By Abbas Nazil
The Director General of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, Innocent Barikor, has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s environmental ecosystem with renewed determination and stricter enforcement measures.
Speaking in Abuja during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, Barikor emphasized that the agency would demonstrate uncommon resolve in protecting the environment despite operational challenges and limited resources.
He commended staff across all levels of the organization, from headquarters to field offices and laboratories, for their dedication and professionalism in executing the agency’s mandate nationwide.
Barikor described NESREA personnel as the “police of the environment,” acknowledging that their responsibilities are demanding but critical to maintaining environmental standards and protecting public health.
He noted that through commitment and sacrifice, staff have continued to meet expectations and deliver results even under difficult working conditions.
The director general highlighted several ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening environmental governance, including the expansion of the Extended Producer Responsibility programme and stricter enforcement of national environmental regulations.
According to him, the agency has also intensified public awareness campaigns across various parts of the country to promote environmental sustainability and protect biodiversity.
He stressed that these efforts are essential in addressing environmental degradation and ensuring long-term ecological balance in Nigeria.
Barikor further reiterated the agency’s commitment to improving staff welfare, enhancing working conditions and providing more training opportunities to build capacity within the organization.
He urged employees to remain committed to core values such as discipline, dedication and diligence in the discharge of their duties.
The message also called for a renewed sense of unity and responsibility among workers, emphasizing that collective effort is necessary to achieve the agency’s environmental protection goals.
Barikor’s remarks come amid increasing concerns over environmental challenges in Nigeria, including pollution, waste management issues and biodiversity loss.
He maintained that NESREA will continue to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and expand its programmes to address these issues effectively.
The agency’s renewed pledge signals a broader commitment to aligning environmental protection efforts with national development goals and global sustainability targets.
As Nigeria marks Workers’ Day, the statement underscores the importance of human capital in driving environmental policies and ensuring that regulatory frameworks translate into real impact across communities.
