"Reduce Your Intake of Bushmeat" - Expert Advice, Urging FG to Enact Environmental Policy

In an effort to conserve and promote biodiversity, Nigerians have been advised to reduce their consumption of bushmeat as it places stress on the environment. Embracing biodiversity is our responsibility as humans.

This admonition was given during the 2023 International Day for Biological Diversity held at the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria.

While delivering the paper with the theme "From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity," Prof. Gbolagade Lameed of the University of Ibadan noted the importance of prioritizing conservation initiatives focused on restoring ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.

He stated, "Biological diversity entails safeguarding crucial habitats, mitigating pollution, and advocating for sustainable practices in agriculture and forestry."

"As we look around us, we see the devastating effects of our past actions on the natural world. Species are going extinct at an alarming rate, ecosystems are collapsing, and climate change is exacerbating these issues. But it is not too late to act. We have the knowledge, tools, and resources to make a positive change. The United Nations has set ambitious targets for biodiversity conservation, including the protection of 30% of the world's land and sea areas by 2030."

Prof. Lameed emphasized the need to work towards these targets and take action at all levels: individual, community, national, and international. He emphasized prioritizing conservation efforts that focus on restoring ecosystems and promoting biodiversity. This includes protecting critical habitats, reducing pollution, and advocating for sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of the Federal Government enacting comprehensive environmental policies. Such policies are crucial for establishing a framework that prioritizes environmental protection, conservation, and sustainable development.

Earlier in the event, the Director-General of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Dr. Zacharia B. Yaduma, represented by the Director of Research, Prof. Dapo Akinyemi, highlighted the significance of the International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) proclaimed by the United Nations on May 22. The day serves as a reminder of the crucial role that biodiversity plays in sustaining life on Earth and the need for collective action to preserve and restore it.

Prof. Akinyemi emphasized the importance of raising awareness and understanding about biodiversity and its value. He stated, "Biodiversity is the foundation of a healthy and resilient planet. It encompasses the variety of life forms, from the smallest microorganisms to complex ecosystems, and provides us with essential services such as clean air, water, food, and medicine. However, biodiversity is under threat due to human activities such as deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change."

He further stressed the need for concerted efforts to conserve and restore biodiversity. Prof. Akinyemi emphasized that conserving biodiversity is crucial for the well-being of present and future generations, as well as for achieving sustainable development goals and mitigating the impacts of climate change. He called for a holistic and integrated approach involving governments, civil society, academia, and individuals working together.

The Director-General acknowledged the efforts of the United Nations and various organizations in promoting biodiversity conservation and called for continued collaboration and action. He highlighted the role of research institutions like the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) in generating scientific knowledge and innovative solutions for biodiversity conservation.

Prof. Akinyemi concluded by urging individuals to take personal responsibility for protecting biodiversity in their everyday lives. He encouraged people to support local conservation initiatives, practice sustainable lifestyles, and educate others about the importance of biodiversity. He emphasized that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the collective effort to preserve our planet's rich biodiversity.