By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.
The agreement was signed on Monday, at the university’s campus in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Under the partnership, both organisations plan to establish a five-hectare Conservation Park within the university, promote youth engagement in environmental sustainability, and register UNILORIN students as members of the NCF.
The collaboration will also include joint research projects and initiatives such as carbon assessment of university forests.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILORIN, Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), described the partnership as a significant step towards strengthening environmental sustainability efforts on campus.
He said the collaboration would enhance the university’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development while creating positive impacts within and beyond the institution.
Also speaking, the Director-General of NCF, Joseph Onoja, commended the university’s proactive approach to environmental conservation.
According to him, the initiative would serve as a practical training ground for students and help amplify advocacy for nature conservation through hands-on experience in forest resource management.
He added that partnerships with academic institutions would strengthen conservation efforts by integrating environmental education into learning systems and promoting eco-conscious values among young people.
The NCF has, over the years, collaborated with educational institutions to develop programmes and curricula aimed at fostering environmental awareness and sustainability.
The establishment of conservation parks in tertiary institutions is part of a growing strategy to provide practical solutions to environmental challenges and promote sustainable development in Nigeria