Okpebholo Swears In Agbomhere As Chairman, Ecological Funding, Management Commission

Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has sworn in Barr Blessing Agbomhere as chairman of the Edo State Ecological Funding and Management Commission, charging him to spearhead efforts toward addressing the state’s worsening ecological challenges.

Agbomhere took the oath of office on Tuesday in Benin City with his colleagues, Hon. Felix Ibhade, executive director of Projects, Mrs Ivie Uwaifo, executive director of Administration, Mrs Khadija Yusuf, executive director of Finance, alongside 21 newly appointed commissioners and officers of other agencies, marking a significant step in the governor’s ongoing drive to strengthen his administration’s response to environmental degradation.

Governor Okpebholo expressed confidence in Agbomhere’s capacity to tackle the state’s pressing ecological problems, particularly gully erosion, land degradation, water pollution, climate change and recurrent flooding. He urged the new chairman to work closely with national bodies, international organisations and development partners to attract sustainable funding and technical support for long-term solutions.

“Our state has suffered significant ecological damage over the years, but with this new team, I am confident that we will bring lasting relief to affected communities,” the governor said. “Barrister Agbomhere has the competence, courage, and connections to engage constructively with both local and international partners to restore our environment.”

In his remarks, Agbomhere expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for the opportunity to serve, pledging total dedication to the assignment.

“I am deeply honoured by this trust,” he said. “We will work tirelessly to make the governor and the people of Edo State proud through selfless service and impactful interventions that will protect our environment and improve the quality of life for our people.”

A former director of Corporate, Intergovernmental and Strategic Commerce of the African Bar Association and renowned Natural Resources Management, Petroleum, Marine and Environment lawyer, Agbomhere is expected to bring his experience and passion for community development to bear in leading the state’s ecological agenda.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to aligning with the governor of Edo State to champion the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritises the well-being and environmental sustainability of Nigerians.