What I gained from UNOC conference- Eno

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has assured of key strategic action plans as part of the vital gains derived from his recent participation at the United Nations Organization’s Conference on the effects of ocean rise on coastal states.

Speaking to Government House Correspondents on his arrival at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, the Governor noted that the conference became necessary and significant, considering the prevailing effects of ocean rise on states like Akwa Ibom.

“The Ocean Rise Conference draws the world’s attention to the effects of the ocean on our world as a result of climate change, and how to save us from disasters.

“And, there are some key and strategic moves and action plans that sub-nationals surrounded by the ocean have to make in order to checkmate any upsurge and adverse effects of the ocean,” he stated.

According to the Governor, “Akwa Ibom has the longest coastline—129 km—in Nigeria. As such, we were invited, along with other sub-national governments, to participate in the conference in Nice, France.”

Governor Eno noted that the essence of the conference was to create awareness, alertness, understanding and readiness among the concerned state governments in order for them to begin to put the necessary action plans in place for proper protection.

“The conference armed us with tools and the understanding that if we don’t take care of the ocean, in the next couple of years, we will not have some of our cities again.

“So, it was a valuable conference, and we made our contributions. We are back and ready to take actions that we will follow through. The important thing is that Akwa Ibom State is now a member of the United Nations Organization on Ocean Rise Collaboration.”