The Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), Benue State Chapter, has conferred honorary membership on the Honourable Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Denis Ter Iyaghigba.
The conferment took place during a courtesy visit by the NES delegation to the Commissioner in his office. The team was led by the Chapter President, Dr. Timothy Ishi, accompanied by Mr. Michael Agada.
In his acceptance remarks, Commissioner Iyaghigba expressed profound gratitude for the honour, describing the NES as a vital stakeholder in environmental management and sustainability.
He commended the foresight of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Governor of Benue State, for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
According to the Commissioner, the creation of the Ministry represents a strategic move toward economic diversification and sustainable development—objectives that align closely with the mission and vision of the NES.
He assured the delegation of his Ministry’s commitment to building a strong partnership with the Society, particularly as major projects, policies, and initiatives aimed at responsibly harnessing the vast resources of the River Benue begin to take shape.
In his remarks, Dr. Ishi commended the establishment of the new Ministry, noting its crucial role in exploring the economic potential of the River Benue while ensuring the preservation of its ecosystem. He pledged that the NES would continue to serve as a strong advocacy platform for the Commissioner and his Ministry.
Dr. Ishi further emphasized that the collaboration between the Ministry and NES would promote community engagement and ensure that economic activities along the River Benue are guided by the principles of environmental sustainability.
The visit concluded with the formal dressing of the Commissioner with a muffler scarf.