February 01, (THEWILL) – The National Orientation Agency (NOA), on Thursday, cautioned Bayelsa residents against bush burning in the State to avert dangerous and deadly effects on the environment, human health, and communities.
The State Director of NOA, Mr. Ellis Nria Dappa, made the call when the Women Organized for Mentorship and Advocacy Network (WOMAN) paid a courtesy visit to his office at the Federal Secretariat, Yenagoa.
Dappa said the call is in line with the agency’s efforts to address major environmental issues in Nigeria, especially in Bayelsa and to sustain national values through collaboration with civil society organisations.
He said the collaboration between the NOA and organisations such as WOMAN underscores the importance of joint efforts in promoting environmental sustainability and upholding national values.
“The call to stop bush burning in Bayelsa aligns with our broader commitment to environmental advocacy and collaboration with relevant stakeholders,” he said.
He, therefore, seeks the support of nongovernmental organisations to mobilise communities, raise awareness, and implement sustainable strategies to prevent and manage bush burning in Bayelsa.
Responding, the President of WOMAN, Lady Eunice Nnachi, lauded the NOA’s advocacy, sensitisation, and awareness creation initiatives, which focus on the value of wetlands and the need to prevent destructive practices such as bush burning and burning of tyres.
Nnachi noted that smoke inhalation from bushfires can result in respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and other health complications.
She, therefore, called on residents of Bayelsa State to seek other means of bush clearing instead of bushfires, which can lead to air and water pollution, cause respiratory issues and affect water quality.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
