ABUJA (Sundiata Post) – Former minister of defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), was among six prominent Nigerians given environmental friendly awards Friday night by the Federal Government.
He was given the award of Champion for the Conservation of Biodiversity.
Others who got the award presented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, are Mrs. Ajoke Mohammed, pioneer horticulturist and environmental conservationist, and Chief Philip Asiodu, president of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.
Others are Chief Giwa Bisi Rodipe, an advocate for private participation in forest conservation and industrialisation; Dr. Newton Jibunoh, advocate for the fight against desert encroachment and Mr. Olatunji Oyefuga, a developer of environmental management technology systems.
Speaking at the gala night marking the World Environment Day 2015 at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, Osinbajo noted that environmental problems including flood, climate change were assuming alarming dimension.
He warned that if not properly handled the environmental problems would have negative impact on Nigeria’s food security.
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“If the environmental issues are properly managed, they have the potential to support growth”, he said.
The Head of Service of the Federation, Danladi Kifasi said that award would be given next year to the most environmental-friendly Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Stressing that environmental issues affect all sectors, he said that there was need to develop environmental regulations and procedures.
While urging all ministries to put in place sound waste management, he said: “It will help the government to reduce cost of governance.”
June 5th every year has been set aside to mark the World Environmental Day.
The theme for this year is ‘Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with care.’
