The Edo State Government has pledged to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Environment to protect and preserve the state’s environment.

The state governor, Monday Okpebholo, who disclosed this while playing host to the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, assured that his administration will take decisive steps to address environmental challenges, including encroachment into national parks.

Addressing the minister and his delegation, Okpebholo said environmental protection remains a key priority of his administration, noting that sustainable management of natural resources is critical to the state’s development.

He disclosed that the state government would establish a committee to tackle the growing problem 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.”

The governor assured the minister of his administration’s readiness to collaborate with the federal government on policies and programmes aimed at safeguarding the environment.

He stressed the need for collective action to protect forests, wildlife and other natural resources from degradation, adding that Edo State would continue to pay significant attention to environmental issues.

Okpebholo noted that preserving the environment is essential for the well-being of present and future generations, pledging the support of his government for initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and conservation.

Earlier, the Minister of Environment thanked the governor for receiving him and his entourage, commending him for his continuous support for environmental programs in the state.

Lawal described Edo as a leading state in environmental management, revealing that the state has a Forestry Commission, which he said is the first of its kind in Nigeria.

“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 expressed concern over the increasing threat of deforestation, warning that the indiscriminate felling of trees poses serious environmental and economic consequences.