By David Okoh
As the world marks International Mother Earth Day, the United Nations has issued a powerful call to action, urging all nations to develop new climate action plans aimed at capping global temperature rise at 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Speaking at an event in Abuja themed “Our Power, Our Planet,” the Director of the UN Secretary General Mr. Antonio Guterre — represented by Digital Media Assistant Mrs. Bolanle Olumekor — warned that the world stands at a critical tipping point.
“All countries must create new national climate action plans that align with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. This is essential to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe,” Kayanja said.
He stressed that the shift to clean energy is not only urgent but also an opportunity for sustainable growth. “This is a vital chance to seize the benefits of clean power. I urge all countries to take it, with the G20 leading the way.”
The UN’s message comes on a day recognized globally since 2009 to honor the Earth and promote efforts to safeguard ecosystems and biodiversity.
Other speakers at the event echoed the urgent call for environmental stewardship. Dr. Umar Yakasai, Director General of the Tinubu Campaign Organizations, emphasized that protecting the planet is a shared responsibility.
“We must walk together to address the environmental challenges threatening our existence,” he said, highlighting the importance of tree planting as a legacy for future generations.
Mr. Roland Echee, Director of Parks and Recreation, Abuja, described Mother Earth as “an intricate wealth of life,” urging for greater commitment to green and sustainable living.
Also speaking, Hajiya Fatima Kachallah, President of the Association of Flower Nurseries and Landscaping Practitioners of Abuja (AFNALPA), reinforced the need for environmental education and conservation.
“Planting trees and embracing sustainable practices are key to mitigating the dangers of climate change,” she said.
As the world reflects on the state of the planet, the message from Abuja was clear: the time to act is now — for the sake of the Earth and generations yet to come.
