Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling the state’s worsening ecological problems, particularly gully erosion, land degradation, water pollution, climate change, and recurrent flooding.

Speaking on Wednesday during the swearing-in of Barrister Blessing Agbomhere as Chairman of the Edo State Ecological Funding and Management Commission, the governor charged him to spearhead coordinated efforts toward restoring and protecting the environment across the state.

Governor Okpebholo expressed confidence in Agbomhere’s leadership and capacity to mobilise both local and international support for sustainable environmental interventions.

“Our state has suffered significant ecological damage over the years, but with this new team, I am confident that we will bring lasting relief to affected communities,” the governor said. “Barrister Agbomhere has the competence, courage, and connections to engage constructively with both local and international partners to restore our environment.”

The governor urged the new chairman to collaborate with national agencies, international organisations, and development partners to attract funding and technical expertise for long-term ecological solutions.

In his remarks, Barrister Blessing Agbomhere expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve, pledging total dedication to the assignment.

“I am deeply honoured by this trust,” he said. “We will work tirelessly to make the Governor and the people of Edo State proud through selfless service and impactful interventions that will protect our environment and improve the quality of life for our people.”

Agbomhere reaffirmed his commitment to align with the Governor’s development vision and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises environmental sustainability and the well-being of Nigerians.

A former Director of Corporate, Intergovernmental and Strategic Commerce at the African Bar Association, Agbomhere is a renowned Natural Resources Management, Petroleum, Marine, and Environmental Lawyer known for his passion for community development and institutional reform.

He took the oath of office in Benin City alongside Hon. Felix Ibhade (Executive Director of Projects), Mrs. Ivie Uwaifo (Executive Director of Administration), and Mrs. Khadija Yusuf (Executive Director of Finance), as well as 21 newly appointed commissioners and officers of other agencies.