Benue climate action took centre stage as OWACDO joined the state Ministry of Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, government agencies, civil-society organisations, development partners and environmental stakeholders to mark World Environment Day 2026.
The Makurdi event focused on the theme “Urbanization and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future,” connecting global environmental concerns with practical choices that affect neighbourhoods across Benue State.
Taking environmental awareness into public spaces
A road walk and public sensitisation campaign encouraged residents to protect their surroundings, manage waste responsibly and understand how climate change can intensify existing urban pressures.
Public engagement is important because resilient cities are shaped by daily behaviour as well as policy. Cleaner drainage, responsible disposal, reduced pollution and care for shared spaces can improve health and reduce environmental risks, particularly for vulnerable households.
Tree planting and dialogue for climate resilience
Participants also took part in a tree-planting exercise to promote environmental restoration and long-term climate resilience. Trees can support shade, soil protection and healthier urban spaces, while the exercise provided a visible reminder that climate commitments require practical action.
Stakeholders discussed sustainable urban development and strategies for communities to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Bringing different institutions together helped connect public awareness with broader planning and coordination.
Why the environment is part of community development
OWACDO’s participation reflects the link between environmental conditions and human wellbeing. Women, children and low-income communities can be disproportionately affected by unsafe water, poor sanitation, extreme weather and disruptions to livelihoods.
Supporting climate awareness therefore complements OWACDO’s wider work for healthy, inclusive communities. The organisation joined partners in calling on residents to plant and protect trees, keep their environment clean and take part in solutions that make Benue greener and more resilient.