Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has been appointed President of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).
Osinbajo accepted the position on Wednesday during the Foundation’s 37th Annual General Meeting in Lagos, where he pledged to promote environmental conservation and strengthen climate action in Nigeria.
In his acceptance speech, he paid tribute to the founders of the NCF, especially the Foundation’s President Emeritus, Chief Philip Asiodu, for their vision in promoting environmental conservation long before climate change became a global issue.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the late Chief S.L. Edu and other founding trustees, saying their efforts laid the foundation for Nigeria’s environmental conservation movement.
According to Osinbajo, the founders understood the importance of protecting biodiversity years before climate change gained global attention.
“They deserve our commendation and gratitude because, but for their vision, Nigeria would not have had the strong foundation it has today for climate action,” he said.
Speaking on the growing effects of climate change, Osinbajo said Nigeria is already experiencing flooding, rising temperatures and other environmental challenges.
He added that some parts of Europe were recording temperatures between 38 and 41 degrees Celsius, describing it as further evidence of the urgent need for collective action against climate change.
“There is no question that we are living in the most challenging times with respect to climate change,” he said.
Despite the challenges, the former vice president expressed confidence that advances in technology, innovation and scientific knowledge would help address environmental problems more effectively.
He said Nigeria has the resources and tools needed to make meaningful progress in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.
Osinbajo described the Nigerian Conservation Foundation as the country’s leading non-governmental organisation dedicated to environmental conservation and climate action.
He also praised the Foundation’s trustees, members, management, staff, volunteers and development partners for sustaining its conservation programmes over the years.
Accepting his new role, Osinbajo promised to build on the achievements of previous leaders and strengthen collaboration with stakeholders.
“I accept this responsibility with great humility and gratitude.
“I look forward to working with the Board, management, staff, volunteers and partners to advance the Foundation’s mission and secure a healthier environment for future generations,” he said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the Foundation’s leadership in biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability across Nigeria.
