Ugo Aliogo and Kehinde Lawal
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated his commitment to championing the cause of nature conservation for promoting sustainable environmental management in the state.
The governor spoke during the Lagos State Government and Nigeria Conservation Foundation powered 2021 Annual Walk for Nature, held simultaneously at Ikoyi-Obalende, Surulere and Ikeja Local Government Areas through the Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources, Mr. Joe Igbokwe.
He stated that the State government would continue to safeguard biodiversity through the introduction of biodiversity laws.
He said the introduction of biodiversity laws would help protect and better manage wetland systems and Biodiversity generally in the State.
He described the theme for this year’s event: “Conserve Biodiversity, Sustain Humanity” as very apt, considering the alarming rate at which the World’s biodiversity is constantly being threatened.
He explained that Biodiversity has to do with all varieties of life which includes their interactions with each other and the environment adding that human activities over the past few centuries have not only impacted the earth but had altered the course of nature via over-exploitation of other life forms and pollution.
He cited the United Nations Global Biodiversity Outlook Report 2020: “Humanity stands at a crossroads with regards to the legacy it leaves to the future generations. Biodiversity is declining at an unprecedented rate and the pressures during this decline are intensifying.”
The Chairman Executive Council Nigerian Conservation Foundation, (NCF) Chief Ede Dafinone, revealed that Biodiversity is the bedrock of human existence calling on all to live in partnership with nature.
He urged Lagosians to show love to themselves by caring for the Environment adding that Lagos State Government and NCF will continue to propagate the message of Environmental Sustainability to the grassroot.
Earlier in a welcome address, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Belinda Odeneye noted that conserving biodiversity to sustain humanity is very essential considering the fact that biodiversity is essential to human health, well-being and prosperity.
