Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu’s government is determined to tackle illegal logging and ensure sustainable forest management, with a strong commitment to preserving environmental goods and services for future generations.
The Chairman/CEO of Cross River State Forestry Commission, Rt. Hon. George O’ben-Etchi gave this assurance during the opening of a two-day sensitization workshop in Calabar on “Sustainable Forest Management in Cross River State” on Monday.
The Forestry Boss stated that the ‘Peoples First’ Governor lifted a 17-year-old logging ban, entrusting the Cross River State Forestry Commission with the task of sustaining and managing the forest resources.
He emphasized that Cross River is a natural gift to Nigeria, Africa, and the world, being the most biologically diverse state in Nigeria. He highlighted that Cross River State houses over 50% of the last remaining rainforest in the country.
He expressed that the forest industry is crucial for the livelihoods of numerous communities in Cross River. Empowering these local communities through sustainable forest practices not only contributes to economic development but also nurtures a sense of ownership and responsibility for the natural resources within host communities.
Continuing, the Forestry Leader urged the collaboration of Commission staff, permit holders, and stakeholders to implement the policy on Sustainable Forest Management. He emphasized that safeguarding forests and combating illegal activities necessitates the collective efforts of government bodies, stakeholders, environmental agencies, law enforcement agencies, and international collaborators.
In his opening remarks, the Permanent Secretary of Cross River State Forestry Commission, Mr. Emmanuel Asikpo-Okon, JP, extended a warm welcome to participants. He encouraged them to contribute their best ideas for charting a sustainable path in managing the state’s forest resources.
According to Asikpo-Okon, the purpose of the meeting is to engage with essential stakeholders, permit holders, buyers, and Forest Management Committee (FMC) members regarding the Commission’s new approach. This includes the initiation of a New Tariff Regime and changes in Permitteeship Practices in Forest Management.
Various forest experts and stakeholders delivered presentations during the event, covering topics such as Stakeholders Engagement presented by Mr. Ekpenyong Bassey, Analysis/Method of selection of Permittees discussed by Commissioner CPC, Engr. Kelvin Njong, the Benefits of Sustainable Forest Management in Cross River State presented by Dr. (Mrs.) Edu Effiom, and Guidelines and Relationship of Permittees and Forestry explained by Daniel Adado.
The two-day workshop, an integral component of the Sustainable Forest Management initiative led by Rt. Hon. George O’ben-Etchi at Cross River Forestry Commission, saw attendance from Commissioner Isaac Obo, Commission staff, stakeholders, and Zonal Officers (Forestry Rangers). The event took place at Prestine Villa Event Centre in Calabar.
