Professor Innocent Barikor: A Scholar and Environmental Advocate’s Journey to Academic Excellence
Professor Innocent Barikor’s recent promotion to the esteemed rank of Professor of Political Economy and Development Studies at the University of Port Harcourt marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, intertwining academic scholarship with practical leadership in environmental governance. This achievement, conferred alongside the promotion of 45 other faculty members, underscores Professor Barikor’s dedication to both intellectual pursuits and tangible impact on Nigeria’s environmental sustainability landscape. His journey exemplifies the potent combination of academic rigor and public service, showcasing how theoretical knowledge can be effectively translated into actionable policies and initiatives for the betterment of society. The University of Port Harcourt’s recognition of his contributions through this promotion serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to both the academic community and the broader Nigerian populace.
Professor Barikor’s ascension to the Director General of NESREA (National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency) in May 2024, prior to his professorship, provided him with a platform to translate his academic expertise into concrete action. His leadership at NESREA has been marked by significant strides in strengthening environmental regulations and promoting sustainable practices across various sectors. From implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme to spearheading the development of crucial environmental legislation, Professor Barikor has demonstrated a proactive approach to tackling environmental challenges in Nigeria. His focus on bolstering environmental governance through legal frameworks reflects his deep understanding of the interplay between policy and practice in achieving sustainable development goals.
A cornerstone of Professor Barikor’s leadership at NESREA has been the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programme across key sectors such as food and beverage, battery, used tyres, and electrical/electronics. This initiative places the onus on producers to manage the environmental impact of their products throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal. By incentivizing responsible waste management and promoting circular economy principles, the EPR programme aims to minimize environmental pollution and conserve resources. Professor Barikor’s championing of this program signifies his commitment to forging partnerships between industry and government to achieve shared environmental objectives.
Beyond the EPR programme, Professor Barikor has been instrumental in developing critical environmental legislation. He spearheaded the development of the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024, a crucial legal instrument aimed at regulating the lifecycle management of batteries to mitigate their environmental impact. Furthermore, he played a key role in crafting the National Guidelines for the Implementation of EPR for (Plastic) Packaging and the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations, both of which are poised to significantly curb plastic pollution in Nigeria. These legislative efforts exemplify Professor Barikor’s proactive approach to addressing pressing environmental concerns through robust legal frameworks.
Professor Barikor’s contributions extend beyond policy formulation and implementation. He has spearheaded crucial reviews of existing environmental regulations, including the National Environmental (Permitting and Licensing Systems) Regulations 2009 and the National Environmental (International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora) Regulations 2011. These reviews demonstrate his commitment to ensuring that environmental regulations remain relevant and effective in addressing evolving challenges. Moreover, under his leadership, NESREA conducted over 1,600 compliance monitoring inspections, resulting in the closure of numerous facilities for environmental infractions. This firm enforcement of environmental regulations underscores his dedication to holding polluters accountable and protecting the environment.
Recognizing the importance of localized action, Professor Barikor spearheaded the decentralization of NESREA offices to enhance environmental governance at the grassroots level. This strategic move aims to bring environmental regulation closer to the communities most impacted by environmental issues, promoting greater responsiveness and community participation in environmental protection efforts. Furthermore, Professor Barikor has actively sought international collaborations to enhance Nigeria’s environmental management capabilities. With support from international partners, he is equipping the National Reference Laboratory in Port Harcourt with state-of-the-art equipment for environmental research and laboratory investigations, further solidifying Nigeria’s capacity for scientific analysis and evidence-based environmental policy.
Professor Barikor’s commitment to addressing climate change is evident in his launch of the National Industrial Decarbonisation Programme, aimed at mitigating emissions from the industrial sector. This initiative reflects his understanding of the crucial role of industry in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. His leadership in hosting an international conference on upgrading the lead-battery recycling sector in Africa highlights his dedication to regional collaboration in tackling environmental challenges. Professor Barikor’s ability to attract support from international partners, including the European Union, the United Nations, and various national governments, showcases his effectiveness in leveraging global expertise and resources to address local environmental concerns. His promotion to Professor not only recognizes his academic prowess but also celebrates his significant contributions to environmental sustainability in Nigeria and beyond.
