By Amaka Isikala
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a sustainable, prosperous, and environmentally responsible economy through the promotion of youth entrepreneurship and circular economy initiatives.
This commitment was highlighted during the 2026 World Environment Day celebration held at the Dora Akunyili Centre, Awka on June 5th. The event, organised by the State Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the SWEEP Foundation, themed: “Anambra Green Enterprise and Circular Economy: You Are Bankable.”
Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Clem Aguiyi, stated that the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo is strategically positioning Anambra State as a leading center for green enterprise and sustainable development.
According to him, environmental protection should not be viewed as a burden but as an avenue for wealth creation and economic growth. “Protecting our environment is not a cost. It is an investment. It is a business. It is wealth creation,” noting that the theme reflects the state’s conviction that environmental sustainability can generate significant economic opportunities.
Dr. Aguiyi explained that Gov Soludo’s vision of transforming Anambra into a livable, prosperous, and smart megacity is predicated on the preservation of a clean, green, and sustainable environment. He further stated that the administration is committed to establishing the state as a model of innovation and development across the African continent.
He encouraged residents, especially young people, to view waste as a valuable resource and environmental challenges as opportunities for enterprise development. He identified recycling, eco-friendly packaging, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and waste-to-wealth ventures as key sectors capable of creating jobs and boosting economic growth.
The commissioner further outlined the state’s circular economy strategy, which seeks to move away from the traditional “take, make, dispose” model by encouraging the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of materials. He noted that such practices would help address environmental challenges such as flooding, blocked drainage systems, and gully erosion affecting communities including Onitsha, Nnewi, and Ekwulobia.
He also stressed that businesses providing environmental solutions are increasingly attracting support from financial institutions, investors, and development partners. “If your business solves an environmental problem, then you are bankable,” he said, assuring participants that the Ministry and its partners would continue to facilitate access to skills acquisition programmes, financing opportunities, and market linkages.
He commended the SWEEP Foundation for its environmental advocacy and grassroots mobilisation efforts, emphasizing that strong partnerships between government and civil society remain vital to achieving sustainability goals.
The commissioner urged residents to embrace practical environmental actions, establish innovative enterprises that tackle environmental problems, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to drive sustainable development.
Expressing confidence in the state’s future, Aguiyi said collective efforts could position Anambra as Nigeria’s foremost green economy hub. “Anambra must be known not just for commerce and industry, but as Nigeria’s green economy capital,” he declared.
The event attracted government officials, traditional rulers, development partners, civil society organisations, youth groups, market leaders, and environmental advocates, deliberated on strategies to advance sustainable development and environmental stewardship across the state.
Amaka Isikala is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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