Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to strengthen collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect and preserve the state’s ecosystem, assuring that his administration will take decisive measures to address environmental challenges, including encroachment on national parks and other protected areas.

Okpebholo made the commitment on Tuesday when the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City.

The governor said environmental protection remains a major priority of his administration, stressing that sustainable management of natural resources is critical to the state’s development and the well-being of its citizens.

According to him, the state government will establish a committee to tackle the growing problem of encroachment into national parks and other conservation areas.

“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,” Okpebholo said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government on policies and programmes aimed at safeguarding forests, wildlife and other natural resources, noting that environmental sustainability would continue to receive significant attention in the state.

The governor further emphasized that preserving the environment is essential for both present and future generations, pledging support for initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable development.

Earlier, the Minister of Environment commended the governor for his support for environmental programmes in Edo State and described the state as a leader in environmental management.

Lawal noted that Edo State’s establishment of a Forestry Commission demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability.

“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,” he said.

The minister also expressed concern over the increasing threat of deforestation, warning that indiscriminate tree felling poses serious environmental and economic risks.

He called for sustained efforts by governments at all levels and other stakeholders to protect the country’s forests and biodiversity.

The visit underscored the commitment of both the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Edo State Government to deepen cooperation in addressing environmental challenges and advancing sustainable development initiatives.

Signed

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State