EcoImpact Alliance Initiative has urged blending traditional knowledge with modern methods to protect wetlands, marking World Wetlands Day 2026 in Kogi State.
The event, with the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage”, gathered stakeholders to examine wetlands’ roles in climate resilience, biodiversity and livelihoods.
The Lead Expert, Mr. Owoleke Oluwafemi, delivered a keynote on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Lokoja, highlighting Nigeria’s diverse wetlands, including the Niger Delta.
Oluwafemi stressed indigenous conservation practices, citing fishing calendars and protection of sacred rivers as effective traditional tools.
“This theme highlights the cultural wisdom that sustained wetlands long before modern conservation approaches,” Oluwafemi said.
He noted Nigeria has 11 Ramsar Sites covering 1.07 million hectares, including the Niger Delta, Africa’s largest wetland system.
“These ecosystems support millions through fishing, farming, grazing and culture. The Hadejia-Nguru wetlands alone supported 1.5 million people,” he added.
Oluwafemi urged stakeholders to protect wetlands, document traditional knowledge, empower communities, and engage youths and schools in conservation.
The Founder, Mr. Ipinyomi Tafa, reaffirmed EcoImpact Alliance’s commitment to awareness, education and practical climate action.
Tafa called for collaboration among governments, stakeholders and citizens to safeguard wetlands vital to climate resilience, food security and biodiversity.
Environmental consultant, Mr. Salami Onaopemipo, advocated synergy between traditional and modern approaches to conservation.
“How you treat the environment is how the environment treats you back,” Onaopemipo said, urging stronger government commitment.
Project Lead, Mr. Joel Temitope, highlighted innovative initiatives promoting sustainable wetland use and conservation.
He urged governments to enforce laws against encroachment and integrate wetland protection into national and local land-use planning.
The event aimed to raise awareness and mobilise action to protect wetlands essential for human well-being and biodiversity.
Stakeholders praised the initiative, urging increased publicity to deepen public awareness of wetlands.
The World Wetlands Day is celebrated annually on Feb. 2.
By Stephen Adeleye