The Edo State Government has committed to partnering with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect and preserve the state's natural surroundings. Governor Monday Okpebholo made this announcement while hosting the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, assuring that his administration will take decisive measures to tackle environmental challenges, including encroachment into national parks.
Governor's Commitment to Environmental Protection
Addressing the minister and his delegation, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that environmental protection is a key priority of his administration. He noted that sustainable management of natural resources is critical for the state's development. The governor disclosed plans to establish a committee to address the growing issue of encroachment in national parks and other protected 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 stated.
He assured the minister of his administration's readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government on policies and programs aimed at safeguarding the environment. The governor stressed the need for collective action to protect forests, wildlife, and other natural resources from degradation, adding that Edo State will continue to prioritize environmental issues.
Recruitment of Forest Guards
In a related development, the governor also announced that the state government has recruited 500 forest guards to secure forests and farmlands from kidnappers and bandits. The government plans to add another 500 personnel soon, following a directive from the National Security Adviser to President Bola Tinubu.
Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Festus Ebea, disclosed this during a joint press briefing in Benin with the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, and the Commissioner for Transportation, Saturday Uwuilekhue. According to Ebea, the 1,000 forest guard offices will be located in Edo forests, with special attention to forests in bordering states of Kogi, Ondo, Delta, and specific areas in Etsako and Akoko-Edo, which are rich in mineral resources.
