Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that his administration is committed to a comprehensive reforestation programme through collaboration with PRESCO Nig. Plc. and similar companies in the state.
According to the governor, the reforestation programme was conceived to correct the degradation and depletion of trees in forest reserves across the state.
Obaseki who disclosed this at the Pre-Annual General Meeting Cocktail Dinner organised by PRESCO Plc. at Obaretin Estate, in the state, explained that the reforestation programme has become necessary as an audit of forest reserves in the state showed that the reserves have been depleted.
He noted that his administration’s strategy will ensure that the depleted parts of the forest reserves are put to profitable use through partnership with companies that are ready to work with the state to cultivate oil palm and other economic trees.
“In our private conversation with the chairman of PRESCO Plc. I have received his assurance and we will be working with them on a reforestation programme in the state,” Obaseki said.
He explained that 50 years ago, Nigeria was the number one oil palm producing country in the world, noting that the state and nation want to restore that lost glory.
The Chairman of Presco Plc., Mr Pierre Vandebeeck commended the governor and his team for finding time to attend the company’s Pre-AGM Cocktail Dinner and lauded the growing investor confidence in the state resulting from the ease of doing business in all parts of the state.
“We enjoy working in your state because you have created the enabling environment for us to do business here. We are proud of you and pledge to continue to support your administration to enable you succeed in transforming the state.”