement as a timely and strategic step forward for the state.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, FENRAD emphasized the significance of the programme, especially in light of the increasing environmental vulnerabilities affecting Abia and the Southeast region. These include gully erosion, recurrent flooding, biodiversity loss, and the deepening impact of climate-related events on marginalized communities.
FENRAD noted that the presence of international stakeholders such as the FCDO is crucial in supporting subnational governments to access climate finance, strengthen institutional capacity, and implement forward-thinking, climate-resilient policies.
“As a civil society organization deeply rooted in environmental advocacy and social justice, we recognize the potential of this initiative to catalyze real change,” the statement read. “FENRAD is prepared to engage constructively through our work in environmental policy, public awareness, climate education, and evidence-based monitoring and evaluation.”
The organization expressed a particular interest in contributing to the development of localized climate action plans, promoting fiscal transparency in climate-related expenditure, and advocating for the inclusion of grassroots stakeholders—especially women, youth, and rural communities—in climate decision-making.
Calling for openness and inclusivity, FENRAD urged the Abia State Government to adopt transparent and participatory governance frameworks as it rolls out the PACE programme. According to the group, aligning climate initiatives with both local developmental goals and international environmental standards is essential for long-term impact.
The statement concluded with commendation for Governor Otti’s leadership in aligning Abia with global climate priorities, while advocating for continuous stakeholder dialogue and collaboration to ensure the success of the programme.
FENRAD reaffirmed its commitment to advancing climate justice and working toward a greener, more sustainable, and inclusive Abia State.
