The Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada (IUO), Prof Lawrence Ezemonye, has harped on the need for forest and biodiversity conservation.

Ezemonye spoke at an event to commemorate the International Day of Forests (IDF) organised by the university in collaboration with Natural Eco Capital, Edo State Ministry of Environment, West Africa Capital Coalition Hub, and Nigerian Medical Students Association, themed “Forests and Foods.”

He said forests ensure global food security, sustain livelihoods, and promote biodiversity. According to him, forests provide a rich variety of food sources, including fruits, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, honey, and wild meat.

In the event, Special Adviser Technical to the Secretary to the Federal Government, Prof. Bernard Babatunde, noted 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.” The CEO of Natural Eco Capital, Dr Eugene Itua, also made a presentation on “Navigating the Future of Carbon: Integrity, Innovation, and Impact in Natural-Based Offsets Course.”

The Director, Centre for Climate Change and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), IUO, Prof. Spencer Nwangwu, 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, symbolising the university’s commitment to environmental conservation. It also demonstrates IUO’s dedication to promoting environmental sustainability and addressing the pressing issues of climate change and forest conservation.

MEANWHILE, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, said the institution has launched a campaign to plant 10,000 trees to combat the effects of climate change.

He disclosed this when the leadership of the Edo State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) paid him a courtesy visit in his office at the University in Benin.

Omoregie said the tree planting was part of the institution’s agenda. “We want to improve on the infrastructure of the university and be environmentally friendly.”

The Vice Chancellor further assured the NUJ of the institution’s willingness to work together for a better and vibrant society.

Earlier, the NUJ chairman, Dr Festus Alenkhe, congratulated the VC on his appointment, noting that, since he assumed office, the institution has taken a further leap into academic greatness.

Alenkhe assured the VC of the institution of the unflinching support of the union to deliver on his agenda for the institution.