The Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE), a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, has called for stronger and more coordinated efforts to tackle flooding, poor waste disposal practices, and the increasing impact of climate change on Nigeria’s growing urban centres.
The institution argued that public awareness campaigns alone are insufficient to address environmental challenges, stressing that strict enforcement of environmental regulations is necessary to drive lasting behavioural change.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja to mark the 2026 World Environment Day celebration, NIEE National Chairman, Engr. Caius Ikem Umekesiobi, said many communities continue to face environmental and health risks due to inadequate waste management systems.
The event was held under the theme “Climate Change” with the sub-theme “Urbanization and Climate Change: Building Resilient Cities for a Sustainable Future.”
According to Umekesiobi, while some major cities have relatively organised waste management structures, many local government areas have struggled to manage waste effectively, leading to the indiscriminate disposal of refuse in drainage channels, waterways, and public spaces.
He expressed concern over the growing threat of climate-related disasters, particularly flooding, which continues to destroy infrastructure, endanger lives, and slow development across the country.
The NIEE chairman noted that poor waste disposal remains one of the major causes of flooding in many Nigerian communities, especially in satellite towns where waste collection and management systems are either weak or absent.
He maintained that consistent enforcement of environmental laws would be more effective than awareness campaigns alone in promoting responsible waste disposal practices.
As part of its intervention efforts, the institution announced plans to engage local governments across the country to identify challenges affecting waste management and develop practical solutions to improve environmental conditions.
Umekesiobi also revealed that NIEE would organise community clean-up exercises in selected locations to demonstrate how proper waste disposal and drainage maintenance can help reduce flooding.
He explained that many flood incidents occur not because of a lack of drainage infrastructure but due to drainage channels being blocked by waste and other human activities.
The environmental engineer further emphasized that environmental sustainability should be viewed as a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of all engineering disciplines and stakeholders.
Also speaking at the event, Engr. Thomas Itodo, Chairman of the NSE Maitama Branch, described the theme of this year’s World Environment Day as both relevant and timely in light of the environmental challenges confronting the nation.
He urged Nigerians to support environmental sustainability efforts by ensuring that drains and waterways remain free of obstructions.
Itodo also stressed the importance of integrating environmental considerations into engineering projects through proper Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), noting that resilient infrastructure is essential for adapting to climate-related risks.
He commended the government’s increasing adoption of concrete pavement technology, saying properly designed infrastructure can improve stormwater management and help reduce flooding on roads.
As part of its World Environment Day activities, NIEE announced plans for tree-planting campaigns, community awareness programmes, stakeholder engagement forums, and sustainable urban development initiatives aimed at building more resilient cities.
The institution also disclosed that it is developing a white paper titled “Low-Carbon Aggregates and Materials for Nigerian Infrastructure: A Roadmap for 2026–2030,” which will provide recommendations on reducing carbon emissions associated with infrastructure development and construction materials.
National Assistant General Secretary of NIEE, Engr. Benjamin Onyekwelu Amalikolo, called on policymakers, community leaders, development partners, and citizens to support sustainable urbanisation initiatives.
He noted that collaboration among government agencies, engineering professionals, communities, and other stakeholders will be crucial to creating cleaner, healthier, and more climate-resilient cities across Nigeria.
The NIEE reaffirmed its commitment to working with government institutions, educational bodies, non-governmental organisations, and professional groups to advance environmental sustainability and sustainable development nationwide.
