FULOKOJA Hosts 18th National Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Landscape Horticulturists

The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) successfully hosted the 18th National Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Landscape Horticulturists (NILH), themed “Designing for Sustainability and Resilience: Intersection of Horticultural Landscaping and Urban Planning.”

The event, which brought together horticultural professionals, academics, and environmental experts from across the country, opened with a warm and inspiring address by the Pioneer Chairman of the Kogi State Chapter and Head of Parks and Gardens at FUL, Ms Prestige Abdulkareem.

In her remarks, Ms Abdulkareem expressed deep appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, and the University Management for their unwavering support.

“When our newly established chapter was selected to host this year’s national conference, I was filled with mixed feelings of joy and fear,” she admitted. “But the support from my Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and the entire management allayed my fears. I am grateful to God and to the University leadership for this great honour. I see it as an opportunity to expand the visibility of our institution and to showcase the beauty and hospitality of Lokoja to many who are visiting for the first time.”

She further noted that Lokoja’s hosting marked the first time the national conference was being held in this region, attributing the milestone to the Vice-Chancellor’s advocacy for green spaces and sustainable landscaping.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, at the event was Professor Jaqueline Badaki, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), who, before her elevation, served as the Director of the Federal University Zoo and Conservatory (FULZAC), the first of its kind in Nigerian universities.

In his address delivered by Professor Badaki, the Vice-Chancellor commended the leadership of the NILH under Comrade Emmanuel Abimbola Bankole for its dedication to promoting professional excellence and sustainability in horticultural practice. He also applauded the Kogi State Chapter for its outstanding organisation and commitment.

“As our nation and the world continue to contend with the challenges of climate change, deforestation, flooding, and environmental degradation, the responsibility lies on all of us, especially experts like you, to champion innovative landscaping and urban planning solutions that not only beautify our environment but also promote ecological balance, resilience, and long-term sustainability," the Vice-Chancellor noted.

He reaffirmed his administration’s vision of building a “green university” that embodies environmental stewardship in both appearance and practice, encouraging guests to tour the campus and experience the landscaping initiatives that reflect this commitment.

The keynote address, delivered by Architect Professor Mohammed Isa Bala, received wide acclaim for its depth, research quality, and practical insights. Professor Bala emphasised the aesthetic and functional roles of landscaping, sharing vivid examples from Malaysia, Singapore, and various Nigerian cities.

“To plant trees and gardens,” he said, “is to tell a story.” He challenged horticulturists to look beyond aesthetics .