By Abbas Nazil_
The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) officially welcomed its newly appointed Board Chairman, Chief Edward Segun Omo-Erewa, on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
His assumption of office marks a significant milestone for the agency as he embarks on his leadership role following a familiarization visit to the headquarters.
The brief but significant ceremony was attended by the agency’s Director-General and Chief Executive (DG/CE), Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, alongside other key management staff who gathered to receive the new chairman.
In his welcome remarks, Engr. Woke expressed his satisfaction with Chief Omo-Erewa’s appointment, describing it as a perfect fit for the role.
He reaffirmed NOSDRA’s dedication to its mission of environmental conservation in the petroleum industry while promoting sustainable development.
The DG/CE assured the Chairman of the full cooperation and support of the agency’s management team.
He emphasized that his arrival was not to disrupt but to enhance the ongoing efforts of the agency, adding that NOSDRA remains open to collaboration and constructive criticism to achieve its mandate effectively.
He highlighted the importance of synergy between the Board and the management, stating that there would be no rivalry but rather a commitment to collective progress.
Chief Omo-Erewa, in his response, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and acknowledged the responsibilities that come with his new position.
He accepted the appointment with humility and pledged to work closely with all stakeholders to strengthen NOSDRA’s capacity in fulfilling its statutory duties.
Recognizing the crucial role of teamwork, he urged the management and staff to collaborate in tackling the challenges facing the agency.
He praised Engr. Woke’s leadership and the strides made so far in repositioning NOSDRA.
However, he acknowledged several pressing challenges hindering the agency’s effectiveness, including the absence of a permanent office building, financial constraints, insufficient logistics, and concerns regarding staff welfare.
He called on the management team to collectively develop strategies that would demonstrate NOSDRA’s commitment to its mission, ultimately attracting more government support.
Chief Omo-Erewa assured staff that addressing these challenges would be a priority under his leadership.
He emphasized the need for discipline, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to achieving NOSDRA’s goals.
He particularly underscored the agency’s resolve to combat oil spillage and hold responsible parties accountable.
He promised a more aggressive approach to enforcing environmental regulations to safeguard the nation’s petroleum industry and its surrounding environment.
As part of the visit, Engr. Woke officially handed over key NOSDRA documents, including the Establishment Act, to the new Chairman.
The event concluded with Chief Omo-Erewa touring various sections of the headquarters, engaging with staff, and gaining firsthand insight into the agency’s operations.