On Thursday, the award was given out as part of the 32nd Annual Conference of NES, which was hosted at the Nike Lake Hotels in Enugu.
The award was given as a result of the NES Board of Trustees, College of Fellows, and National Executive Council's decision to acknowledge Hon. Atu's numerous contributions to environmental preservation and conservation.
The National President of NES, Dr. Efegbidiki Okobia, stated that the Society appreciated Hon. Atu's unwavering efforts to protect the environment and that the Rep had also introduced two legislation in the National Assembly that were vital for a healthy and sustainable environment.
The laws deal with establishing the Nigerian Coal Commission in Enugu as well as erosion prevention and control.
Dr. Yusuf Bukar, Mr. Henry Bassey, Rt. Hon. Saviour Enyiekere, Mr. Odu Dermot, and many others were also given the honor.
Hon. Atu replied, "This honorary fellowship reminds me that I am still the son of a wonderful farmer and an environmentalist. As a member of staff for the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, my father retired. He instilled in my siblings and I as a young man the importance of preserving the environment at all costs. I grew up appreciating the nature, therefore. I grew up completely aware that if we don't protect the environment, the ecosystem will rebel against us and obliterate us.
The conference's subject also serves as a reminder that there is a connection between the environment, security, and sustainable development, according to Atu. This honor is an obligation. Nevertheless, I have kept up my efforts to save and maintain the environment on a personal basis. I just introduced a bill as a federal legislator to abolish the previous Nigerian Coal Corporation and create the Nigerian Coal Commission.
"The bill's goal is to assist the state government in stopping illegal coal mining in Enugu State and neighboring states. This is due to the fact that unlawful mining causes environmental damage and increases instability. When it is created, the Commission will concentrate on creating coal-based solar cells. That is the newest area of study. Another measure that I have proposed will create the Erosion Control and Prevention Commission in Enugu. When it is constituted, this commission will address the South East's erosion problems.
