Owerri: Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji of the Archdiocese of Owerri has called on Nigerians to embrace responsible stewardship of the environment, stressing that human carelessness is damaging the natural order created by God. In a video message released on September 3, Archbishop Ugorji warned that pollution of air, land, and water is pushing many species toward extinction and disrupting the balance of nature.

He emphasized that humans are entrusted by God with the care of creation and must act responsibly to protect it. Archbishop Ugorji highlighted that creation was made to be self-sustaining, but ongoing human negligence threatens this balance.

The message coincided with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, observed on September 1, and supported by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria. The conference encouraged all parishes and Catholic institutions across the country to mark the day with prayer, Masses, and activities aimed at environmental conservation. Green vestments were recommended for clergy during liturgies to symbolize care for creation.

The bishops also called on the faithful to participate in practical initiatives such as tree planting, clean-up campaigns, waste reduction programs, and educational projects inspired by the teachings of Laudato Si’. The efforts aim to foster both spiritual reflection and tangible action to safeguard the environment.

Archbishop Ugorji concluded by invoking the intercession of Mary, Queen of Creation, encouraging Catholics to embrace their role as protectors of God’s creation and to act in ways that preserve the planet for future generations.