The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to achieving a clean, safe, and sustainable environment in Nigeria. Malam Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment, made this statement on Wednesday during a one-day workshop in Abuja focused on the review of decommissioning plans and environmental remediation strategies.
The workshop aimed to enhance the technical expertise of participants in evaluating decommissioning plans and environmental strategies, while promoting adherence to both national and international environmental sustainability standards.
Lawal stressed the importance of the event, noting that it was crucial for advancing environmental sustainability in the country.
“This workshop is timely and crucial as it underscores our collective responsibility to ensure that environmental sustainability remains a priority in our national development agenda,” Lawal said. “It also represents a significant step towards aligning Nigeria’s industrial activities with the highest standards of environmental protection.”
The minister emphasized that decommissioning and environmental remediation are vital components of sustainable resource management.
He acknowledged the challenges Nigeria faces, such as regulatory compliance and limited access to advanced technologies, but also highlighted the opportunities for growth through training and collaboration among stakeholders.
“We must not lose sight of the potential environmental and social impacts as Nigeria continues to grow its industrial, extractive, and energy sectors,” Lawal added. “Ensuring proper decommissioning and effective remediation strategies is essential to safeguarding public health, protecting biodiversity, and sustainably managing our natural resources.”
Lawal also recognized the contributions of agencies like the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) and the Hydrocarbon Pollution and Remediation Project (HYPREP) in enforcing environmental regulations and remediating the Niger Delta region.
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Dr. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of NESREA, also emphasized the agency’s role in regulating decommissioning efforts.
He explained that the agency ensures industrial activities comply with environmental laws and standards to prevent harm to ecosystems and communities.
“Decommissioning industrial facilities is an integral part of our regulatory oversight, and this workshop equips our staff with the knowledge and tools to manage environmental risks, waste disposal, and site remediation effectively,” Barikor said.
European Union (EU) program facilitator, Mrs. Agharese Onaghise, also provided insights into decommissioning as an environmental cleanup strategy, outlining its importance for land recovery and protection for future use.
She explained that the scope of decommissioning varies based on facility type, contamination extent, and regulatory requirements.
The workshop underscored the need for a balanced approach to industrial growth and environmental sustainability protection to ensure a safe and sustainable future for Nigeria.
CREDITS : NAN