The motion presented by Senator Prince Ned Nwoko addressing the urgent need to stop gas flaring and enforce anti-gas flaring regulations in Ndokwa Land and the Niger Delta Region carries several advantages that are essential for the well-being of the people and the environment. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Environmental Protection: Gas flaring contributes significantly to air and water pollution, which has detrimental effects on the environment, wildlife, and public health. By addressing this issue, the motion aims to protect the ecological balance and biodiversity in the affected regions, safeguarding the long-term environmental sustainability.

2. Health Improvement: Gas flaring releases harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the atmosphere, posing serious health risks to nearby communities. By curbing gas flaring, the motion seeks to improve public health and reduce the prevalence of respiratory diseases and other health complications associated with exposure to flared gas emissions.

3. Economic Development: The motion recognizes that the negative impacts of gas flaring extend to the economic well-being of the affected communities. By addressing this issue, it creates the potential for sustainable economic development by promoting alternative uses for associated gas, such as power generation, which can create employment opportunities and support local livelihoods.

4. Compliance with Regulations: Enforcing anti-gas flaring regulations is crucial for upholding environmental laws and standards. By urging the enforcement of these regulations, the motion promotes adherence to legal frameworks designed to minimize the environmental impact of oil and gas operations, ensuring that companies operating in the region comply with environmental regulations and best practices.

5. Community Empowerment: The motion supports the empowerment of local communities by advocating for the cessation of gas flaring, which has been a source of contention and dissatisfaction among the residents of the Niger Delta region. By addressing this issue, the motion aims to give voice to the affected communities and involve them in the decision-making processes that impact their environment and well-being.

6. Climate Change Mitigation: Gas flaring contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbate climate change. By taking steps to stop gas flaring, the motion aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change by reducing carbon emissions, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the planet.

7. Government Accountability: The motion encourages government agencies to be accountable for the oversight of oil and gas operations, ensuring that environmental regulations are effectively implemented and enforced. This accountability can lead to improved governance and regulatory oversight, enhancing transparency and responsibility in the management of natural resources.

8. International Reputation: Addressing the issue of gas flaring demonstrates Nigeria's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, potentially improving the country's international reputation and strengthening its position in global environmental initiatives and agreements.

Overall, the motion's focus on stopping gas flaring and enforcing anti-gas flaring regulations in Ndokwa Land and the Niger Delta Region offers numerous advantages, including environmental protection, public health improvement, economic development, compliance with regulations, community empowerment, climate change mitigation, government accountability, and enhancing international reputation. These advantages highlight the importance of addressing the environmental and social impact of gas flaring for the well-being of the affected communities and the sustainable development of the region.

Godwin Obire
Senior Legislative Aide On Plenary and Legislative Matter to Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta north senatorial district)