The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.
The MoU signing ceremony took place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the university campus in Ilorin, Kwara State. The partnership aims to establish a five-hectare Conservation Park within the university campus, develop programmes promoting youth engagement in environmental conservation, register UNILORIN students as NCF members, and undertake joint research and project development initiatives, including carbon assessment of university forests.
“The partnership reflects our commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and conservation in our university. We commend NCF, a critical stakeholder, for this unique partnership that enhances our efforts on environmental conservation and sustainable development. We look forward to working with NCF to create a positive impact on our campus and beyond,” said Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin.
Dr. Joseph Onoja, Director General of NCF, said: “The deliberate steps and efforts of the University of Ilorin are commendable. Having conservation efforts on the ground will go a long way in amplifying our advocacy for nature conservation. Partnerships like this will boost our demonstration efforts, provide a training ground, and serve as a practical learning centre for university students on forest resources management.”
Over the years, NCF has worked with schools, including tertiary institutions, to establish and develop curriculum and activities that promote nature conservation while raising environmentally conscious students.
The establishment of conservation parks in tertiary institutions is a new approach aimed at providing a practical solution to environmental conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria.