Fueled by firsthand observations of climate change’s detrimental effects in the heart of Agila, Ado LGA of Benue State, Victoria Esa embarked on a mission to transform her local community and aims to take her environmental campaign to the global stage.
For Esa, the ambition to see a positive paradigm shift in her environment is not just a personal endeavor; it’s a profound commitment to shaping a sustainable future. Despite encountering challenges and skepticism, her determination to effect change in her immediate environment is unwavering.
In an exclusive interview with Custodian News, Esa opens up about her path to becoming a female leader in environmental activism. Her candid discussion reveals the principles guiding her journey and the resilience that turned setbacks into stepping stones.
Her strategy for overcoming hurdles and breaking gender barriers is simple yet powerful — staying true to her environmental principles. She asserts that the path to sustainability is not just about protecting the planet but also navigating the complexities of a professional career in a male-dominated field.
Esa’s impact extends beyond personal triumphs. Passionate about mentoring, she has empowered numerous young individuals, with a particular focus on women and girls, through skills acquisition programs and social behavioral communication. Notably, she is spearheading the establishment of Climate Justice Clubs in secondary schools across Benue State, aiming to engage students in addressing climate change’s effects.
Engaging in various afforestation programs across Nigeria, Esa not only fights deforestation but also fosters community-environment connections. These initiatives, promoting biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and climate change mitigation, reflect her holistic approach to environmental issues.
Her academic journey reflects a commitment to acquiring the knowledge necessary for impactful change. Armed with a Higher National Diploma in Forestry, a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration, Esa combines theoretical insights with practical experiences in environmental science, sustainability, policy analysis, financial management, and organizational leadership.
Continuous learning is integral to Esa’s approach. She has participated in numerous courses, workshops, and conferences locally and internationally, ensuring she remains at the forefront of global environmental issues. Her attendance at conferences on food security, women’s empowerment, and leadership training underscores her dedication to staying informed and connected.
In recognition of her leadership, Esa was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to the former governor of Benue State. Beyond routine duties, she plays a vital role in strategic planning, crisis management, public policy reforms, and addressing diverse challenges facing the government.
Establishing the Environment and Climate Change Amelioration Initiative (ECCAI) in 2007, Mrs. Esa exemplifies giving back to society. ECCAI strategically addresses climate issues, advocates for environmental policies, raises awareness, and inspires action. Through national and international partnerships, ECCAI mobilizes resources and initiates projects to combat the urgent challenges of climate change in Nigeria.
The success of Esa’s leadership is not only found in her professional achievements but in her family life. Happily married with three successful children, she demonstrates that a fulfilling personal life can harmonize with a thriving career in environmental leadership.
