Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has emphasized the Senate’s commitment to addressing environmental degradation in Nigeria. He pointed out that erosion, flooding, and pollution are major issues affecting various parts of the country. Erosion is particularly severe in his home state of Delta, while flooding impacts more than 13 states nationwide and five local government areas in his senatorial district. Pollution is also a significant concern, stemming from improper waste disposal and hazardous activities like gas flaring and pipeline vandalism. The Senate is actively working to address these environmental challenges, with plans to allocate funds in the upcoming budget for urgent interventions, especially in areas where lives and communities are under threat.
Senator Ned Nwoko emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to address annual environmental crises in Nigeria. He highlighted the need for immediate action on two fronts: the completion of a dam in the north designed to handle excess water from Cameroonian dams, and the dredging of the River Niger. Nwoko emphasized that the cost of these initiatives should not be a deterrent, as they are essential for the well-being and welfare of the people. Additionally, he stressed the need to enforce regulations against gas flaring, imposing significant penalties on violators to ensure compliance with international pollution standards. Nwoko emphasized that the 10th assembly will be vigilant in holding those who harm the environment accountable for their actions.