The A.P. Leventis Ornithological Research Institute (APLORI), University of Jos, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen efforts toward the sustainable management of Nigeria’s natural resources.
The Director of the Centre, Prof. Adams Chaksda, made the call on Monday during the 9th APLORI Lecture Series held in Jos.
The event, which had the theme “Bringing Nature and People Back to Life – Gashaka Gumti and Okomu National Parks,” brought together researchers, stakeholders, and conservation experts to discuss solutions to environmental degradation.
Prof. Chaksda warned that the continued neglect of natural ecosystems could lead to severe environmental and ecological consequences.
He explained that the lecture series was established in honour of APLORI founder, Dr. Anastasios Leventis, as a platform to promote conservation knowledge and environmental responsibility.
“The sustainable use and management of natural resources is not a matter of choice but of necessity. We must act now to restore balance in our environment and preserve the earth for future generations,” he said.
Guest speaker and Executive Director of Africa Nature Investors (ANI) Foundation, Dr. Tunde Morakinyo, said human welfare is directly linked to the health of the environment.
He disclosed that ANI is currently partnering with the National Park Service under a 30-year agreement to restore ecosystems in national parks while supporting the livelihoods of surrounding communities.
Morakinyo stressed the need for policies that make conservation economically rewarding.“Conservation must be beneficial to people living around protected areas.
Only when communities and government see tangible economic returns can environmental protection be sustained,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Rahila Gowon, commended APLORI for promoting biodiversity research and conservation in Nigeria and expressed the institution’s commitment to continued support.
In his remarks, the founder of the institute, Dr. Anastasios Leventis, reaffirmed that conservation remains both a scientific responsibility and a moral obligation. He noted that since its establishment in 2002, APLORI has continued to lead research and training in ornithology and conservation science in West Africa.
