BENIN CITY: Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has inaugurated 100 Edo State Environmental Compliance Corps (EECC) to boost Environmental Protection in the state.

Inaugurating the Corps on Wednesday in Benin City, Okpbeholo urged them to serve with courage, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose.

The governor who was represented by his Commissioner for Finance, Mr Emmanuel Okoebor, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental protection, public health, and responsible governance.

The governor urged their actions to inspire compliance and to earn respect and commitment, in order to strengthen public trust.

The Governor called on the corps members to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism, discipline, and respect for the law while working closely with communities to promote environmental compliance and awareness.

“The inauguration of EECC today (yesterday) reaffirms this administration’s commitment to environmental protection, public health, and responsible governance.

“A clean environment is not only a social necessity but also an economic imperative that supports productivity, investments, and overall well-being.

“You are expected to carry out your duties with professionalism, discipline, and respect for the law while working closely with communities to promote environmental compliance and awareness,” he said.

On his part, the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Mr Nosa Adams, said that the 100 personnel were the first batch of EECC, who were selected through credible means.

He said that they have been engaged in intense four-day training, to enforce compliance with the Edo Environmental Waste Management and Pollution Law.

He noted that the law, which was recently signed by Governor Okpebholo is holistic as it covers everything that has to do with the environment and ecosystem.

“It’s our conviction that if the law is fully implemented, we would have a healthier, cleaner, and greener environment,” he said