Kingsley Ohens reporting
Benin City, Edo State – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability, pledging enhanced collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect the state’s ecosystem and address pressing environmental challenges.
The governor made the commitment on Tuesday while receiving the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that environmental protection remains a critical component of his administration’s development agenda, noting that sustainable management of natural resources is essential to securing the future prosperity of Edo State.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the governor disclosed plans to establish a committee that will tackle the growing challenge of encroachment into national parks and other protected areas across the state.
“The Edo State Government is ready to partner with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect our environment and ensure sustainable development for our people,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
He assured the minister of his administration’s readiness to work closely with the federal government on policies and programmes aimed at safeguarding forests, wildlife and other natural resources from degradation. He further stressed that environmental preservation requires collective action and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
Governor Okpebholo noted that protecting the environment is vital to the well-being of both present and future generations, pledging continued support for initiatives that promote conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development.
Earlier, Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal commended the governor for his support for environmental programmes and initiatives in Edo State. He described the state as a leading example in environmental management and conservation efforts.
The minister highlighted the establishment of the Edo State Forestry Commission, describing it as the first of its kind in Nigeria and a reflection of the state’s commitment to sustainable environmental governance.
“Edo State has a Forestry Commission, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and this demonstrates the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability,” Lawal said.
He also expressed concern over the increasing threat of deforestation, warning that indiscriminate tree felling continues to pose serious environmental and economic risks.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of both the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Edo State Government to deepen cooperation in addressing environmental challenges, protecting biodiversity and advancing sustainable development goals.
The statement by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele noted that the engagement marks another step in Governor Okpebholo’s efforts to strengthen environmental governance and ensure the preservation of Edo State’s rich ecological heritage for future generations.
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