The Vice-Chancellor of Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State, Prof. Dileep Kumar, has advocated for mangroves restoration as a sustainable solution to climate change challenges in Nigeria.
Prof. Kumar made the call during a workshop titled “Capacity Building Training for Community Women and Youths on Mangroves Restoration” held on Saturday. He was represented by Prof. Femi Shaka, Dean of Communication and Media Studies at the institution.
“This workshop aims to open new doors of opportunity for our participants,” Kumar said. “Education should not just be about acquiring information but about constructing environments where people and nature coexist sustainably.”
He stressed the importance of equipping women and youths with practical skills to restore mangrove ecosystems, which he described as resilient and critical for climate protection. “Our goal is not just to hold workshops, but to spark a movement for environmental stewardship.”
Also speaking at the event, Prof. Aduabobo Ibitoru-Hart, a board member of the Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet), represented by Mr. Patrick Amaibi, emphasized the importance of mangroves.
“Mangroves form the backbone of coastal resilience, protecting humans from erosion, supporting biodiversity, and combating climate change,” he said. “Yet, they are under threat from deforestation and unsustainable practices.”
He said the partnership between Hensard University, CSDevNet, and the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) aims to train 100 participants — including 30 women and 70 students — in mangrove restoration techniques.
“This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s climate goals and Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). We will restore a pilot site, develop a community action plan, and build long-term restoration efforts.”
Mr. Stephen Abu, National Coordinator of CSDevNet, noted that while Nigeria continues to face climate change impacts, tree planting and behavioral changes remain key to reversing environmental degradation.
One of the participants, Miss Mary Domotimi, a student of Hensard University, praised the initiative, saying the training had enhanced her understanding of mangrove restoration and environmental care.
The event concluded with a symbolic tree-planting exercise on the university campus, involving students, faculty, and workshop organizers.
