The Provost, Federal College of Forest, Resources Management, Isiagu (FCFRMI), Ebonyi State, Dr. Ursula Amaka Emeghara, has called for urgent legislative and community-based action to end the escalating crisis of plastic pollution in Nigeria and Africa.
Speaking with newsmen today in commemoration of 2025 World Environment Day, Dr. Emeghara aligned the institution with the global theme of this year’s celebration: “#BeatPlasticPollution – Together for a Sustainable Future.”
She described the pollution crisis as a full-scale environmental emergency threatening biodiversity, public health, and the planet’s future.
“Plastic pollution has evolved from an environmental concern into a full-blown crisis threatening our ecosystems, our health, and the sustainability of life on Earth,” she said.
Emeghara pointed to the increasing scientific evidence of microplastics infiltrating not only the oceans and soils but also human bodies — including bloodstreams and breastmilk — as proof that the situation demands a coordinated global and local response.
With the world gearing up for a final round of negotiations on a global treaty to end plastic pollution, the Provost urged Nigeria not to be left behind, stressing that the moment demands decisive national action.
In her words: “This is a timely moment to reflect on our national response. We in Nigeria must not be left behind.”
She outlined a three-point action plan to help Nigeria rise to the challenge to include: legislative action, community engagement and Public-Private Collaboration among others.
Drawing inspiration from countries like South Korea, where Jeju Province has launched a bold initiative to eliminate plastic pollution by 2040, and from global youth movements like the Tide Turners Plastic Challenge, Dr. Emeghara emphasized that Nigeria has the potential to become a leader in plastic waste reform — if the political will and collective responsibility are harnessed.
“Let us plant the seeds of environmental responsibility in every home, classroom, and market. Let us push for policies that protect not only our forests but our rivers, our soil, and our health,” she urged.
“Together, let’s end the scourge of plastic pollution and build a better future for us all.”
Since 1973, World Environment Day, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has grown into the world’s largest platform for environmental outreach. The 2025 edition is particularly significant, as global leaders prepare to finalize a groundbreaking treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution worldwide.
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