Adaobi Rhema Oguejiofor
The Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), a national regulatory agency that oversees the operation of Oil and Gas Free Trade Zones in Nigeria, has announced its plan to provide the Free Zones with independent power supply using renewable green energy sources, thereby improving the business environment and making it devoid of pollution for investors.
The Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OGFZA, Sen. Tijjani Kaura, made the announcement during the commemoration of the 2023 World Environment Day (WED) in Onne, Rivers State, where he affirmed that renewable energy was key to a better and more conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the free zones.
Kaura confirmed his commitment to promoting sustainable development and renewable energy sources, stating that the Authority will continue to improve on its safety measures and encourage the setting up of Green Industrial Parks, as well as eco-friendly industrial practices within the Free Zones in order to make Nigeria a healthier place.
The OGFZA Boss also admonished staff of the Authority on the need to increase their role in the reduction and prevention of environmental hazards and pollution within the Free Zones. He also emphasized the importance of environmental safety in the zones and disclosed that OGFZA created the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) department in order to be fully dedicated to the sensitization and prevention of environmental issues within the free zones.
According to him, one of the most important requirements for issuing a Free Zone License to any company or investor was the conduct and submission of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.
In his own words, “the health and safety of the environment is equally the health and safety of OGFZA staff and that of the immediate communities surrounding the Free Zones. Over the years, OGFZA’s HSE department has always checkmated other forms of environmental pollution, especially from companies and industrial parks within our Free Zones. This is a role that the department has played effectively in line with international best practices.
“The Oil and Gas Free Zone in Onne remains one of the most environment-friendly Free Zones in the continent, with zero pollution or hazard in over two decades now.”