By Kemi Olatunde

The Petroleum, Environment and Solid Minerals Degradation Awareness Association (PESMDAA) has expressed deep concern over the rising wave of environmental degradation plaguing the petroleum, environment, and solid minerals sectors.

The State Commissioner of the PESMDAA, in Ondo, Lucky Ajiroba, made this known during the inauguration of a task force set up to tackle environmental degradation linked to petroleum and solid mineral extraction across the state.

Ajiroba said the inauguration of the task force symbolised a commitment to lead with integrity in confronting the environmental challenges bedevilling the sectors.

He stressed that the association remained committed to raising awareness and advocating for sustainable practices within the resource extraction industries.

According to him, the theme of the inauguration, “Sensitisation to Eliminate Degradation and Irregularities in the Petroleum and Solid Minerals Sectors,” highlighted the urgent need for action to mitigate the ecological impact of these industries.

“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,” Ajiroba said.

“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.”

The commissioner urged all stakeholders to join the movement to address environmental degradation linked to petroleum and solid mineral activities, stressing the need for widespread sensitisation and collaboration, especially at the grassroots.

He assured that the task force would work hand-in-hand with stakeholders to enforce accountability and ensure that affected communities were actively involved 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 together to build systems that not only generate prosperity but also preserve the ecosystems that sustain life.

“As we inaugurate this state chapter, let it mark the beginning of real impact of voices raised, policies shaped, and actions taken in defence of our environment and service of our people.

“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.

“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,” Ajiroba said.

Speaking at the event, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Kayode Ajulo, equally expressed grave concern over the escalating environmental degradation in solid mineral-producing areas.

Ajulo emphasised that the state government remained resolute in its commitment to combating environmental degradation and ensuring a safer environment for all.

While commending PESMDAA for its initiative, he assured the association of the government’s full support.

“We’ll give the association the support they need to ensure the environment is safe,” the commissioner said.