The Bayelsa State Government has ordered that permits must be obtained before the transportation of wood, timber and other forest products within the state, effective January 1, 2026.
The directive was announced in Yenagoa by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, who said the restriction covers all land and maritime routes across Bayelsa. He warned that anyone found violating the order would be arrested and prosecuted.
Read also: Bayelsa govt moves to curb indiscriminate use of drugs
Ololo explained that the move is part of efforts to curb illegal logging, protect forest resources and prevent environmental degradation. He said individuals, transporters, companies and associations involved in harvesting or moving forest products must comply strictly with the new permit requirement.
The commissioner also announced a statewide suspension of dredging activities from the same date, directing all operators to stop work until they obtain proper approval and authorisation from relevant government agencies.
According to him, the measures are aimed at conserving both forest and aquatic ecosystems. He added that communities or traditional rulers found aiding illegal logging, transportation of forest products or unauthorised dredging would be held jointly responsible.
Ololo said the Ministry of Environment, working with security agencies, would enforce the directive across the state, urging residents to support the government’s efforts to safeguard the environment for future generations.
