By; Chuks Malford, Port Harcourt.
Rivers State Governor, Chief Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike has said one of the cardinal objectives of the New Vision of his administration is anchored on responsible management of the environment for the benefit of present and future generations.
Governor Wike stated this while speaking at this year’s celebration of the World Environment Day at Obi Wali Cultural Center, Port Harcourt.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. (Mrs) Ipalibo Harry Banigo, the Governor decried the spate of environmental pollution such as water, air, noise and soil pollution which he said is disturbing to the ecosystem, causing variety of health hazards to human, animals and plants.
He said the protection of the environment is a task that must be undertaken with seriousness because it is strategic to human existence.
Chief Wike reiterated the commitment of the State Government to collaborate with the Federal Government and Oil Companies to facilitate the implementation of the UNEP Report on the clean-up of Ogoniland, and called on all and sundry to work in synergy towards protecting and conserving the environment in order to ensure an ecologically sustainable development.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Environment, Professor Roseline Konya said the purpose of the World Environment Day is to give a human face to environmental issues, empower people to become active agents of sustainable development as well as promote an understanding that communities are strategic to changing attitudes towards tackling environmental pollution and degradation.
Professor Konya disclosed that plans have been concluded by Government to relocate the Port Harcourt Zoo to the Greater Port Harcourt City for the development of a National Park.
Highlights of the event which attracted stakeholders and dignitaries from various walks of life include paper presentation, goodwill messages, drama depicting how the environment is being destroyed and cultural dances.
