Federal Gov’t Hails Cross River Over Climate Change Awareness

The federal government has applauded the Cross River State government for its sustained commitment to climate change advocacy and awareness, describing it as a key stride in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the commendation on Monday when he received contestants of the 2025 Miss Africa Pageant, led by the reigning Miss Africa, Miss Precious Okoye, who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.

Akume commended Cross River State for choosing “Climate Change” as the theme of the 2025 edition of the Miss Africa Pageant, noting that the initiative goes beyond tourism promotion to addressing global environmental concerns.

In a statement, Segun Imohiosen, the director of information in his office, called on the contestants to serve as climate ambassadors, using their influence to raise awareness about the impact of climate change and the need for collective action toward food security and sustainable development.

“The Federal Government is proud of Cross River State’s leadership in the fight against climate change. Your awareness campaign is timely and crucial to preserving our environment and securing a better future for future generations,” the SGF stated.

In her remarks, Miss Precious Okoye highlighted her efforts to promote agro-industrialisation as a tool for women’s empowerment across Africa. She stressed that her reign has been focused on climate-responsive development.

Also, the Special Assistant to the Governor of Cross River State on Tourism Development, Tomas Edim Ikpeme, emphasised that the pageant is strategically used to amplify development-oriented themes that affect the continent.

He formally invited the SGF to attend the 7th Edition of the Miss Africa Pageant, which will be held on April 20, 2025, at the Calabar International Convention Centre.

The contestants present at the event were drawn from across the continent, including Algeria, Mali, Liberia, Malawi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Botswana, Kenya, and Mozambique.