NOSDRA, EU to Boost Collaboration on Oil Spill Response

The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS have agreed to deepen collaboration on oil spill response, environmental protection, and sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions. The agreement was reached during a working visit by NOSDRA’s Director General, Engr. Chukwuemeka Woke, and his team to the EU office in Abuja.

At the meeting, both sides discussed the development of a stronger environmental impact assessment and remediation framework, particularly for artisanal refining sites. They also explored the deployment of in-situ oil spill response tools and equipment, as well as structured capacity building initiatives for environmental personnel.

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Engr. Woke highlighted the urgency of tackling environmental threats caused by illegal oil bunkering and artisanal refining, which continue to devastate local communities. He called for increased international support, noting that strategic collaboration with the EU would help address the suffering of affected populations and promote environmental justice.

In his remarks, the Acting Head of Delegation at the EU, Mr Ruben Alba, welcomed the engagement and commended NOSDRA for initiating dialogue with international partners. He expressed the EU’s willingness to support efforts aimed at improving Nigeria’s environmental response capacity.