By Rhoda Godwin
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Bayelsa State Government has announced a comprehensive ban on the movement of wood, timber, and all forest products, as well as the suspension of dredging activities across the state, effective 1st January 2026.
The directive, issued by the Ministry of Environment, applies to all land and maritime routes, including roads, waterways, rivers, creeks, jetties, and coastal areas. It is aimed at preventing illegal logging, preserving forest and aquatic resources, and protecting the environment from ecological degradation.
All dredging activities within the New Yenagoa City are to cease immediately, with operators required to vacate affected areas. Dredging elsewhere in the state will also be halted from January 1, 2026, and operators must obtain proper location approvals and authorisation from government authorities before resuming future operations.
The government warned that any individual, company, association, or operator found violating this order will face arrest and prosecution under state law, with no exemptions granted. Communities, traditional rulers, or local leadership found aiding or abetting these prohibited activities will also be held jointly liable.
Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Environment, said the measures are part of the state’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection, conservation of natural resources, and the eradication of illegal dredging and logging activities.
The Ministry of Environment, together with security agencies, will ensure strict enforcement of the ban. The public has been urged to cooperate fully to safeguard Bayelsa’s environment for current and future generations.
