Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD), an Environmental Advocacy organization in Abia State and Southeast Regional Coordinator – Climate, Sustainable & Development Network (CSDEVNET), committed to environmental and climate advocacy has congratulated Abia-born Environmental Expert, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe on her recent appointment as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Council On Climate Change (NCCC) by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe hails from Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, and holds a Bachelor of Law degree; a Master’s degree in Environmental Law & Policy from the University of Dundee (UK), and a Doctorate degree in Law from the University of Hull (UK).
Dr. Maduekwe has over 15 years of national and international experience in climate policy development and project implementation. She previously served as Nigeria National Coordinator, Climate Parliament. Climate Parliament is an international, multi-partisan network of legislators working worldwide to help solve the climate crisis and accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe will also serve as the Co-Chairperson of the Intergovernmental Committee on National Carbon Market Activation Plan (NCMAP).
The Executive Director of FENRAD, an Abia Born Environmental Activist and Climate Justice campaigner, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor expressed joy over the appointment, describing it as well deserved; and stressed that Dr Maduekwe’s appointment and her pedigree is in accordance with the present administration policy and commitment to actualize Nigeria’s green industrial vision, boost investor confidence, and unlock sustainable economic value through various climate finance instruments.
The National Council on Climate Change is Nigeria’s commitment to integrate comprehensive and strategic actions towards addressing climate change and promote environmental justice on a national scale.
The FENRAD Boss, Comrade Nwafor, who is thrilled with the appointment, has pledged the foundation’s commitment to support the NCCC to enhance collective efforts and strategic steps towards achieving it’s mandate; Advancing climate action and sustainability, drive impactful change and build a resilient future for our communities.”
“FENRAD stands in solidarity with Dr. Maduekwe to ensure that she succeeds and excels in this new position; tackling environmental issues and promoting sustainable development practices, and to continue to record greater feats and break new grounds given her vast knowledge and experience in Climate Policy and Project implementation”, says Nwafor.
According to the comrade, FENRAD will support the Council on various intervention areas including;
• Policy and Advocacy
- Climate Policy Frameworks: Develop and advocate for robust climate policies and frameworks at national and regional levels to ensure comprehensive climate action.
- Legislative Engagement: Work with lawmakers to enact laws that support climate resilience, carbon reduction, and sustainable development.
Sustainable Practices and Development
- Green Economy Initiatives: Promote and support the transition to a green economy through sustainable business practices and green technologies.
- Renewable Energy: Invest in and encourage the use of renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
· Research and Innovation
- Climate Research: Funding and supporting research initiatives that provide innovative solutions to climate challenges.
- Technology Development: Encouraging the development and deployment of new technologies aimed at mitigating climate change and enhancing adaptation.
· Public Awareness and Education:
- Educational Campaigns: Implementing nationwide educational campaigns to increase public awareness about the impacts of climate change and the importance of sustainable practices.
- Community Engagement: Engaging communities in climate action through workshops, seminars, and public forums.
· International Collaboration:
- Global Partnerships: Partnering with international organizations and governments to share knowledge, resources, and strategies for global climate action.
- Commitment to Global Agreements: Upholding commitments to international climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, and working towards global climate goals.
· Adaptation and Resilience Building:
- Climate Resilience Programs: Developing programs to enhance the resilience of communities, especially those most vulnerable to climate impacts.
- Disaster Risk Reduction: Implementing strategies to reduce the risks and impacts of climate-related disasters through early warning systems, infrastructure improvements, and community preparedness.
· Sustainable Land and Resource Management:
- Conservation Efforts: Promoting conservation of forests, wetlands, and other critical ecosystems that act as carbon sinks.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Encouraging sustainable agricultural practices that protect the environment and ensure food security.
Foundation For Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) a leading organization dedicated to environmental and climate advocacy in the Southeast is committed to working together with the Council to protect the environment, enhance climate resilience, and ensure a sustainable future for all.
