By Grace Ademulegun
Desmond Majekodunmi, a Nigerian and Lagosian, is a farmer, singer, and environmentalist who has devoted his life to protecting Nigeria’s delicate ecosystems.
Majekodunmi, born June, 1950, is a symbol of resilience and hope in a busy city like Lagos, where urban growth frequently trumps the preservation of natural areas.
The Lekki Urban Forest and Animal Sanctuary Initiative (LUFASI), a green haven amidst Lagos’s concrete mayhem, is at the centre of his efforts.
Majekodunmi founded LUFASI, a sanctuary for native trees and endangered wildlife that also serves as a haven for city people looking to escape the bustle of the city.
The tall Ekki tree, valued for its power but in risk of extinction because of logging, finds refuge here. Here, endangered creatures like giant tortoises and Mona monkeys are given a second chance at life.
The goal of Majekodunmi, however, goes well beyond establishing a sanctuary for wildlife and gardens.
He has established a community through LUFASI. Through the park, individuals, families, and schools can learn about Nigeria’s urgent environmental issues, such as the catastrophic effects of climate change and the destructive effects of deforestation.
Majekodunmi’s initiatives are nothing short of revolutionary in a nation where environmental education is frequently neglected.
Related Posts
His activism extends beyond LUFASI’s boundaries. As co-host of the well-liked radio show “Nature Talk,” Majekodunmi uses the airwaves to spread his message. He urges listeners to take action by simplifying complicated environmental issues for them using an engaging tone and a talent for storytelling.
His frequent statements, which reflect a strong conviction in group responsibility, include, “Every tree we plant, every piece of waste we recycle, is a step towards saving our planet.”
What really makes him stand out is probably the way he combines activism and art. Majekodunmi is a talented musician who incorporates environmental topics into his songs to create tunes that motivate people to take action and feel a feeling of responsibility.
His songs serve as anthems for a more environmentally conscious Nigeria, inspiring audiences who might not otherwise be concerned about environmental issues with themes of hope and resiliency.
Majekodunmi never stops fighting to save Nigeria’s woods. He has advocated to stop illicit logging and support sustainable land use from the northern savannas to the Niger Delta’s mangrove swamps. Numerous trees and habitats that might have otherwise been lost have been spared because to his efforts.
Despite all of his accomplishments, he maintains a strong connection to the grassroots and emphasises that local initiatives are what create global change.
Majekodunmi has demonstrated via these initiatives that change starts locally and spreads through the community in tiny but meaningful measures. He is a local hero and a ray of hope for environmental stewardship in Nigeria because of his enthusiasm and hard work.
Desmond Majekodunmi provides a masterclass in leadership in a world facing an imminent risk of climate change. He reminds us that quiet deeds like planting a tree, providing refuge to an animal, or educating a youngster to take care of the environment can be just as heroic as loud or extravagant deeds.
Majekodunmi is more than just an environmentalist in the eyes of the Lagos community and beyond. He serves as a teacher, a guardian, and most importantly, a beacon of hope.
