The federal government has praised the Cross River State government for its ongoing dedication to climate change advocacy and public awareness, calling it a significant step aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made the remarks on Monday while receiving the 2025 Miss Africa Pageant contestants, led by the current titleholder, Miss Precious Okoye, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
Akume commended the state’s decision to adopt “Climate Change” as the theme for the 2025 edition of the Miss Africa Pageant, noting that the event goes beyond promoting tourism by engaging with pressing global environmental issues.
In a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information in the SGF’s office, Akume encouraged the contestants to act as climate ambassadors, using their platforms to educate the public about climate change, while advocating for food security and sustainable development.
“The Federal Government is proud of Cross River State’s proactive role in the climate change movement. Your awareness efforts are timely and essential in safeguarding our environment and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come,” Akume said.
Miss Precious Okoye, in her remarks, discussed her work in promoting agro-industrialisation as a means of empowering women across Africa. She emphasized that her reign has been centered on climate-smart development.
Also speaking, Tomas Edim Ikpeme, Special Assistant to the Governor of Cross River State on Tourism Development, noted that the pageant serves as a strategic platform to spotlight themes critical to Africa’s development.
He officially invited the SGF to attend the 7th Edition of the Miss Africa Pageant, scheduled for April 20, 2025, at the Calabar International Convention Centre.
The event featured contestants from various African nations, including Algeria, Mali, Liberia, Malawi, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Botswana, Kenya, and Mozambique.