By Ukoko Ogheneyoleme
The Edo State Ministry of Environment and Sustainability has pledged stronger collaboration with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Edo State Command, to enhance environmental sanitation, enforcement and monitoring across the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Nosa Adams, Esq., made the commitment when he received the Controller of Corrections, Edo State Command, CCS Julius Osemwengie, and his team during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Benin City.
The visit focused on exploring areas of collaboration between the ministry and the Correctional Service, particularly in environmental sanitation, monitoring and enforcement.
Speaking during the visit, CCS Osemwengie sought the ministry’s partnership in enabling personnel of the Correctional Service to participate in the state’s monthly environmental sanitation exercise, held on the last Saturday of every month.
He said the collaboration would strengthen efforts to promote environmental cleanliness and compliance, while supporting the government’s drive to maintain a healthy and sustainable environment across Edo State.
The Controller also drew the Commissioner’s attention to a gully erosion site in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, and appealed for the ministry’s intervention to address the environmental challenge.
Responding, Commissioner Adams disclosed that the ministry had previously carried out intervention work at the site but assured the delegation that officials would return to reassess the situation and determine further steps.
He also directed that the ministry’s Enforcement and Monitoring Department work closely with the Correctional Service office in Auchi to address environmental concerns in the area.
Adams commended the Nigerian Correctional Service for its contributions to environmental safety and for helping to create a conducive environment for businesses and residents across the state.
He stressed the importance of stronger inter-agency cooperation in tackling environmental challenges and assured the delegation of the ministry’s continued partnership and support.
Correctional Service Honours Environment Commissioner
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of an award to Commissioner Adams by the Nigerian Correctional Service in recognition of what the Command described as his outstanding performance and efficient stewardship in promoting environmental sustainability and implementing environmental initiatives across Edo State.
The award presentation was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Mrs. Edith Ebomoyi; senior officials of the ministry; the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service; and other high-ranking officers of the Command.
The engagement underscored the commitment of both institutions to strengthening collaboration in environmental sanitation, compliance and enforcement for the benefit of residents across Edo State.
