Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has passed a bill for the establishment of Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria, to regulate the activities of the various professionals, whose activities have direct impact on the environment.
The bill entitled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment of the Institute of Environmental Practitioners of Nigeria and for Related Matters” is sponsored by the member representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi state, Livinus Makwe.
Makwe, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says the proposed legislation is borne out of the need to respond to issues relating to environmental challenges, including climate change.
The lawmaker noted that the country cannot afford to treat with levity issues relating to climate change, especially as there are already scientific evidences that it poses great challenge to humanity.
According to him, the country is already facing series of environmental challenges ranging from desert encroachment, erosion, oil spillage, flooding and many other environmental issues that pose serious threat to the economy and lives of citizens.
He explained that when the bill becomes law, it will help to “protect our environment, which is our most enduring resources as the Bill seeks to establish an Institute charged with the responsibility of regulating and managing environmental practices in Nigeria.”
Makwe added that just like other professional bodies, the proposed Institute will ensure that people respect the laws that regulate all manner of constructions, agricultural practices, and activities of extractive industries as well as individuals in relation to sustainable alteration of the natural environment.