By Lilian Ezejiegu
Marking the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, environmental advocates and community leaders in Anambra State has called for urgent action to protect the state’s rivers, forests, and farmlands from escalating degradation that threatens livelihoods and food security.
Experts said, biodiversity, the variety of plants, animals and ecosystems that sustain life is visible across Anambra in features such as the River Niger environment, agricultural lands and remaining forest patches. Those natural resources underpin local economies by supporting farming, fishing and transportation.
But residents and environmental groups warn that the state’s biodiversity is under severe pressure from human activity and climate change. Gully erosion, flooding, deforestation, poor waste disposal and pollution are among the major problems cited, with communities in Awka, Onitsha, Ekwulobia, Nanka and Abagana singled out as hard hit.
A community leader in one of the affected town said, “Gully erosion is destroying roads, homes, farmlands and vegetation. When trees are cut and land management practices fail, the ecosystem weakens and biodiversity declines.” The loss of vegetation and soil stability, experts warn, also increases flood risk and undermines agricultural productivity.
Organisers of local observances used the day to appeal to government agencies, environmental organisations and citizens to step up conservation measures. Recommended actions include large-scale tree planting, improved waste management, deliberate erosion-control projects and stronger protection of remaining natural habitats.
Youth groups, students and community leaders were urged also to intensify public education on environmental sanitation and sustainable practices. A youth activist said, “Protecting biodiversity is essential to securing food production, improving public health and ensuring a safer environment for future generations”.
Officials noted that responsibility for environmental protection extends beyond government. They urged collective action from individuals, families, businesses and institutions to adopt sustainable behaviours and support policies that safeguard natural resources.
As Anambra joins the world in observing the International Day for Biological Diversity, the message from the state’s communities was clear: without immediate, coordinated action, the environmental foundations of local livelihoods and wellbeing will continue to erode.
Lilian is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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