An environmental expert and the Executive Director of the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) and the YEAC Community Energy and Development (YEAC-CEAD), Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface has stressed the need for strengthening environmental sustainability to mitigate the impacts of climate change in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.
Dr Fyneface stated this during his presentation titled: “Enhancing Environmental Protective Measures For Climate Change Mitigation” at the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central event held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.
He noted that the rising sea levels which is now a growing threat have continued to endanger coastal communities such as Opobo, Orashi and Bonny axis, pointing at the increase in flooding, erosion and saltwater intrusion as major concerns affecting agriculture, fisheries and local livelihoods.
He Highlighted oil pollution from both industrial activities and artisanal refining, gas flaring, over exploitation of natural resources, deforestation, including wetland degradation and poor waste management systems as key environmental challenges in the region.
“To address these issues, there is a need for stronger enforcement of environmental regulations, reduction of gas flaring and sustained clean-up efforts in polluted areas. It also called for enhanced protection of wetlands and mangrove ecosystems, particularly following the designation of Ogoni as a Ramsar Site of International Importance,” he said.
The expert maintained that development of climate-resilient infrastructure, such as drainage systems, jetties, roads alongside improved early warning systems, will be needed in mitigating climate-related risks. Stressing the importance of community-led initiatives and environmental education in driving a long-term change.
He however suggested the Rotary Club of Port Harcourt Central to take up its action plan in contributing to Enhancing Environmental Protection for Climate Change Mitigation, including planting trees campaign, mangrove restoration projects, adoption of wetlands for conservation. Urban tree planting in public spaces, creation of a 1,000 tree Rotary Forest, and campaigns to phase out single-use plastics in markets.
“I propose the club carry out regular community clean-up exercises, waste-to-wealth programmes targeting women and youth, thus converting environmental issues to economic opportunities and empowerment.
“Promote and install mini-solar systems at primary healthcare centers or schools in rural and riverine areas. This cuts diesel and fuel uses, keeps vaccines safer, addresses environmental issues and mitigates climate change and the installation of solar power systems in schools and healthcare centres in rural and riverine communities” he said.
In addition, he proposed energy audits for members’ businesses, climate education campaigns across schools and media platforms, and policy dialogues with relevant government agencies, oil companies and stakeholders.
Dr Fyneface urged the club to strengthen its partnerships with agencies such as HYPREP, NOSDRA, and environmental organisations, while leveraging support from the Rotary global structure and international partners to fund and implement its environmental initiatives.
