Otuabagi, Bayelsa State (Nigeria): A coalition of non-governmental organizations in Bayelsa State has united to challenge the adverse effects of oil exploration on Oloibiri communities, raising concerns over environmental degradation, health risks, and the neglect of host residents despite decades of crude production.
This was disclosed at a capacity-building workshop on effective eco-management enhancement and biodiversity promotion communication in Otuabagi, Bayelsa, on Friday.
The workshop brought together experts and stakeholders to explore strategies for restoring lost species and promoting sustainable ecological livelihoods in Oloibiri and the Niger Delta region as a whole.
In his presentation, Menidin Egbo, the Executive Director of CEDEN, expressed concern over the gradual extinction of forest ecologies and wetlands in the Niger Delta region.
Egbo emphasised the need to restore the raffia forest ecology in Ekpadio, Otuabagi Community, Ogbia Local Government Area.
He stated that communication was crucial for ensuring biodiversity conservation and effective ecological management.
According to him, effective communication is essential for stimulating community responses and governance in climate adaptation and mitigation.
“There is a crucial need for local actions to support nature conservation. We also need to link these efforts to global environmental sustainability goals.
“We are calling for more community-based ecological management strategies that will support forest restoration.
“Part of it is to encourage the planting of native species and management of natural regeneration,” Egbo said.