The federal government has asked the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and other stakeholders to improve the environmental regulatory framework and use of cleaner technologies for a sustainable future.

Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Environment, gave the charge on Thursday at the Maiden Environmental Performance Award for the Oil and Gas sector in Abuja.

NOSDRA organised the event in collaboration with the Stakeholder Democracy Network.

Mr Salako identified effective environmental regulatory mechanisms in the petroleum industry as essential for sustainable resource management, climate change mitigation, economic efficiency and accountability.

The minister said such a mechanism was crucial for building public trust in operational social licensing and legal and international compliance.

He said oil and gas was the world’s most vital but environmentally disruptive industry.

However, Mr Salako stressed the need for effective sector regulation to ensure that the benefits of oil and gas production were balanced.

“Also, there is the need to protect the environment, maintain public health and contribute to national development in a sustainable manner,’’ he said.

The minister said that prior to the establishment of NOSDRA in October 2006, the country had faced significant challenges and limitations in managing and responding to oil spills, which resulted in consequential land degradation.

He said the situation was characterised by a lack of cohesive policy, inefficient coordination among stakeholders, and inadequate resources to effectively address oil spill incidents, particularly in the Niger Delta region.

“Nigeria is faced with a fragmented regulatory framework, inadequate preparedness and response, limited community engagement, negative environmental and health impacts, and adverse economic consequences, among others. Since the establishment of NOSDRA, it has been working in the area of spill preparedness, response, cleanup and remediation, among others. 

“Over the years, NOSDRA has remained unwavering in delivering on its mandate, responding to thousands of major and minor oil spills and ensuring that impacted communities are adequately compensated and remediated. Non-complying oil operators are taking to court to enforce compliance,” he said.

He added that the environmental performance award is a multifaceted tool aimed at driving change, promoting sustainability, and acknowledging those who lead by example.

According to him, the award also addresses historical environmental goals, enhances community relations, boosts innovations and offers reputational requirements and investment. 

(NAN)