Edo Moves To Utilize Forest Resources, Signs Pact With FAO

By Ayodele Oni

As part of measures to tackle deforestation, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the government is partnering with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and three other States in the Country on biodiversity and forest conservation.

Obaseki, who said this while briefing journalists in Benin City, said the project is worth $3million.

The governor disclosed that government is taking deliberate steps to tackle deforestation and forest degradation and enhance the conservation and development of the State’s forest assets.

According to Obaseki, “The forestry sector is attracting a lot of Investors both locally and internationally, and development partners have been quite kind to us by opening their doors and we are working with them especially in the areas of plantation establishment.

“The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) wrote to us a couple of months ago to be part of a project for the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of lowland forests.

“The project is between Edo State and three other States and is worth slightly over $3million.”

While urging for increased collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard the environment, ensuring sustainable practices to preserve the ecosystem and prevent the loss of biodiversity, Obaseki said the State’s forest resources can boost its economy if properly harnessed and conserved.

“We were exporting timbers in the time past before the advent of crude oil resulted in the loss of the culture of sustainability. So, if we are to progress, develop, and diversify our economy, then we must go back to those things that made us great before.

“We will intensify actions at conserving our forests. We are working with our security forces and other stakeholders to smoke out all those people who are not supposed to be in our forest.”

Edo shares boundaries with Ondo, Delta and Kogi states. Vast areas of the forest have been turned to kidnappers den as a result of under exploitation.