Asaba, February 28, 2024 – Delta State has set a remarkable precedent in Nigeria by endorsing the restoration of mangrove forests, protection of seagrass, and preservation of ecosystems for conservation and environmental sustainability. The state took a significant step forward by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Serendib Capital UK for the restoration and preservation of the State’s Mangrove Forest and its Ecosystem at Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori commended all stakeholders for their visionary approach and unwavering commitment to shaping a more sustainable environment for current and future generations. He emphasized the critical importance of the MOU in prioritizing environmental sustainability while addressing local demands for job creation, infrastructure development, education, and climate resilience.
Governor Oborevwori expressed his deep commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development and endorsed the groundbreaking mangrove and seagrass conservation project. He thanked the foreign partners for choosing Delta State as a potential investment destination and assured them of the state’s unwavering support and cooperation.
Chief Executive Officer of Serendib Capital UK, Mr. Rafat Rizvi, expressed gratitude to the State Government for the partnership, highlighting the long-term benefits of the project in restoring the ecosystem previously damaged by crude oil degradation. He emphasized the importance of community involvement and underscored the project’s focus on education, job creation, and prosperity for the youth.
Vice Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Hon. Terseer Ugbor, congratulated Delta State Government for taking the lead in the conservation project and expressed the commitment of the House to the project. He hailed the initiative as a significant milestone for conservation and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.
The project, covering approximately 250,000 hectares of land, aims to engage local communities as partners in preserving the environment and creating sustainable livelihoods. Implementation is set to begin in March, with a strong focus on community involvement and empowerment.
