Education
Varsity Don Calls for Restoration of Nigeria’s Forest landscapes
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A Professor of Geography at the Prince Abubakar Audu University, (PAAU), Anyigba, Adesola Ogidiolu has called on government at all levels to embark on immediate restoration of Nigeria’s Forest landscapes and their sustainable management
Professor Ogidiolu who made the call while delivering the 18th Inaugural Lecture Series of the University held at its Auditorium yesterday, said that the call has become necessary in view of their economic value to humanity. [adrotate banner="51"]
The Varsity Don in his Lecture titled “Geographers In The Forest: Issues, Concerns, And Tasks” noted that restoration of those forest landscapes that had been lost or degraded is highly desirable. This, Professor Ogidiolu said may involve more reafforestation and regeneration using more ecologically adaptive and fast-growing species.
Professor Ogidiolu who expressed joy that he is privileged to deliver the first Inaugural Lecture under the incumbent Vice Chancellor, Professor Salisu Usman, since assumption of office three months ago, stressed the need to combating deforestation to achieve Zero-NetDeforestation and Forest degradation.
Other recommendations made by the Varsity Don include; “keeping more forest landscape in view of the several importance of forest resources and the diverse forest ecosystem services, there is the need to expand forest to even marginal lands. This can be through a deliberate effort by the three tiers of
government and private sector organizations.
“Managing more forests sustainably through adopting a number of conservative measures and best silvicultural practices such as, good harvesting techniques, delayed harvesting, etc. This will also involve safeguards against misuses and misapplications.
“Mitigating climate change proactively by complying with various treaties and conventions e.g. the Kyotol protocol, Montreal convention on reduction of carbon emission-and the use of environmental friendly energy alternatives.
“Ensuring community participation through the formation of Forest Protection Communities (FPCs) and volunteers. This will proactively prevent destruction of forest through illegal cutting and engender the spirit of co-ownership of the natural resource.
“Unlocking forest potentials through the development of more environmentally friendly utilization of forest resources.
“Practice of social forestry, where forest plantations are established in non—forest area for the benefit of the society.
“Forest monitoring and evaluation especially to predict possible forest hazards such as climate hazards e.g. storms, floods etc for proactive management plan and policies. Frequent and periodic monitoring of the susceptibility of forest to pests and diseases have produced wonderful results in Brazil and training and retraining of forest workers.
“Bioprospecting, otherwise known as biodiversity prospecting is highly recommended. This involved the exploration of wild plants and animals for commercially valuable genetic and biochemical resources.
“Sustained research on forest dynamic to further understand the complexities of forest ecosystem and the emerging frontiers in the science and management of forest.
“Politically, the solution to some of the concerns of geographers about forest ecosystem will involve government making deliberate efforts to remove administrative and operational bottlenecks to good forest management and provide inter sectoral collaboration in forest management and conservation. Government should promote good forest governance, eliminate poverty among the poor forest ” communities and create alternative livelihoods.
“It is clear that geographers are among the frontliners in forest science and studies. Geographers are, infact, in the leading position in the study, analysis and management of natural resources including forest.
“Therefore, for sustainable and pragmatic management of natural resources especially forest, it is recommended that geographers and hence geography as a discipline be given greater recognition and attention by educational policy makers through making geography a core and mandatory subject in our early educational levels of training particularly primary, junior and senior secondary schools in Nigeria.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of PAAU, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman gave an assurance that his administration is committed to ensuring that inaugural lectures become a central pillar of our academic identity.
The VC commended Professor Ogidiolu for his scholarly presentation describing him as a living legend for this historic role particularly, his willingness to set the pace.
He also praised the Chairman and members of the Inaugural Lecture Committee for their diligence, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
He said that the topic of today’s lecture, “Geographers in the Forest: Issues, Concerns and Tasks,” is both timely and profound.
“It speaks directly to the intersection of environmental sustainability, resource management, and human survival. In an era marked by climate change, deforestation, and ecological imbalance, the role of geographers becomes indispensable.
“This lecture challenges us to rethink how we engage with our natural environment and highlights the urgent need for interdisciplinary solutions to global and local environmental problems.
“In recognition of the importance of inaugural lectures and to encourage wider participation among our Professors, this administration has approved an increase in the stipend for inaugural lecturers from ₦250,000 to ₦500,000.
“This is not merely a financial gesture; it is a demonstration of our commitment to rewarding scholarship, encouraging academic excellence, and motivating more Professors to share their research with the wider community.
“Furthermore, we are determined to introduce innovative approaches in the delivery of inaugural lectures, aligning our practices with global best standards.
“We envision a system that enhances visibility, encourages wider participation, and elevates the overall prestige of these lectures. Our goal is to make inaugural lectures not just academic obligations, but celebrated intellectual events that reflect the nobility of scholarship.
“To sustain this momentum, I urge the Inaugural Lecture Committee to commence the immediate receipts of submissions from eligible Professors. This will enable us to extend our timetable beyond 2027 and cover up to the end of 2028.
“Let us remain open to flexibility and innovation – even if it means hosting lectures twice monthly – to ensure that our University remains vibrant, productive, and intellectually competitive.
“I assure the entire University community of our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and global relevance.
“Together, we shall build a University where ideas flourish, scholarship thrives, and excellence is the standard.
Let us continue to work collectively to elevate Prince Abubakar Audu University to greater heights.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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Education
Kogi AGILE Project Moves to Renovate 728 Public Secondary Schools
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has commenced preparations for the large-scale renovation of 728 public secondary schools across the state’s three senatorial districts under the AGILE Project. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
The State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo disclosed this at a one-day Environmental and Social Compliance Training for Technical Service Providers under the Kogi AGILE Project, held in Lokoja.
The training, supported by the World Bank, brought together building industry professionals who will oversee the execution of the renovation works across the state.
The project’s Component 1.2, which focuses on infrastructure renewal, will kick off with the renovation of 150 public secondary schools in the first phase. The remaining 578 schools will be addressed in subsequent phases, bringing the total number of benefiting schools to 728.
Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Wemi Jones, Governor Ododo emphasized that 30 Technical Service Providers were selected and trained to understand and strictly adhere to World Bank guidelines, specifications, and operational culture in project implementation.
He noted that while government can facilitate opportunities, performance and delivery rest squarely on the shoulders of the contractors.
“We can only help you secure the job; we cannot do it for you. The responsibility to deliver quality work according to specifications lies with you,” the Governor stated, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to repositioning the education sector.
The Governor urged Technical Service Providers (TSPs) engaged for the project to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, quality, and compliance in delivering the assignment.
In a remark, Mr. Erinms Emmanuel of the Admin/Grievance Redress Mechanism, National Project Coordinating Unit, said the AGILE Project is currently being implemented in 21 states, with seven already recording significant progress.
He urged the service providers to ensure transparency, integrity, and strict adherence to quality standards in the utilization of funds disbursed for the project, noting that proper execution is critical to safeguarding the state from financial liabilities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Kogi State Project Coordinator of AGILE, Ahmed Tijani Oricha, explained that the training was designed to strengthen the capacity of Technical Service Providers in understanding and implementing environmental and social management safeguards tied to the AGILE Project.
According to him, the goal is to ensure that renovation works across schools are safe, inclusive, environmentally responsible, and socially sustainable.
He stressed that decisions taken on-site including workforce management, community engagement, and risk mitigation must align with World Bank environmental and social safety standards, including safeguards against gender-based violence.
A Resource Person and Environmental Consultant at the National Project Coordinating Unit in Abuja, Dr. Fadele Idowu, noted that participants were equipped with comprehensive knowledge of environmental protocols and safeguard instruments required for effective project execution.
Some of the Technical Service Providers, including Architect John Attah, Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, alongside Engineers Rahimat Muhammad and Salihu Adinoyi, described the training as impactful and timely.
They pledged to comply fully with the code of conduct signed and to deliver projects in strict accordance with approved specifications.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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Education
Kogi Poly Sacks Two Staff, Demotes Deputy Registrar Over Misconduct
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Governing Council of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has approved the termination of the appointment of Mr. Mukhtar Muhammed, an Administrative Officer II, for sexual molestation. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
Similarly, the appointment of Mrs. Funmilayo Afolabi, an Assistant Chief Executive Officer, was terminated for absconding from duty for nine months.
The Council equally approved the demotion of a Deputy Registrar, Mr. Audu Mathew, to the rank of Principal Assistant Registrar over negligence of duty.
The Council further approved the promotion of 11 Principal Lecturers to the rank of Chief Lecturer, as well as the promotion of 572 other teaching and non-teaching staff of the institution.
These decisions were among the far-reaching resolutions taken at the 72nd Regular Meeting of the Governing Council, presided over by the Chairman, Barrister Sani Shaibu.
The Council also approved the recommendation that 49 academic staff and 71 non-teaching staff be promoted for the 2024 promotion exercise. It further approved the promotion of 225 academic staff and 227 non-teaching staff for the 2025 promotion exercise.
Earlier in his address, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, expressed his appreciation to members of the Governing Council for their presence at the meeting, describing it as a clear reflection of their steadfast commitment to the institution’s growth, stability, and sound governance.
Prof. Usman also informed the Council of the uncovering of a result forgery syndicate involving one Mr. Henry Tope, who was apprehended in possession of 30 statements of result and one original certificate, all bearing the name and insignia of the Polytechnic.
He further expressed gratitude to the Visitor to the Polytechnic and Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his support, leadership, and continued guidance.
Prof. Usman stressed that Governor Ododo’s administration has provided an enabling environment that has enhanced academic stability, infrastructural development, and overall institutional growth at the Polytechnic.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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Education
NGO Heightens Advocacy for Indigenous Climate Education With Pulitzer Center
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Ace Initiative for Sustainable Development, has successfully concluded a comprehensive climate education programme supported by the Pulitzer Centre.
The event bringing together primary schools, universities, government representatives, and environmental experts in a landmark effort to expand climate literacy across Nigeria. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js"> [adrotate banner="51"]
The project, which culminated virtually on the 27th to 28th November, unfolded in three phases: primary school outreach, an inter-university climate competition, and a high-level panel discussion.
Prof. Sade Oderinde, representing the Acting Vice Chancellor of Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Prof. Adekunle Olanrewaju Adeogun, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the university’s commitment to environmental education.
The first phase introduced climate education to five public primary schools in Ijebu-Ode through engaging Yoruba-language videos adapted from Pulitzer Centre climate investigations.
Stories including “Investigation: How Big Businesses, Individuals Deplete Nigeria’s Protected Forests” by Uchenna Igwe, “Red Gold Project: Battle for the Soul of Depleting Nigerian Forest Reserve” by Taiwo Adebulu, and “Amid Deforestation Scourge, Vanishing Herbal Plants Pose Health Crisis in Southwestern Nigeria” by Abdulwaheed Sofiullahi and other Pulitzer stories were transformed into illustrated storytelling videos featuring indigenous proverbs and local examples.
Project Lead, Dr. Oluwaseun Anselm, coordinated the outreach together with Dr. Faleke Mary, the Schools Liaison Lead.
Participating schools included Emmanuel Anglican Primary School I and II, St Augustine Primary School, Olu-Ola Primary School, and Moslem Primary School.
Pre- and post-learning assessments revealed significant improvements in climate awareness, with pupils making “Climate Hero Pledges” to protect trees, conserve water, and educate their families.
The second phase brought universities students together from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria including TASFUED, University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Jos, Federal University Kashere, Federal University of Education Zaria, Yobe State University, and University of Ilorin.
Students analysed Pulitzer stories to discuss climate challenges and propose solutions ranging from urban heat mitigation to reforestation strategies.
Institutional representatives including Dr Yakubu Salihu Muhammad (Federal University Kashere), Dr Yusuf Abdulkabir Toriola (Federal University of Education Zaria), Dr Seun Nurudeen Akorede (Ahmadu Bello University), Dr Jamiu AbdulQudus Tosin (University of Ilorin) and others, mobilised student participation.
The programme climaxed with a panel discussion opened by Prof. Oladipo Samuel, Director of Research and External Relations at TASFUED.
Distinguished panellists included Dr Godsday Usiabulu, Certified African Climate Ambassador; Prof. Oluwafemi Saibu, Professor of Economics at University of Lagos; Prof. Adefunke Ekine, Department of Childhood Education, TASFUED; and Prof. Adekunle Bamiro, Department of Chemical Sciences, TASFUED.
Other were: Dr Oluwatoyin Fatunsi, Environmental Chemist, University of Lagos; Prof. Moshood Bello, Department of Health and Safety Promotion, TASFUED; Mr Rasaq Olatunji, Forest Economist and Acting Project Manager at J4; and Prof. Zacchaeus Ojekunle, Department of Geography, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
Panellists engaged with Pulitzer investigations including “How Airports Fuel Climate Change in Nigeria” by Nkrumah Bankong-Obi, “Cost of Farming: How Iseyin Women Farmers Cope with Climate Change and credit Crunch” by Francis Annagu and “Climate Shocks, Governance Gaps and the Refugee Crisis in the Sahel,” by Ibrahim Adeyemi and other stories published with support of Pulitzer Center, USA.
The programme successfully created a coherent knowledge pipeline from child-friendly indigenous narratives to advanced policy analysis.
Ace Initiative for Sustainable Development plans to expand this model to additional states, reaching more schools and strengthening climate resilience conversations nationwide.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
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