By Mercy Omoike
The Environment and Safety Management Institute (ESMI) has inducted 43 fellows to promote environmental sustainability and safety across the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 16th ESMI induction ceremony was held on Thursday at Ikeja to certify more professionals in the environment and safety sectors.
NAN also reports that the 43 fellows were inducted as members and associates of the institute, respectively.
The ESMI National President, Mr Martin Iorsamber, said environmental sustainability was necessary to improve the economic realities of the country.
“Despite Nigeria’s rich natural resources, vibrant youth population, and expanding private sector, the nation continues to grapple with environmental degradation, unsafe industrial practices, and worsening climate vulnerabilities.
“These challenges pose real threats to economic stability, public safety and sustainable growth. Nigeria’s path to economic prosperity cannot be separated from environmental responsibility.
“The theme of this year’s induction ceremony: “Environmental Safety and Economic Development in Nigeria,” is, therefore, timely.
“It calls us to reflect on the essential link between safe environmental practices and the nation’s overall development aspirations,” Iorsamber said.
He called on the new inductees to be catalysts of safety and environmental sustainability.
“As we induct a new cadre of safety and environment professionals into the institute, it is important to reinforce their role as catalysts of a safe, productive, and globally competitive Nigeria.
“Environmental safety is not a cost, it is an investment aimed at improving the safety standards in Nigeria to reduce losses across key economic sectors.
“Today’s inductees will join this mission becoming ambassadors of a new Nigeria” Iorsamber said.
On her part, the ESMI Registrar, Mrs Evelyn Agu, urged the inductees to take seriously the duties of environmental sustainability with the highest form of professionalism.
“This gathering is not only to celebrate your professional advancement, but also to reaffirm our commitment to environmental protection and safety management as key drivers of national development.
“The issue of environmental sustainability must remain the centre of our economic agenda.
“Without safety, a safe and healthy environment, true economic growth cannot be sustained.
“As professionals in the field of environment and safety management, you are being called to be an ambassador of sustainable practice in industries, communities and institutions across Nigeria.
“Your role is vital in ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of the planet, and that development today does not jeopardise the futures of generations to come,” Agu said.
She urged the inductees to uphold the values of competence, ethics and responsibilities that define the profession by being proactive agents of change.
“We are convinced by working together, we can transform environmental challenges into competitive opportunities for innovation, create jobs and sustainable growth and sustainable economic growth,” Agu said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
