By Gabriel Ewepu and Folarin Kehinde

ABUJA – THE Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers, NIEE, has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening urban resilience and addressing the growing impacts of climate change across the country.

Speaking during the commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day in Abuja on Friday, the National Chairman of NIEE, Mr. Caius Ikem, said the institution would implement strategic programmes focused on sustainable urban development and climate adaptation.

Ikem said this year’s World Environment Day celebration, themed “Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future,” underscores the urgent need for Nigerian cities to adapt to environmental challenges while sustaining economic growth.

According to him, increasing incidents of flooding and climate-related threats to infrastructure and livelihoods have made it imperative to develop resilient urban centres.

“During this week of celebration, the NIEE aims to raise awareness and implement key initiatives to strengthen our urban areas. Our cities, as vital economic engines, must adapt to create sustainable and resilient urban environments,” he said.

The NIEE chairman disclosed that the institution would promote green infrastructure through extensive tree-planting campaigns aimed at increasing urban green cover and mitigating the effects of climate change.

He added that the organisation would also organise workshops and seminars to educate communities on sustainable environmental practices and climate resilience.

Other planned initiatives include collaboration with government agencies to develop and implement projects that enhance urban resilience, promotion of sustainable transportation through the development of bicycle lanes and pedestrian pathways, and the conduct of urban resilience assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities in cities.

Ikem further stated that the institution would implement waste management programmes focused on recycling and upcycling, while encouraging smart city initiatives driven by data analytics and public-private partnerships.

“Together, we can protect our environment while fostering economic prosperity and enhancing the quality of life for all Nigerians. Let us work hand in hand to create resilient cities for a sustainable future,” he said.

Also speaking, a Fellow of NIEE, Mrs. Edith Ishidi, expressed concern over the indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste by motorists, describing the practice as harmful to the environment.

She lamented the increasing trend of residents throwing empty plastic bottles and other waste materials from moving vehicles onto roads and highways.

“We have not been fair to the environment. Government cannot do it alone, NGOs cannot do it alone, and the private sector cannot do it alone. Environmental protection is everybody’s responsibility,” she said, urging citizens to keep their surroundings clean.

Similarly, Chairman of the NIEE Maitama Branch, Mr. Thomas Itodo, called on Nigerians to work collectively to combat flooding, which he said continues to threaten lives and property across the country.

He stressed the need for stronger collaboration among citizens, communities and relevant stakeholders to address environmental challenges and build safer, more sustainable cities.