Efforts to combat environmental pollution in the Niger Delta have received a boost as the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) and the Media Awareness and Justice Initiative (MAJI) have pledged to collaborate on improving environmental monitoring using cost-effective, technology-driven tools.
This commitment was reinforced during a recent capacity-building workshop held at NOSDRA’s office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The event brought together environmental regulators, civil society organisations, and media professionals to explore new approaches to data-driven environmental governance.
Speaking at the session, Port Harcourt Zonal Director of NOSDRA, Mr. Augustine Bello, expressed optimism about the potential of digital tools in transforming the agency’s monitoring capabilities. “We believe that the tool we’ll get to know about today presents an opportunity for the agency to expand its scope of collaboration and effectiveness in environmental protection,” Bello said. He also conveyed commendation from NOSDRA’s leadership and encouraged agency staff to take full advantage of the training.
“To my officers, you are here to learn, and ultimately, you need to cascade the knowledge gained here to others,” Bello added, stressing the importance of practical engagement with the tools introduced.
MAJI’s Executive Director, Mr. Okoro Onyekachi, emphasised the transformative role of digital technologies in environmental monitoring. According to him, traditional approaches have become insufficient in the face of rising pollution levels and complex data demands.
“Environmental data collection has moved beyond manual methods. We are now in an era where remote, tech-based tools are critical for real-time air quality monitoring and pollution tracking,” Onyekachi told journalists. He noted that the workshop was designed to enhance NOSDRA’s ability to visualise, simplify, and communicate environmental data to relevant stakeholders.
He also highlighted the importance of translating raw data into actionable insights. “We’ve been collecting data, but without meaningful analysis, its impact remains limited. With improved data clarity and accessibility, agencies like NOSDRA can better shape environmental policies and regulations,” he said.
The initiative marks a step forward in the broader campaign to empower communities and regulatory bodies in the Niger Delta with accessible, affordable tools for environmental oversight. Both organisations believe that stronger data capacity will not only improve transparency but also support more robust responses to pollution and oil spill incidents across the region.