Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former vice president, has committed to bolstering climate action and environmental protection after becoming president of the board of trustees at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.
He made the vow on Wednesday during his acceptance remarks at the NCF's 37th annual general meeting in Lagos.
Osinbajo honoured the NCF's founding fathers, singling out Chief Philip Asiodu, the foundation's president emeritus, for championing conservation long before climate change topped the global agenda. He recognised the late Chief S.L.
Edu and other early trustees, saying they created the bedrock for Nigeria's environmental movement.
"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.
The founders grasped the weight of biodiversity protection decades before the world woke up to the climate crisis, Osinbajo noted. He pointed to the mounting toll of climate change across Nigeria, citing intensifying floods and soaring heat.
Parts of Europe now endure temperatures between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius, he observed, stressing the critical need for unified global action. "There is no question that we are living in the most challenging times with respect to climate change," he added.
Yet Osinbajo struck an optimistic note, saying technological breakthroughs, innovation and scientific progress would unlock fresh ways to fight environmental degradation. Nigeria possesses the resources to make real headway in safeguarding biodiversity and ensuring sustainability, he argued.
The NCF stands as Nigeria's leading conservation and climate-focused non-governmental organisation, Osinbajo said. He lauded its trustees, members, management, staff, volunteers and donors for keeping its work alive across the years.
Taking on his role, Osinbajo vowed to build on what his predecessors accomplished and deepen ties with all stakeholders. "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 told the gathering.
He also reaffirmed his drive to cement the foundation's standing as a leader in biodiversity and environmental work across Nigeria.
Asiodu, who held the top post for over two decades, stepped down at age 92, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.
