*Edo Govt., experts begin work on new environment policy*
*…to action Paris Climate Change Agreement*

Stakeholders and environmental experts have committed to developing a sustainable environment policy that will harmonise the agricultural, water and energy sectors in Edo State, and prep the state for the implementation of the Paris climate change agreement.  

This was the resolution at the Stakeholders' Meeting for Edo State Environment Policy, organised by the state government with support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), at Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The UNIDO National Consultant, Dr. Eugene Itua, assured the state government of support in attaining the sustainable development goals, especially as it affects environmental issues.

He said, "We are here to develop a more cohesive policy that will support every sector of the state, as the environment forms the bedrock of our society."

He noted that the stakeholders' meeting is geared towards developing an environmental policy that would drive sustainable development.

According to Itua, "over the years, Edo state government has demonstrated willingness to support a healthier and friendlier environment. It is clear that for the implementation of various policies on the environment, there is need for cohesion, where it appears the institutions or policies appear weak."

"We are here to develop such a policy that will improve the agricultural, water, energy sectors. This would also help to tackle environmental pollution and to reinforce what the entire world came together to develop with the agenda 2030 and Paris Climate Change agreement. The governor recognises this very well and his dream is to see that we exploit resources in the state for the benefit of all," he added.

Itua assured that policies stemming from the meeting would be dutifully implemented, adding that it would help the government drive her developmental goals.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Bright Emoedume, said that the UNIDO assistance to Edo would ensure that environmental policies are viable and sustainable.

Emoedume noted that the meeting was aimed at developing a well-coordinated policy that is adaptable to the challenges in the state.
 
*PHOTO CAPTION:*
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L-R: United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO)' Consultant, Dr. Itua Eugene; Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Bright Emoedume; General Manager, Edo State Waste Management Board, Osadebamen Charles; and Consultant on Environment to Edo State Government, Mr. Ola Oronsanya, after the Stakeholders' Meeting on Edo State Environment Policy, at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, on Monday, August 06, 2018.