By Obiabin Onukwugha
Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Wallenberg Medal for his tireless efforts in environmental activism.
Bassey, who is a member of NatureNews advisory board, is the first Nigerian and fifth African to receive the coveted global environmental award.
He joins an esteemed group of humanitarians who have made significant contributions to protecting the vulnerable and oppressed from environmental injustice.
In his acceptance speech and lecture, titled “We Are Relatives,” at the Robertson Auditorium of the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, Bassey said he was motivated by the desire for a livable future for all, particularly in Africa.
Dr. Bassey, who stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of environmental crises rather than just treating symptoms, highlighted the need for love, humility, dignity, and respect in building a sustainable future.
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Bassey’s work has focused on understanding the interconnected nature of environmental crises and promoting environmental justice.
He has been a vocal advocate for addressing the mindset that perpetuates inequalities and environmental racism and has worked to uncover the roots of these issues to drive meaningful solutions.
The Wallenberg Medal, named after Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, who saved thousands of Jews during World War II, recognizes outstanding humanitarians who have gone above and beyond to protect the vulnerable and oppressed.
Ambassador Urban Ahlin, Swedish Ambassador to the United States, praised Bassey’s dedication to humanity and encouraged others to follow in his footsteps.
In a congratulatory message on behalf of the Advisory Board, the editor-in-chief of NatureNews, Aliu Akoshile, said the award is well deserved.
The publisher said Dr. Nnimmo Bassey is a moral conscience for environmental governance and justice not only in Nigeria but across Africa.
The Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) celebrated Bassey’s achievement, recognizing his tireless efforts to promote environmental justice and sustainability.
