IUO Leads Charge on Forest Conservation, Marks International Day of Forests

Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO), in collaboration with Natural Eco Capital, Edo State Ministry of Environment, West Africa Capital Coalition Hub, and Nigerian Medical Students Association, commemorated the International Day of Forests (IDF) with a one-day collaborative event.

The hybrid event, held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the University’s main library Conference Hall, featured a thought-provoking keynote address by Professor Bernard Bolaji Babatunde, Special Adviser Technical to the Secretary to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His address, themed “Growing Green Futures: Investing in Forests for People and Planet,” highlighted the importance of forest conservation and sustainable development.

Other notable presentations included a lecture by Professor (Mrs.) E.Oboho from the Department of Forestry, University of Benin, titled “The Economics of Forest: A Means of Livelihood in the Face of Climate Change.” Dr. Eugene Itua, CEO of Natural Eco Capital, also delivered a special presentation on the launch of the “Navigating the Future of Carbon: Integrity, Innovation, and Impact in Natural-Based Offsets Course.”

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada, Professor Lawrence Ezemonye, lauded the initiative behind the establishment of the International Day of Forests. Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Ralph Adeghe, he emphasized the importance of the event in creating a pathway towards environmental sustainability.

Professor Spencer Nwangwu, Director, Centre for Climate Change and SDG’s, IUO, reiterated the need for urgent action in protecting forests, stating, “The preservation of these vital ecosystems is not just about protecting nature – it’s about ensuring a sustainable future for humanity.”

The event culminated in a tree-planting ceremony, symbolizing the University’s commitment to environmental conservation.

This collaborative effort demonstrates IUO’s dedication to promoting environmental sustainability and addressing the pressing issues of climate change and forest conservation.