The Delta State Government on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Serendib Capital UK to restore its mangrove forest, seagrass protection and preservation of the ecosystem for conservation and environmental sustainability.
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori at the signing of the MoU commended all stakeholders for their visionary approach and unfliching commitment to shaping a more sustainable environment for current and future generations.
“The memorandum of understanding we just signed is very critical to the restoration and preservation of our mangrove forests and the entire ecosystem.
“Not only does this initiative prioritises environmental sustainability but also ensures local demands for job creation, infrastructural development, education and climate resilience structures.
“By dedicating these critical elements into the conservation effort, we are not only safeguarding our natural heritage.
“But also fostering social economy and enhancing our communities’ resilience to cope with changes that comes with climate change and deforestation on sustainable basis.
“This programme sets a remarkable precedent by demonstrating how environmental stewardship can harmoniously coexist with human development aspirations.
“I am deeply committed to environmental conservation and sustainable development and therefore I endorse the ground breaking for mangrove and seagrass conservation project.”
He expressed gratitude to the foreign partners for choosing Delta as a potential investment destination.
“We are committed to building a much more beneficial partnership that will boost economic growth and enhance the potentials of our people.
“We assure you of our unwavering support and cooperation as you exploit the possibilities that our state have to offer.”
Earlier in his remarks, Managing Director, Serendib Capital UK, Mr Rafat Rizvi, thanked the government for the partnership, assuring that the project would restore the ecosystem previously damaged by crude oil degradation.
“What this means for Delta State is a long term solution, say thirty to forty years solution to a sustainable environment.
“One in which there will be a significant amount of job creation, education with emphasis on youth development.
“This is something that His Excellency, the governor has expressed strong desire to see, as well as other members of the cabinet that has been working closely with us.
“First and foremost, its benefit will be on the environment but most importantly, education, jobs and prosperity for the longer term, particularly for the younger people.
“It’s not just the function of oil production. As far as the Niger Delta is concerned, our intention is to help stop further degradation and see if we can actually push back and have much more further replanting of sustainable plants,” Rizvi said.
In his goodwill message, Vice Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Environment, Terseer Ugbor, lauded Gov. Oborevwori for taking the lead in the conservation project and expressed commitment of the House to the project.
By Ifeanyi Olannye
