COWA PTML Chapter Champions Environmental Sustainability with “Green Barracks, Green Borders” Initiative
The Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Ports and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Chapter, has issued a compelling call to action, urging its members, along with officers and personnel of the command and all bonded terminals, to embrace and implement enhanced environmental sustainability practices. This significant appeal was made during a dedicated environmental awareness workshop, meticulously organised under the leadership of Mrs. Caroline Anani, the esteemed Chairperson of the COWA PTML Chapter.
The workshop, a cornerstone event, was aptly themed “Green Barracks, Green Borders: Advancing Environmental Stewardship for a Carbon-Responsible Future.” Its primary objective was to foster a heightened sense of climate awareness among participants, delivering practical education on effective waste management strategies and the vital importance of tree planting.
A Milestone Initiative for PTML Command
Comptroller Joe Anani, the Customs Area Controller of the PTML Command, lauded the initiative, describing it as a significant milestone for the command. He emphasised that environmental stewardship is no longer an optional consideration but a critical imperative. Comptroller Anani highlighted the command’s proactive alignment with federal government policies aimed at promoting environmentally friendly automobiles. This commitment is demonstrably evident in their facilitation of the clearance of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles.
“Today marks a milestone in our command as we gather once again under the auspices of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA) PTML Chapter to raise environmental awareness. This is a subject that concerns everyone because it is about the earth and environment we all live in and benefit from,” stated Comptroller Anani.
He further elaborated on the command’s direct involvement with environmentally sustainable practices, particularly concerning RoRo cargoes. “As a command, the importance of this subject is not lost on us. We are involved in the processing of RoRo cargoes that are environmentally sustainable and compliant with the latest government policies.”
The command’s dedication to fostering greener transportation is underscored by their ongoing efforts: “The command has continued to facilitate the clearance of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered and electric vehicles in line with the federal government’s policy of encouraging environmentally friendly automobiles.”
Comptroller Anani also praised COWA’s tangible contributions: “With what COWA is doing today, we are taking further steps to support tree planting, grow flowers around our work and living spaces, and promote practices that encourage the recycling of single-use plastics.”
The Imperative of Environmental Responsibility
The Controller issued a stern warning about the pervasive dangers of a polluted environment, asserting that the time to decisively discourage improper waste disposal is now. He articulated the profound interconnectedness of all life and the cumulative impact of individual actions:
- “Environmental awareness means recognising the interconnectedness of all life. Every plastic bottle carelessly discarded, every unnecessary flight, and every watt of wasted energy contributes to a larger environmental crisis.”
- “But every small choice we make, from refusing single-use plastics to conserving water and supporting renewable energy, contributes to a sustainable society.”
Comptroller Anani reaffirmed the command’s unwavering support for COWA’s community development endeavours and expressed profound gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and the COWA National President, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, for their instrumental leadership in spearheading this vital initiative.
Empowering Environmental Ambassadors
In her address, Mrs. Caroline Anani, Chairperson of the COWA PTML Chapter, passionately urged members to actively embrace their roles as environmental ambassadors. She underscored the profound impact of simple, everyday actions, such as consciously reducing plastic consumption, diligently conserving energy, and wholeheartedly supporting eco-friendly initiatives.
“When you see someone drop nylon or paper on the floor, it is your duty to intervene,” she declared, empowering individuals to take immediate action.
Mrs. Anani also encouraged the wider community to actively participate in tree planting, even within urban landscapes, advocating for the innovative use of recycled materials like tyres and buckets to cultivate greenery. She extended heartfelt appreciation to Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, the COWA National President, and Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller-General of Customs, acknowledging their visionary leadership in championing community development and environmental health.
Addressing Climate Change Through Collective Action
During her insightful presentation, Regina Anam, the Deputy Controller of Valuation, shed light on the critical significance of the “green borders” initiative. She issued a stark warning regarding the disruptive impact of human activities and industrial emissions on established seasonal patterns, leading to unpredictable weather phenomena and accelerating global warming.
Ms. Anam revealed that COWA is actively contributing to a national objective of planting an ambitious 50,000 trees, a crucial step in the fight against desertification and erosion.
“The actions we take today will determine the future of humanity. We must move away from burning fossil fuels towards renewable energy and ensure our waste does not end up in drainage systems,” she cautioned, highlighting the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources and responsible waste management.
The impactful programme culminated with a meaningful donation of waste bins to the PTML Command. This contribution is designed to bolster efforts towards improved waste segregation and management, further reinforcing the command’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
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