The Ministry of Environment has revealed plans to carry out a comprehensive community sensitization program focused on sustainable fuel wood management.
The Delta State Commissioner in the ministry, Mr. Jamani Tommy Ejiro who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Delta State Ministry of Environment, Minnie Oseji, made this known when she led Directors in the Ministry on a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty the Igbuzor of Ibusa, Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwaoboshi.
She said the awareness program was aimed at addressing the growing concerns around deforestation, environmental degradation, and the long-term availability of fuel wood for rural and urban households alike.
According to the Permanent Secretary deforestation and climate change has become a daunting environmental challenge facing the world today and it can no longer be ignored as its effects are already manifesting.
She said it is a well known fact that fuel wood remains the primary source of energy for many residents, especially in rural areas.
She however said that unsustainable practices in fuel wood harvesting were leading to rapid deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and adverse environmental impacts that affect livelihoods.
Oseji said the sensitization program will educate communities on sustainable fuel wood harvesting techniques and the importance of forest conservation as it will minimize the indiscriminate cutting of trees and deforestation, introduce alternatives; by promoting the adoption of alternative energy sources such as efficient cook stoves, solar energy, and biofuels as well as production of briquettes from agriculture wastes and saw dusts for cleaner energy.
The PS said the programme will feature a capacity building whereby local communities will be trained on tree planting techniques and agroforestry practices to encourage reforestation efforts.
She added that Community Forest Management Committees (CFMCs) will be established.
Oseji disclosed that the exercise will be carried in three Local Government Areas in the state namely Oshimili North, Etihope East, and Bomadi LGAs, and the sensitization campaign will involve the use of electronic and print media, mobile public address systems as well as Traditional Town Criers.
The ministry had in June 5, 2024 jin collaboration Midwestern Oil, Seplat, Delta Ecosystem Restoration Initiative and Chief Festus Ochonogor joined the global community to celebrate World Environment Day with the theme “Land restoration, desertification and drought resilience” as well as the slogan “Our Land Our Future”.
She highlighted some of the other efforts implemented by the Ministry in preserving the environment.
On his part, Prof. Nwaoboshi assured the Ministry of his partnership towards forest regeneration project
He advised that everyone should plant a tree once a life time, most especially economic trees
The renowned forester advised that the Ministry sensitise the public on tree planting.
He said planting of trees will supports watershed health and water quality and ensure forests’ ability to continue to supply water to millions.
