The Edo State government in Nigeria has announced a partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on a $3 million project aimed at forest conservation and biodiversity. The collaboration seeks to address the challenges of deforestation, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline in the region.
The project was unveiled at a press conference by the Edo State Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Alex Oseh, in partnership with the FAO representative in Nigeria, Mr. Fred Kafeero. Oseh emphasized the importance of preserving the state’s rich biodiversity and the numerous benefits that sustainable forest management can bring to both the environment and the local communities.
As part of the initiative, the Edo State government and FAO will work together to implement various strategies and programs to promote sustainable forest management. These include capacity building for local communities, awareness campaigns, and the establishment of a Forest Monitoring and Evaluation System to track progress and provide data for decision-making.
Additionally, the $3 million project will focus on creating alternative livelihood opportunities for rural communities, particularly those that rely on forest resources for their sustenance. This is expected to help alleviate poverty and reduce pressure on the environment.
Mr. Kafeero, the FAO representative, highlighted the importance of the project in the context of global efforts to combat climate change and protect biodiversity. He expressed the FAO’s commitment to providing technical support and expertise to ensure the success of the initiative.
The collaboration between the Edo State government and the FAO is a significant step in promoting sustainable forest management and preserving Nigeria’s rich biodiversity. Through this partnership, both parties aim to generate long-term positive impacts on the environment and the well-being of local communities in the region.
IMAGE: Wikimedia
SOURCE: Thisdaylive
