The Anambra State Ministry of Environment has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) to strengthen forest conservation.

Speaking at the MoU signing on Friday in Awka, the Commissioner for Environment, Clem Aguiyi, said the partnership would help combat environmental crimes and promote sustainable management of the state’s forest resources.

Mr Aguiyi said the agreement provides a framework for collaboration in protecting the state’s forests through joint patrols, intelligence gathering, and enforcement of forestry laws.

He added that it would provide a framework for the duo to work together to prevent illegal logging, encroachment, and wildfires, and to support community engagement and capacity-building.

According to him, the agreement is a strategic step toward advancing Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of building a clean, green, secure and environmentally sustainable state.

He said protecting the state’s forest resources was essential for biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and sustainable development.

Mr Aguiyi said stronger collaboration among relevant agencies would enhance the government’s environmental protection efforts.

He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws and safeguarding the state’s natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

Also speaking, the commandant of NFSS, Destiny Jonas, pledged the institution’s commitment to working closely with the ministry to secure the state’s forest reserves.

Mr Jonas said that the service would help the state prevent illegal environmental activities, strengthen environmental security, improve intelligence sharing, enhance surveillance and support more effective enforcement against environmental offences.

The MoU marks a renewed commitment by both institutions to deepen inter-agency collaboration to protect the state’s forests and preserve its natural heritage. 

(NAN)