Senate Committee Seeks Dedicated Funding to Tackle Environmental Challenges

The Senate Committee on Environment has called for a special funding framework to address Nigeria’s growing environmental problems, including erosion, flooding and forest degradation.

The demand was made during the 2026 budget defence session chaired by Senator Ajagunnla Olubiyi Fadeya. Lawmakers present included Senator Ned Nwoko, Senator Abbas Aminu Inyas and Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health.

During the session, the committee stressed that the Ministry of Environment cannot effectively address environmental threats without the timely release of approved funds. Members noted that erosion and flooding continue to affect communities across the country and require sustained financial support.

Senator Fadeya said the Senate would continue to exercise its oversight role to ensure funds allocated to environmental agencies are properly managed and used for their intended purposes. Among the priorities discussed were the protection of Nigeria’s forest reserves and compliance with international climate obligations. The committee maintained that existing environmental responsibilities must be matched with realistic and adequate budgetary provisions.

The session also featured discussions with heads of key agencies under the ministry. Senator Banigo held talks with Prof. Innocent Bariate Barikor, Director General of National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, Director General of National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).

Lawmakers said closer collaboration between the legislature and relevant agencies is necessary to strengthen enforcement of environmental laws and safeguard public health.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that environmental protection remains a priority in the 2026 budget cycle.