Foremost Nigerian Environmentalist and Chairman, Lekki State Urban Forest and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI), Mr. Desmond Majekodunmi has charged Nigerians to desist from destructive environmental engagement.
He gave this charge while delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the second (2nd) Annual Conference of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) held at the Faculty of Science, on Thursday, November 30, 2023.
Speaking on the theme The Role of Youth in Achieving the United Nation’s Agenda for Ecological Restoration Through SDGS Action, Mr. Majekodunmi stressed the need for all hands to be on deck for the protection of ecosystem.
The Guest Lecturer also decried the indiscriminate cutting down of trees and refuse dumping which he described as ecologically wrong. According to him, “ecological sustainability is a product of our engagement. We reap whatever is sown into the society, as self-engineered ecological pollution is traceable to our actions.” He encouraged participants to pay attention to their environment and desist from destructive engagement.
Mr. Majekodunmi emphasized the role of youths as advocates for ecological restoration due to their population, energy and engagement.
In his remarks at the event, the Dean, Faculty of Science, Prof. Elijah Oyeyemi commended the energy and enthusiasm of the leaders of the Society of Ecological Restoration UNILAG Chapter, describing it as truly inspiring. While stating that the future lies in the hands of the youths, he expressed confidence in youths making a difference in the world with their incredible innovative ideas, unwavering determination and collaborative spirit.
As part of activities featured at the opening ceremony, pupils of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Staff School rendered a beautiful drama presentation which re-echoed the essence and importance of ecological restoration. Similarly, awards were presented to the following personalities who have contributed immensely to ecological conservation in the country:
- Professor Rosemary Iriowen Egonmwan (Head, Conservation Unit at the Department of Zoology, UNILAG)
- Professor Aderopo Adesoji (Retired plant Ecologist)
- Dr. Juliet Adesimi Ajayi (Head Teacher, UNILAG Staff School)
- Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oredolapo Agbenla (Zonal Director, South-West/Federal Control, Federal Ministry of Environment.
In his address, Faculty Advisor of SER UNILAG Chapter, Dr Excellence Akeredolu, commended the awardees, noting that diligence and scholarship have a rightful place as a permanent legacy of reference. He disclosed that the conference theme underscored the vital role which young individuals play in shaping the future of planet Earth. According to him, the conference, through engaging discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive workshops, would empower young individuals to become catalysts for change in ecological restoration.
The Head, Department of Botany, Dr. Adesalu Taofikat Abosede, who gave the vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the University Management and Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON FAS, who is an advocate of ecological sustainability and restoration. She noted that the conference signaled a beautiful beginning for ecological restoration in Nigeria.
