Edo Governor Okpebholo Inaugurates Ecological Commission to Tackle Flooding

By Chinedu Echianu

The Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has inaugurated Ecological Funding and Management Commission, to develope sustainable solutions to flooding, erosion, and other threats.

The swearing-in, held on Tuesday in Benin City, saw Barrister Blessing Agbomhere officially assume office as Chairman of the Commission, alongside Hon. Felix Ibhade (Executive Director, Projects)

Others are Ivie Uwaifo (Executive Director, Administration). Khadija Yusuf (Executive Director, Finance) and 21 other commissioners and agency officers.

Governor Okpebholo described the move as part of his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutional frameworks for environmental protection and resilience.

“Our state has suffered significant ecological damage over the years, With this new team, I am confident we will bring lasting relief to affected communities.”

“Barrister Agbomhere has the competence, courage, and connections to engage constructively with both local and international partners to restore our environment.”

The Governor charged the Commission to collaborate with federal agencies, development partners, and donor organisations to attract funding and technical expertise that would drive long-term environmental recovery and sustainability.

In his response, Agbomhere expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, pledging full dedication to the Commission’s mission.

“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 protect our environment and improve the quality of life for our people.”

A seasoned legal practitioner and environmental expert, Agbomhere previously served as Director of Corporate, Inter-governmental and Strategic Commerce at the African Bar Association.

With experience in Natural Resources Management, Petroleum, Marine and Environmental Law, he is expected to bring deep expertise and policy insight to the Commission’s work.

He reaffirmed his commitment to align the state’s ecological strategy with Governor Okpebholo’s agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, both of which prioritise environmental sustainability and citizens’ welfare.

The Edo State Ecological Funding and Management Commission is mandated to:

Identify, coordinate, and manage ecological development projects;

Formulate and implement erosion and flood control policies;

Mobilise and manage ecological funds transparently