The Edo State Government has reiterated its determination to fully implement its newly enacted Sanitation and Pollution Management Law, describing it as a cornerstone of its efforts to improve environmental health and restore degraded ecosystems across the state.
Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Nosa Adams, gave the assurance on Sunday during a stakeholder engagement meeting in Benin, where he emphasised that strict enforcement would be central to achieving cleaner, safer communities.
Adams said the law provides a comprehensive framework for tackling persistent environmental challenges, including waste mismanagement, pollution, and the widespread degradation observed in both urban and rural areas.
According to the commissioner, the government is scaling up programmes aimed at remediation and ecological restoration to reverse years of environmental neglect.
He added that public education and behavioural change remained crucial, noting that sustainable cleanliness begins with individuals adopting responsible waste practices within their homes and neighbourhoods.
“The essence of this law is to secure a healthy and clean environment for every resident of Edo State,” Adams said.
He explained that the ministry is deepening advocacy campaigns and engaging the media to ensure consistent awareness across all communities.
Adams highlighted the roles of the six agencies under the ministry, including the Forestry Commission and the Waste Management Board.
He stressed that effective coordination is essential for delivering measurable progress.
Stakeholders at the meeting, however, raised concerns about possible overlaps in agency responsibilities.
They called for clearer delineation of duties to prevent operational conflicts that could hinder implementation.
Responding, the commissioner said the ministry was already harmonising the mandates of the agencies to ensure efficiency and avoid duplication of tasks.
Participants welcomed the new legislation but stressed that its success would depend heavily on robust enforcement and sustained public cooperation.
Environmental advocates also urged the government to intensify monitoring efforts to ensure full compliance and to maintain continuous public sensitisation across the state.
The meeting provided an avenue for citizens, experts, and government representatives to discuss the environmental issues confronting Edo communities and explore practical solutions.
Adams reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency in the rollout of the law and promised regular updates on enforcement activities.
He noted that environmental protection remains central to the state’s long-term development vision, adding that only collective participation would guarantee success.
The Sanitation and Pollution Management Law is expected to strengthen environmental governance, improve waste management systems, and promote healthier living conditions across Edo State.
