Abuja, June 6, 2026 – The Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE) has committed to advancing sustainable, data-driven interventions in urban centres aimed at reducing pollution, improving resource management, and strengthening resilience against climate change impacts.
The National Chairman of NIEE, Caius Ikem, made the commitment during activities marking the 2026 World Environment Day in Abuja.
Ikem said the institution’s activities for the week were designed to raise awareness and roll out practical measures to improve the sustainability of urban environments, with special focus on the theme: Urbanisation and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future.
He noted that cities, as major drivers of economic growth, must evolve to become more resilient and environmentally sustainable in the face of climate-related risks.
According to him, the institution recognises the growing threats posed by climate change, including flooding, infrastructure damage, and disruption of livelihoods across urban areas.
As part of the week-long observance, Ikem said NIEE would work to expand green infrastructure, promote eco-friendly urban development, and reduce climate impacts in cities.
He explained that planned activities include workshops and seminars to educate communities on sustainable practices and climate adaptation, as well as collaboration with government agencies on urban resilience projects.
He added that the institution would support tree-planting initiatives, encourage sustainable transport systems such as bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways, and conduct urban resilience assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities.
NIEE, he said, would also promote improved waste management systems focused on recycling and upcycling, while advocating for smart city solutions driven by data analytics and public-private partnerships.
Ikem stressed that collective action was necessary to protect the environment while ensuring economic growth and improved quality of life.
Also speaking, NIEE Fellow, Edith Ishidi, expressed concern over indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste by motorists, particularly those who throw empty bottles from moving vehicles.
She described the practice as harmful and urged greater individual responsibility in environmental protection, stressing that environmental sustainability requires the participation of all stakeholders.
In the same vein, Chairman of the NIEE Maitama Branch, Thomas Itodo, called for stronger collaboration between citizens and environmental professionals to address flooding and other environmental challenges threatening lives and property.