The Chairman of the Edo State Forestry Commission, Hon. Valentine Asuen, has expressed dissatisfaction with the low performance of the Grass Root Consultative Committee on Biodiversity, Gelegele Forest Reserve, towards the actualization of the biodiversity program initiated by the Edo State Government in Collaboration with Shell Company in the reserve.
Hon. Asuen made his feelings known when he received a delegation from the committee, led by its Chairman, Mr. Fred Oduagbon, who visited him in his office to brief him on the activities of the Grass Root Consultative committee and the progress made so far in the program.
While thanking the group for the visit, Hon. Asuen expressed concern over the poor performance of the committee, stressing that more needs to be done to achieve the objectives of the biodiversity program.
He also expressed dissatisfaction over the persistent illegal activities, including encroachment, logging, hunting, and farming, which he said were threatening the very existence of the Gelegele Forest Reserve.
Hon. Asuen called on the committee to step up its efforts and work closely with the commission to protect the reserve and ensure the success of the biodiversity program.
The Chairman of the Consultative Committee assured Hon. Asuen of their commitment to the protection of the reserve and the success of the biodiversity program, and promised to work closely with the commission to address the challenges facing the reserve.
Hon. Valentine Asuen also showered encomium on the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his unwavering support and passion for the protection and preservation of forest reserves in the state.
The Gelegele Forest Reserve is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Nigeria, and the biodiversity program initiated by the Edo State Government in Collaboration with Shell Company is aimed at protecting the reserve’s rich biodiversity and promoting sustainable livelihoods for communities living around the reserve.
