The Anambra Ministry of Environment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) to strengthen forest conservation.
Speaking at the signing of the MoU on Friday in Awka, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Clem Aguiyi, said that the partnership would help to combat environmental crimes and promote sustainable management of the state’s forest resources.
Aguiyi said they the agreement would provide a framework for collaboration in protecting the state’s forests through joint patrols, intelligence gathering, and enforcement of forestry laws.
He added it would provide the framework for the duo to work together for the prevention of illegal logging and encroachment, wildfire prevention, ensure community engagement and capacity building.
According to him, the agreement is a strategic step toward advancing Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of building a clean, green, secure and environmentally sustainable state.
He said that protecting the state’s forest resources was essential for biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development.
Aguiyi said that stronger collaboration among relevant agencies would enhance the government’s environmental protection efforts.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and safeguarding the state’s natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
Also speaking, the Commandant of NFSS, Mr Destiny Jonas, pledged the institution’s commitment to working closely with the ministry to secure the state’s forest reserves.
Jonas said that the service would help the state prevent illegal environmental activities, strengthen environmental security, improve intelligence sharing, enhance surveillance and support more effective enforcement against environmental offences.
Newsmen report that the MoU marks a renewed commitment by both institutions to deepen inter-agency collaboration in protecting the state’s forests and preserving its natural heritage.