The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Akwa Ibom State, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, has called on residents, community leaders, women groups and local government councils to plant trees in support of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) National Tree Planting Challenge, aimed at combating climate change and restoring Nigeria’s environment.
Speaking at the Akwa Ibom State Women Monthly Prayer Meeting held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, Lady Obareki urged citizens to actively participate in the nationwide initiative championed by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, expressing confidence that Akwa Ibom could emerge victorious in the national competition through massive grassroots participation.
She explained that the exercise, flagged off in the state a day earlier, goes beyond the contest, describing tree planting as a practical response to climate change, environmental degradation and poor air quality.
“I would like you to join me to win that money from Abuja. Beyond the competition, planting trees will beautify our environment, help address climate change and make our communities healthier,” she said.
Lady Obareki called on Local Government Chairmen, Wives of Council Chairmen, religious organisations, community associations, schools and other stakeholders to plant fruit and ornamental trees across the state while observing safety guidelines in public spaces.
To boost Akwa Ibom’s chances in the national challenge, she encouraged participants to photograph and record their tree-planting activities and submit the materials through the Office of the First Lady and the GIFA social media platforms for documentation and onward presentation in the national competition.
She commended the Commissioners for Environment, Agriculture, and Women Affairs and Social Welfare, as well as the leadership of COSAWA and WALGON, for supporting the initiative, noting that the programme complements Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda on environmental sustainability and community development.
Beyond the environmental campaign, Lady Obareki appreciated ministers who coordinate the monthly prayer meetings for their steadfast intercession for the state, while also thanking women born in July, known as the July Rubies, for donating essential maternal and child healthcare items to support the forthcoming Ibom Open Maternity Project, a collaborative initiative involving GIFA and other partner organisations.
Delivering the sermon titled “A Glorious Beginning,” Evangelist Mfon Israel encouraged worshippers to embrace hope and trust in God’s promises of restoration and new opportunities, declaring that Akwa Ibom is entering a season of divine glory and fulfilment.
The service featured prayers for Governor Umo Eno, Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Lady Helen Obareki, and the continued peace, progress and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State, alongside musical ministrations by the Ibom Acapella Group.
