MOUAU Celebrates World Environment Day

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) recently hosted a significant event to mark the 2024 World Environment Day (WED), themed "Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience" under the slogan ‘Our Land, Our Future’. The event, a collaboration with the Abia State Government, aimed to raise awareness and advocate for sustainable environmental practices.

At the forum, agricultural researchers and environmental experts emphasized the urgent need for sustainable actions to protect natural resources from the adverse impacts of human activities and natural disasters. Speakers highlighted the detrimental effects of climate change, drought, and desertification on human health, food security, and biodiversity, urging proactive measures to mitigate these challenges.

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Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, the Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, stressed the university's commitment to environmental sustainability through eco-friendly initiatives. He underscored the role of reducing greenhouse emissions and promoting pollution control to safeguard ecosystems critical for human well-being.

Hon. Philemon Ogbonna, Abia State Commissioner of Environment and Urban Renewal, reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in preserving the environment for future generations. He emphasized Governor Alex Otti’s priority on environmental cleanliness and waste management, urging citizens to actively participate in maintaining a clean and green environment.

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The event featured notable presentations by experts including Prof. Monica Ironkwe and Mr. Nwogu K. Obi, who discussed climate change impacts and proposed strategies for restoring agricultural ecosystems to enhance food security. They advocated for community engagement and policy support for sustainable environmental practices.

Prof. Princewill Ogbonna, Dean of the College of Natural Resources and Environmental Management at MOUAU, highlighted the significance of World Environment Day in promoting global awareness and action for ecosystem protection. He called for measures to prevent deforestation and soil degradation, crucial for maintaining soil fertility and preventing droughts.

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MOUAU scholars, Prof. D. O. Asawalam and Dr. Uchechi Bliss Onyedikachi, emphasized the harmful effects of unregulated human activities on soil health and biodiversity. They proposed nature-based solutions and bio-organic agricultural practices as alternatives to chemical-intensive farming, promoting sustainable food production.

The event concluded with a public enlightenment campaign in Aba and Umuahia, underscoring the importance of community involvement in environmental sustainability. The grand finale included tree planting activities symbolizing commitment to environmental conservation.

In summary, the 2024 World Environment Day celebration at MOUAU served as a platform to advocate for sustainable environmental practices, highlighting the university’s dedication to fostering a greener and healthier ecosystem for present and future generations.

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