By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has called for more collaboration between the authority and the Ogun State government to ensure protection of rivers and also enhance biodiversity to preserve the nature for generations yet unborn.

The Area Manager of NIWA, Abeokuta, Area Office, Engr. Ipinmoroti Adeleye Segun, made the call at a sensitization programme, held at the Akin Olugbade abattoir in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.

The sensitization programme, which was put together by NIWA, in conjunction with the State Ministry of Environment, was aimed to tackle environmental pollution and water sewage blockages, and prevent the annual deluge of floods in the state.

Ipinmoroti explained that environmental degradation, aggravated by pollution, deforestation and climate change, poses serious threat to the water quality and well-being of every individual in the country.

He noted that protecting and preserving natural resources would enable government and the people to build a more sustainable future for the state in particular and Nigeria in general.

He noted that NIWA, as the regulatory body for inland waterways, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of transportation and the protection of the environment.

He added that the call for joint action underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to tackling environmental pollution, including regulatory measures, pollution prevention techniques, and public awareness campaigns.

Speaking at the programme, the State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, said environmental protection and sustainability, through proper monitoring of waste is a must for every Nigerian.

Oresanya, who was represented by Mrs. Abosede Sinyanbola, noted that “whatever we give to our environment is what it gives back to us”, thereby encouraging every individual or organisation to prioritise environmental cleanliness.

He also encouraged the utilisation of the recycling method for the betterment of future generations.

Oresanya disclosed that plan is in top gear to launch ‘Environmental Club across secondary schools in the state, as part of “catch them young initiative for environmental ambassadors’.

He said, “we should use what we have now to be useful for our future without hindering the generation to come, let us take care of our environment as we love to take care of ourselves”.