The Ekiti State Government, via its Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has issued a one-month ultimatum to sawmillers and wood processors in the state to regularize their activities or face stiff sanctions, Ekiti News reports.
Erelu Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe, the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, issued the ultimatum during a meeting held in Ado-Ekiti with Saw Millers and the Association of Wood Exporters.
The Commissioner expressed displeasure of Government to reports of infractions and irregularities going on in the sector
Aluko-Ajisafe emphasized the Oyebanji Administration’s dedication to maintaining standards and integrity within the wood industry in the State. She said that the government would take resolute action against any individual or corporate entity found involved in unethical practices within the sector.
She stressed the importance of maintaining standard measures and practices in the wood industry, highlighting government’s dedication to upholding quality and fairness and ensuring that Forestry operators and wood processors operate within the ambit of the law.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Babatunde Alokan and the Executive Secretary, Forestry Commission, Mr. Sunday Adekunle, joining the call for accountability were urged stakeholders to take necessary actions to curb illegal activities in the sector.
The National President of Wood Exporters, Mr. Ademola Oyaleke, speaking on behalf of others, pledged the Association’s support, promising to strengthen its existing Task Force to assist in enforcing standards within the wood industry.
The collaborative effort between government officials and the industry representatives signals a concerted push towards ensuring transparency and quality assurance within Ekiti State’s wood sector.
The meeting agreed that a more expansive stakeholders meeting across the State would be convened in due course.