Climate Change: DELSU VC Re-affirms University’s Commitment To Delta State’s Mangrove Forest Restoration Project

By Daniel Dafe

The Vice-Chancellor of Delta State University Abraka, Professor Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba has called for concerted collaborative efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and its dire consequences.

The erudite professor of Environmental Biochemistry and Toxicology, made this call while delivering his goodwill message during a stakeholders’ engagement event on the Delta State Carbon Mosaic and Mangrove Conservation Project at Marriot Hotel, Warri on Thursday.

The event was organized by Serendib Capital and Eight Versa, UK.

Recall that DELSU has an MOU on research endeavours with Serendib Capital and Eight Versa on the Delta State Carbon Mosaic Mangrove Conservation Project.

Professor Asagba who was represented by Professor Jonathan Tsetimi, a professor of Industrial Mathematics and the Director of the Centre for Research and International Programmes (CRIP) at DELSU, said that the university firmly believes that the pursuit of knowledge and the quest for solutions to society’s most pressing challenges are inextricably linked.

Adding: “Climate change, with its far-reaching consequences, is undoubtedly one such challenge. We recognize that the time for mere discussion has passed; the time for action is now. And it is this spirit of action, this commitment to tangible change that brings us together today.”

He continued: “Our partnership with Serendib Capital and Eight Versa, formalized through the signing of our Memorandum of Understanding on July 30, 2024, is a testament to this commitment. This MOU is not simply a document; it is a declaration of intent. It signifies our shared vision for a Niger Delta where environmental restoration and economic prosperity go hand in hand, where local communities are empowered to become stewards of their own environment, and where the lessons learned here can inspire similar initiatives across the nation and beyond.”

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He said: “The Carbon Mosaic Project is more than just a project; it is an investment in our future. It’s an investment in the revitalization of degraded ecosystems, in the sequestration of carbon to mitigate the effects of climate change, and most importantly, in the empowerment of the communities that call this region home. We at DELSU are particularly excited by the project’s multifaceted approach, which recognizes that environmental sustainability and socio-economic development are not mutually exclusive, but rather two sides of the same coin.

“This project resonates deeply with our university’s core mission. As an institution dedicated to research, innovation, and community engagement, we see the Carbon Mosaic Project as a living laboratory, a place where our faculty and students can contribute their expertise, learn from real-world challenges, and develop innovative solutions. We are particularly proud of the project’s focus on community engagement, ensuring that local voices are heard and that the benefits of the project are shared equitably.

“I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the crucial roles played by both the Delta State Government and the Federal Republic of Nigeria in this endeavor. Their support, guidance, and commitment to environmental sustainability are essential to the success of the Carbon Mosaic Project. We deeply appreciate their recognition of the importance of this initiative and their willingness to partner with us in achieving our shared goals. Their involvement underscores the national significance of this project and its potential to contribute to Nigeria’s climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.”

Furthermore, he appreciated Serendib Capital and Eight Versa for their vision, commitment and unwavering belief in the potential of this project, saying: “Your leadership in bringing together such a diverse and talented team of partners, including world-class institutions like Imperial College London and the University of Edinburgh, is truly commendable. To our other partners, your contributions are invaluable, and we are honored to work alongside you.”

To the community members present, he said: “Your participation is essential. Your knowledge of the local environment, your traditions, and your aspirations are crucial to the success of this project. We encourage you to actively engage in the discussions, share your perspectives, and help us shape a future that reflects your needs and your dreams.”

Professor Tsetimi who represented the VC is also the Vice-President, South-South of the National Association of Artificial Intelligence Practitioners (NAAIP).

The Seagrass Conservation and Sustainable Fishing Practices Workshop focused on the ecological and economic importance of seagrass ecosystems in mitigating climate change, supporting biodiversity, and protecting coastal environments.

Experts discussed mapping and restoration techniques, sustainable fishing practices, and community engagement strategies to combat habitat loss and promote conservation.

Key takeaways included expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), enforcing fishing regulations, and integrating technology for monitoring and evaluation.

During the Mangrove Conservation Workshop organized by eight versa and Serendib Capital, participants engaged in planning the restoration and protection of Delta State’s mangrove forests, recognizing their critical role in carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and fisheries sustainability. The discussions emphasized community participation, funding mechanisms, and policy integration, demonstrating strong collaboration among researchers, environmentalists, and local stakeholders committed to long-term conservation efforts. The workshop laid emphases on the importance of mangroves in terms of ecosystem services rendered and also as a source of livelihood for the host communities, particularly in Delta State. The great potential of mangroves for carbon sequestration was also highlighted. The challenges of nipa palm colonization and oil pollution were further discussed. There was discussion on potential strategies for mangrove conservation/restoration plans and nipa palm removal, for the purpose of ensuring the sustainability of the mangrove forest in the various host communities in Delta State.