The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, has advocated collective efforts to check desert encroachment.
Sir Onyeme stated that it is the responsibility of all to preserve and protect the environment for future generations.
The deputy governor spoke on Tuesday during a tree planting session and tour of facilities at the Nelson Mandela Park, Asaba, Delta State.
Sir Onyeme, after planting an avocado tree which he named Abraham, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding the planet for future generations.
“Checking desert encroachment is a fight for all Africans.
“If desert is not here today, it could be here tomorrow, also, the fact that desert is not here today, does not mean that it will not come unless we take proper steps to check its encroachment.
“Some northerners are in our bushes today because of effects of desert encroachment.
“Unfortunately, most of the northerners who come into our bushes are aggressive and if we help them to make their environment green again, most of them will not come here, they will prefer to live in their communities.
“We should educate our younger ones so that everyone will be involved in the afforestation of Nigeria.
“I want to also thank you, Dr Jibunor for keeping the memory of Nelson Mandela alive.
“We loved him, he was one of the very few leaders who did one tenure and handed over power and he did not say that he would contest for elective positions again; thank you for preserving his name for generations to come.
“We thank God for your life, for remembering that your home is in Delta after the sojourn over the years.
“Thank you for bringing Didi Museum to Delta and we pray that with all these projects, Delta will be the tourism destination of the world,” the deputy governor said.
Some of those who also planted trees were the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Ifeanyi Osakwe and the Executive Assistant to the Governor, Political, Mr Goddey Mbabego.
With the tree planting, the Nelson Mandela Park got three more trees adding to the beauty, and the peaceful atmosphere. This is aside other trees and the ninety five trees already planted in the Africa-shaped garden, which was created in honour of Nelson Mandela who died at the age of 95.
Sir Onyeme stressed the need for individuals, communities, and organizations to work together in addressing environmental challenges particularly by planting trees to curb desert encroachment.
He noted that the environment was the most precious gift to mankind hence the to preserve it, saying that Nigerians were already feeling the effects of desert encroachment.
The deputy governor commended Dr Newton Jibunoh for his efforts in the preservation of the environment through his campaign, Fight Against Desert Encroachment FADE and his advocacy for a better and natural environment.
Renowned environmental crusader, Sir Newton Jibunoh, famously known as the Desert Warrior, explained what led to his expedition across the Sahara Desert and his unwavering resolve to combat desertification and other environmental issues.
He advocated planting of trees to combat desertification, adding that he had been on the campaign for over sixty years.
Dr Jibunoh said the Nelson Mandela garden was his own some way of preserving his memory and to create a tourist destination in Asaba.
Earlier, Ebube Okafor, a Tour Guide took the Deputy Governor and his entourage round the garden and facilities.
