The Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) Prof. Innocent Barikor, on Wednesday addressed participants of Senior Executive Course 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State.
As the Lead Presenter and Discussant on Management of Marine Ecosystem for Sustainable Development in Nigeria, Prof. Barikor, who was represented by the Director, Environmental Quality Control, Mr. Elijah Udofia shared insights on the marine ecosystem conservation strategies of the Agency.
Prof. Barikor informed participants that the Agency is implementing the National Environmental (Coastal and Marine Area Protection) regulations, and as part of its efforts, carries out regular inspections and monitoring of coastal activities, collaborates with agencies like NIMASA and the Federal Ministry of Environment for a unified approach, and educates the public on marine conservation.
He said, “Companies undergo Environmental Audit to assess compliance and address identified gaps. Industries along the coastline must comply with standards, including having effluent treatment plants to prevent untreated wastewater discharge into the marine environment. Additionally, all industries are expected to participate in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, and take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products.”
The Senior Executive Course (SEC) is an annual Programme that draws participants from top level decision makers from the public, private and voluntary sectors.