The University of Port Harcourt has promoted the Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Innocent Barikor, to the rank of Professor of Political Economy and Development Studies. His promotion was among 45 others approved by the university.
Vice-Chancellor Onwunari Georgewill announced on Wednesday that the promotions were ratified during the institution’s 187th Governing Council meeting, chaired by Pro-Chancellor Mao Ohuabunwa. “Prof. Georgewill further stated that 30 senior academics were promoted to the rank of Professor, and 16 others to associate professor after undergoing the rigorous assessment process set up by the university,” the statement read.
Barikor, who assumed office as NESREA’s Director General in May 2024, has made significant strides in environmental sustainability. “Under his committed leadership, the Agency is vigorously implementing the Extended Producer Responsibility Programme in the Food and Beverage, Battery, Used Tyres, and Electrical/ Electronics sectors,” the statement noted.
He has also overseen the development of key environmental regulations, compliance monitoring, and policy initiatives, including the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 and the National Environmental (Plastic Waste Control) Regulations. Additionally, the agency conducted 1,671 compliance inspections and shut down 96 facilities for environmental violations under his leadership.
With international support, Barikor has spearheaded projects to enhance NESREA’s capabilities, including equipping the National Reference Laboratory in Port Harcourt with advanced research equipment and launching a National Industrial Decarbonisation Programme. “He has provided the needed zeal and dedication to attract support from international partners such as the European Union, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the German and Japanese Governments, the African Center for Protection, and the Elephant Protection Initiative Foundation,” the statement concluded.
