The Petroleum, Environment and Solid Minerals Degradation Awareness Association (PESMDAA) has expressed grave concern over the escalating environmental damage plaguing the petroleum, environment, and solid mineral sectors.
The State Commissioner of PESMDAA in Ondo State, Comrade Lucky Ajiroba, made this known during the inauguration ceremony of a task force aimed at tackling environmental degradation linked to petroleum and solid mineral extraction across the state.
He said the inauguration of the task force should be seen as a demonstration of the association’s commitment to integrity in addressing the degradation affecting these sectors.
He emphasised PESMDAA’s dedication to raising awareness and advocating sustainable practices in resource extraction industries.
According to him, the theme of the inauguration, “Sensitisation to Eliminate Degradation and Irregularities in the Petroleum and Solid Minerals Sectors,” underscored the urgent need to address the ecological impact of these industries.
He said, “This inauguration is not merely a ceremonial event—it is a call to action, a commitment to lead with integrity and purpose in addressing the degradation that has plagued our petroleum, environment, and solid minerals sectors.
“The theme guiding our efforts remains resolute: ‘Sensitisation to Eliminate Degradation and Irregularities in the Petroleum, Environment, and Solid Minerals Sectors.’ This speaks not only to our goals, but to our values—transparency, sustainability, and collaboration.
“We recognise that these sectors are pivotal to our state’s economic vitality. Yet, we cannot ignore the environmental cost that often accompanies unchecked exploitation.
“PESMDAA stands as a beacon of awareness, education, and advocacy—fostering a culture of accountability and forward-thinking solutions.”
Ajiroba urged all stakeholders to support the campaign against environmental degradation linked to petroleum and solid mineral extraction and stressed the importance of widespread awareness and collaboration at the grassroots level.
He assured that the task force would work closely with stakeholders to enforce accountability and engage affected communities in conservation efforts.
“I urge you to see yourselves as key drivers of this movement. Your voice, your influence, and your decisions will shape the future we seek. Let us work hand in hand to build systems that not only generate prosperity but preserve the ecosystems that sustain life.
“As we inaugurate this state chapter, let it be the beginning of real impact—of voices raised, policies shaped, and actions taken in defence of our environment and in service of our people. And may this inauguration ignite a lasting change across our communities.
“Today’s inauguration is more than a ceremony—it is the birth of a movement. A movement rooted in accountability, innovation, and shared responsibility for our environment.
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“The discussions we’ve had and the connections we’ve forged here are the first steps toward transformative change in Ondo State’s petroleum, environment, and solid minerals sectors.
“Let us leave here with a renewed sense of duty, knowing that the future we seek will not build itself. It will require our voices, our actions, and our unwavering dedication to confronting environmental degradation and promoting ethical practices in the petroleum and solid minerals sectors.
“The journey ahead demands courage, collaboration, and consistency. PESMDAA stands ready to walk this path with you. Let today’s inauguration remind us that the power to protect our resources lies not in one hand, but in many united.
“Together, we will turn the tide against degradation and build a legacy of environmental pride for our dear state. May our journey from here be marked by progress, impact, and lasting transformation.”
In his address, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, also expressed concern over the worsening environmental damage in solid mineral-producing regions.
Ajulo said the state government would continue to combat environmental degradation and ensure a safer environment.
While commending the association, the commissioner assured them of government support, stating, “We’ll give the association the support they need to ensure the environment is safe.”
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