The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has stressed the need for immediate action to safeguard the environment through steps such as halting deforestation, revitalizing ecosystems, and reducing the effects of climate change. This call was made during the foundation’s 35th Annual General Meeting, recently held in Lagos.
NCF’s Director General, Dr. Joseph Onoja, sounded the alarm on the detrimental impact of construction on natural flood paths, which obstructs water flow and leads to severe flooding.
Such conditions, he noted, could cause smaller islands to vanish and result in extensive harm to people and property. “It’s essential to take swift action to protect our environment by curbing deforestation, restoring ecosystems, and addressing climate change,” Onoja stressed.
Highlighting the foundation’s achievements, Onoja shared that NCF has successfully planted over 285,000 trees across more than 20 states in Nigeria. The foundation’s Chairman, Justice (Mrs.) Raliatu Adebiyi, further explained that NCF promotes the use of recycled bottles as an alternative to plastics to tackle pollution, particularly in oceans and seas where plastic waste is often dumped.
Adebiyi added that the foundation will focus on sustainable development by fostering practices that prioritize capacity building, advocacy, and influence over policy. Representing the Lagos State Government, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Awoyinka, assured the foundation of the state’s continued support for its valuable initiatives.
In his remarks, Izoma Asiodu, President of the Board of Trustees, noted that a 1960 environmental report had warned about the harmful impacts of the Industrial Revolution.
He emphasized the importance of addressing issues like deforestation and rising carbon dioxide levels. Asiodu added that NCF has been engaged in numerous projects focused on reforestation and habitat management, alongside its work in forest reserve stewardship.
