MDGs boss canvasses for environmental protection, sustainability

Gbeneol, who made this remark on the occasion of World Environment Day, also stated that with concerted efforts, the society can attain the goal 7 (Achieving Environmental Sustainability) of the MDGs framework.
In a statement signed by the Head, Information and Communication, Dr Christopher Otabor, Gbeneol noted that with increasing global threats of climate change, drastic decline of biodiversity and the extreme vulnerability, Nigerians must challenge themselves to step up efforts to protect and preserve the eco-system through usage of biodegradable, eco-friendly products and recycling of plastic products.
The statement called for concerted efforts towards addressing issues related to the acceleration of biodiversity loss caused by climate change for the benefits of the society.
It also advised against open daefecation, which she said can lead to contamination of food and water, diseases like cholera and diarrhea, which are known to be major causes of infant mortality.
According to the statement, the need to stop unhygienic habits prompted the government to construct numerous toilets across the country.
The statement noted that Nigeria’s natural resources and some of its most valuable national assets were threatened, saying: “For example, between 2000 and 2010 Nigeria forest area shrank by a third, from 14.4 per cent to 9.9 per cent of the land area. Government, as a result, is implementing the integrated National Environmental Action Plans that address climate change. The federal government is encouraging a shift in the use of firewood for cooking to natural gas.”
It added: “OSSAP-MDGs have since 2006 initiated a series of interventions aimed at expanding access to portable water for all Nigerians. Efforts in this direction have been channelled through the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources, the Conditional Grants Scheme to States, the Quick-Wins programme and the MDGs Special Projects programme.”
In the area of sanitation, OSSAP-MDGs have supported the construction of 7,297 VIP toilets and 120 flush toilets.
According to the OSSAP-MDGs, the implementation of the various water and sanitation projects led to the achievements of MDG Goals 4 and 5 while lending greater and indirect support to the achievement of Goals 1, 2, 3 and 7.
“VIP toilets and flush toilets in the rural schools have not only led to healthy living amongst the pupils in the rural communities but have also encouraged high girl-child enrolment, especially in the northern part of the country,” she added.
World Environment Day (‘WED’) is celebrated every year on June 5 to raise global awareness and take positive environmental action to protect nature and the planet earth.
The day was set aside by the United Nations Organisation (UNO) and overseen by its agency, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The 2014 theme for the World Environment Day focused on “Small Islands and Climate Change,” with the official slogan: “Raise Your Voice, Not the Sea Level.”