The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, has called for collective responsibility to develop innovative solutions and policies to mitigate the impacts of Climate change and environmental degradation in Nigeria.
Speaking during the inauguration of the Federal University Lokoja’s International Centre for Climate Change, Floods and Environmental Sustainability (I3CFES) held at the Felele campus of the institution on Thursday, Professor Akinwumi, said Lokoja the one time capital of Nigeria had suffered
devastating consequences of recurrent floods and environmental challenges.
According to him, “These realities compel us not only to study climate change but to pioneer sustainable solutions that will safeguard lives, livelihoods, and the future of generations yet unborn.
“This Centre is therefore more than a research hub, it is a beacon of hope, innovation, and resilience. It will serve as a hub for interdisciplinary research, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, fostering a deeper understanding of these complex issues.
“It will also provide evidence-based research, policy direction, and community-focused interventions to mitigate the impacts of climate change, reduce flood vulnerability, and promote sustainable development in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond”.
“As we inaugurate this Centre, let it stand as a call to action, to government, academia, civil society, and the private sector, that the time to act is now. Climate change respects no boundaries, and our response must be urgent, collaborative, and unwavering”
While acknowledging the effort and commitment of Emeritus Professor Jimmy Adegoke toward the realization of the Centre, the Vice Chancellor described him as a man of vision, and unwavering dedication to advancing climate research.
“I also acknowledge with gratitude our partners, stakeholders, and every individual whose vision, commitment, and contributions have made this Centre a reality. Together, we are building not just an institution of learning but a Centre of solutions that will influence policies, empower communities, and inspire global conversations” the VC said.
In his speech the Director of the Centre, Emeritus Professor Jimmy Adegoke, stated that the goal of the Centre is to figure out how to use the very best that the university have in terms of intellectual resources , research capability to address the economic potentials of the region both from an environmental point of view in addressing the flood and climate change issues.
Professor Adegoke a climate scientist said “We believe that Kogi State and Lokoja can be the engine room of a new Nigeria that will basically harness the potentials of the entire middle belt region and help initiate and bring to birth a new potential for the entire country.
“ICCCFES is built on the vision and mandate of Federal University Lokoja, serving as a hub of academic excellence dedicated to advancing knowledge through teaching, research, and community service, while tackling critical national and global challenges”.
He thanked the Vice Chancellor Professor Akinwumi for consistently pointing to them the uniqueness of Lokoja and the potential abound in the locality.
Also in her goodwill message, the Executive Director, Chachavivi Women and Girl Child Development Foundation, Halima Oiza Sadiq commended the university for taking bold steps towards addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, flood, and environmental sustainability.
“We recognize that climate change disproportionately affects women and girls, exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is imperative that we prioritize their voices, needs, and perspectives in our collective efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
“I urge the Centre to continue championing inclusive and gender-sensitive approaches to climate action, ensuring that women and girls are empowered to become climate leaders and change-makers in their communities” she stated.
