Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has pledged to intensify efforts to conserve the forests, seeking assistance from the Air Force, the Marine, and Aerial Forces to remove unauthorized individuals from the forests.
The governor made the pledge recently, at the launch of the State’s Forestry Commission at the Okomu National Park in the Ovia South-West Local Government Area.
During the inauguration, Governor Obaseki unveiled the 10-year Edo State Forest Restoration and Plantation Strategy, as well as the logo for the Edo State Forestry Commission.
The Governor expressed concern about the degradation and destruction of forests and forest reserves within the state, and emphasized the Commission’s role in restoring and protecting these vital resources from poachers, illegal loggers, and other offenders.
Governor Obaseki emphasized the need to return to the practices that once made the state prosperous in order to make progress, foster development, and diversify the economy.
He highlighted the growing interest from both local and international investors in the forestry sector and acknowledged the support of development partners in establishing plantations.
He announced that all forestry activities in Edo State would now be centralized under the Edo Forestry Commission, and existing licenses would be revoked and reissued based on the new strategy.
The inauguration and launch of the Reforestation Strategy received praise from the Conservator General of the National Park Service, Ibrahim Goni, who emphasized the significance of Okomu National Forest in sustaining the environment and providing resources and habitat for wildlife.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would bring about positive change and protect the forests and their diverse flora and fauna.
The Chairperson of the Commission, Mr. Edward Obiaw, declared that the Commission would ensure the efficient and sustainable use, maintenance, security, and exploitation of the state’s forests, wildlife, and ecosystem.
