The Federal Government, through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), has vowed to take decisive action against oil spillers and pipeline vandals, regardless of their status in society. Edward Omo-Erewa, the newly appointed Chairman of NOSDRA’s Governing Board, made this commitment during his familiarization visit to the agency in Abuja on Thursday.
Omo-Erewa emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the time had come to hold individuals responsible for causing harm through oil spills, pipeline vandalism, and environmental pollution. He acknowledged that there had been a lack of discipline in the past but assured that things would change under his leadership. He also highlighted a recent incident where tankers spilled oil, promising to pursue those responsible as a sign of the agency’s seriousness in tackling the issue.
In addition to addressing environmental concerns, Omo-Erewa also expressed awareness of the challenges faced by NOSDRA staff, including poor working conditions. He pledged to improve staff welfare and enhance the agency’s overall productivity. Omo-Erewa called for a stronger collaboration between the agency’s management and its board to ensure the agency can successfully carry out its responsibilities.
Chukwuemeka Woke, the Director General of NOSDRA, voiced confidence that Omo-Erewa’s leadership would bring positive changes to the agency, stressing the importance of cooperation between the board and management in fulfilling NOSDRA’s mission.