Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – In a bold move to safeguard its fragile ecosystem, the Bayelsa State Government has announced a comprehensive ban on the movement, transportation, and conveyance of wood, timber, and all forest products across the state, effective January 1, 2026. Simultaneously, all dredging operations have been suspended indefinitely from the same date, with operators required to obtain fresh approvals before resuming any activities.
The directives were outlined in an official statement released on December 30, 2025, in Yenagoa by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo. The measures apply universally to land routes, maritime pathways, rivers, creeks, and coastal areas, leaving no exemptions.
SoCommissioner Ololo emphasized strict enforcement: “All dredging operators operating in any part of Bayelsa State are to cease dredging activities with effect from January 1, 2026, and are required to seek and obtain proper location approval and authorisation from the relevant government authorities before any future operations may be considered.” He warned that violations will lead to arrests and prosecutions, with no leniency granted.
The dual policy targets rampant illegal logging and unauthorized dredging, which have accelerated environmental degradation in one of Nigeria's most ecologically sensitive regions. Bayelsa, located in the heart of the Niger Delta, boasts extensive mangrove forests and wetlands critical for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and coastal protection against erosion and flooding.
Uncontrolled deforestation has depleted vast tracts of forest cover, threatening endangered species like the Niger Delta Red Colobus monkey and exacerbating climate vulnerabilities. Similarly, indiscriminate dredging for sand mining and land reclamation has polluted waterways, destroyed aquatic habitats, and intensified coastal erosion in this low-lying state prone to annual flooding.
Ololo stated that the initiatives aim to “protect the environment, conserve forest and aquatic resources, prevent ecological degradation, and eradicate illegal logging and unauthorised dredging.” He directed all individuals, transporters, companies, associations, and operators involved in these activities to comply fully.
In a stern warning, the commissioner extended liability to communities: “Any community, community leadership, or traditional ruler found to be aiding, abetting, shielding, or collaborating in prohibited logging, transportation of forest products, or dredging activities would be held jointly liable under relevant state laws.” The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with security agencies and enforcement teams, will monitor compliance statewide.
This latest directive builds on previous efforts under Governor Douye Diri's administration to curb deforestation. Earlier measures included partial bans in 2021 requiring permits for logging, a full forestry shutdown in some areas by mid-2025, and ongoing biodiversity conservation partnerships. However, persistent illegal activities have necessitated stronger action, including outright prohibition on timber movement to choke supply chains for illicit operations.
Stakeholders, including environmental groups, have welcomed the move as essential for long-term sustainability, though timber dealers and dredging operators may face economic disruptions. The government has urged residents to support the policy, framing it as vital for preserving Bayelsa's natural heritage for future generations amid growing threats from climate change and human exploitation.
As enforcement begins in the new year, this policy positions Bayelsa as a leader in regional environmental protection within the Niger Delta, potentially influencing similar actions in neighboring states.
