A public lecture organized by the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara and delivered by Prof. Jaiye Jehoshaphat Dukiya, a renowned expert in Urban and Regional Planning led participants into insightful talk on the theme: “Climate Change Inducer, Impact Preparedness, and Adaptation Through Inclusive Planning Strategies” in Kogi State’s Central Senatorial District.
This was contained in a statement by Umar Steven Ogirima, Public Relations Unit, CUSTECH, Osara.
During the lecture, Prof. Dukiya highlighted the critical roles that human activities play in determining climate changes. He emphasized on the need to reduce environmental hazards caused by these activities and urged the people of Kogi Central to embrace afforestation, a step he said will make the region greener.
Prof. Dukiya emphasised that, “We must adopt the idea of ‘fall one tree and plant two’ to combat the adverse effects of climate change.” He also addressed the negative impacts of the charcoal business on the environment, particularly in Kogi Central, where deforestation is a significant concern.
The Vice-Chancellor of the CUSTECH, Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, stated that the lecture was necessary to raise awareness about the effects of climate change and the importance of proactive measures.
Engr. Yahaya M.D. Farouk, the Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources expressed the state government’s commitment to encouraging a green environment by providing free fruit seedlings for planting in the state.
The Ohi of Okene, Alh. Manman Okatahi and the Ohi of Adavi, Alh. Muhammed J. Bello also encouraged tree planting in their respective remarks as they highlighted the importance of a sustainable environment.
The General Manager of the Kogi State Town Planning Board, Town Planner Abdullahi Yusuf A., urged the participants to work closely with town planners to ensure a safe and eco-friendly environment.
The well-attended lecture brought together members of the state’s Town Planning Association as well as staff and students from CUSTECH, Osara.