By Abdullahi Lukman
The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s environment from all forms of hazards, marking the 2025 World Environment Day themed “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
In a statement issued on Thursday by House spokesman Akin Rotimi, the lawmakers emphasized the urgency of addressing plastic waste due to its detrimental effects on public health, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
The House reiterated its focus on Agenda 8—Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability—within its 2023–2027 Legislative Agenda.
According to the statement, 27 out of 899 bills passed in the first two years of the 10th Assembly (3 percent of total legislation as of March 31, 2025) have been focused on environmental issues.
One of the most notable achievements is the passage of the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill, sponsored by Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Terseer Ugbor, aimed at combating wildlife crimes and conserving biodiversity.
The House is also reviewing and amending several key environmental laws, including the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, the National Park Service Act, and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency Act.
Additionally, lawmakers are considering strategies to reduce the spread of single-use plastics, especially in urban areas where such pollution threatens health and sanitation.
Strengthening the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) is a key focus to ensure effective law enforcement and adherence to international environmental agreements.
Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Mike Etaba, stressed the importance of environmental stewardship, declaring, “Environmental protection is not a matter of convenience but an obligation to future generations.”
