…As Onyeme Advocates Afforestation Initiatives
BY RITA OYIBOKA
Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, has pledged government support for environmental sustainability and tourism development to establish the region as an eco-tourism destination.
This pledge was made yesterday during a visit to the Nelson Mandela Garden and Resort at Asaba International Airport, where he participated in a tree-planting exercise.
The event, hosted by renowned environmentalist and founder of the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE), Dr. Newton Jibunoh, also featured a tour of the facility, which included the hotel blocks, wine enclave, Didi museum, and animal shelter, among others.
During the exercise, Sir Onyeme, lauded Jibunoh’s lifelong dedication to fighting desert encroachment, describing it as a crucial movement that deserves collective support.
The deputy governor emphasised that desertification is a growing crisis stressing that the displacement of herdsmen and conflicts over land are direct results of environmental degradation.
According to him, “If we genuinely want to address these conflicts, we must recognise that some of them (herdsmen) arrive with a violent disposition, not necessarily out of malice, but because they have been conditioned by a life of constant struggle. The most effective solution is to help restore their environment by making it green again. If we can achieve that, we will have fewer conflicts and displacements.”
He acknowledged the potential of the garden to serve as a major tourism hub.
“Tourism is a significant industry that has, unfortunately, eluded us as Nigerians. We often travel across the world searching for historical sites and experiences, yet we have everything we need to develop such attractions right here at home,” Onyeme remarked.
In his address, Dr. Jibunoh expressed gratitude for the visit and underscored the long-term vision for the garden. He highlighted plans to enhance the children’s playground in line with Mandela’s belief in prioritising children’s welfare.
Additionally, he announced the development of an International Convention Centre within the premises, aimed at positioning Delta as a leading destination for global conferences and events.
“Our international convention centre will compete with what you have in Lagos and Abuja. We aim to take that market away from both cities because when international events happen, they bring enormous economic benefits to the host state,” Jibunoh explained.
Speaking to journalists, Jibunoh emphasised the importance of government involvement in the project.
“This is not just a Delta project; it is a national and international project. His Excellency’s visit today (yesterday) signifies that the state is ready to play its part in advancing this vision,” he said.
In his response, Onyeme assured Jibunoh of the government’s readiness to support the project.
“We will collaborate with you, Jibunoh, on your project. If you believe there are ways we can assist, either as individuals or through government support, please let us know. Additionally, if there are any opportunities for government intervention, inform us, and we will ensure it reaches the appropriate authorities. With God’s grace, we will do our best to support you,” he pledged.
