Akwa Ibom based security outfit, Ibom Community Watch has handed over 100 trained officers to Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) as Environmental Marshals.

The handing over ceremony, took place at the ICW’s parade ground in Uyo and was witnessed by top officials, including the Coordinator of ICW, Kenneth Okon, Chairman of AKSEPWMA, Prince Ikim, and security experts attached to the community security outfit.

Kenneth Okon, the ICW Coordinator at the ceremony stated that the 100 officers had undergone rigorous training by the military and Police and were found fit to serve as Environmental Sanitation Marshals.

The former Etinan Council boss noted that the deployment was part of the ICW’s contribution to the achievement of the ARISE Agenda of the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.

The ICW Commander used the occasion to emphasize that the released officers had received specialized training on environmental protection and would assist in enforcement duties at AKSEPWMA.

He added that more officers would be trained on marine safety and deployed to the agency.

Responding, Prince Ikim, the Chairman of AKSEPWMA, commended Pastor Umo Eno for establishing the ICW and acknowledged the significance of the partnership between the agency and the security outfit.

He noted that environmental issues had evolved from politicized to securitized, requiring a collaborative effort to address them effectively.

The environmental expert revealed that the 100 officers would undergo additional training to enhance their skills in intelligence gathering and enforcement of environmental laws. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would lead to improved environmental sustainability in the state.

Other dignitaries present at the ceremony included the Deputy Commander of ICW, Hon. Emmanuel Bassey, and board members of AKSEPWMA.

The launch of ICW in December 2023 by the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno aimed to fortify the safety and wellbeing of citizens in Akwa Ibom State. This development marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to ensure environmental security and protection.

With this deployment, the state government has demonstrated its commitment to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. The partnership between ICW and AKSEPWMA is expected to yield positive results in the coming months.