… Diri approves DeltasUNite centre as global stakeholders push for stronger protection of vulnerable delta regions
Bayelsa State is set to host the governance secretariat of DeltasUNite, an international environmental initiative aimed at protecting river deltas, following approval by Governor Douye Diri.
Diri announced the decision on Monday while opening the three-day fifth United Nations Ocean Decade Conference on Mega Deltas and the launch of China-Africa cooperation on river, coastal zone and delta governance at East China Normal University in Shanghai, China.
The conference brought together participants from about 23 countries, including United Nations officials, policymakers, researchers, academics, environmental organisations and representatives of communities affected by environmental challenges.
The proposed secretariat is expected to provide a platform for governments, scientists, investors and local communities to identify environmental priorities, share research and develop practical responses to the challenges confronting river deltas.
Diri also declared support for the proposed United Nations Convention on River Deltas (UNCRD), which seeks to strengthen international cooperation and establish a framework for protecting vulnerable delta regions.
Speaking at the event, which he chaired, the governor called for stronger China-Africa cooperation in the sustainable management of river basins, coastal zones and deltas.
“I have approved the DeltasUNite Governance Secretariat in my state of Bayelsa. It will serve as our platform to bring communities, scientists, governments and indeed investors to identify priorities, share evidence, and shape practical, bankable responses,” he said.
Diri stressed that effective environmental solutions must involve communities directly affected by ecological challenges, while also providing incentives for investments that benefit both people and ecosystems.
“If solutions are to last, those who live with the consequences must help to design them, and those who invest must see clear returns for both people and ecosystems. Our responsibility to future generations has no expiry date,” he stated.
The governor said his support for the proposed UN convention was rooted in the need for stronger scientific research, broad consultations and the participation of national and subnational governments in developing lasting solutions.
He linked the initiative to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals Six, 13, 14 and 17, which address clean water and sanitation, climate action, life below water, and partnerships for sustainable development.
According to him, protecting delta communities also has implications for poverty reduction, food security and gender equality, as environmental shocks can disrupt livelihoods, water supplies and access to education, with women and girls often bearing a disproportionate burden.
Diri said Bayelsa was ready to share its experiences with other states and countries while deepening cooperation through DeltasUNite and international partnerships.
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“Decisions made upstream affect livelihoods downstream,” he said, calling for diplomatic commitment, scientific rigour and meaningful community participation in protecting rivers, coastlines and deltas.
He added that environmental protection must preserve the livelihoods and cultural heritage of communities while securing better futures for younger generations.
In his remarks, the international facilitator of DeltasUNite and Coordinator of the African Centre for Climate Actions and Rural Development (ACCARD), Freeman Oluowo, commended the Bayelsa government and the governor for supporting the initiative.
Oluowo also praised what he described as Diri’s bottom-up leadership approach, saying it creates opportunities for indigenous people and local communities to participate in decisions affecting their environment and livelihoods.
He expressed optimism that the proposed UN Convention on River Deltas would advance, disclosing that work on the initiative had reached the white paper stage.
According to him, the report would be submitted to the United Nations as the initiative continues consultations and engagement with stakeholders in delta regions.
Oluowo explained that DeltasUNite had received UN recognition and approval as an initiative, adding that continued work and stakeholder engagement would be necessary to advance its objectives.
Diri was accompanied to the conference by the Commissioner for Environment, Ebi Ololo; the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Faith Zibs-Godwin; and his Technical Adviser on International Development and Liaison, Funkazi Koroye-Crooks.
The proposed Bayelsa secretariat would position the state as a focal point for collaboration on delta governance, as communities across the world face mounting environmental pressures and growing demands for sustainable development.