FUTO VC tasks varsities on environmental sustainability
By Athan Agbakwuru, Owerri
Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, FUTO, Prof. Ikechukwu N.S. Dozie has enjoined Nigeria’s university community to embrace environmentally responsible practices that promote a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable campus.
Prof. Dozie made the call on Wednesday during FUTO’s commemoration of the 2026 World Environment Day, organized by the School of Environmental Sciences, SOES.
The VC represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Clifford. M. Agu, applauded the School for attracting the global campaign on environmental sustainability to the University community.
Prof. Dozie restated his commitment to enhancing co-operation with relevant stakeholders and supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable development.
Speaking earlier, the Dean of School of Environmental Sciences, Prof. Mrs. R.F. Njoku-Tony emphasized that environmental sustainability is a collective responsibility, and called on staff and students to adopt environmentally friendly practices including waste reduction and energy conservation.
She stressed the need for research in such critical areas as noise pollution, green building, the circular economy, and climate adaptation strategies for South-East Nigeria.
According to her, ‘World Environment Day’ is observed annually to promote global awareness and action for a healthier planet with the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
In a keynote lecture titled “From Urbanization to Climate Change: Challenges of Resilience in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa,” Prof. Michael .A. Nwachukwu identified tree planting as a practical long-term strategy for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Nwachukwu appealed to members of the University community to minimize risk of exposure to environmental pollutants, and support actions that enhance resilience to climate change.
Highlights of the event included; a road walk and ceremonial tree planting among other activities that added glamour to the celebration.
