By Rhoda Godwin
Benin City — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental protection, public health and responsible governance with the inauguration of 100 personnel of the Edo State Environmental Compliance Corps (EECC).
Inaugurating the corps, the governor charged the officers to serve with courage, integrity and a deep sense of purpose, urging them to ensure their actions inspire compliance while their conduct earns public respect and trust.
Represented by the Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Emmanuel Okoebor, the governor described a clean environment as both a social necessity and an economic imperative that supports productivity, attracts investment and improves the overall wellbeing of citizens.
“The inauguration of EECC today reaffirms this administration’s commitment to environmental protection, public health and responsible governance. A clean environment is not only a social necessity but also an economic imperative,” he said.
He further urged the officers to discharge their duties with professionalism, discipline and respect for the law, while working closely with communities to promote environmental compliance and awareness.
“I formally inaugurate the EECC and charge you to serve with courage, integrity and a deep sense of purpose. Let your actions inspire compliance, your conduct earn respect and your commitment strengthen public trust,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Nosa Adams, said the 100 personnel represent the first batch of the corps and were selected through a credible process. He noted that the officers underwent an intensive four-day training to equip them for the enforcement of the Edo State Environmental Waste Management and Pollution Law.
According to Adams, the law, recently signed by Governor Okpebholo, is comprehensive and covers all aspects of environmental protection and ecosystem preservation.
“The inaugurated EECC personnel will be deployed across the three senatorial districts of the state to ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws and compliance by residents,” he said.
He explained that effective implementation of the law requires knowledgeable and committed personnel who understand environmental regulations and are ready to enforce them.
“It is our conviction that if this law is fully implemented, Edo State will enjoy a healthier, cleaner and greener environment,” Adams added.
The inauguration marks a major step by the state government toward strengthening environmental governance, improving sanitation standards and safeguarding public health across Edo State.
