Anambra Guber: Obuesi calls on candidates to commit to Climate Change, sustainability
By Uzor Odigbo
President of SWEEP Foundation, Ambassador Philips Obuesi, has called on candidates in the November 8th, 2025 Anambra governorship election, to give attention to climate change, environmental pollution and sustainability.
In a statement in Lagos, Obuesi said: “As stakeholders in waste management and environmental sustainability, we believe it is essential for the next governor to prioritize these critical issues and articulate a clear vision for the state’s environmental future.”
He said that Anambra State is vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change, including flooding, soil erosion, and pollution, adding that the state’s environment is under severe stress, and urgent action is needed to protect its natural resources and promote sustainable development.
He said: “Notably, Onitsha, a city in Anambra State, was once ranked the most polluted city in the world by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016, with alarming air pollution levels. Gully erosion has become a catastrophic phenomenon in Anambra State, posing significant threats to residents’ livelihoods, infrastructure, and the environment. Human activities such as deforestation, poor land use practices, and inadequate drainage systems have exacerbated the state’s topographic vulnerabilities.”
The President of SWEEP Foundation emphasized that climate change is a development emergency that affects every aspect of our lives, from food security to economic stability.
The circular economy, he stressed, offers a promising solution, promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns, reducing waste, and creating new economic opportunities.
According to him, through circular economic principles, Anambra State can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable land use, and mitigate soil erosion.
He urges all candidates to declare their stand on climate change, green economy, sustainability, and circular economy.
“Specifically, Obuesi and Ndi-Anambra want to know how they plan to support sustainable agriculture practices to enhance food security and reduce environmental degradation, Implement effective waste management systems that prioritize recycling, reuse, and reduction, foster a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship among citizens.”
He said to develop and implement policies that support the circular economy and green growth, the following questions becoms critical to the candidates: “What is the vision for Anambra State’s environmental future, and how do you plan to achieve it, How will you support farmers facing erratic rainfall and declining yields, What role will Anambra State play in global climate negotiations, and how will you contribute to national efforts to combat climate change-, How will you ensure that the principles of sustainability and circular economy are integrated into all aspects of governance?”
According to Barrister Obuesi, the 2025 governorship elections in Anambra State present an opportunity for citizens to demand a commitment to sustainability and the circular economy from their leaders.
“We call on all stakeholders to join us in demanding a sustainable future for Anambra State. The governorship candidates must speak up for the environment, they must become mouthpieces for our collective journey into sustainability and circular economy. Together, we can build a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous future for all,” he said.
