Abia CommunityโAro-Ajatakiri Steps Up Climate Fight: Embraces Nature-Based Solutions, Calls for Government Backing
By Einstein Chukwu
Aro-Ajatakiri, a rural community in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, has taken bold steps in the fight against climate change. Through nature-based solutions and grassroots efforts, the community is working to safeguard its environment and promote sustainable livelihoods, while calling on government and policy-makers for greater support.
The community engagement event, held on Friday, 18th April 2025, was part of the Nigerian Environmental Study Action Team (NEST) project, which aims to build climate resilience across Nigeriaโs diverse ecological zones. With funding from the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), the initiative focuses on fostering climate adaptation practices, enhancing the resilience of vulnerable groups, and integrating nature-based solutions in agricultural and environmental practices.
Professor Emmanuel Nzegbule, Project Coordinator at NEST, commended the Aro-Ajatakiri community for its active participation. โYour efforts to combat climate change through tree planting, sustainable farming, and community-based environmental management are commendable,โ he said. โHowever, more needs to be done in terms of policy support and infrastructural development to 8ensure long-term sustainability.โ
A key element of the engagement was the distribution of improved seeds and tree seedlings, aimed at boosting local agriculture and fostering food security. Over 100 tree seedlings, including varieties like Aku-ilu Bitter kola and Ukwa African Breadfruit, were shared among men, women, and youth.
The communityโs vulnerability to climate change is stark, as highlighted by the rising incidence of flooding, soil erosion, and unpredictable rainfall patterns. These challenges, coupled with the absence of essential services like a reliable road network and adequate healthcare facilities, have exacerbated the hardships faced by the people of Aro-Ajatakiri.
Speaking to the gathered audience, Chief G.O.C Nwosu, leader of the Aro-Ajatakiri Development Group, stated, โWe cannot continue to wait for help from distant quarters. Our livelihoods depend on immediate actionโimproved farming methods, better infrastructure, and more effective climate policies.โ
Participants in the event expressed a shared concern over the degradation of their environment, particularly the pollution of the Aghia River, which had once been their main water source. They also pointed to the harmful effects of sand mining and erosion that disrupt their daily lives and economic activities.
Despite these challenges, the people of Aro-Ajatakiri have demonstrated resilience. They have already established a two-hectare tree crop plantation known as โNdi Oti Tree Crops Plantation,โ planting indigenous and economically valuable species. Additionally, the community has adopted agroforestry techniques, integrating trees into farming systems to enhance soil fertility and improve biodiversity.
In his presentation on climate-smart agriculture, Dr. Benson Nwajiobi of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, emphasized the importance of diversified farming practices and efficient irrigation. โClimate-smart agriculture not only helps farmers adapt to climate change but also improves soil quality and food security,โ he explained.
Dr. Chinwenwa Precious Ngwuli highlighted the crucial role of gender inclusivity in building climate resilience. โBy empowering women and youth, we are not only ensuring equitable participation but also strengthening the sustainability of our solutions,โ she said.
The event also highlighted the need for greater governmental support, with many participants pointing out the lack of essential services like health care, education, and infrastructure. โWe need roads, irrigation systems, and a reliable health facility,โ said one of the community elders. โOnly then can we fully realise the potential of our farming and environmental practices.โ
As part of the initiative, the community also received training in climate resilience practices, with an emphasis on sustainable farming, tree planting, and soil conservation. The knowledge gained will be instrumental in bolstering local capacity to adapt to the changing climate.
In conclusion, while the Aro-Ajatakiri community has made significant strides in addressing climate challenges, the battle is far from over. The communityโs call for greater government action and policy support is a reminder that, in the face of climate change, local efforts must be met with national commitment to create a resilient, sustainable future.
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