The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Government of Nigeria, has kicked off a major initiative to advance sustainable landscape management through its Participatory Informed Landscape Approach (PILA).
Panel discussion session on supporting Nigeria’s EUDR
The inaugural PILA multi-stakeholder workshop, held in Calabar, Cross River State, from March 17 to 20, 2025, brought together key national and state-level actors to explore Integrated Landscape Management (ILM) strategies under the FOLUR Impact Programme (FOLUR-IP) Nigeria project. Discussions focused on landscape assessments, sustainable agri-food systems, and policy pathways for climate resilience.
Speaking at the opening event, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Secretary to the Cross River State Government, emphasised agriculture’s pivotal role in the state’s Economic Masterplan, highlighting the region’s potential to drive food security and economic growth. He noted that youth restiveness is declining due to improved livelihoods supported by cocoa and palm oil value chains.
FAO Representative in Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Mr. Dominique Koffy Kouacou, underscored PILA’s role in equipping stakeholders with tools for sustainable land use, climate adaptation, and policy engagement.
“These capacity-building opportunities are essential for fostering food security and resilient livelihoods, particularly in landscapes vulnerable to climate change,” he stated.
Participants also tackled critical policy issues, including compliance with the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR). PILA team lead, Laura Guarnieri, emphasised that the workshop aims to enhance awareness and empower stakeholders with practical ILM and agroecology strategies.
The PILA process integrates participatory assessments, dialogue, and consensus-building, with two key workshops planned for 2025. The second workshop will refine transition pathways, ensuring alignment with national policies and sustainability goals.
With these strategic engagements, Nigeria is making bold strides toward sustainable food systems, balancing ecological preservation with economic resilience.
The Obololi community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has received relief materials from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
Obololi spill site
This followed the Feb. 16, 2025, oil leak that discharged crude and polluted the River Nun in the community.
The National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) had traced the source of the leak to a 16-inch Nun River-Kolo Creek underwater pipeline operated by SPDC.
Mr. Goodnews Okoi, Chairman, Obololi Community Development Committee (CDC), who confirmed this in an interview on Monday, March 24 in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, said that the items delivered during the weekend include drinking water and perishable fresh food items.
He explained that the community leaders immediately distributed the fish while other items would be distributed among the victims of the leak.
Okoi said that the Obololi River has been temporarily diverted (dammed) to create access to the underwater pipeline for examination by the joint investigation team.
He also said that a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) to the spill point has been scheduled for Monday.
JIV is a statutory investigation by regulators and impacted communiries after every spill incident to asertain the cause, volume of oil discharge and area of impact.
The NOSDRA had recommended a temporary diversion of the river to create access to the leak point on the pipeline.
They said this would make for an empirical examination to identify the cause of the leak.
The logistics challenge of mobilising heavy equipment including excarvators and swamp buggies to the coastal community has delayed the JIV.
The CDC Chairman regretted that the diversion of the Obololi River to pave way for the JIV was a disruption to the fishing activities and transportation in the area.
“The diversion of the river is causing some discomfort to us as a community but it is a sacrifice we are making to ascertain the real cause of the spill.
“We have gone through a lot since the spill occured on Feb. 16 and yet we remained patient until Shell brought the relief materials to show empathy to us,” Okoi said.
It was learnt from Obololi community sources that recovery of spilled crude into plastic tanks was already ongoing.
Mr. Michael Adande, a Spokesman for SPDC, said that the oil firm has shut oil feeds into the leaking pipeline.
Adande pledged to update our reporter on relief, remediation and response effort in due course.
Each year, World Water Day highlights the pressing challenges surrounding global water resources and the actions needed to address them. Nowhere is this more critical than in Africa, where nearly 1.4 billion people live, a number expected to rise to 2.5 billion by 2050.
Glaciers in Mount Kilimanjaro are said to be shrinking at an alarming rate
On the continent, approximately 411 million people – almost one-third of the total population – lacked basic drinking water services as of 2020. In Sub-Saharan Africa alone, about 387 million people struggle daily without access to safe water.
Africa is home to vital natural water towers, including mountains and glaciers that play a key role in water security and climate resilience. However, these resources are under serious threat. Glaciers in the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Kenya, the Virunga Mountains, and Mount Kilimanjaro are shrinking at an alarming rate and are expected to vanish entirely by 2050, jeopardising water supplies for millions of people. On this World Water Day, the urgency to protect what remains and to collaborate on securing water resources for future generations has never been greater.
Water is fundamental to Africa’s socioeconomic development. The International High-Level Panel on Water Investments for Africa estimates that Sub-Saharan Africa loses 5% of its GDP annually – equivalent to $170 billion per year – due to poor water infrastructure. Yet, investing in water security offers enormous returns. According to the African Union, every dollar invested in water and sanitation generates at least seven dollars in benefits across health, education, food security, and environmental protection.
Climate change amplifies water scarcity, disrupting hydrological cycles, altering rainfall patterns, and reducing water availability for crops, livestock, and pasture. This directly threatens food and nutritional security across the continent. Addressing these challenges requires both practical solutions and strong policy frameworks. Integrated water management plans focused on river basins and catchments are essential for optimising water use, while investing in resilient infrastructure ensures reliable access, particularly in regions prone to floods and droughts.
Water-saving practices, such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse, can help maximise available resources. Restoring natural ecosystems, including riverbanks and wetlands, plays a crucial role in safeguarding water sources. Nature-based solutions, such as afforestation and ecosystem restoration, are equally important in strengthening water resilience and helping landscapes adapt to climate change.
Policy measures must complement these practical interventions. Strengthening water management laws and regulations is crucial for long-term success. Establishing and training local water management committees enhances coordination and decision-making, while improved weather monitoring and early warning systems help communities prepare for and respond to climate shocks more effectively.
The African Development Bank has placed water security and climate resilience at the centre of its Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), aligning with the Africa Water Vision 2025 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Recognising that water security is a cornerstone of progress across all sectors, the Bank invests approximately $2.8 billion annually to build resilience.
To further accelerate climate action, it has established the Climate Action Window under the African Development Fund, aiming to mobilise between $4 billion and $8 billion for climate-focused initiatives. Seventy-five percent of these funds are allocated to climate adaptation, with significant investments dedicated to water infrastructure.
During the first call for proposals in December 2023, nine water-focused projects, totaling approximately $72 million, were selected to enhance investment in water infrastructure and sanitation. An additional 12 projects, amounting to $98 million, address multiple sectors, including water access for agriculture, improving the resilience of water systems, and strengthening climate information and early warning systems.
Currently, the Bank manages 121 active water operations, including six multinational and regional projects valued at approximately $6 billion – all are based on climate-informed designs. The African Water Facility, hosted and managed by the African Development Bank, also plays a pivotal role in ensuring that water sector projects are designed with sustainability and climate resilience in mind.
In Kenya, the Bank-funded Kenya Towns Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Programme has significantly improved access to water supply across 19 towns, while wastewater management services have been expanded in 17 towns, benefitting more than three million people. The programme incorporates solar energy to reduce water production and distribution costs. The Othaya Sewerage Wastewater Treatment Project, as part of this initiative, promotes waste reuse for energy and agriculture through the production of cooking briquettes and organic fertiliser.
In Ethiopia and South Sudan, the Bank’s Climate Proof Water for Food Project is designed to enhance adaptation and resilience for approximately 211,000 people in Ethiopia’s Gambella region and South Sudan’s Unity State. This initiative includes the construction and rehabilitation of four solar-powered water supply systems and integrated flood management measures to support the transition to climate-smart agriculture.
Tackling Africa’s water security and climate challenges requires strategic planning, investment in resilient infrastructure, and policies that integrate climate adaptation into water management frameworks. The African Development Bank’s ongoing initiatives demonstrate that placing water at the heart of climate action – by investing in resilient infrastructure, restoring ecosystems, and strengthening governance – is crucial in mitigating the impact of climate change and preserving the continent’s water resources for future generations.
By Mtchera Johannes Chirwa, Director for Water Development and Sanitation, and Anthony Nyong, Director for Climate Change and Green Growth, African Development Bank Group
Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State says his administration has planted over four million trees within the past four years.
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State
Yahaya said this in a statement by his media aide, Mr Ismaila Uba-Misilliin, in Gombe on Friday, March 21, to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Forests.
He said the planting of the trees was part of efforts at afforesting and reclaiming degraded land in the state.
The governor said since assumption of office in 2019, his administration had prioritised environmental sustainability, making it one of the cornerstones of his administration and incorporating the same into the state’s overall development plan.
He said the trees were planted under the “Gombe Goes Green (3G)” initiative, which has achieved significant strides in afforestation and land restoration across the state.
According to him, the initiative has successfully reversed environmental degradation and created employment opportunities for thousands of Gombe indigenes.
“Through the 3G initiative, the state has successfully planted over four million trees in both major and minor towns across the 11 Local Government Areas, particularly along roads and in areas severely affected by land degradation.
“Beyond urban afforestation, my administration has also taken decisive steps to protect the state’s forest reserves from encroachment and degradation,” he said.
The governor said a committee was constituted to assess the status of grazing and forest reserves, as well as cattle routes, leading to the ongoing resurvey, remapping, and re-demarcation of gazetted grazing reserves across the state.
He said the government was currently fencing and rehabilitating the Kanawa Forest Reserve, aimed at securing the area from encroachment and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Yahaya added that the project included the construction of administrative structures, monitoring units, and other essential facilities to enhance forest conservation efforts.
He said the efforts by the government in this regard, reaffirmed commitment to environmental protection and sustainable natural resource management.
“As we mark this year’s International Day of Forests, I call on all stakeholders, traditional institutions, civil society, and every citizen; to take ownership of our environment.
“Let us protect our forests, plant more trees, and promote sustainable land-use practices, for the benefit of present and future generations,” the governor said.
He said forests play an important role in mitigating climate change, combating desertification, and preserving biodiversity, toward improved living standard.
Yahaya described the 2025 theme: “Forests and Food”, as apt saying that it highlighted the crucial role of forests in food security, nutrition, livelihoods and contributions to ecosystems and climate change mitigation.
In Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, Nigeria, the resilience of individuals fasting during extreme heat is a testament to human perseverance.
Fasting
Among them is Hassan Adamu, a 46-year-old labourer who, in spite observing Ramadan, was seen purchasing cold water.
It was not to drink, but to pour over his head and body to cool down under the scorching sun.
“The weather has been very hot and dehydrating, and coupled with the fact that the Ramadan fast is ongoing and I cannot drink water, I just had to look for an option to feel better while I work,” he explained.
Driven by necessity, he continues his strenuous labour to support his family; part of the silent struggles faced by many during this season.
“I would have loved to do less strenuous work during this period, but I have to make ends meet and feed my family,” he said.
In the past two weeks, temperatures in Ilorin have ranged between 35°C and 42°C, causing widespread discomfort and increasing the risk of heatstroke, especially for those fasting during Ramadan and Lent.
As faith and environmental challenges collide, remarkable stories of adaptation and resilience continue to emerge.
At a construction site, Victor Adeoti, another labourer, revealed how their schedule was adjusted to mitigate the effects of the heat.
“We start work as early as 6:30 a.m. and close by 1 p.m. to avoid casualties,” he said, recalling an incident at the start of Ramadan where a worker nearly collapsed from dehydration.
Fortunately, their supervisor allowed the adjustment, recognising the struggles of fasting workers enduring the scorching conditions.
However, not everyone is as fortunate.
Zakariyah Usman, who works long hours fixing interlocks on road dividers, must endure labouring until 5 p.m., with only short rest breaks in between.
For him, economic hardship leaves no choice but to persevere albeit the toll on his well-being.
Meanwhile, street vendor Aminat Salako has adapted her routine to cope with the relentless heat.
She carries her heavy yam goods before sunrise and seeks shaded spots during the day.
Yet, even with strategic timing, she still battles dehydration and fatigue.
For Hajia Memunat Alabi, a civil servant, the challenges forced her to reschedule her annual leave from July to March.
“In the first week of Ramadan, once it was 1 p.m., I started feeling uncomfortable. But during weekends, I felt better because I stayed indoors.
“This made me reschedule my annual leave from July to March before I collapse at work,” she said, noting the debilitating impact of the heat.
Nigeria’s heatwaves are worsening, leading to severe health, agricultural, and economic challenges.
In 2024, heat-related illnesses surged by 30 per cent with over 2,000 deathsrecorded (AP News).
Crop yields dropped 20 per cent and yam farmers in Abuja lost 65 per cent of their harvests due to excessive heat (Daily Post).
Electricity demand spiked 30 per cent, worsening power outages (AllAfrica).
Environmental experts insist that urgent climate action is needed to curb these growing risks.
Recognising the severity of the situation, the Kwara government has issued precautionary guidelines.
Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak hours, wear light, breathable clothing, and stay hydrated.
This, she emphasised, is crucial as Kwara is one of the 19 states predicted by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to experience heatwaves and extremely high temperatures.
To mitigate risks, the state is collaborating with stakeholders to raise public awareness and ensure healthcare facilities are prepared for heatwave emergencies.
Heatwaves, prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures have become frequent in Ilorin and other North Central states.
According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, a trend expected to continue as global temperatures rise.
The dangers of extreme heat are underscored by medical professionals.
Dr Aisha Oyerinde-Jimoh, a general practitioner, warned that heatstroke is a major concern.
According to her, when the body’s natural cooling mechanisms fail, excessive temperatures can lead to life-threatening conditions.
She explained that heatstroke occurs when body temperature exceeds 40°C, potentially causing organ failure and even death if untreated.
To prevent this, she advised those fasting to drink at least two litres of water during non-fasting hours, consume water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and avocado, and avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages.
She also recommended wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing, using umbrellas and sunscreen, and employing cooling methods like fans or air conditioners.
“Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks because there is always an urge to drink water afterwards.
“Also, use fans, air conditioners, and coolers. Avoid clothes that don’t absorb heat, wear breathable and loose-fitting garments.
“Use a hat or umbrella, apply sunscreen, and never leave children in parked vehicles,” she advised.
Similarly, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called for safety measures, stressing the importance of reducing sun exposure between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
The NOA says staying hydrated, and recognising the signs of heat-related illnesses is essential.
According to climate and sustainability expert, Olumide Idowu, the root cause of these extreme weather events lies in climate change.
He attributes the disrupted weather patterns to human activities, including burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions, which release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane.
“These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and an increase in extreme weather events such as heatwaves,” he explained.
To mitigate these effects, he advocates for adaptive strategies, including creating urban green spaces to reduce heat absorption and implementing effective drainage systems to prevent flooding.
He also emphasises the need to transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power while promoting public awareness about climate risks and preparedness.
“People can also focus on energy efficiency by using renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, enhancing home insulation, and choosing energy-efficient appliances to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
‘’Promoting public awareness about climate risks through education and community programmes can further strengthen resilience,” he added.
By Bushrah Yusuf-Badmus, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
The Benue State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), has executed water, sanitation and hygiene projects in selected local government areas to provide basic amenities for rural dwellers.
Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue State
The projects include toilet facilities and boreholes at Ugbokpo main market in Apa, Ogbodo-Iyeche in Oju, Ihugh in Vandeikya, Mbagwa Community in Ushongo, Adi-Etulo in Buruku and Ugbor in Gwer East LGAs.
Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Mr. Ugwu Odoh, led a team from Benue State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (BERWASSA) on an inspection tour on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Odoh said that state government released the sum of ₦700 million as a counterpart fund for the implementation of the projects.
The commissioner stated that the inspection tour was to ensure that contractors handling the projects adhered to specifications.
Odoh pointed out that the target of the government was for the whole state to attain an open defecation-free (ODF) status, saying that 11 LGAs had already been certified ODF.
Odoh reminded the benefiting communities that Gov. Hyacinth Alia was fulfilling his campaign promises of prioritising their basic needs, urging them to take ownership of the projects and protect them from vandalisation.
The General Manager of BERWASSA, Mr. Tony Mkpen, thanked the governor for his relentless efforts and their partners, UNICEF, for safeguarding the lives of rural dwellers with basic amenities.
In Apa local government area, the council chairman, Mr. Adam Ogwola, expressed gratitude to the state government for selecting the council area to benefit from the intervention.
The Ogbodo-Iyeche community leader, Mr. Ukpe Omoga, decried the difficulty faced by people of the community due to water scarcity before the intervention and appreciated the governor for bringing succour to them.
Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, has reaffirmed the project’s commitment to addressing water challenges in Ogoniland.
Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, Project Coordinator, HYPREP, addressing a stakeholders engagement forum
Zabbey, who made this commitment in a statement to commemorate the 2025 World Water Day on Saturday, March 22, stated that potable water is vital to its mandate.
“As we mark World Water Day on March 22, we reiterate our commitment to tackling the water challenges faced by hydrocarbon-impacted communities in Ogoniland.
“This year’s theme, ‘Glacier Preservation’, underscores the need to protect the world’s freshwater sources, which are vital for sustaining ecosystems, supporting human life, and regulating the climate.”
According to Zabbey, the theme reflects the importance of preserving glaciers, a crucial source of freshwater for millions of people worldwide.
“HYPREP’s efforts to provide potable water form a critical part of its mandate to remediate and restore the environment in Ogoniland.
“At HYPREP, we recognise the importance of clean and safe water, particularly for hydrocarbon-impacted communities in Ogoniland,” he stated.
Reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to environmental restoration and peacebuilding, Zabbey called on all stakeholders to support the initiative.
“We urge government agencies, international organisations, community leaders, and other Niger Delta communities to collaborate with us in this effort.
“The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report on Ogoniland provided clear recommendations for restoring contaminated water sources, and HYPREP remains steadfast in implementing these recommendations.”
Zabbey also noted that the project had recently inaugurated water facilities in Bunu and Beeri communities, increasing the number of Ogoni communities with access to potable water to 30, as part of its commitment to meeting the needs of affected areas.
The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has warned local farmers to adhere to the directives and predictions of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) before the commencement of the 2025 planting season.
Farmers
AFAN Chairman, Lagos State and Southwest zone, Mr. Femi Oke, disclosed this in an interview on Sunday, March 23, 2025, in Lagos.
There have been concerns of crop harvests in 2025, due to the delay in planting season caused by climate change.
Oke, however, noted that local farmers could still meet up with the yearly crop productivity output with strict adherence to NiMet’s directives and predictions on the changing climatic conditions.
“Reports on weather conditions from the NiMet have indicated flooding in the mid and later part of the year.
“Local farmers have also been advised not to rely on the first rains for crop cultivation.
“So, our counsel to our farmers is that we should not be too eager to plant because there is going to be much rain.
“Just like it happened some years ago, the rains may be late in coming but we should be expecting more of it around May and June,” Oke said.
The AFAN chairman said land preparations for crop cultivation should begin in earnest expectations of consistent rainfall.
“However, land preparation must have begun since December 2024, for crop farmers on our arable land spaces.
“Also, for farmers that already have plantations, there is no need to worry over the late rains, all they need to do is to plough and arrow the land to cultivate more.
“We can still embark on land preparation till April but we urge farmers not to commence planting until the rains are steady.
“The only farmers that can safely commence planting this year are those that have irrigation systems or those in swampy or marshy land area.
“The climate condition we are currently experiencing is still in order with what NiMet has predicted earlier this year.
“As the chairman of AFAN in the Southwest, we can still meet up a robust harvest in 2025, we are still in order,” he said.
He also commended NiMet for its prompt guidance to local farmers, while urging the agency to disseminate its directives in various local dialects for enlightenment of local farmers.
“We want to commend NiMet for guiding local farmers with relevant information as regards planting season this year.
“We, however, seek the dissemination of these relevant information to farmers in our local dialects like Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Efik and other languages for the comprehension of local farmers.
“We urge our farmers to strictly adhere and depend on relevant information and directives from NiMet before planting,” he said.
Nigeria is actively embracing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a sustainable energy alternative, aligning with global trends toward cleaner fuels.
CNG station
It is contributing to greater energy security for the nation and driving a transformation of its energy strategy.
This transition is driven by the government’s aim to diversify energy sources, mitigate environmental damage and leverage CNG’s cost-effectiveness and cleaner combustion properties.
With substantial natural gas reserves, Nigeria seeks to establish itself as a regional leader in CNG production and utilisation, driving both domestic consumption and potential export opportunities.
The Federal Government is investing significantly in CNG infrastructure, including fueling stations, distribution networks, and vehicle conversion facilities, to reduce reliance on expensive and environmentally harmful petrol and diesel.
Private sector involvement is crucial, with companies investing in CNG production and distribution, fostering innovation and driving market growth through technological advancements.
A nationwide network of CNG refueling stations, particularly in urban areas, is being prioritised to create a robust infrastructure backbone and incentivise the adoption of CNG vehicles.
Financial incentives, such as tax breaks and low-interest loans, are being offered to private companies to accelerate the expansion of CNG infrastructure, especially in rural areas, ensuring equitable access.
Public awareness campaigns, highlighting CNG’s economic and environmental advantages, are underway to promote its widespread acceptance and adoption.
In spite of the progress in clean energy, Nigeria’s oil and gas sector faces challenges, including pipeline vandalism and illegal activities, hindering refinery efficiency and crude oil production, requiring immediate attention.
Dr Ayodele Oni, a legal expert, emphasised the need for enhanced security in the oil and gas supply chain using advanced technologies like drones and fiber-optic sensors.
Securing oil revenues is essential for national development and ensuring a stable feedstock supply is crucial for optimal refinery production.
Oni advocated local refineries adopt innovative approaches, such as partnerships with upstream producers and international procurement, to secure feedstock.
Infrastructural challenges, including damaged pipelines and inadequate transport systems, hinder the efficient distribution of crude oil and refined products.
Oni called for substantial investments in intermodal transport systems, including rail and inland waterways, to improve logistics and safety.
He suggested Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to address Nigeria’s infrastructure gap, leveraging private sector funds and expertise.
CNG is positioned to play an important role in the nation’s energy future, reducing emissions, lowering fuel costs, and enhancing energy security.
Addressing infrastructural challenges in the oil and gas sector is crucial for maximising resource potential during the transition to a diversified energy landscape.
Strategic investments, collaboration, and technological innovation are essential for Nigeria’s sustainable and economically robust future.
Mr. Muideen Ibrahim, an expert, stressed the importance of investing in CNG technology and infrastructure for sustainable development.
Ibrahim argued that CNG could drive economic growth while reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuels.
In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and responsible plastic waste management on campus, the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, has taken delivery of about 130 plastic waste bins to be installed around the campus to combat plastic pollution.
Some members of FEP Committee led by Professor Robert Onyeneke posing in front of the bins
AE-FUNAI is one of the five universities in Nigeria participating in the research initiative funded by the Embassy of France in Nigeria, with the university’s project themed, “Transforming Plastic Waste into Wealth in AE-FUNAI.”
The installation of the bins is part of the university ’s broader plastic waste management project, which aims to address the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution within the university community.
The programme, which is coordinated by Professor Robert Onyeneke, is scheduled to run for 14 months and includes various activities designed to create awareness, encourage proper waste disposal, and explore innovative ways to repurpose plastic waste into valuable products.
While taking the delivery of the waste bins, Professor Onyeneke highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating that it is one of the key activities outlined in the university’s environmental sustainability plan.
“This project is a crucial step towards keeping AE-FUNAI clean and free from plastic waste, and we are committed to ensuring its successful implementation,” he said.
He further explained that the 130 waste bins would be strategically placed around the campus to ensure easy and proper disposal of plastic waste. He added that the measure would not only enhance cleanliness within the institution but also contribute to a larger environmental movement that promotes recycling and waste- to wealth initiatives.
Professor Onyeneke expressed gratitude to the university management under the leadership of Professor Sunday Elom for their unwavering support in making the project a reality.
He also appreciated the Embassy of France in Nigeria for funding the initiative through the French Embassy Fund, recognising their commitment to fostering sustainable development in Nigerian institutions.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in AE-FUNAI’s efforts toward environmental conversation and waste management.
As the project progresses, the university community is expected to witness a transformative shift in waste disposal culture, ultimately leading to a cleaner and more sustainable learning environment.
