Dr. Ishaq Salako, the Minister of State for Environment, has attributed the majority of environmental degradation to a lack of awareness.

During a visit from the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in Abuja, Minister Salako emphasized the paramount importance of President Bola Tinubu’s administration prioritizing sustainable environmental practices. He urged collaborative efforts to confront the array of environmental challenges confronting the nation.

Salako appealed to the NIPR to aid the Federal Government in enlightening the public about responsible environmental use and transformation. He acknowledged pressing environmental issues like deforestation, desert encroachment, floods, land degradation, gully erosion, and climate change. He insisted on immediate actions to reverse this negative trajectory.

READ MORE: Surveyors Report A Scarcity Of Materials In The Construction Sector

He highlighted the administration’s vision of ingraining the conscientious use of the environment as a civic duty. The minister implored public relations professionals to assist the government in effectively disseminating information, particularly concerning proper waste disposal.

Reiterating the government’s dedication to averting a scenario where Nigeria falls among the top 10 nations burdened by disaster-induced poverty, Salako asserted that the environment is synonymous with livelihood. He underscored its vital role and the government’s obligation to ensure its responsible usage.

Salako stated that the NIPR would play a crucial role, as studies revealed that ignorance largely contributes to environmental misuse. He emphasized the necessity of heightened awareness campaigns and educational initiatives to enhance environmental conditions.