Federal government aims to tackle gas flares

The federal government and the Bayelsa State government have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling oil spills and gas flaring in the Niger Delta. This pledge was made during the International Conference on Petroleum Pollution and Just Transition in Abuja, which focused on implementing the recommendations of the Bayelsa State Oil and Environmental Commission (BSOEC).

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa highlighted the destructive impact of international oil companies on the state’s rivers and soil, referencing the BSOEC report titled “An Environmental Genocide,” which presents concerning statistics. He noted that more than 40% of the state’s mangroves have been destroyed, and toxic spills have contaminated both soil and water, contributing to over 16,000 neonatal deaths in 2012.

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Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, represented by Mr. Busari Kamoru, Director of Upstream, emphasized the Niger Delta’s rich resources and potential. He underscored the federal government’s commitment to reducing pollution and fostering sustainable environmental practices.

Senator Seriake Dickson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, called for unified efforts to combat environmental pollution.