Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has pledged to advance environmental conservation and climate action after emerging as President of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). The Osinbajo climate action agenda took centre stage on Wednesday when he delivered his acceptance speech at the Foundation’s 37th Annual General Meeting in Lagos. He said the Osinbajo climate action initiative would build on the Foundation’s achievements while promoting a more sustainable future for Nigeria.
During his address, Osinbajo paid tribute to the founders of the NCF, especially its President Emeritus, Chief Philip Asiodu, for recognising the importance of protecting Nigeria’s environment long before climate change became a global concern. He also honoured the late Chief S.L. Edu and other founding trustees, saying their vision created a solid foundation for the country’s environmental conservation efforts.
“They deserve our commendation and gratitude because, but for their vision, Nigeria would not have had the strong foundation it has today for climate action,” he said.
Osinbajo noted that the effects of climate change have become more visible across Nigeria through flooding, rising temperatures and other environmental challenges. He added that temperatures of between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius recently recorded in parts of Europe highlight the growing urgency for countries to work together in addressing the global climate crisis.
“There is no question that we are living in the most challenging times with respect to climate change,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Osinbajo expressed confidence that advances in technology, innovation and scientific knowledge would create better opportunities to tackle environmental problems. He said Nigeria already has the capacity to make meaningful progress in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.
Describing the Nigerian Conservation Foundation as the country’s leading non-governmental organisation for environmental protection, he praised its trustees, management, staff, volunteers and development partners for sustaining its conservation programmes over the years.
Accepting his new responsibility, Osinbajo promised to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders and build on the achievements of previous leaders. “I accept this responsibility with great humility and gratitude.
“I look forward to working with the Board, management, staff, volunteers and partners to advance the Foundation’s mission and secure a healthier environment for future generations,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Foundation’s leadership in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability, making the Osinbajo climate action agenda a key priority.
How can stronger collaboration help Nigeria make greater progress in tackling climate change and protecting its environment?
