In a bid to enhance environmental sustainability initiatives in Delta State, the State Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, has paid a working visit to his Lagos State counterpart, Barr. Tokunbo Wahab and the Lagos Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to establish collaborative efforts and leverage on Lagos State’s notable strides in environmental management as a blueprint for Delta’s State Environmental management.
Mr. Jamani, in his address during the visit, emphasized the importance of forging partnerships with states that have demonstrated effective environmental management strategies and Lagos State, with its pioneering efforts in waste management and pollution control stands as a potential mirror for Delta State environmental sustainability goals.
“I bring you warm greetings from His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State, the people of Delta State and particularly from the Ministry of Environment. Our gathering here today symbolizes a vital step towards fostering collaboration and synergy between our respective states in matters concerning the environment.”
He stated, “As custodians of environmental sustainability and guardians of our natural resources, it is imperative that we forge strong synergy to address the peculiar environmental challenges facing our states and our nation as a whole”.
Speaking further, Mr. Jamani noted that “In Delta State, we recognize that the challenges we face are multifaceted and require a concerted effort from all stakeholders and progressive partners. Therefore, I am here today to learn for your State on some of the innovative steps that have been taken to address environmental challenges in Lagos State which can be implemented in Delta State, and to explore avenues for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and resource-sharing between our states.”
While commending the dedication and commitment of Hon. Commissioner, Wahab and the laudable efforts and initiatives undertaken by the Lagos State Government in promoting environmental conservation, waste management, and ensuing sustainable environmental practices in Lagos State, He expressed optimism that learning from Lagos State experiences would expedite Delta State efforts towards achieving environmental sustainability targets.
Speaking on the efforts of the Delta State Government so far, he stated that “In Delta State, we are equally resolute in our commitment to environmental preservation, ecological remediation, climate change and forest regeneration. In this regard, We have implemented various programs and policies aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change, protecting our biodiversity, and promoting waste management practices across the state, however, with this synergy, we can leverage our respective strengths and expertise to implement innovative solutions and best practices that will enhance environmental sustainability in our respective State.
In his response, the Lagos State Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Barr. Tokunbo Wahab, welcomed the proposal for collaboration and pledged full support to assist Delta in developing its environmental management frameworks. He emphasized the importance of peer review, networking, knowledge sharing and best practices to address common environmental issues as the key to the future of environmental sustainability in this part of the world.
Barr. Wahab expressed the commitment of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to support Delta State in its drive to development sustainable environmental management plans adding that the first thing to do is to ensure legislative (Law) backing for the Ministry and all its agencies, provide level playing field for investors and continuous advocacy to encourage citizens engagement; and expressed confidence that through collective action, both states can achieve remarkable progress in safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Present to receive the Delta State Hon. Commissioner were Barr. Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State Hon. Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources; Mr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akudo, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Environment; Engr. Mahamoud Adegbite, Permanent Secretary, Drainage Services, and all the Directors of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.